Lifestyles After 50 Sarasota Edition, January 2026

SARASOTA EDITION ~ JANUARY 2026 Florida’s Most Read 50+ Publication Since 1989

FREE Take One Home!

LifestylesAfter50.com Volume 37 Issue 1

Articles in this issue:

Empowering Seniors for Safer Online Experiences, p. 10 Healthy Geezer: Allergies, p. 13 Armchair Adventures: Denmark & Hans Christian Andersen, p. 16

LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS | HUMOR | HEALTH | RECIPES | BOOK REVIEW

Senior Friendship Centers Hosts 20th Annual Caregivers Forum Connect · Educate · Support Senior Friendship Centers invites caregivers to its 20th Annual Caregivers Forum on Friday, February 6, 2026, at the Harvest House Venue in Sarasota. This event is designed for anyone caring for a senior facing a new diagnosis, chronic illness, dementia, or frailty of aging.

“Too often, the challenges faced by caregivers are overshadowed by the focus on the patient,” said Erin McLeod, President and CEO of Senior Friendship Centers. “Our goal is to ensure caregivers receive the support they need—not just to survive, but to thrive.”

Since 1973, Senior Friendship Centers have walked along side of caregivers. Opening the Caregiving Place in 1984, an adult daycare program to serve seniors with frailties of aging became an essential supportive safety net for family caregivers. Family caregivers are the backbone of our nations' long-term health care system, and Senior Friendship Centers know first-hand that balancing the responsibilities of aging-in-place with daily responsibilities can feel overwhelming. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone!

"When a loved one is diagnosed with an illness our lives change.

Learning about the disease is a first priority. What are we facing?

How will we manage? Learning to be a successful caregiver is your second priority and critical to your caregiving journey.

Learning how to take care of yourself and knowing when you do all benefits." ~ Paula Falk

The 2026 Forum Chairwomen, Paula Falk and Pam Polowski need no introduction to Florida's Caregiving Community. With 60 years of combined professional experience facilitating 1000's of hours of caregiver support groups, they are the icons in caregiver support and implementation of care plans with local senior resources.

“As a former caregiver, I understand the confusion of navigating medical and insurance issues, resources, education and support aspects of a disease that no one wants to talk about. Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure of interacting with families to educate them about the disease process and support them on this journey. Joining their journey is an honor and allows me to pay it forward for my own loved ones.” ~ Pam Who: Family caregivers and those supporting them

Hosted at the Harvest House Venue, the event will open with delicious breakfast, connection with other caregivers, and networking with expert senior service resources. The Forum includes keynote presentation by holistic and internal medicine physician Derrick DeSilva, Jr. His presentation will focus on caregiver wellness, practical strategies to strengthen caregivers’ mental and physical resiliency.

What: Caregivers Forum 2026

The first panel discussion will be hosted by SFC President and CEO Erin McLeod and will feature organizational resources; Maricela Morado, President and CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Southwest FL, Sue Berger, Aging System Coordinator for Sarasota, and Jenny Macias, SFC Director of Innovative Programs.

About Senior Friendship Centers

The second panel will showcase local senior service specialists, hosted by Samantha Hersch, publisher of Seniors Bluebook. This panel will feature Paula Falk, former (retired) Director of SFC's Caregiving Place Adult Daycare and Caregivers Resource Center, Pam Polowski, Dementia Practitioner/ Trainer and the Certified Dementia Specialist, Dr. Par Reed, SMH Psychiatrist, and Debbie Frank, full-time caregiver for her husband Robert, with years of insight into the caregiver experience.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 2

When: Friday, February 6, 2026, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Where: Harvest House Venue, Sarasota How to Reserve: Tickets are $25 at https://SFC2026.eventbrite. com. Space is limited to 100 attendees and will sell out. Please purchase tickets today.

Since 1973, Senior Friendship Centers has provided programs and services that promote health, dignity, and quality of life for older adults and caregivers. Through adult day services, caregiver support, and community resources, SFC remains a trusted partner in aging well.

For more information, please call Senior Friendship Centers Business Development Manager, Georgann Nugent, (941) 5563216.

January 1 is New Year’s Day… Or Is It? They say January 1 is New Year’s Day, but recently I read several articles that made me rethink this whole “calendar” thing.

According to Photo by James Patterson Brittanica.com, in the 7th century BCE, Roman emperor Numa Pompilius decided to change the date of the new year to January 1 to honor Janus, the Roman god of new beginnings. (Some sources say he also created the month of January.)

Before that, people had celebrated a “new year” in mid-December or even mid-March: you start the year when things come back to life and start blooming.

If March is the first month of the year, then (follow along) April is the second month, May is third, and so on. This makes the most sense when you get to the later months. “September” – from “sept” or “seven” – is then the actual seventh month. “October” – from “octo” or “eight” – is the eighth month and “December” – meaning ten – is the tenth month. January and February, traditionally some of the coldest months, round out the year with winter (the “end”) in eleventh and twelfth.

In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar changed the calendar again. He left New Year’s Day on January 1 but his new calendar neglected to account for leap years.

After several centuries, the cumulative effect was that several holidays were no longer in their correct “seasons,” and there was a problem in determining the date for Easter. So in 1582, Pope Gregory VIII updated it with the Gregorian calendar, attempting to fix the problem.

Many Catholic countries immediately adopted the newly-revised Gregorian calendar, but it took some time for the Protestant countries to follow (and many non-Christian countries kept their old calendars). Of most interest to me is the fact that Great Britain and its American colonies did not begin following the Gregorian calendar until 1752… 170 years later (before then they celebrated New Year’s Day on March 25).

Now, in 2026, people the world over still use the Julian calendar, the Gregorian calendar, the Hebrew calendar, or even a lunar calendar or the Mayan calendar.

Whichever day you celebrate as the beginning of the next turn about the sun, I wish you fair skies, good health and a peaceful new year.

Until next time,

Have a great month and we'll see you in February!

