Are you tired of numberness, tingling, burning, balance issues, loss of sleep due to your peripheral neuropathy?
Barb M
if you are a candidate
Are you like most people with this diesease and have taken Gabapentin, Lyrica, Neurotin or other medications without results or improvements? Do your symptoms continue to get worse?
I am 100% better and looking forward to starting to go for walks again.
Wayne L
I am back cutting the grass, walking through the neighborhood and doing more things.
A century of life
Washington woman celebrates milestone birthday by bowling
By Paula Paterra
Grace Friend was quite surprised when she arrived at the Alpine Bowling Alley Dec. for a night at the lanes.
The Washington resident turned 100 years old Dec. 19, and the following day members of her Friday Night Wheels League, friends and family held a surprise party for the new centenarian.
“This is a bunch of wonderful people,” Friend said as she sported a “Birthday Queen” sash. “It was a surprise.”
Person after person hugged Friend as she took in the celebration, saying she didn’t feel any older. One gentleman said “to 100 more” and that he wanted her autograph.
“These are all my boyfriends,” she said with a hearty laugh.
Friend’s picture flashed on the marquee outside, saying “Happy 100th birthday to one of our league bowlers, Grace!!”
Friend’s daughter, Gladys Paquet, admitted there was a little difficulty in pulling off the surprise.
“This is our yearly Christmas banquet,” Paquet said. “She thought she was coming down to the Christmas party. It was a little hard to keep it a secret. I let it out (Friday). I said, ‘I’m planning your birthday party,’ but
she doesn’t hear everything,” she said.
Thankfully everything turned out just fine.
“Everybody was here, and we all yelled, surprise,” Paquet said.
Bowling has been a part of Friend’s life for more than 50 years. She is not only a member of the Wheels League, but also the Senior Citizen League. In her heyday, she sported some impressive numbers. She is a meritorious member of the Washington County Bowling Hall of Fame.
There is a certain characteristic about continuing to participate in the sport that Friend enjoys: “Being with people,” she said.
Friend still sports an impressive average of 94 for a woman who has reached the century mark. She uses a special 10-pound ball
given to her by the owners of the bowling alley and sports the name “Mema.”
When Friend isn’t knocking down pins, she does enjoy watching television. One of her favorite shows is “Murder She Wrote,” starring Angela Lansbury.
While she may not have worked for a living, Friend was known to volunteer, including many years as a member of the Canton Township Volunteer Fire Company’s Auxiliary, running the kitchen during bingo. She also would cook food with her daughter when the firefighters were out on a call.
“When somebody needed me, I went,” Friend said.
She also is a long-time fan of the Steelers and the Pirates. She counts Hall of Fame
Introducing Our NEWEST DOCTOR
UPMC Washington welcomes our new orthopaedic surgeon, Michael DiVella, DO.
Michael DiVella, DO Orthopaedic Surgery
Dr. DiVella is fellowship trained in orthopaedic surgery and sports medicine, and specializes in shoulder and knee sports care, shoulder arthroplasty, and fractures.
Dr. DiVella earned his medical degree at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. Following graduation, he completed his residency with the Nassau University Medical Center and completed a fellowship in orthopaedic surgery at Plancher Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in New York, NY.
For more information visit whs.org/Ortho, or to schedule an appointment, call 724-206-0610.
UPMC Outpatient Center 95 Leonard Ave.
Building One, Suite 202 Washington, PA 15301
TOGETHER STRONGER
Washington Health System has a proud history of caring for our community and putting the needs of our patients first. This tradition of service and excellence will continue and grow as we join UPMC, one of the nation’s top health systems.
Our a liation with UPMC, built on shared values and a mission to provide world-class, compassionate care, already has benefited our community for the past few years through access to expanded cancer care, heart and vascular services, pediatric specialists, and telestroke capabilities right here in Washington County.
Now, as UPMC Washington, we can provide even greater access to the expertise and technology of UPMC and advance health care in our region for generations to come.
wide receiver Lynn Swann and former pirate shortstop Jordy Mercer among her favorite athletes.
Friend currently lives in Washington with her son Ron in the apartment complex in which she has lived for about 25 years.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better mother,” Gladys Paquet said. “She supported all three of us kids (Ron, Gladys and John), always there for us.”
Friend’s grandson Ron played football and basketball at Trinity High School and football at Waynesburg University. She was a regular attendee at his sporting events.
“When her grandson was in sports, she went to every single game,” Paquet said. “She traveled all over with us.”
Traveling is something Friend has been able to do a lot in her life.
“My husband was in the Navy, and I used to go where he was,” she explained.
Friend said of all the places where her husband was stationed, they stayed the longest in Newport, R.I.
She said she met her husband while visiting Norfolk, Va.
