Active Lifestyles - Fall 2014

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Active Lifestyles

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ACTIVE

September 18, 2014

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SEPTEMBER

2014

LIFESTYLES

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You dream.

September 18, 2014

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September 18, 2014

Active Lifestyles

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Milestone birthdays deserve special celebration

BY KATHRYN BASSETT kbassett@kpcmedia.com

AUBURN — Your birthday is not just another day. It is a day to celebrate you.

And when the person who is celebrating has reached a milestone age, it is fitting that the celebration should be extra special.

Milestones birthdays are those that mark a new decade such as 50, 60, 70, 80 and beyond.

Milestone birthday celebrations are a

time to celebrate the accomplishments of the individual being honored.

Websites such as Pinterest offer ideas and inspiration when planning a themed milestone birthday party. If you are thinking of taking the humorous approach by hosting an “over-the-hill’ party for a friend, make sure that the guest of honor has a sense of humor, too.

Deb Klink, owner of Paper Gourmet stationery and gift store in Auburn, said

Welcome People in northeast Indiana know how to stay active, whether it’s riding a bike or heading out on the daily run.

Whether you are looking to get active, learn about new opportunities in our communities or be inspired to do something new, this section has something for you.

This section is also available at kpcnews.com.

On the Cover: Paul Beckwith, left, and Jack Vrana go out for a run in the Angola area. The pair have been friends since they were in college at Tri-State University in the 1970s, running cross country and track, and are now coaching cross country together this fall at Angola High School.

Photo by Tyler Moore

there are a wide range of themed supplies and stationery available for milestone celebrations. For a personal touch, the party theme might reflect the honoree’s favorite hue or flower, Klink suggested.

Many times, guests are asked to share memories on cards that are made into an album, Klink said. Guests also might be asked to share photographs, she added.

Those who are unable to attend the celebration often are encouraged to participate in a card shower as a way to share their birthday good wishes, she said.

Klink said milestone celebration parties range from simple gatherings to grander affairs.

“It can be cake and ice cream at Rieke Park or a sit-down dinner at the country club,” she said.

Taking a vacation also is a popular way to celebrate special birthdays. According to AARP, travel is a top choice for celebrating an important milestone with 78 percent of people age 45 and older saying that they have taken or intend to take a celebration vacation in the next two years instead of throwing a party, getting a piece of jewelry or other item.

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Milestone birthdays deserve an extra special celebration.

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September 18, 2014

Reasonable fall-color trips ready for picking

BY JENNIFER DECKER jdecker@kpcmedia.com

Fall travel for senior citizens doesn’t have to empty bank accounts to engulf the season’s diverse spectrum of color.

There’s a plethora of ideas for nearby day trips and distant places to saunter through autumn tones.

For those on a budget, centers for senior citizens sometimes offer group tours to various destinations around the state and close to home for dining or entertainment.

The state’s extensive website, in.gov, lists low-cost or free travel ideas. The

site also helps with planning for outdoor recreation, rural destinations, arts and culture, romantic retreats, girlfriend getaways, casinos and entertainment.

Pack a picnic, jump in the car and just go. Meander unfamiliar rural back roads to apple orchards or antique shops. Explore.

Two local motor coach tour companies: S&S Travel, Kendallville, and Edgerton’s, Fort Wayne, offer all types of group travel near and far.

S&S tours depart Kendallville, Auburn and Fort Wayne. Some of the S&S trips coming up will include: Oct. 1, Firekeepers

The following is a list of 10 favorite places in Indiana to view fall foliage according to in.gov:

5. Indiana University, Bloomington

1. Brown County State Park

7. Spring Mill State Park, Mitchell

2. Indiana Dunes State Park, Chesterton

8. West Beach, Portage

3. Clifty Falls State Park, Madison

9. McCloud Nature Park, North Salem

4. Turkey Run State Park, Marshall

10. University of Notre Dame, South Bend

6. Brown County Nashville

Casino; Oct. 1-8, New England fall colors; Oct. 4, Metamora Canal Days; Oct. 9, “Josiah for President,” Shipshewana; Oct. 17-20, Belle of Louisville; Oct. 18, Frankenmuth, Michigan, shopping; and Oct. 19, Indianapolis Colts vs. Cincinnati Bengals, Lucas Oil Stadium. More trips and information may be found at s-stravel.com or at 888-262-4423 or 347-2253.