Lifestyles After 50 Volume 37, Issue 1

Published by Connected Community Media Group Publisher@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Michele Baker Michele.Baker@lifestylesafter50.com Website Editor Allie Shaw Allie.Shaw@lifestylesafter50.com Distribution Distribution@lifestylesafter50.com 813-336-8247 Questions/Customer Service 813-336-8247 Press Releases Editor@lifestylesafter50.com Advertising Sales Sales: (813) 336-8247 Ext. 2 Sales@lifestylesafter50.com Joe Gess: 813-817-9855 Joe.Gess@lifestylesafter50.com Joan Marchand Joan.Marchand@lifestylesafter50.com Bob Hart Bob.Hart@lifestylesafter50.com Funfest & Event Sales Events@lifestylesafter50.com

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 3

Going Back to School in Retirement: A Practical Guide to True Lifelong Learning

By Marissa Perez Retirement doesn’t have to signal an ending—it can mark a new beginning. For many older adults, returning to school provides purpose, connection, and the intellectual stimulation that work once offered. Whether you’re interested in earning a degree, learning a language, or exploring art history, the key is planning wisely.

WHY EDUCATION FEELS DIFFERENT AFTER 60 Retirees approach learning with clearer motivation than younger students—curiosity often outweighs career pressure. Studies suggest lifelong learning supports mental sharpness, combats social isolation, and even enhances life satisfaction. But unlike earlier schooling, this phase requires balancing aging-related realities—energy levels, technology comfort, and tuition costs—with enthusiasm for exploration.

THE ADVANTAGES OF BECOMING A STUDENT AGAIN There are several reasons why retirees increasingly fill college classrooms and online programs. The first is cognitive vitality. Engaging with new information can improve memory and delay cognitive decline. Next is community and connection; courses foster social engagement. Third is a renewed purpose. Pursuing long-held academic interests can reignite passion and confidence. Finally, skill adaptation.

Learning digital skills or new disciplines keeps you relevant in a fastchanging world.

flexible pacing, accessible interfaces, and community discussion boards that reduce isolation.

If you’re interested in studying business and management, for example, earning a business management degree can strengthen your leadership, operations, and project management skills—all while fitting within your own rhythm of retirement life.

HOW TO STAY MOTIVATED (AND ENJOY IT)

PLANNING YOUR RETURN: A CHECKLIST FOR RETIREE STUDENTS

•

1. Define your “why.” Decide whether your goal is intellectual curiosity, professional reinvention, or simply social engagement.

Set mini-goals. Complete one module or essay at a time to sustain progress.

•

2. Audit your energy and schedule. Determine how much time you realistically want to dedicate to coursework each week.

Join learning groups. Study buddies or online cohorts make accountability easier.

•

3. Explore tuition options. Many colleges offer senior discounts, free auditing programs, or lifelong learning institutes.

Embrace humility. You’re not competing with younger peers— you’re modeling lifelong curiosity.

•

4. Reconnect with study habits. Refresh your notetaking, reading comprehension, and focus techniques—perhaps using tools like audiobooks or digital flashcards.

Celebrate small wins. Each completed class is a victory of persistence and growth.

HIDDEN GEM RESOURCE: ROAD SCHOLAR

5. Talk to your doctor. If you have health considerations, ensure your learning environment supports comfort and accessibility.

6. Start small. Try a short course or community class before enrolling in a full program.

THE DIGITAL CLASSROOM ADVANTAGE Online learning allows retirees to explore subjects without geographic or physical constraints. Programs tailored for adult learners emphasize

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 4

If you’re craving education plus adventure, Road Scholar (www. roadscholar.org) offers global learning trips for adults 50+. You can study art in Italy, marine biology in Belize, or cultural history across the US —no homework, just immersive exploration guided by experts.

WRAPPING IT ALL TOGETHER Going back to school in retirement isn’t about chasing credentials—it’s about continuing your evolution. Give yourself permission to enjoy learning simply for learning’s sake. The classroom (virtual or physical) becomes a new landscape for identity, friendship, and purpose.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 5

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Easy Salmon Patties This recipe uses canned salmon, but if you happen to have leftover cooked salmon that works just as well. (Note that you’ll need about 1-3/4 cups of flaked, cooked salmon in place of a 14-15 oz. can of salmon. If using raw salmon, start with about 1 lb. of uncooked salmon and cook using your favorite method – any will work. Then flake the cooked fish and allow to cool.)

Ingredients: • 1/3 cup finely chopped onion • 1 large egg, beaten • 5 saltines or Ritz crackers, crushed • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • 1 can (14-3/4 ounces) salmon, drained, bones and skin removed • 2 teaspoons butter

Method:

Serve hot with tartar sauce or mustard.

In a large bowl, combine the onion, egg, cracker crumbs, and spices.

Crumble salmon over mixture and mix well. Hand shape into 6 patties.

Variations:

In a large skillet over medium heat, fry patties in butter for 3-4 minutes on each side or until set and golden brown.

Add ½ teaspoon of: Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, lemon pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or dill weed. Or add finely chopped veggies, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pickles, or jalapenos.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 7

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 8

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 9

Empowering Seniors for Safer Online Experiences: 6 Practical Safety Tips for Caregivers and Families Courtesy of Family Features Today’s seniors aren’t shying away from a world that has become increasingly reliant on technology. Nearly all seniors surveyed as part of the “Connecting the Digital Dots: Online Habits and Safety Concerns Across Three Generations” (by Cox Mobile) consider themselves digitally literate, using devices for shopping, banking, social media and entertainment.

With older adults spending a significant amount of time connected to the digital world – 41% of those surveyed reported spending five or more hours online daily – they’re also more at-risk for scams, viruses like malware and data breaches.

61% of seniors who encountered digital threats were able to mitigate the issues themselves – showing their growing digital capability – but increased online engagement brings new challenges. Cox Mobile, in partnership with Common Sense Media, offers educational materials on digital safety, smart device use and media literacy for all ages.