“I was working in the bar, and he came in and sat down,” Friend recalled. “Before I left I said ‘Stay here, you’re taking me home.’ I got off work at 9:30 and he was standing there waiting for me.”
The rest, as they say, is history.
Friend has been a widow for many years
“They
as her husband Ron died in 1981 at the age of 59 after the two were married for more than 30 years.
She joked that having “three bad kids” was a key to her living a long life.
Paquet said her mother always said the secret to her longevity was “smoking cigarettes and eating chocolate.”
“After each game she goes in and has a cigarette,” Paquet said of her mother.
But Friend’s serious answer to the question is a little different. She thanks God that she’s still able to knock down pins with those she loves.
Courtesy of the Observer-Reporter
Caring. Comfort. Healing. It’s what you’ve come to expect from Concordia, whether in one of our residential communities or in your own home. We’re dedicated to offering high-quality care to the Pittsburgh South region now and in the future – with what we believe is the best in value in the area. Compare Concordia of the South Hills, Concordia of Bridgeville, Concordia Visiting Nurses and Concordia Hospice of Washington to other providers and see what makes our services the best of the best. Learn more about our mission, locations, services and career opportunities at www.ConcordiaLM.org or connect with us on social media.
Marching to the beat of a different drum: WROC offers cardio drumming class
By Jill Thurston
Some unlikely items add up to a calorie-burning, cadence-keeping good time at Westminster Presbyterian Church’s Recreation and Outreach center (WROC).
Cardio drumming was introduced last year at the WROC. Class members use an exercise ball placed on a stand (often a circular laundry basket) and “drum” using two rhythm sticks, or actual drum sticks, matching the instructor’s routine set to upbeat music.
Bonnie Vello, 76, of Peters Township, was hesitant to try the first session, but now she’s a regular who looks forward to class each Friday at 2:30 p.m.
“I sing his praises all week. He’s a motivator,” Vello said of the instructor, Eric Horton.
Horton, with All Star Therapies, is a physical
therapist specializing in neurological disorders and Parkinson’s Disease. All Star Therapies developed its brand of cardio drumming called All Star Drumming.
The hour-long class is set to a variety of music that makes it easy to keep the beat. Horton calls out the moves, which can be modified for ability and even done from a sitting position.
Debbie Walker of Fayette hadn’t heard of the class before receiving an email and decided to try it. “It’s challenging, and I burn the most calories in this class.”
Classes at the WROC are designed to support all aspects of wellness.
The goal is to “bring people together and develop their faith through recreational activities. It’s a non-threatening environment where people can gather,” according to Kathy Long, WROC director.
Class members George and Heather Perinis, ages 84 and 68, of Mt. Lebanon, joined because they both enjoy the exercise combined with the percussion element.
“Aside from physical benefits, the (drumming) class releases endorphins, the ‘happy hormones,'” said Long.
“The endorphins help relieve and reduce stress and improve your health. If you don’t come for the health benefits, come to make new friends and for Christian fellowship. It’s men and women, all fitness levels,” Long said.
“The people are really friendly,” Vello said. “You get a workout, but you are so uplifted by the class. And the music is great.”
Horton brings his high energy, gets into the groove (he actually uses vinyl sticks after breaking several sets of wooden sticks) and even sings a line or two.
“What we love about it so much is you are getting the cardio component, you are getting the coordination, the balance, the wellness benefits of music and the socialization of being with a group and exercising, so its a lot of components all wrapped up in one class,” said Horton.
The WROC originally offered the class as part of its Parkinson’s Disease fitness programming. “However the general population has shown so much interest in it as well, and our goal is to fill the gym – the
A LIFE OF YOUR OWN
Community LIFE helps keep seniors independent and in their homes with an all-inclusive program and insurance plan. With eight Health and Wellness Centers throughout the region, you can drop by and have a cup of coffee, laugh with friends, and take care of your health all at once. And for your convenience, this program offers transportation to and from the centers and to medical appointments.
This friendly, vibrant community is created through Community LIFE’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity, as they welcome seniors from all walks of life to join their program. They offer a complete network of medical specialists to cover the full spectrum of medical and health care needs, from diseases like dementia to physical disabilities. Comprehensive health care teams help coordinate care with access to physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and more.
“My life just completely turned around.”
-James Y.
Community LIFE services:
• Medical care
• Pharmacy
• In-home care
• Transportation
• Recreation
• Meals
• Rehabilitation
Let Community LIFE handle your everyday care, so you can spend more time with the people you care about.
Visit commlife.org to apply or call 1-866-419-1693 to learn about program eligibility.
more the merrier,” Long said.
All Star Therapies, located in Jeanette, provides a variety of mobile outpatient therapy services and developed the All Star Drumming program as a group exercise class that can be incorporated into senior centers and other outreach programs, including
children and student groups and specialty populations.