Edgerton’s is in its 90th year in providing traveling excursions. Some of its motor coach fall tours will include: Notre Dame vs. Syracuse football, Sept. 26-29; fall colors of New England, Oct. 12-20; foodie tour with Marshall King, Oct. 19-21; shopping and theater in New York with Kathy Friend, Oct. 23-26; Bronson holiday show tour, Nov. 12-18 or Dec. 1-7.

For more details, visit edgertonstravel.com or call 497-8747.

Peak color in northern Indiana, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, will possibly be Oct. 5-28 in the north and Oct. 12-28 in the south.

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September 18, 2014

Active Lifestyles

Biking for health Where to ride, how to prepare

BY OCTAVIA LEHMAN olehman@kpcmedia.com

Riding a bike for fitness is less invasive to the body than other means of exercise, said bike expert Dave James of Summit City Bicycles and Fitness in Fort Wayne.

James is a general manager at Summit City, where he’s worked for 15 years.

Recently, he’s noticed an increasing number of baby boomers coming to Summit City to purchase bicycles.

“A lot of people are transitioning from running to biking,” James said.

Switching from running to cycling can put less impact on the body, he said.

“There’s less stress on the joints.”

He said bicycling is a good option for people wanting to exercise, but have difficulty running or doing other vigourous exercise. Yet, he cautions people looking to cycle for fitness to make sure they have the right bicycle for their body.

“The right bike makes all the difference,” he said. Without a properly fitted bicycle, riders can expect to have problems with their hips and knees. Most bikes in large retail stores come in one size and don’t match to a person’s body. With the right bike there should not be any pain associated with riding, James said.

“If the bike is set up properly and the right size, you shouldn’t have a problem with hips and knees,” he said. “You can get good cardiovascular exercise on a bike if you’re going at a good speed.”

on county roads. From Shipshewana to Middlebury, the trail is asphalt only and makes a smooth ride for bikers.

The St. Joe River Greenway in St. Joe has 1.3 miles of trail that runs along the St. Joseph River and the city of Fort Wayne has a network of 80 miles of multi-use trails in the Greater Fort Wayne Area with 50 miles of interconnected trails. The trails provide recreation for residents and visitors.

Though, to get exercise on a bike, you don’t have to travel far to do so. Besides riding on designiated trails, James said riding on county roads is just as good for exercise.

“We are blessed with a lot of paved roads,” James said.

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Riding with a group In Waterloo, the Broken Spokes Bicycle Club meets every Monday at New Hope Christian Center. If the weather is good, the group sets off for a 10-20 mile ride through the countryside.

The club was created with the goal of ensuring that anyone, young and old, can join and feel at home as long as their health will let them ride a bicycle. The group strives to create an environment that is challenging both to the beginner and experienced cyclist. The group also sponsors family bike rides for all ages on Sunday afternoon.

In July, five members of the group participated in RAIN (Ride Across Indiana). The ride started in the western edge of Indiana, and the riders had one day to see if they could make it across the state.

Where to ride

Rides in Indiana

In northeast Indiana, if you’re willing to make a trip there are several trails desiginated for bicycling only. The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail meanders along the corridor of an abandoned railroad line from Goshen to Middlebury to Shipshewana.

The trail connects the towns of Elkhart, Goshen, Middlebury and Shipshewana.

The 25-mile trail is mostly asphalt, but a few connecting portions of the trail run

Bike Rides in Indiana, an online listing for touring bike rides, lists events throughout the state. The website, brinin.org, does have not signups for rides, but hosts information about ongoing events. Touring bike rides are lower-impact and often include a special focus, such as touring Amish countryside, local wineries or riding on a local trail. Rides are listed from January through November.

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September 18, 2014

Job hunting after 50 takes savvy

BY SUE CARPENTER scarpenter@kpcmedia.com

employers for workers over 50.

Many folks are daunted at the prospect of finding work — especially those over the age of 50. The search could be due to downsizing, returning to work from retirement, or just plain wanting to get off the merry-go-round to find a less-stressful job.

Today’s applicants need to be savvy about searching for the right job, and to be ready to interview with someone the same age as their own kids. Another concern is that they will be seen as overqualified, overpriced, inflexible or technically challenged.

Here are a few comments and tips combining several available online sources for finding jobs after the age of 50.

‘Friend your contact list’

Companies do hire older workers Older workers do have to work harder to overcome discrimination, but employers are not necessarily shutting out all candidates over the age of 35.