Encourage Strong Passwords: Simple passwords, like number sequences, keyboard patterns or personal information – such as variations of your name, birthdate, address or names of pets or loved ones – are easily guessable. While the survey found 70% of seniors already create strong, unique passwords, avoid reusing passwords across sites. A password manager app safely stores passwords and eliminates the need to write them all down, which could lead to a breach.

Use Security Software: If devices aren’t protected, even the most careful users are susceptible to viruses. Though 63% of those surveyed have security software installed, it’s important to regularly make sure it’s up to date (or that automatic updates are enabled) and covers all

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 10

devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: A simple and effective way to stop most attempts at unauthorized account access, 60% of seniors are already using multi-factor authentication as an extra layer of protection. Some seniors, however, may need assistance setting up the safeguard, which typically sends a code to a phone number or email address as part of the login process, for online banking, email or social media accounts.

Review Apps and Channels: Over time, it can be easy to accumulate apps on smartphones and tablets.

While 51% of surveyed seniors remove unsafe apps, regularly check devices for unfamiliar or suspicious applications and delete them. Also keep an eye out for unauthorized charges, data sharing or browser extensions.

Utilize Built-In Safety Features: Explore privacy controls on individual devices (and apps) and check with your internet service provider to ensure security features are being utilized. Included privacy protections may include limiting data sharing, disabling location tracking, blocking pop-ups and restricting other unwanted communication.

Discuss Online Safety Regularly: Because technology is ever-changing, open, ongoing conversations can help build trust and awareness of current scams, suspicious texts or emails, commonly used apps and more.

By fostering open dialogue, sharing practical safety strategies and leveraging trusted resources, caregivers can help their loved ones thrive and stay safe. Visit your local Cox Mobile store or go to CoxMobileSafety.com to find more tips, guides and full survey results.

Caregivers Forum 2026 Connect ✤ Educate ✤ Support

Friday, February 6, 2026 8 am – 12 pm

Chairwomen: Paula Falk and Pam Polowski

Harvest House Venue 3650 17th Street, Sarasota 34235

We know the journey of caregiving can be isolating.

This morning retreat is for you… those new to caregiving and those well into their caregiving journey.

Breakfast • Speakers • Panel Discussions Senior Service Resources • Bring your questions!

For more information call Senior Friendship Centers Georgann Nugent, 941-556-3216

You deserve support too! $25 tickets: SFC2026.eventbrite.com

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 11

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THE HEALTHY GEEZER

All About Allergies

Q. Is it worth getting shots for my allergies?

While we don’t know why some people develop allergies, a family history of allergies is the single most important factor that predisposes a person to develop allergies. While there is no cure for allergic disease, there are many medications The common symptoms of allergic rhinitis available to lessen symptoms. are itchy eyes, nose, or throat; nasal Immunotherapy, also known as allergy congestion; runny nose; watery eyes; chest shots or vaccinations, can alleviate allergy congestion; or wheezing. If your eyes also symptoms. However, shots don’t work become red and swollen, you suffer from on all allergies or all people. Doctors allergic conjunctivitis. advise against allergy shots if you take Before starting allergy shots, your doctor a beta blocker for high blood pressure may use a skin test to confirm that you or heart problems. If you’re considering have allergies and determine which specific immunotherapy, seek the advice of a good allergens cause your signs and symptoms. allergist.

During the test, a small amount of the Allergy shots are a series of scheduled suspected allergen is scratched into your injections meant to desensitize you to skin and the area is then observed for specific allergens — the substances that about 20 minutes. Swelling and redness trigger an allergic response. The usual indicate an allergy to the substance. schedule is a shot once or twice a week for The shots won’t give you immediate relief. about three to six months. After that, you'll You'll probably see improvement in the first need a shot about once a month for three year of treatment. The most noticeable to five years. improvement often happens during the Allergy shots are commonly used to treat second year. By the third year, most people allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma. are desensitized to the allergens contained Allergy shots may also control allergic in the shots. For some people, successful reactions to stinging insects, such as bees, treatment leads to a life without allergy yellow jackets, hornets and wasps. But the symptoms. For others, shots must continue shots are not effective for food allergies. on a long-term basis to keep allergy If you have seasonal hay fever, you may be symptoms at bay. allergic to pollens from trees, grasses or All Rights Reserved © 2025 by Fred Cicetti weeds. If you have year-round discomfort, Send your general health questions to you may be sensitive to indoor allergens Healthy Geezer with Lifestyles After 50 in such as dust mites, cockroaches, mold or the subject line to fred@healthygeezer. pet dander. com.

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Articles in this issue:

Happiness Every Day, p. 10 Armchair Adventures: Christkindlmarkt, p. 16 6 Retirement Tips for 2026, p. 20

LOCAL NEWS & EVENTS | HUMOR | HEALTH | RECIPES | BOOK REVIEW Breast Cancer Awareness

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Blast to the Past!

“50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” BY: RANDAL C. HILL Early in 1975, Paul Simon and his first wife, Peggy Harper, called it quits after six years of marriage. One day, Simon had their three-year-old son Harper at his Manhattan apartment, and Paul was trying to teach the lad how to rhyme words.

Paul’s endeavors worked their way into “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover,” a masterfully crafted piece of storytelling from his hit album “Still Crazy After All These Years.” Simon presented the tale as a dialogue, and we witness his protagonist rushing from the ruins of a marriage into a (hopefully) better situation this time around.

As a divorce song (like a country classic), Paul’s creation doesn’t get bogged down with self-pity or overwrought reflection. You can almost imagine the New York-born musical poet even winking as his rhyming list unfolds without a trace of viciousness or callousness.