The next session will be held again on Fridays, from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., Jan 10 to Feb 28. The cost is $64 for the session.
Students are asked to provide their own
The importance of wellness exams after 50
Seniors are a growing and increasingly prosperous demographic. As the senior population increases, a greater emphasis must be placed on keeping aging individuals healthy. Wellness checks are important at any age, but they bear even more significance as individuals grow older.
Age brings with it many things, including experience and wisdom. But age also brings an increased risk for health problems. Aging men and women are vulnerable to chronic conditions like heart disease, COPD, cancer, and arthritis. It's noteworthy that many chronic health conditions fail to produce any symptoms until they have progressed to
yoga ball or physio ball, 65 mm and “burst resistant.” Drumsticks and stands are provided.
For more information, vistit westminster-church.org/ministries/recreation-&-outreach.
Courtesy of the Observer-Reporter
a point where treatment is difficult.
Annual wellness exams can help older adults take charge of their health and stay as healthy as possible. It's possible for a person to preserve his or her health (and possibly life) through check-ups and easy tests. Here are some common screenings and health recommendations that come up in the prime of one's life.
Colorectal cancer screening: A colon cancer screening is recommended for everyone at age 45. Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and risk increases at age 45. Although people seldom look forward to a colonoscopy and the required prep, putting off this test due to a little discomfort may result in missing colon cancer at its earliest stage when it is most treatable.
Cholesterol screening: This simple blood test can help evaluate the risk for heart disease. High cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, making them narrower and less flexible, according to Sharecare, Inc.
Mammogram: Most health organizations
recommend annual mammogram screenings from age 40 until menopause. Then it may be possible to have a mammogram every other year for those who are at average risk. It is important for women to discuss mammogram frequency with their doctors, particularly if there is a family history of breast cancer.
Diabetes: ChenMed says diabetes may be more common in older adults, so regular screenings for this illness can enable early diagnosis and management.
Testicular cancer screening: This test gen-
erally is not recommended without symptoms. Some organizations suggest men with a family history or other risk factors consider performing self-examinations.
Vaccination needs: Doctors can alert patients to recommended vaccinations during wellness exams. Seniors should receive an annual flu shot and updated COVID-19 vaccination as available. Pneumococcal vaccine can protect against pneumococcal disease that can lead to pneumonia, meningitis and bloodstream infections. Adults over 50 also should receive a vaccination for shingles,
which can occur in older age in those who have previously experienced chickenpox.
There are additional advantages to routine health checkups. Doctors can inquire about fitness routines, stress, sleep, and diet to see if patients are within the guidelines for healthy living.
Older age may make a person wiser, but the risk for various health issues and certain diseases increases with age. Routine health check-ups can keep doctors and patients on the same page.
Courtesy of Metro Creative
Fitness regimens for those 50+
Fitness is an important component of overall wellness. Indeed, staying active has been linked to a number of noteworthy benefits, including decreased disease risk and improved mental health.
Routine exercise helps a person burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. Tufts Medicine says weight gain is common among aging individuals, with both men and women tending to put on weight in their mid-sections. Weight gain is a risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Older adults may need to step up their fitness regimens to combat growing waistlines.
Staying active also can help with muscle and bone density, which can decline with age. The American Academy of Orthopae-
dic Surgeons says exercise is important for maintaining bone strength as the body ages. Strength-training exercises put stress on bones so they can make bones stronger.
Now that it is apparent why fitness is key during senior years, it's time to explore some routines that may be best for people age 50 and older.
Yoga
Yoga is a low-impact practice that improves muscle strength, balance, mobility, and flexibility. All of these factors are important for seniors. For those who find that conventional forms of yoga are too taxing on joints and bones, chair yoga is a lower-impact form of the exercise.
Cycling
Riding a bike is a cardiovascular workout that offers a wide range of benefits. Most people find riding a bike is easy on the joints, and regular cycling can increase muscle strength and enhance flexibility. The pace and intensity of rides can be customized depending on riders' speed and the routes they ride.
Pilates
Joseph Pilates developed an exercise routine that now bears his name in the early twentieth century. Pilates emphasizes core strength and stability, but works all the major muscle groups in the body. Since it is another low-impact exercise, it can be suitable for people with joint issues.
Body weight exercises
As individuals age, they may find that working with dumbells, barbells or weight equipment at the gym is too taxing. Using body weight to build strength is a low-intensity option. Squats, wall push-ups, chair push-ups, and resistance bands can be used to build strength.
Walking
Walking is an unsung hero in the fitness realm. According to Better Health Channel, just 30 minutes of walking every day can increase cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce excess body fat, and boost muscle power and endurance. Walking is low-impact and less taxing on joints than jogging or running.