Job sites that cater to older workers are RetirementJobs.com, Jobs 4.0, Retired Brains, Seniors4Hire and Workforce50.com.

In addition, AARP offers a list of the best

After working 30 or more years, you should have a major contact list of people you have worked with. It is acceptable to reach out to them, even if it’s been a decade or two since you have set sight on each other.

Searching sites like LinkedIn and Facebook makes finding them pretty easy. Peers will understand and chances are they might be reaching out to long-lost contacts, as well.

Dump your ancient history Older candidates often put too much information in their resume. Clear out-dated, irrelevant information taking your credentials back to the LBJ Administration.

General advice is to edit your resume to the specific job you are applying for, which can change each time.

One or two pages with 10-12 years is more than enough history, even though the applicant might be eager to show off his or her skills.

Use a standard typeface no larger than 12-point, such as Times or Courier on your

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Social media is one of the ways to get noticed when job hunting.

cover letter and resume. Flowery or large-print bold type is a good way for your application to end in the employer’s round file.

Don’t cop an attitude Another no-no is acting superior to a younger interviewer or having a chip on your shoulder.

Do not suggest you can teach them a thing or two like a grouchy grandpa, but advise of any experience working or volunteering in a multigenerational workplace.

Sharing relevant skills is important, but how you present yourself is just as important.

One adviser suggests you show you are fun — potential bosses and coworkers don’t want to feel they are working with their parents or grandparents.

Test-drive the interview

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Another source of damage is not practicing for an interview — especially if it’s been decades since you’ve had one.

One advisor suggests enlisting a Gen Y pal or colleague to role-play with you, if you know that’s the age of the interviewer.

Another consultant suggests getting an interview with an employer you are not interested in working for as a test drive.

This way, correctable mistakes can be discovered.

Get your Twitter on One simple way to be noticed by potential employers is to blog about your field of

interest using Twitter. Social media platforms give the impression candidates are in tune with the latest technical advances.

Appropriate clothing for an interview is also important. If you are 50 something, don’t show up wearing your kids’ clothes. One advisor suggests current eyeglass styles and handbags for women are often a great way to show you are keeping up with the times. Be relevant.

Jumping off the corporate ladder With experience often comes the impression a candidate is applying for job below their experience or former pay scale.

If that is the case, it is a good idea to explain in your cover letter and during the interview the reason you are interested in the position. This could include mentioning wanting to move to a less stressful position that doesn’t include so many headaches or that you are willing to take a pay cut because the money or climbing the corporate ladder is not as important in this time of your life.

Improving your skills Local career centers and AAPR offer job-hunting advice for older workers. For those 55 and older, the Senior Community Service Employment Program offers ways to learn while working at an agency near your home. Go to nationalable.org for more information on improving skills, job opportunities and other resources.

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September 18, 2014

IRS allows people to catch up with retirement plans KENDALLVILLE — Individuals who are age 50 or over at the end of the calendar year can make annual catch-up contributions to retirement savings plans, says information from the Internal Revenue Service.

Catch-up contributions up to $5,500 in 2013 and 2014 may be permitted by these plans: 401(k) (other than a SIMPLE 401(k)); 403(b) SARSEP; governmental 457(b).

Elective deferrals are not treated as catch-up contributions until they exceed the $17,500 (in 2013 and 2014) limit, the ADP test limit of section 401(k)(3) or the plan limit (if any).

A participant can make catch-up contributions for a year up to the lesser of the following amounts: • the catch-up contribution dollar limit, or • the excess of the participant’s compensation over the elective deferral contributions that are not catch-up contributions.

Plan participants must make catch-up contributions to a retirement plan via elective deferrals. Catch-up contributions must be made before the end of the plan year.

A simple IRA or a simple 401(k) plan may permit catch-up contributions up to $2,500 (in 2013 and 2014). Salary reduction contributions in a simple IRA plan are not treated as catch-up contributions until they exceed $12,000.

Employees with at least 15 years of service may be eligible to make additional contributions to a 403(b) plan in addition to the regular catch-up for participants who are age 50 or over. See the discussion of 403(b) Contribution Limits for details at IRS.gov.

You can make catch-up contributions to your traditional or Roth IRA up to $1,000 (in 2013 and 2014). Catch-up contributions to an IRA are due by the due date of your tax return (not including extensions).

Active Lifestyles

Women face unique set of financial challenges as they age avoid poverty as they age.