During the narrator’s journey, his awaiting lady friend offers what she thinks will help assuage Simon’s concerns about his departure:

“The problem is all inside your head,” she said to me // The answer is easy if you take it logically // I’d like to help you in your struggle to be free // There must be 50 ways to leave your lover Did Paul actually did come up with 50 clever lines involving the leaving of a relationship? The answer is yes, but only five survived the limitations of a vinyl 45 at the time: You just slip out the back, Jack // Make a new plan, Stan // You don’t need to be coy, Roy // Hop on the bus, Gus // Just drop off the key, Lee Paul Simon fans were thus deprived of several clever gems: Act like a slob, Bob // Flee to a cave, Dave // Keep on lyin’, Brian // Offer to pay alimony, Tony // Finally use that canoe, Lou // Jump off the Staten Island ferry, Jerry // Say they’re not funny, Sonny He has always dismissed “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover” as merely “a nonsense song.” Nonsense? Hardly. Your clever concoction proves that you were really on the ball, Paul!

Movie Preview: “People We Meet on Vacation”

BY RANDAL C. HILL

Emily Henry is one of the reigning masters of the contemporary romance novel. Since 2020, she has written six New York Times bestsellers, and five of those witty “chick lit” publications have now been optioned for both the big and small screens.

Henry’s first book to become a movie arrives via TV on January 9. That’s when “People We Meet on Vacation” streams on Netflix. Emily’s 2021 creation, which has sold more than 2 million copies, offers a lightweight romantic plot (of course) but one that also thrums with an undercurrent of concerns of honesty and respect among the characters involved.

Poppy Wright and Alex Nilsen are best friends who have almost nothing in common. Poppy is an extroverted wild child with insatiable wanderlust (she’s a travel writer), while reserved, thoughtful high-school English teacher Alex is happy to stay home with a good book.

Despite living far apart, for the last decade the two have enjoyed getting

together for a week each summer. At least, that was the case until two years ago, when their annual trip involved a massive blowup (they haven’t spoken since).

Poppy somehow convinces Alex to take one last journey, keeping to herself the fact that this is a mission to win back his friendship. Poppy has only a week to set things right…and to lay out her true feelings for Alex.

Emily Bader (“My Lady Jane”) plays the female lead.

“Poppy burns really hot and fast and she talks too much.

She’s loud…But that’s just who she is.”

Alex is portrayed by Tom Blyth (“The Hunger Games” prequel): “They’re each other’s yin and yang. They’re each others’ counterbalance.”

Director Brett Haley (“Hearts Beat Loud”) says, “My hope is that fans of the book see the care we put into bringing Poppy and Alex to life on the screen, and that new audiences will fall for them just as deeply…This is a movie that doesn’t just tell a love story,” Haley concludes. “It makes you feel like you’ve gone on vacation right alongside Poppy and Alex.”

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 15

Armchair Adventures: Denmark, Hans Christian Andersen and The Ugly Duckling

By Evelyn B. Kelly, PhD Imagination is a thing of beauty. We are in Odense, Denmark at the home of Hans Christian Andersen. It is the third largest city in Denmark and about 100 miles from Copenhagen. “The Ugly Duckling” comes alive as we venture into the writer’s creative mind. Odense is a picturesque town that looks like someone has thrown colored blocks down to land on the Cobblestone streets.

Probably everyone has read something by Hans Christian Andersen: “The Ugly Duckling,” “The Little Mermaid,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” or maybe “The Princess and the Pea.” It is such an honor to be here where he was born in 1805 and where he is recognized as one of Denmark’s greatest citizens.

From the ages of two to 14, Andersen lived in the little yellow half-timbered house near the Odense Cathedral.

Touring the house, we see very humble rooms and the poverty that marked his early years. His mother was an illiterate washerwoman, and his father was a shoemaker who delighted in telling his son stories. (“Arabian Nights” especially piqued the young Andersen’s imagination.)

Our favorite is “The Ugly Duckling” about a young duck who was laughed at and excluded from the other ducklings; even his mother didn’t like him. But then something unique happened; the ugly duckling became a gorgeous creature: a swan.

This story parallels Andersen’s experience. He went to Copenhagen to become an actor but was laughed at for being too skinny and uneducated to enter the theater. But the mid-1800s was marked by the Romantics in literature

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 16

and Danish nationalism. Andersen began writing stories from his youth using his majestic imagination, and they became popular – the human “ugly duckling” became a beautiful swan. His 156 stories have been recognized internationally and written into plays and movies.

Despite his success, Andersen didn’t fit in with Copenhagen high society. His behavior and upbringing were not considered proper. Once, after returning from a speaking tour, he heard someone say, “Now our world-famous orangutan is home again.”

Except for a bookstore and souvenir shop, there’s wasn’t much at his home.

I purchased his biography and a statue of the Little Mermaid. But when I returned in 2015, there were plans in the works for an H. C. Andersen museum like no other (it opened in 2021). Built from plans drawn by Japanese architect Kengo Kama, the museum has round buildings, soft curves, and a magical garden. “You end up somewhere between what is outside and what is inside,” says the guide.

High hedges guide you through a dense, dark green garden with crooked fir trees, and then suddenly you are in the light garden with fanciful flowers. These hedges form the walls from different scenes to encourage the imagination.

Underground spaces tell fairy tales and urge your imagination along by appealing to all senses. State-of-theart technology interacts with the world around you. The museum is as unique and unforgettable as Hans Christian Andersen himself, and it honors his prodigious imagination.

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.

Sudoku #365

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Another Tour Around the Sun Well, New Years Eve is over now, as are the requisite hangovers, which should all have been gotten over by now. I’ve long since stopped allowing such festivities, as well as Peter Jennings, #5156 Regis Philbin, Ryan Seacrest and other Dick-Clark-wannabees to interfere with my sleep, which I value much more than headaches, grogginess, dog-breath and regrets.

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CROSSWORD PUZZLE CROSSWORD PUZZLE #5156

#5156

CROSSWORD PUZZLE CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 18

#5156

#5156

The most important thing about this month is that at 3:38 pm on January 29, I will be 82 years old. (Tom Selleck will have preceded me at 8:22 in the morning.)