Seniors have a host of options to stay active as they navigate their changing fitness needs. Courtesy of Metro Creative
Masontown Senior Center offers programming, hot meals to seniors
by Melissa Gibson
Supported by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging and The Albert Gallatin Human Services Agency Inc., the Masontown Senior Center is helping seniors by providing a variety of resources and offerings to enhance, improve or assist the lives of seniors in the area.
Despite their name, Caroline Marella, former Executive Director and now consultant said there’s a common misconception regarding who they serve.
“We serve anyone in the Albert Gallatin School District, more than140 square miles,” Marella said. “We also have a satellite site in Smithfield.”
Knowing who they serve is important because chances are, seniors in the area can benefit from all the Masontown Senior Center has to offer.
“We prepare several hundred meals on site and offer them at the senior center, we offer grab-and-go (meals), at the Smithfield location once per week and also offer homebound meal delivery,” Marella said. Meals are $2 per serving but if a senior is unable to pay, no one is ever turned away. Homebound meals are delivered based on need, not income.
In addition to receiving a hot and nutritious meal, the center offers a variety of entertainment and educational classes.
“We have a variety of health and wellness programs. We work hand in hand with local officials to make sure our seniors are receiving help, whether they come to the center or not,” Marella said. “Most recently, we offered free flu shots at all of our sites, and we often
bring in a speaker to talk about new information, important to the senior population.”
They receive visits from the Heart Association, the Masontown Police Department, tax experts and local physicians.
“There’s always something going on here,” Marella said. “I try to include speakers that reflect what our seniors want to learn more about, and we cover a myriad of subjects.”
In addition to information and education, the senior center provides companionship and friendship too.
Marella said for at least 50% of the homebound delivery clients, the center volunteers may be the only human contact the client regularly receives.
“We don’t just drop off a meal. We have to see them or hear them, and we’re responsible for their safety. If we go there and no one answers or the driver notices something is off, we report it,” Marella said. “I’ve had relatives call and thank us because if we weren’t there, they wouldn’t have known their loved one was in distress.”
At the center, however, Marella wants to
stress, everyone is welcome. There’s a misconception that a senior facility is full of elderly people with little activity, but nothing could be further from the truth.
“We have daily activities, and everyone is welcome here, regardless of age group, social status or anything else. When you walk in this door, you’ll make new friends, and you’ll find people from all walks of life here,” Marella said.
The community can volunteer for their mission. If anyone has a special skill or trade, the center, a nonprofit organization, is always looking for assistance with projects from simple maintenance to lawn care. Volunteers can serve meals, donate bottled water or help during a special celebration.
“We just had a polka dance at the American Legion. It takes a village to put on these large events but it’s worth it. I adore the seniors, and this agency is very important to me,” Marella said.
Visit the Masontown Senior Center on Facebook for more information.
Cornerstone Genealogical Society delves into Greene County’s history
by Melissa Gibson
The Cornerstone Genealogical Society will celebrate 50 years in 2025.While their focus is on the family histories of Greene County, David Cressey, president of the board, said the society’s materials are a bit broader, adding in a regional aspect.“Families tended to move around between Pennsylvania and Virginia (what’s now West Virginia), so we have a fair amount of material from West Virginia, Fayette and Washington counties and, of course, Greene County,” Cressey said.
Why do people stop by to research at Cornerstone?
More often than not, they are searching their ancestry, according to Cressey.
“In the early frontier days – the late 1700s and early 1800s – as the population began to move west a lot of earlier settlers were funneled through here, down the National Road,” Cressey said. “So, we see a lot of out-of-state visitors who have traced their family lineage back to this area, and they’re looking for additional information.”
They also have detailed information on burial sites.
“Back then, farms were 400 acres, and it was common for families to have their own cemeteries at the back of the farm. We’ve been able to keep track of a lot of them, and some of them are even still maintained so many people are interested in that,” Cressey said.
Cornerstone Genealogical Society is home to the complete Pennsylvania Archives, the Mayflower Families Collection, maps, wills and deed information. With its wealth of historical information, it’s not uncommon for the nonprofit to have reporters stop by, looking for information on historical events associated with the area.
They have newspapers dating back to the Civil War on microfilm, and they’ve created an index of obituaries, providing helpful information for those looking for a specific person.
“The other reason people utilize us is through the gas industry. There are a lot of contracts around here with a percentage of royalties from the gas company
going to the landowner or their next of kin,” Cressey said. “Sometimes, we’re looking for descendants to find out who the royalties are owed to.”
Even if visitors aren’t searching for something specific, history buffs can enjoy monthly meetings with educational speakers on a variety of topics.
Most recently, they had a speaker share information on the history of prisons during the Civil War. They’ve hosted tours of museums and seen artifact collections from the Civil War and other momentous events in history.
Members of the nonprofit enjoy talking about the past, but they’re also working toward securintg a futttture, using new technology and adding relevant additions to their services.