BY KASSIE BARROQUILLO kbarroquillo@kpcmedia.com

The tips recommend that women educate themselves on money and retirement with points such as “learn about various sources of income,” “look for good advice” and “learn how to manage your retirement savings plan.”

The older women get the more likely they are to face poverty than men.

This can be attributed to the amount of time women spend away from the workforce as caregivers for their children and their parents. Women also generally earn less on the dollar than men and are more likely to work part-time, so they do not have pensions. Yet, women live longer.

According to the Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement, also known as WISER, almost one in four women age 65 and older have incomes below 150 percent of poverty.

In “10 ways boomer women (and men) can save themselves from retirement shortfalls,” WISER provides tips on how women from the baby boomer generation can try to

WISER also recommends to prepare for a longer and more expensive future than one may expect. As women are living longer, their medical bills are also increasing and they sometimes need long-term care.

Women of all ages should be thinking about retirement. It takes a lifetime of savings, but if you haven’t started yet, there are tools you can use to better your future.

To see more of those tools and to learn about women’s retirement, visit WISER’s website at wiserwomen.org.

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September 18, 2014

TYLER MOORE

Paul Beckwith, left, and Jack Vrana pop over a hill on a recent run while their cross country team members work out. Vrana is the head coach and Beckwith

is the assistant. The two have been teammates, friends and now fellow coaches spanning some four decades.

Vrana’s, Beckwith’s friendship jolted by running

BY JENNIFER DECKER jdecker@kpcmedia.com

ANGOLA — Some friends Jack Vrana and Paul Beckwith are.

In the 41 years they have known each other, the duo conquered the Boston

Marathon, ran at Tri-State University, ended up teaching and coaching in the same school corporation, stood up in each other’s weddings and finished a 24-hour fundraiser marathon run.

Vrana is a guidance counselor at

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Angola High School and Beckwith teaches science at Angola Middle School.

Their biggest shocking adventure yet was somehow surviving a jolt from nature.

“In June 1980, Paul, Kevin Darr, Jim Penick, now a retired middle school science teacher, and I left Angola on a bicycle trip around Lake Michigan. Three days out, we were camped at Holland State Park in Michigan. An early summer storm blew across the lake in the morning and lightning hit a tree next to our camp site,” Vrana said. “The shock followed the tree to my bicycle leaning against it and on to the tent that my bicycle was touching. Paul, Kevin and I were shocked by electricity and Jim, who was in his own tent, had to run to the office for help. I was released from the hospital

dazed and confused, but Paul and Kevin stayed in Holland for three three days hospitalized with second- and third-degree burns.”

Being zapped didn’t deter them from continuing to seek out adventures, starting with what they call their “Testosterone Weekend.” That comes every Memorial Day weekend serving as a time for them to get away and do guy stuff like kayaking and biking.

“Perhaps our Testosterone Weekend adventures are attempts to pay homage to a trip we couldn’t finish. More likely, they are deliberate attempts to preserve college friendships that are important to each of us,” Vrana said.

The pair met back during their running careers at Tri-State where they attended See RUNNING page 9

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TYLER MOORE

Paul Beckwith, left, listens as Jack Vrana gives instructions to the Angola High School cross country team on a recent Friday afternoon.

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RUNNING From page 8

classes. They were turned on to running by legendary Tri-State coach Richard Gollnick.

“We met at Tri-State in our freshman year. We ran cross country in a very large group of freshmen runners,” Vrana said.

“There were 19 runners on the team. Paul and I were the only ones who ran all four years.”

Even at Tri-State, the friends have interesting memories.

“Jack and I know what it’s like to ride in the back of a Pinto to a race in a blizzard,” Beckwith said.

After graduation, Beckwith went off and started teaching in the Metropolitan School District of Steuben County where his career has spanned more than 30 years. Vrana bopped around in his educational instruction career from Prairie Heights middle and high schools, Fremont High School and finally to the MSD, where he is in his 13th year as a guidance counselor.

“I went from being a teacher to a counselor. I’ve always lived in the MSD and my kids all went here,” Vrana said.

“Paul’s always been here and a guidance

Here’s to growing bold.

TYLER MOORE

Paul Beckwith, left, and Jack Vrana pose for a photo.

See RUNNING page 10

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Paul Beckwith, left, and Jack Vrana are shown running together in the early 1970s when the two were teammates at Tri-State College (and later Trine University).

They were running the 800 meter run on a cinder track.