What I am having trouble comprehending, is what is this young man doing in this old man’s body? I can do most everything I’ve always done, only it’s either a little bit slower or it’s in my imagination.

The most unusual thing I’m experiencing is the fact that a lot of my close friends have died, even though many of them were much younger than I am. It just doesn’t seem fair somehow, but then I’m certainly glad to be here so I don’t dwell on it for any length of time.

That being said, I think this is a good time for Volume III of “I’m So Old That:” I’m so old that I remember when Buster Crabbe portrayed not only Tarzan, but also Flash Gordon and Captain Gallant of the Foreign Legion.

I’m so old that I remember when the neon McDonald’s signs first read “Over 1,000,000 sold.”

I’m so old that I remember when women got engaged, then married, then pregnant.

I’m so old that I remember when music & singing were a regular part of the daily school curriculum, not an elective.

I’m so old that I remember when wings were the garbage part of the chicken that got thrown away.

I’m so old that I remember when arguments and differences were settled “after school, in the parking lot.” (Only fists were permitted.)

I’m so old that I remember if you dropped your lunchbox you could kiss your thermos goodbye.

Mike knows that you kids have a lot of “I’m So Old That’s” of your own. Please feel free to share them at micwrighthamo@gmail.com.

He needs the material.

BOOK REVIEW

by Kathy A. Megyeri

Book: “100 Rules for Living to 100, An Optimist’s Guide to a Happy Life” by Dick Van Dyke You loved him in “Mary Poppins,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and “The Dick Van Dyke Show.” He’s won five Emmys, a Tony and a Grammy, and as he’s about to turn 100, Van Dyke is still dancing and approaching life with a twinkle in his eye.

In this autobiographical collection of stories, reflections and life advice, Van Dyke reveals his secrets for making the most out of life. He shares stories of his childhood, memories of life on film sets, family, and how he found love late in life. He shares the joyful times and addresses the challenges he’s faced; but it’s his positive attitude and upbeat spirit that inspire readers to count the blessings in their lives, persevere through the hard times and appreciate the joys and beauty of life.

Van Dyke has appeared in family comedies like “Night at the Museum,” “The Secret of the Tomb,” and “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day.” His “retirement” has also included appearing on stage with Chita Rivera in “A Dancer’s Life” and with his brother Jerry Van Dyke in Neil Simon’s “The Sunshine Boys.” His a cappella singing group the Vantastix has performed across the country for the past ten years, including at Ford’s Theatre in Washington, DC for President Obama.

He also works at the Midnight Mission in downtown Los Angeles for the homeless. He received the 2013 SAG Life Achievement Award for his contributions to charity.

an award to Julie Andrews, he met his current wife, a make-up artist and vocalist. He discusses fellow comedians Mary Tyler Moore, Buster Keaton, Morey Amsterdam, and Carl Reiner (his closest friend), his phone calls with Cary Grant, and his love for Halloween.

Readers have found Van Dyke’s advice helpful, the short anecdotes engaging, and the tone humorous, so they hear his voice in his writing. Readers will be surprised at his honesty and describe the reading experience like having coffee with him: his stories are lighthearted even when tackling difficult subjects.

Van Dyke admits to the poor decisions he made, tackles topics like swearing, smoking, and alcoholism, cancer, an affair, and disturbing content from a horror movie that he turned down.

Each of the 100 rules has its own chapter – reading each story endears you to him even more, and the result is an autobiography told in short story format beginning with his youth and going through his extensive career. At 99, he misses his friends, can’t dance like he used to, forgets song lyrics and owns up to age’s limitations but still views disappointments as learning experiences.

He’s gentle, decent, and tries to do right by others – readers are convinced Burt, the chimney sweep, is in his DNA. His honesty, humility, and charm demonstrate his appreciation for humanity. Perhaps that’s why Van Dyke is such a legend.

Another story tells of the night in 2007, how when presenting

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 19

Your Kitchen Is a Medicine Chest

By Michele D. Baker Common problems can often be remedied easily at home. Here’s an A-Z guide. Be sure to consult your doctor or pharmacist in case herbal or home remedies interact with your prescription medications, and remember, these remedies shouldn’t replace professional medical attention.

Arthritis – Parsley tea: pour a cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of fresh chopped parsley. Let it infuse, strain, and sip throughout the day.

Bad Breath – Mouth rinse: combine ½ Tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1 Tablespoon ground cloves, and 1 Tablespoon of ground nutmeg in a bowl. Add ½ cup of sweet sherry or dry vermouth, pour into an airtight bottle, and allow to steep 3 days. Strain and rebottle. Add a few drops to a glass of water and rinse the mouth.

Bloating – Before breakfast, take 1 teaspoon cider vinegar and 1-2 teaspoons honey in a glass of warm water.

Bruises – Eat fresh pineapple or drink fresh pineapple juice.

Chapped lips – Lip balm: Mix 5 Tablespoons almond oil with 1 Tablespoon of beeswax.

Chest congestion – Inhaler: Add peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil to a bowl of boiling water. Drape a towel over

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 20

your head and lean over the bowl. Inhale the steam for about 5 minutes. (Do not use on sensitive skin.)

Cold sores – Compress: apply witch hazel with a cotton swab or press a wet tea bag against the sore (tannins will reduce the inflammation).

Common cold – Infusion: To a cup of boiling water, add 1-2 peeled, crushed garlic cloves; juice of 1 lemon + ½ of the grated rind; a pinch of cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger; and 1-2 Tablespoons honey. Allow to steep and drink (including the solids). Rest as much as possible.

Diarrhea – Eat well-cooked, salted rice and drink the water it was cooked in. Drink plenty of liquids.

Fatigue – Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon rosemary leaves, infuse for 30 minutes, and strain. Drink ¼ cup warm upon waking and at bedtime.

Flatulence – Drink a mug of hot milk with cinnamon. OR, eat a dill pickle and 1 teaspoon of pickle brine.

Hay fever – 3-4 months before hay fever season, start taking 1 Tablespoon local honey 3 times a day.