“Our biggest initiative right now is trying to get the Waynesburg Reptublican’s newspapers from 1870 to 1992 digitized and available online,” Cressey said. “We’ve also been streaming our meetings with speakers and other events on our Facebook page, so visitors are welcome to see what they’ve missed.”
The all-volunteer staff has managed to remain open five days per week, 12 months per year, and they hope to remain available to the public as often as possible.
Visit cornerstonegenealogy.com for more information.
Courtesy of the Observer-Reporter
Strategies to manage and tame stress
Stress is a part of life. In small doses, stress can have a positive effect. But when stress is chronic, it can take its toll on the body and mind. Stress can make people irritable and cause them to lash out at others. Stress also can contribute to high blood pressure and adversely affect sleep. When confronting chronic stress, individuals may have to take action to find relief. These stress-busting strategies can help.
Engage in physical activity. The Mayo Clinic says any form of exercise can help relieve stress. Physical activity boosts chemicals in the brain and endorphins that help a person feel good. Exercise also can refocus attention so a person is not preoccupied with a stressful thought or situation.
Listen to music. Music can be calming and
serve as a distraction from stressful feelings. Simply listening to music can be a quick fix for a stressful situation and a bad mood.
Review your lifestyle. It's easy to take on too much, but doing so can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed, says the Mental Health Foundation. Prioritizing some things over others and delegating when possible can tame stress. Practice mindfulness. Breathing and mindfulness exercises can be practiced anywhere. Research has shown that mindfulness can reduce the effects of stress and anxiety. Deep breathing and being in a quiet moment when stress peaks may help to reduce stress.
Step away for a few minutes. If possible, step away from a stressful situation, whether it is a difficult project at work or a loud room with a
lot of activity going on. Many people find commuting stressful. Changing the route to one that avoids busy roads, even if it takes a bit longer to get from point A to point B, might help. Talk it out. Sometimes connecting with others and sharing experiences can help to relieve stress. Keeping feelings in and fixating on a situation may exacerbate feelings of stress. Social situations that encourage talking and laughing can lighten a person's mental load, says the Mayo Clinic.
Don't turn to substances. Alcohol and drugs may temporarily relieve stress, but this approach can lead to addiction and even worsen the physical and mental toll stress takes on the body.
Stress is a part of life, but finding ways to manage chronic stress is vital to long-term health. . Courtesy of Metro Creative
Do sleep needs change as adults grow older?
Adults know much about their health changes as they grow older, but health experts note that sleep requirements generally remain the same throughout adulthood. According to the National Institute on Aging, older adults need roughly the same amount of sleep as all adults. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the recommended amount of sleep for adults is at least seven hours each day, and various organizations recommend adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. Those recommendations can promote optimal health into one's golden years, but that advice is not being heeded by a significant portion of the adult population. The CDC Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
(BRFSS) tracked the sleeping habits of men and women between 2013 and 2022 and ultimately found that 37.5 percent of men and 36 percent of women were not getting enough sleep during that time period. The percentage of individuals not
Jefferson Township fire chief prepares to step away after 54 years
By Jon Andreassi
When Brady Mermon began as the chief of the Jefferson Township Volunteer Fire Department in 1970, it was a small operation with an outdated truck.
As Mermon prepares to retire at the end of the year, the growth the Washington County fire department has seen under his watch is evident. Brad Mermon, his
son and a lieutenant at the department, said his father’s legacy was summed up well at the department’s recent Christmas party.
“Somebody stated that it was, ‘The house that Brady built,” Brad Mermon said.
Brad Mermon described how his father worked to expand the fire department’s
getting enough sleep was particularly high among adults between the ages of 39 and 64, among whom nearly four in 10 were falling short of the recommended daily amount of sleep.
footprint, fundraising efforts and modernizing its equipment.
“He just instilled a lot of hard work and dedication into everyone that was there,” Brad said.
Though there was just one truck at the start, Brady Mermon said as he exits there are currently three pumper trucks and two tanker trucks.
Brady has been fiercely dedicated not only to the fire department, but to pub-
Courtesy of Metro Creative
lic service as a whole. Almost as long as he has served as fire chief, he has also been a Jefferson Township supervisor, an elected position.
He is currently in his final term.
“I got one year to go,” Brady said.
Paulette Mermon, Brady’s wife, says he was very clear about his obligations to the fire department when they married the same year he became chief.
“He told me, ‘No matter what, if there is a call at the fire department, no matter what we’re doing, I’m gone,'” Paulette said.
Brady’s commitment to serving his community rubbed off on Brad and his older brother, Brady Mermon Jr., who is captain of the fire department.
Brad recalls his brother would spend a lot of time with their father at the fire hall for training and meetings in high school.