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September 18, 2014

Things to consider before downsizing your home METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

The decision to downsize a home is often bittersweet. Many couples who downsize their homes do so after raising a family. A home might be filled with memories, but downsizing a home helps couples save more money, and that financial flexibility often allows men and women to more fully enjoy their retirement.

But in spite of the financial impact of downsizing a home, there’s more than just money at stake for homeowners thinking of downsizing their homes. The following are a handful of factors homeowners should consider before downsizing to a smaller home.

Real estate market The real estate market can be a seller’s friend or foe. Many sellers have a sale price in mind when they decide to sell their home, but the real estate market can be fickle, so homeowners should do their research before putting their home up for sale. Will the current market make it easier for you to get the most for your home, or will you have to settle for less than you prefer? How fast are similar homes in your area selling?

When studying the real estate market, it’s also a good idea to study the market for smaller homes. If you plan on moving into a condominium but the market is not flush with properties, you might end up paying more than you want to for your new home, which might negate the savings you can expect from downsizing.

Furniture When downsizing to a smaller home, many couples realize their current furniture is unlikely to fit into a smaller home. That means couples will have to sell or donate their current furniture and then buy all new items for their new home. If it’s been a while since you purchased new furniture, you might be in for some sticker shock on your first visit to the furniture store.

Another thing to consider regarding your furniture is which items you simply can’t live without. An antique dinner table might have been the centerpiece for your family holidays over the last several decades, but there’s no guarantee it will fit into your smaller home. You may want to pass this down to your son or daughter, but that’s only possible if he or she has the room for it.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Older couples must consider a host of factors before deciding to downsize their homes.

Before deciding to downsize, consider your attachment to certain items that you may or may not be able to take with you to your new home and the emotional toll that selling such items might take if you’re left with no other options.

Proximity to family

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When downsizing to a smaller home, many couples move out of the suburbs and into cities or towns with more ready access to culture and restaurants. While that accessibility is great, grandparents may find that it comes at the cost of less time with their grandchildren. That’s a steep price to pay for doting grandparents, and it may also impact your children if they frequently rely on grandma and grandpa for babysitting. Before downsizing, consider if you’re willing to move further away from your family. If not, you likely can still find a smaller home in close proximity to your current home and any nearby family members.

RUNNING From page 9

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position opened here. I was interested in working in a larger school.”

Since both have always been runners, they incorporated that into coaching cross country. Beckwith called his friend an “outstanding coach” and said it was quite a recruit when he talked Vrana into returning to coaching.

“We discovered it was a sport we enjoyed. It’s addictive,” Vrana said. “It’s

Medical care Many older men and women must also consider the effect that moving may have on their medical care. Downsizing to a home in the country may make it harder to maintain contact with your current physician, and rural areas typically have less medical practitioners than more densely populated towns and cities. In addition, if you have been visiting the same physician for years, you may not want to move and have to start all over again with a physician who is unfamiliar with your medical history.

Consider how much maintaining your existing relationship with your physician means to you, and if your next home will provide the kind of access to medical care you’re likely to need.

Downsizing a home is not just about moving into a smaller property. To ensure you’re making the right decision, many factors must be considered before downsizing. scary how similar we are in the philosophy of running.”

Beckwith said he and Vrana have ran the massive dunes at Bruno State Park in Idaho and on the famous Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon. Beckwith said there is no feeling like running.

“To me, there’s nothing so free.

What’s better than being outside,” Beckwith asked. “You’re running through the woods.”

Over the years, the pair has ventured to a variety of races throughout the area and are frequent runners on the trails at Pokagon State Park.

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September 18, 2014

Active Lifestyles

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Volunteering opportunities for retirees abound METRO CREATIVE CONNECTIONS

Today’s retirees recognize that an active retirement tends to be more rewarding than simply sitting around the house, and that attitude is reflected in the vast number of retirees who volunteer with various nonprofit organizations and other programs across the globe.

The following are a handful of volunteering opportunities for those retirees who want to give back and make the most of their retirements. Locally, check with your United Way office to find out what opportunities are available in northeast Indiana.

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for people in need. It has a program titled “Care-A-Vanners” in which volunteers typically spend two weeks traveling around the United States and Canada in rented RVs (retirees who own RVs may be able to drive their own vehicles) building and restoring homes. Volunteers must pay their own way and bring along their own supplies, such as work shoes, gloves, tool belts, and some tools (power tools are typically provided by the local Habitat for Humanity chapter), and free or low-cost RV parking is provided by Habitat for Humanity. Adventurous retirees who enjoy hitting the open road may find “Care-A-Vanners” matches their love of travel with their desire to give back. There are two Habitat organizations serving northeast Indiana.