Headaches – 1) Eat 10-12 almonds instead of aspirin. 2) For a migraine, sit with the feet in a bowl of cool water. 3) For tension headache, combine ¼ cup almond oil, 20 drops rosemary oil, 20 drops lavender oil, and 30 drops of peppermint oil. Mix and massage on the temples. Also massage the fleshy area between your thumb and index finger.

Perspiration – 1) Create powdered deodorant by mixing ½ cup baking soda, ½ cup cornstarch, and a few drops of essential oils (try lavender or cinnamon). Mix in a glass jar.

High cholesterol – Eat oatmeal for breakfast daily. Regularly Sprinkle on a damp cloth and pat to apply. 2) For liquid drink a hot “tea” made with cinnamon and honey. deodorant, combine ¼ cup each: witch hazel, aloe vera gel, Indigestion and gas – Cook with plenty of rosemary, bay leaf, and mineral water. Add 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin and a thyme, sage and marjoram when cooking. Fennel seed tea few drops of essential oils (optional). Store in a spray bottle also helps. Try chewing fresh basil leaves or mint leaves. (shake to blend before using.)

Insect bites – Raw onion draws out the pain. Or, wet a regular aspirin pill and place on the sting (the acid helps neutralize the poison).

Sinus blockage – Onion is a natural decongestant. Slice and cover with 1-2 Tablespoons sugar and heave for 30 minutes until juice forms. Take 1 teaspoon of the juice each hour.

Insomnia – Drink chamomile tea.

Sore Throat – 1) Eat a finely chopped onion mixed with honey. 2) Gargle 5-6 times with a warm, strong saltwater solution.

Nausea – Infusion: ½ teaspoon grated ginger in a cup of boiling water; strain and drink. (Also helps carsickness.)

Stomach upset – simmer 1 teaspoon honey and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in water for 20 minutes. Cool and sip slowly.

Sunburn (also kitchen burns) – Run cold water over the affected part (or a cool shower) for 10 minutes. Spread with aloe vera gel. (Burns that swell or blister quickly, blacken, or become numb are more serious. See a doctor.)

Toothache – While waiting for the dentist: 1) Soak a cotton ball in the juice of a grated raw onion and press. 2) Apply organic clove oil to the gums to calm irritation. 3) Chew a garlic clove.

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 21

Seniors getting Together WOMENSEEKING SEEKINGMEN MEN WOMEN 5644 PLANT CITY WIDOW – A Plant 4907 - SWF. 59 yo, 5’9”, 160 lbs, smoker, City widow who misses longtime blonde hair, blue eyes.

I like her fishing, movhusband and best friend.

Searching ies, traveling, dancing, good food. Seeks SWM likes the same. male in his for awho white easy-going 70s to meet and start a friendship 5409 - WRETCHED old hagg seeking with and perhaps lead to a longtime miserable old troll. If U respond U obvicompanion to share my life ously have a sense of humor & Rwith. adventurPlant City ous. I’m 76, blonde, petite, earthy, easy

to B with. Love singing, dancing, biking, 5653 VENICE, JERSEY, TRUMP, cooking, vintage cars & vintage men. Must UNVAXED – I value honest, have a little class & a lot kindness, of character.

smart. I like dogs, cars, and fish. 420

5422 - VERY PRETTYfor WWF ISO FF.for Long friendly – looking a match blonde hair, youthful 60’s, 5’4”, slim, ND, the last chapter. Let’s meet on 41.

NS. Fine dining, dancing, theatre, travel.

Healthy. Phone number and picture, Looking for retired W gentleman, 5’9”, 65please.

Sarasota.

75, HWP, SOH. Will speak soon. Send photo &5654 phone.

PURPLE HEART WIDOW

– Seeks a companion, not a new 5436 - TAMPA VETERAN NEEDS COMhusband.

Pretty and fun.looking Love, scuba, PANION QUICKLY. SW, 60, for boating, real crime and travel, 420 healthy, W, 45-65 for LTR. Need compuer operations, applications expert and friendly. Kind, smart, single.

Youhandy could homemaker.

Quiet music, parks, be happy. Picture and Phone,swimplease. ming, local touring. Veteran literary a plus.

Venice.

Tampa.

5662 SWF – retired P looking for FF.

5427 - SEEKING SINCERE, HONEST OK. Secure.

Seeking SWM. Snowbird GENTLEMAN. I’m 70s, HWP, NS, ND, like I’m in Port to meet SWMCharlotte with samefull-time. interest forHoping LTR. for a partner physically fit, dancing, Laid back, no drama. Like animals.

Hillsrestaurants, travel, cards, church, borough & Pasco.

lover of holding hands. Sociable NS 5425 CHRISTIAN WOMAN &ND.- SINCERE Enjoys holidays.

Please send desires C-man who really loves God and is phone number and picture. active, lives a healthy life, helps his neigh-

bor, enjoys (includingfor picnics), 5663 SHFnature 64 – Looking activecanoeing and a friend to all animals. I’m all male 60 to 73 NS. Likes to drive, of the above. I’m a W ,etite lady with long beach, walk in parks.

Watching TV hair and chearful.

Age 60’s, Age preferred: and cuddling on the sofa.

Romantic.

Mid 50’s and up. I live in Hillsborough County. write me, tellSend me about FriendsPlease first, maybe LTR. a photo yourself. and phone.

5664– THE QUEST A woman 5431 LONELY WWF,–looking for love & companion.

Man should be 70 to 80 yrs seeking adventure & savoring the old.

I am fi nancially secure, have a car & moments. SF. Creative, foodie, staying condo. I live in N. St. Pete. fit, nearing 60yy. If not now, when?

SOH.- Conversationalist, beach,IN S. 5429 HERE, DURING COVID-19 museums.

Dare I suggest dancing?

FT. MYERS. ISO friendship only with W, widower in early 80’s. SOH, honest, NS. I Yes!

am W, WW, HWP, attractive & intellgent.