“I knew before that time that I wanted to be a police officer. I just thought that doing the fire department and police would be a cool thing to do, to kind of follow in my dad’s footsteps,” Brad said.
Brady Sr. will be succeeded as chief by Bobby Puskarich.
“(Puskarich) is a great guy. He has been a great friend for as long as I can remember. It is being left in good hands, of course,” Brad said.
Though he will retire as chief at the end of year, Brady says he will continue to respond to calls and always reflect fondly on his days as chief.
“I loved it,” Brady said.
Courtesy of the Observer-Reporter
Left: Brady Mermon next to a Jefferson Township fire truck.
Below: Brady and Paulette Mermon at their home in Jefferson Township.
A group photo of Brady with other fire department volunteers.
Considerations for your second act
Many people see their careers as one of their defining characteristics. Children are often asked what they want to be when they grow up, and as adults they will likely be asked "What do you do for a living?" more times than they can remember. Work is undoubtedly a major component of life for most people from the time they leave school to the day when they retire. And a growing number of adults value work so much that they pivot to second careers.
A phenomenon known as "unretirement" occurs when people who have previously retired return to the workforce. A 2010 paper published in the Journal of Human Resources found nearly 50 percent of retirees followed a nontraditional retirement path that involved partial retirement or unretirement. According to a recent Retirement Saving & Spending Study from T. Rowe Price, around 20 percent of retirees are working either full- or part-time, while 7 percent of study respondents are looking for employment. Some people
return to work for financial reasons while others seek the social and emotional benefits employment can bring. But individuals mulling a return to work or those currently working but trying to determine a second act should not feel beholden to previous career paths. A second trip around the employment block can involve an entirely different line of work. The following are some things to look for in a second act.
Flexibility: Choose a career path that enables you to set your own schedule or possibly work part-time if that is your preference. This way you can still reap some of the benefits of retirement, including the flexibility to travel.
Social interaction: Adults may lose daily opportunities to be social when they retire, which can compound feelings of isolation common among retirees. Consider a second career that lets you interact with a number of people and continue to build relationships and a good network.
Personal passions: Reflect on what you
might do for work if money were no object. This may help you narrow down new opportunities that are in line with your interests and passions. Find a job that utilizes your skills and experience and meshes with your interests. A former graphic artist, for example, may decide to teach design to young people.
Nonprofit opportunities: Many retirees spent years in high-stress corporate environments where bottom lines may be more important than the bigger picture. Shifting to a career in the nonprofit sector can be a personally fulfilling job that utilizes skills learned in the corporate world.
Consulting or contract work: If you're a retiree who loved your job, you might want to have a second career as a consultant or contractor in the same field.
A number of retirees ultimately explore second careers. Finding a match may be easier than one could have imagined. Courtesy of Metro Creative
How seniors can overcome a lack of motivation to exercise
Exercise has its fair share of devotees and millions of others who recognize its value but still struggle to include workouts in their daily routines. Motivation can be a significant hurdle when it comes to exercise, and recent studies are a testament to that difficulty.
In a 2021 survey from the global fitness brand Orangetheory® Fitness and Kelton Global, 43 percent of respondents indicated they suffered from a lack of motivation to exercise. Lack of motivation can affect people of all ages, including seniors. However, seniors may be uniquely positioned to overcome their lack of motivation to exercise, particularly if they're retired and have time on their hands. Seniors who aspire to exercise more frequently can consider these strategies if motivation becomes an issue.
Exercise away from home. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, a phenomenon that has been characterized as "basement burnout" developed. That referred to the lack of enthusiasm to exercise at home when gyms and other fitness facilities were forced to close as a public safety measure. Home workouts can become monotonous since most people do not have enough room at home to house the same array of equipment that's available at their local gym. Seniors can overcome monotonous workouts by purchasing a gym membership at a local facility. Many clubs offer discounted rates to seniors and some even offer senior-specific fitness classes like yoga and Pilates.
Employ the buddy system. Seniors also can enlist friends and family members to join them when they exercise. Encourage neighbors or friends to come along to the gym for a favored fitness class, or invite friends and family on hiking excursions or daily walks. The National Institute on Aging notes that turning exercise into a social activity is a great way for seniors to maintain their motivation to exercise.
Track your progress and celebrate your successes. The NIA touts the benefits of tracking progress when trying to stay motivated to exercise. As exercise efforts pay increasing dividends, seniors may find it's no longer hard to stay motivated. Success can be measured in various ways. Some might aspire to produce healthier blood test
results at the doctor's office, while others may hope to lose a few pounds. However you define success, celebrate when you achieve your fitness goals. Rewards such as a spa day, a night out at the theater or a weekend getaway can provide all the motivation you need to stay the course.