Work with children Many retirees, especially those without grandchildren or who live far away from their grandchildren, find volunteering with children to be especially rewarding.

The opportunities to work with kids

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are numerous, and retirees can choose a volunteering opportunity where their own life experiences come in handy.

For example, retirees who worked in the medical field might want to volunteer their time at a local children’s hospital, where they can assist families as they cope with a child’s illness and spend time with the children themselves, whether’s it’s tutoring sick children, reading them stories or helping them understand their illnesses.

Retirees with considerable experience in the business world may want to work with a mentoring program that matches them up with career-minded youngsters.

Service vacations Retirement is often seen as a time to travel and see the world, and many retirees have started to combine that love of travel with service opportunities. Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, develops short-term volunteer programs in international environments. Each activity aims to promote cultural awareness and promote sustainability in needy communities.

Volunteers work to address issues identified by the host communities as particularly pressing, interacting with the local residents in ways that are often impossible on more traditional vacations.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Volunteering is a great way to stay active during retirement.

Meals on Wheels Retirees tend to have their mornings and afternoons free, making them ideal candidates to volunteer with programs such as Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit organization devoted to delivering nutritious meals to those with limited mobility who are unable to prepare their own meals. The program delivers more than one million meals per day across the United States, and Canada has its own meal delivery programs as well. Many Meals on Wheels volunteers

are retirees, who can decide their level of involvement upon volunteering.

Disaster relief Disaster relief programs may be less predictable than more routine volunteer programs, but retirees often make great volunteers at disaster relief sites. Unlike working professionals who cannot travel to disaster relief sites without ample

A Testament To Your Life

planning ahead of time, retirees often find the flexibility of retirement allows them to pitch in when an unforesee natural disaster strikes and volunteers are needed seemingly overnight. Many disaster relief programs need volunteers who are certified in CPR or have other unique lifesaving skills, but even retirees without such skills can help by handling supplies or by comforting and assisting survivors of natural disasters.

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Fackler

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www.facklermonument.com

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September 18, 2014

Cancer screening helps provide early detection METRO CREATIVE CONNECTIONS

Early detection of cancer greatly increases a person’s odds of surviving this potentially deadly disease.

Screening can range from relatively simple self-examinations to more complicated procedures conducted by physicians. The following are the widely accepted screening guidelines, courtesy of the American Cancer Society. Many of these screens are available at the Regional Cancer Center located in Angola next to Cameron Memorial Community Hospital.

receiving annual mammograms starting at age 40. Some doctors may also recommend women with a family history of breast cancer or other significant risk factors receive an MRI in addition to a mammogram. These additional tests are rarely necessary, but women at a higher risk of breast cancer should discuss their options with their physicians.

Colorectal cancer and polyps

Men and women should begin screening for colorectal cancer and polyps beginning at age 50. Polyps are growths on the inner surface of the colon Breast cancer that are often noncancerous, but some Women should begin self-examinacan develop into cancer. tions of their breasts starting in their 20s.

Some tests may be conducted to find This helps women familiarize themselves both polyps and cancer, and these tests with their breasts early on, which makes should be conducted at various intervals. it easier to detect any abnormalities, Beginning at age 50, men and women including lumps, later in life. should get a flexible sigmoidoscopy In addition to breast self-exams, every five years, a colonoscopy every 10 women should receive clinical breast years, a double-contrast barium enema exams, or CBEs, every three years every five years, or a CT colonography, while in their 20s and 30s, and then also known as a virtual colonoscopy, an annual CBE starting at age 40. The every five years. When tests other than a ACS also recommends women begin colonoscopy are positive, then a colonos-

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copy should be conducted as well.

Testing can also be conducted to detect colorectal cancer. Beginning at age 50, men and women should receive an annual fecal occult blood test or a yearly fecal immunochemical test.

When results are positive, a colonoscopy should be conducted.

According to the ACS, at the time of menopause all women should discuss the risks and symptoms of endometrial cancer, often referred to as uterine cancer. Detection often begins with women themselves, who should report any bleeding or spotting to their physicians immediately upon Lung cancer detection.