5637respond SWGF –with 70 years young. Be What Please phone/email. safe the world needs now is…. well, & well.

gentlemen, you decide! I’m willing

5413 - WWmy ISOtime BUDDY, to pal to share withFRIEND you, walking, around with who’s about my age, 80’s, gal dinner, coffee, Café, Moderate height or guy with SOH. Good health, finanand secure weight.

Tampa cially to have fun & enjoy life. No Trumpers or religious zealots please. Let 5624 LOOKING FOR MALE the good times roll.

COMPANION – A plant city widow,

Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 22

searching for a white, easy-going male in his 80s to meet and start a friendship 5419 HAVE A NICE DAY. yo, 5’5”, with,- and perhaps leadSWF, to a 75 longtime slender, brunette, green eyes, adventurous, companion to share my healthy life with.

Plant love walks, parks, outdoors, food.

Am city happy, loving, kind. LTR, intimacy? Have photo.

Tampa.

5670 – Single female 5’2” slim A, NS,SD seeking S maleHonest 60-70gentleman.

NS dance partner 4119 - Seeking Forto practice intermediate ballroom dance. mer airline stewardess and model, 5’4”, 104 lbs., slender, with Ph.D. in If you are awhite heavy drinker orhealthcare. smoker, “no Fulbright healthy exercises. need to scholar, reply”. eats Health and and fitness are an Likes sports and animals. WW. Loves the Lord. important part of my lifestyle. Friendships Florida. must grow slowly and steadily over time, embracing differences.

MEN SEEKING WOMENNew paths require a willingness to explore to nurture new 5411 - BM seeksInterests: LTR with 50-65 old connections. tennis,yrballroom woman of character. I am 6’0”, 180 lbs, 60 dancing, ten-pin bowling, and long walks. year old. NS. Children are adults. Free to travel. ballroom, rock,Race jazz,ispop and IMusic: am a one woman man. not an issue country.is!Sun City Center. character MEN SEEKING WOMEN

5407 - ISO BF, 50+, slender build who likes to read, toVERY eat, movies, laid back, 5622goHIout –A MATURE – W, enjoys M, 140 laughter & is drama free.

Look forward to hearlb., white hair, brown eyes, of reasonable ing from you. I am a WM, 5’11”, 155 lbs, NS and looks, 5’8”. In Tampa. NS, SD only. Shall we drama free.

Dunedin.

5668 – Marine, outdoorsy and 5417 - PINELLAS PARK, FUN LOVING Scandinavian descent.

Handy, fit, clean, SWM, seeking SWW to enjoy sports activiand healthy. Looking for a woman ties, bridge, dominoes, pinochle and swimwith a couple of these traits in or near ming at Mainlands. I’m 88 and very active.

Sarasota. tryover and70.grow together Looking forLet’s SWW I’m 6’3”, 235 lbs in the sunshine! and a dancer. Pinellas Park.

5660 HAPPY MAN ISO VITAL WOMAN – Gallery exhibition Brussels Belgium 2025 photography. Clean, sober, dedicated, peaceful, ageless, slim.

Harleys, Corvette, Backgammon. Natural full head of long hair. Movies, Jazz blues.

Eats out often.

5671 –Are you petite SF who is fun, easy-going, likes happy hour and restaurants? I am a senior, SWM 5’6”. NS ND SOH with money. Tyrone square area.

Happy dating!

meet for coffee, and see? Yes, my parents are of- M, Italian but P, born in the USA. 5415 WW, descent, NS, SD, HWP, FF, likes cards, walks, cooking, travel, fun.

Seeking H, W, P, lady who is mobile and likes life, but wants more. Trump can offer 5424 - HI, Lonely guy, WM, 5’8”, 160 lbs, a a better life. Now you young mid-seventies, NS,know NS, fit,how activeI think. and adventuresome.

Seeks lady, mid-sixties to early 5638 HELLO. SWM SEEKING – petite seventies, HWP, exercises, possible romance, relocatable gal to be my companion, best LTR. Let’s be happy and celebrate life.

friend, life partner and lover. I’m secure, easy -going, loving and romantic.

NS, ND. 5393 SWM, 69, 5’11” , AVG. Hair black, thinning, DAV, honest, sincere, relocated Hudson.

5’7” 150lbs.

Share my life and home.

Save Retired Leo. Send ISO WHF, widow atthat rent. photo andpreferred, phone number tractive, sm. butt, NS, ND, handy homemaker, please. No pets. intimacy yes, no baggage, drama.

5642 SWM – Y 71 SOH, open-minded. ISO

5428 - M, WW, HWP, R,W, TLC, fun HWP F forNS, ST SD, LT. 33701, NS,70’s.

ND. I'm Likes sharing many activities together, quiet fun, enjoy dancing, cuddling, affection. evenings; be adventurous.

To PLACe An AD: Send your ad, stating what edition(s) you would like it placed in, along with a $6 8 fee for 30 words (25¢ for each additional word, abbreviations not charged) to the Lifestyles After 50 address listed below.

Ads received by the 15th of the month will appear in the following issue.

LT. 55 tofit,71.

Overweight is Very OK. handI like seeking attractive, female. some, very fi t senior.

5’11”, 175, blue eyes, playing cards and true crime TV. Phone silver hair.

Let’s enjoy life’s pleasures. number, please. Brandon

To ReSPonD To An AD: Write a letter to the person you want to contact. Place that letter in a stamped envelope and write the ad # on the bottom left hand side of the envelope. Place your stamped, numbered envelope(s), along with $2 for each letter enclosed, into another envelope and address it to: Lifestyles After 50 Seniors Getting Together P.O. Box 638, Seffner, FL 33583 CommonLY USeD ABBReViATionS: F-Female, M-Male, S-Single, D-Divorced, WWWidow, A-Asian, B-Black, H-Hispanic, I-Indian, W-White, C-Christian, J-Jewish, YO-Years Old, YY-Years Young, ISO-In Search Of, SOH-Sense Of Humor, SM-Smokes, S-Light Smoker, NSNon Smoker, ND-Non Drinker, SD-Social (Light) Drinker, DR-Drinks, NDrg- No Drugs, LTR-Long Term Relationship, HWP-Height & Weight Proportional, R-Retired, P-Professional, FF-Friendship First, TLC-Tender Loving Care.