Be flexible with your routine. Mobility issues and other physical limitations may affect seniors. But such issues need not prevent aging men and women from exercising, even if it does mean they won't be able to hit the gym four or five days per week. Mix up your routine so you can still exercise even if physical limitations make traditional workout routines more challenging. Go for nature walks on days when your body needs a break from strength-training, and check the forecast at the start of each week so you can rearrange your routine if Mother Nature makes outdoor exercise impossible on certain days.
Many people find it hard to stay motivated to exercise. Seniors can try a few strategies to ensure they stay the course with their fitness routines.
Courtesy of Metro Creative
Injury recovery tips for seniors
There is no escaping the fact that the human body changes as it ages. Some changes associated with aging are beneficial, such as increased wisdom and knowledge from past experiences. Others, particularly changes to health and wellness, can be disconcerting. Generally speaking, recovering from any injury can be a time-consuming process.
For those over the age of 60, the process of recovering from injury can be especially lengthy.
According to Restorative Strength, a fitness and personal training service for seniors, elderly adults generally heal from injuries slower than young people. Caring Senior Services says there are a few reasons why healing can be delayed:
Having diabetes is one of the most common reasons why seniors have delayed healing. The disease can negatively impact wound healing because elevated glucose levels narrow the blood vessels and harden the arteries.
The inflammatory response in seniors drastically slows down as people age. This response is the first phase when
blood vessels expand to let white blood cells and nutrients reach wounds. When delayed, the wounds heal much more slowly.
Reduced skin elasticity and diminished collagen fibers in seniors can contribute to the body's tissues not being able to return to a normal state after injury.
Sedentary seniors may have lost muscle mass and flexibility, which help physically active individuals regain mobility after an injury. Bones also may be more brittle, particularly if osteoporosis is present.
Although it's impossible to reverse the hands of time, there are steps seniors can take to recover from injuries more quickly, and potentially avoid them as well.
Slow and steady physical activity: Exercise, including routine strength-training activities, helps strengthen muscles and bones. According to Pioneer Trace Healthcare & Rehabilitation, when complete bed rest is not advised after an injury, getting up and moving even just a little each day can jump-start recovery. Regular activity prior to any injury also may make the body stronger and more flexible to help reduce the liklihood of injuries.
Maintain a positive mindset. The mind has a role to play in injury recovery. Minimizing stress levels through meditation, and engaging in positive thinking techniques, can make healing and therapies more successful. Reducing stress can boost the immune system, which also will offer healing benefits.
Improve diet. The body needs certain vitamins and minerals to function properly. Eating a well-rounded, healthy diet can provide fuel that facilitates healing.
Work with a qualified professional. Seniors should not take on exercise or recovery efforts on their own. Exercising the right way and following prescribed guidelines can speed up recovery and potentially prevent future injuries.
Recovery from injury could take longer for seniors. But with exercise, positive thinking and guidance from health professionals, there are ways to speed up the injury recovery process.
Courtesy of Metro Creative
South Hills Masons Lodge celebrates 75th anniversary
By Paul Paterra
Pennsylvania Masons South Hills Lodge No. 761 recently celebrated its 75th anniversary and plans to continue carrying on its mission into the future.
The lodge based in Bethel Park commemorated its anniversary with an event at Al’s Cafe in Bethel Park.
“It was a very nice get-together,” said Warren Roberts, the lodge’s worshipful master. “Some remarks were made about our history, where we’ve been and where we hope to go to.”
The lodge was constituted Oct. 7, 1949. According to its website, the lodge’s brothers “have been a force for good in the South Hills of Pittsburgh.”
Freemasonry is the oldest fraternity in the world and among the oldest continued organizations in history. The organization’s stated goal is “to make good men into better men,” a goal emphasized by strengthening character, improving moral and spiritual outlook, and broadening mental horizons.
“In our initial charter, we had 129 people that were interested in becoming members of a new Masonic lodge in the South Hills, what they call warrant members,” Roberts explained.
A warrant member is someone officially recognized and authorized to operate as a member under a “warrant” issued by the Grand Lodge.
Roberts, of Bethel Park, has a long history with the South Hills Lodge. His grandfather,
The South Hills lodge has 189 members who reside in various South Hills communities, including Bethel Park, Upper St. Clair and Mt. Lebanon.
Donald Roberts, was a member of a lodge in Omaha, Neb., when seeds were being planted for the South Hills lodge.
“He transferred to the Bethel lodge to become a warrant member of the Bethel lodge,” Roberts said. “My grandfather, my father and two of his brothers were all warrant members of our Masonic lodge. My dad was very, very involved and very active.”
Roberts, of Bethel Park, joined the lodge in 1988. He was originally the master of the lodge in 1994 and is serving the role again this year and in 2025.
The lodge is always seeking new members. Anyone interested can visit the lodge’s website at www.masons761.org or contact
the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania at www. pagrandlodge.org. Eight new members joined this year.