Despite the prevalence of lung cancer, Some women may be candidates the ACS advises against screenings for for yearly endometrial biopsies. This lung cancer in people whose risk for includes women who have hereditary developing the disease is average. But nonpolyposis colon cancer, or HNPCC, the ACS does recommend screenings for a condition also known as Lynch those individuals who are at high risk syndrome. Women known to carry for the disease. These include men and HNPCC-linked gene mutations are also women who meet all of the following candidates. Women from families with criteria: a tendency to get colon cancer where • 55 to 74 years of age; genetic testing has not been done also • in fairly good health; and, are candidates for yearly endometrial • have at least a 30 pack-year smoking biopsies. These yearly biopsies should history and are either still smoking or begin at age 35, and women should have quit smoking within the last 15 discuss the risks, benefits and limitations years. of the tests with their physicians.

More information about lung cancer More information on cancer screenscreening is available at cancer.org. ings is available at cancer.org.

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September 18, 2014

Nutrition and aging go hand-in-hand METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Nutrition is important for people of all ages, but it’s especially important for men and women over the age of 50, who can dramatically improve their quality of life by eating a well-balanced diet filled with vitamins and nutrients. Though that may seem like common sense, research has shown that men and women in this age group, who are often referred to as “Baby Boomers,” are not necessarily as healthy as they may seem.

While the baby boomer generation, which is generally regarded as those people born between 1946 and 1964, boasts longer life expectancies than any generation that came before them, some of that can likely be chalked up to advancements in medical care, including a booming pharmaceutical industry that seemingly has an antidote to every ailment. But a 2013 study from researchers at the West Virginia University School of Medicine found that baby boomers are less healthy than the generation that immediately preceded them, tending to be more likely to have higher levels of hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol.

While that news might be sobering, it’s never too late for men and women over 50 to start eating healthier diets, which can reduce their risk of a wide range of ailments, including heart disease, stroke and osteoporosis.

The following are a few ways men and women over 50 can alter their diets so their bodies are getting what they need to live long and healthy lives well into their golden years. As is always the case, men and women should discuss any potential changes to their diets with their physicians to ensure the changes will be both effective and healthy.

• Balance your diet. Kids hear of the benefits of a balanced diet seemingly from the moment they enter a classroom for the first time, but many adults fail to heed that basic advice as they get further and further away from kindergarten. When changing your diet, be sure to include plenty of protein and carbohydrates. Protein maintains and rebuilds muscles, which is especially important for aging men and women who might find themselves unable to keep up with the physical demands of everyday life as well as they used to. Including ample low-fat protein, which can be found in fish, eggs and low-fat dairy among other foods, will aid in muscle recovery, benefitting aging athletes as well as those men and women over 50 who recently started exercising as a means to regaining their

physical fitness. A diet lacking in sufficient protein can contribute to muscle deterioration, arthritis and even organ failure, so it’s important for men and women to prioritize including protein intheir diets.

Carbohydrates are also an important part of a balanced diet, as they are a great source of energy that can help men and women stay active well past the age of 50. Carbohydrates found in fruits, grains and vegetables are the most beneficial, as these contain valuable vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

• Don’t denounce dairy. Dairy is a great source of calcium, which promotes strong bones and teeth. Men and women over the age of 50 want their bones to be as strong as possible because aging is one of the strongest risk factors for osteoporosis, a potentially debilitating medical condition in which loss of tissue causes bones to become brittle and fragile. Vitamin D is necessary to effectively absorb calcium, and vitamin D can be found in certain dairy products, including pasture-raised eggs and grass-fed cow’s milk, and can be generated when men and women get enough sunlight.

Other healthy sources of vitamin D include salmon, light tuna packed in oil, sardines, and sun-grown mushrooms.

• Cut back on sodium intake. Cutting back on sodium intake can be very beneficial, especially for men and women over the age of 50, who are at greater risk of diabetes, hypertension and chronic kidney disease. But cutting back on sodium intake takes more than just throwing the salt shaker away. Processed foods, soups, canned goods, salad dressings, condiments such as mustard and ketchup, and breakfast cereals are just a few of the many products that may contain alarming amounts of sodium. That’s important to note, as excess sodium increases blood pressure by holding excess fluid in the body. That excess fluid puts an added burden on the heart, potentially increasing a person’s risk of stroke, heart failure, osteoporosis, cancer, and kidney disease. The problem with cutting back on sodium is that salt is so often relied on to make foods taste better, and many people find salt-free foods bland.

But the rewards of reducing sodium intake are so significant that it’s worth makingthe adjustment, especially for men and women over the age of 50.