Seniors Getting Together

Personal Ad Placement only $68 per month!

Deadline for ads is the 15th of the month prior to placement.

MArk The ediTiOn(S) YOu WOuLd Like TO run YOur Ad in: ❍ Tampa Bay & Suncoast (Hillsborough/Pinellas/Pasco) ❍ Lake/Marion/Sumter ❍ Southwest & Sarasota (Lee, Charlotte/Manatee)

Ad Copy ••• PLeASe PrinT neATLY ••• 30 Word Limit TITLE:

(First 4 Words)

Outdoors, walking , holding hands, karaoke, romantic movies, 5426 - EASY GOING MAN. I’m much 69, 140more. lbs, 5’7”, widower, alone. Seeking other gentlemen Not intolives sports. for friendship, to get together and enjoy each 5648 SBM, 73. Will – Happy holidays!

Enjoy other’s company. answer alll.

Florida and all it has to offer. Would luv to

5369 Looking For(race Ms Right.

Retired New meet–single lady, unimportant) to York Attorney, former New York cer,of have a great time with. “Old Police skool”Offi kind looking for loving relationship with kind and guy. Riverview. sincere, self-caring lady. 65 – 75. Widow preferred.

5665 Clearwater – Wanted area. men and ladies who love

to sing. No previous knowledge required.

5412 - LOOKING FOR ADVENTEROUS WOMIt’s fun for all ages. If you’re too busy to AN. SWM, NS, healthy, retired, enjoys country sing, you’re to busy.day Venice music, home cooking, trips Gondoliers to scenic attracSingers. tions, sun rises, sunsets, movies, walks in the park. For more info, write me. Pinellas County.

5667 RETIRED DWM – NS. ND. Debt free.

Night- LOOKING owl. Seeking same for passionate 5416 FOR COMPANION. SWM

CITY:

(No Charge)

If more room is needed, please use separate sheet. Mail this form along with $68 for each ad per month (add $4 for each additional edition/market in the same month).

We cannot accept your ad without it. This information is confidential.

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Email: Make checks payable to: Lifestyles After 50 Mail to: PO Box 638, Seffner, Fl 33583

Ultimate Chicken Noodle Soup This recipe is a variation on the classic. In addition to being the quintessential comfort food, chicken noodle soup is infinitely customizable.

Add whatever vegetables are in the fridge and adjust seasonings to taste.

Ingredients: • Dark meat from 1 rotisserie chicken, deboned and skin removed • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon pepper • 1 Tablespoon oil • ½ large onion, chopped • 1 garlic clove, minced • 6 cups good quality chicken broth

• 2 celery ribs, chopped • 2 medium carrots, chopped • 1 bay leaf • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme • 6 oz. uncooked egg noodles (or other pasta) • 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice

Directions: In a large stockpot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook over medium-high heat until tender, 4-5 minutes. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Add broth and bring to a boil.

Add celery, carrots, bay leaves and thyme. Reduce heat; simmer, covered, until vegetables are tender, 25-30 minutes.

Meanwhile, roughly chop the dark meat chicken. When vegetables are fork tender, add meat to broth and cook about 5 minutes.

Remove soup from heat. Add noodles and let stand, covered, until noodles are tender, about 20 minutes.

Return pot to heat and stir in parsley and lemon juice. Adjust seasonings and discard bay leaves. Serve hot.

AROUND TOWN JANUARY 3: ANDRE ROY The White Elephant Pub, 1855 Gulf Blvd., #5729, Englewood JANUARY 3: SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL Robarts Arena, 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota JANUARY 3: CRUISIN’ ON DEARBORN W. Dearborn St., Englewood JANUARY 3: FIRST SATURDAY CELERY FIELD WALK Sarasota Audubon Nature Center, 999 Center Rd., Sarasota JANUARY 4: COCOPLUM CARS & COFFEE Pet Supermarket, 17855 Tamiami Tri., North Port JANUARY 4: BEE GEES GOLD Venice Community Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S, Venice JANUARY 4: COPELAND Sarasota Opera House, 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota JANUARY 7: THE KINGSTON TRIO Glenridge on Palmer Ranch, 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota JANUARY 9: RENEE FLEMING Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Tri., Sarasota JANUARY 9-10: CLASSIC TV Venice Performing Arts Center, 326 Nokomis Ave. S, Venice JANUARY 10: MUTTS GONE NUTS Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 Tamiami Tri., Sarasota JANUARY 10: NATHAN CHESTER & THE OLD SOULS Lazy River Village Inc., 10500 Tamiami Tri., North Port JANUARY 11: TRIUMPHANT QUARTET Happy Gospel Church, 1915 53rd Ave. E, Bradenton JANUARY 11: SINGULAR SONIC Fiorelli Winery, 4250 Waterbury Rd., Bradenton JANUARY 11: MEETING OF SINGLES ON THE GO Grace Life Church (formerly Faith Presbyterian Church), 1201 Beneva Rd., Sarasota JANUARY 13: BLUE MAN GROUP Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 Tamiami Tri., Sarasota JANUARY 14: MATT POND PA Peace Education & Action Center, 525 Kumquat Ste. C, Sarasota JANUARY 15: THE JOHN FORD BLUES SOCIETY Cortez Clam Factory, 10104 Cortez Rd. W, Bradenton JANUARY 15: MEGA CHALLAH BAKE The Grove Lakewood Ranch, 10670 Boardwalk Loop, Bradenton JANUARY 16-18: 34TH ANNUAL FINE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL Venice Airfield, 2042 Scenic Dr., Venice Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026• 23

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Lifestyles After 50 • January 2026 • 24