No one is too old or too young to embrace a nutritious diet. But men and women over the age of 50 are in a unique position to vastly improve their quality of life by adopting a low-sodium diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Active Lifestyles

Welcome +to Carefree Living a 55 Community

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September 18, 2014

Addressing common concerns about exercise after 50 METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION

Exercise is an essential element of a healthy lifestyle. Including exercise in your daily routine can lower your risk for diabetes, heart disease and stroke, and exercise can even sharpen mental acuity, reduce anxiety and improve mood. But as beneficial as exercise can be, many men and women, particularly men and women over the age of 50, who have not laced up their sneakers in years are hesitant to begin an exercise regimen for a variety of reasons, potentially putting their long-term health at risk.

Regardless of a person’s age, beginning a new exercise regimen can be intimidating. But it’s especially so for men and women over the age of 50, who might not know where to begin or how to approach adopting a healthier lifestyle.

According to the National Institute on Aging, the following are a few points men and women should know as they attempt to improve their physical fitness with a more active lifestyle.

• Exercise is safe even if you have not been physically active in a long time.

Many older men and women worry that suddenly embracing physical fitness after years of inactivity may be detrimental to their health. But that’s only true if men and women don’t exercise caution at the outset of their routines. When beginning the routine, take things very slowly at first, choosing to walk or bike every day rather than hitting the treadmill and adjusting it to maximum resistance.

When strength training, start off with very little weight so your muscles can grow acclimated to the motions and you can get the exercises down pat. As you grow more comfortable and your body starts to feel more up to the challenges of daily exercise, you can begin to gradually alter your cardiovascular and strength training workouts to make them more challenging.

• Exercise can make existing medical conditions more manageable. Men and women over the age of 50 who have preexisting medical conditions are likely to find that exercise alleviates rather than exacerbates their physical problems. The NIA notes that studies have shown that

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in patients over the age of 55…

regular exercise and physical activity can benefit people with arthritis, high blood pressure and heart disease. But it’s still recommended that men and women with preexisting medical conditions consult with their physicians before making any lifestyle changes. Some conditions may affect a person’s ability to be active, and it’s best to get the go-ahead from a physician before beginning an exercise regimen. Doctors may even suggest certain activities that have been known to alleviate particular conditions.

• Exercise reduces fatigue, so sitting around to preserve strength is not effective. Exercise improves strength and energy levels, so sitting on the sideline to preserve your strength is counterproductive and could lead to serious medical problems. The “Report on Physical Activity and Health” from the U.S. Surgeon General’s office noted that men and women who are inactive are almost twice as likely to develop heart disease as those who are more active. While getting adequate rest and giving your body ample time recover from physical

activity is essential, your body won’t benefit by avoiding exercise to preserve your strength. However, even moderate physical activity performed on a regular basis can reduce fatigue.

• No one is too old to exercise. It’s not uncommon for men and women in their golden years to think they are too old to exercise. Some may feel that their toned down workouts cannot possibly be making much of an impact thanks to the physical limitations old age has put on their bodies, while others may think it’s unwise for someone in their 70s or 80s to be physically active. But no one is too old to exercise, as exercise helps the body stay strong and fit even when you can no longer max out on the bench press or squat hundreds of pounds.

Scaling back your exercise routine will be necessary as you get older, but that does not mean you cannot still enjoy and benefit from physical activity.

Continuing to exercise as you age is a great way to improve your quality of life and stay as active as possible well into your golden years.

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DRS. ROUSH AND WILL OPTOMETRISTS Craig Lichlyter, OD | Elizabeth Roush, OD Jill R. Geiger, OD | R. Alan Roush, OD | Matthew Will, OD | Geoffrey Hemmick, OD

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September 18, 2014

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September 18, 2014

Make Your Golden Years Golden!

COME HOME TO CAMERON WOODS, A Senior Living Facility

You’ve worked hard your entire life and now it’s time to relax and enjoy yourself.

That’s what Cameron Woods is all about. As a resident, you’ll enjoy beautiful, comfortable surroundings and the helpful services of our friendly staff. Also, we offer short-term stays in a beautifully furnished one-bedroom apartment.

Cameron Woods features: • Private apartments • Variety of floor plans • Full schedule of activities

• Emergency call service • Delicious meals • Cleaning service

• Laundry facilities • Wellness Center • On-site beauty salon

Call 260-624-2197 to arrange a personal tour.

624-2197 701 W. Harcourt Rd., Angola, IN

www.cameronwoods.net