“We’re trying to rekindle interest in our masonic body,” Roberts said.
Looking to the future, Roberts said the lodge has several goals.
“I want us to be recognized in the community and in the South Hills as a men’s fraternal organization with that mindset, to take good men and make them better men,” Roberts said. “So what we have done is have a couple of blood drives, a couple of food drives. We did (Bethel Park) Community Day this year for the first time ever. I actually had five people approach me at Community Day and
asked what they had to do to be a member.”
The lodge meets the first Saturday of every month (except July and August) at the lodge building, 761 McNary Place in Bethel Park. Breakfast is served at 8:15 a.m. and the meeting starts at 10 a.m.
“It’s fellowship,” Roberts said. “With COVID, I think so many people are looking for an organization to join. To get together with some of the older members and just sit and talk with these guys and have mature conversations with other men who have the same interests, it kind of gives young men a different perspective. We can do something as a group of people to help.”
Courtesy of The Almanac
Tips to avoid exercise injuries after age 50
Exercise is a necessary component of good health. Physical activity improves overall well-being and can help a person maintain a healthy weight and bone density while improving flexibility and muscle strength. It is essential that people continue to exercise into their golden years for all of the reasons mentioned above. But adults age 50 and older should find an exercise program that won't make them vulnerable to injury. AARP and the Consumer Product Safety Commission says exercise-related visits to the emergency room surpassed 107,000 for those aged 50 and older in 2020. That figure was even smaller than usual due to the COVID-19 pandemic being in effect.
Poor form when exercising can be worse for an older adult than doing no exercise at all, particularly for people with arthritis or preexisting conditions. Older adults can keep these tips in mind to avoid exercise-related injuries.
Ease into exercise. It is good to be excited about exercise, but jumping in too quickly or intensely is a recipe for injury. This is particularly true in strength training when lifting too much weight can cause injuries like rotator cuff tears and lower back strain Stretch regularly. Johns Hopkins Medicine says as a body ages, tendons get thicker and less elastic. Stretching can help counter this occurrence and help prevent injuries at
age 50 or older. Stretching should be done slowly and smoothly. Do not force stretches or speed through them.
Incorporate strength training. It is important to prevent muscle atrophy as you age, and strength training can help achieve that. Strength training also helps reduce the risk of bone fractures later in life. However, start slowly at minimal weight and low repetitions, and gradually build up. Try 10 to 12 repetitions to start. Work with a qualified physical therapist or personal trainer to learn the proper form.
· Warm up before exercise. Warming up involves slow motions to acclimate the body to exercise. It may include walking and other full-body movements. As opposed to stretching, a warm-up involves movements similar to the workout but done more slowly. Warm-ups increase blood flow to the muscles and improve tissue elasticity, says AARP.
vary your activities. Switch up the exercises you do so that you focus on different muscle groups on alternating days. This can help avoid overuse injuries that occur from working one part of the body or muscle group too frequently, according to Intermountain Health.
Invest in good shoes. Choose workout footwear that is comfortable, supportive and designed for the activity you will be doing. Shop for athletic footwear in the afternoon to account for foot swelling.
Older adults need to take extra precautions to avoid injuries while staying fit.
Courtesy of Metro Creative
What adults should know about alcohol consumption after 50
Patients are asked several routine questions during annual wellness exams. Among those queries are a subsection of questions regarding alcohol consumption. Doctors ask these questions to identify how much alcohol their patients consume and how often they drink. It's important that patients of all ages answer such questions honestly, and that includes men and women over 50.
Binge drinking may not be a behavior people associate with individuals over 50, but this behavior is on the rise among aging men and women. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines binge drinking as a pattern of alcohol consumption that elevates an individual's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to 0.08 percent or higher. The NIAAA notes that such levels correspond to consuming five or more drinks (male) or four or more drinks (female) in a roughly two-hour period. Data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicates that one in five adults between the ages of 60 and 64 and 12 percent of individuals age 65 and over
report current binge drinking.
Binge drinking trends among individuals 60 and over alarm public health officials. The NIAAA notes that older adults are vulnerable to various problems when drinking alcohol, which can lead to bad interactions among people taking medications and increase risk for various health ailments. Such a reality makes it worth aging adults' time to learn some of the basics of alcohol consumption after 50.
Alcohol can exacerbate various medical conditions. Age is a notable risk factor for various medical conditions. For example, the National Institute on Aging notes that changes in the heart and blood vessels that occur naturally with age may increase a person's risk of heart disease and related health problems. The NIAAA notes that adding alcohol to the mix as you age can worsen problems such as high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Additional conditions that can be exacerbated by heavy drinking include diabetes, liver problems, osteoporosis, and mood disorders. Alcohol can interact with various medications. Prescription medications come with a lengthy rundown of warnings and instructions, which is enough to compel many people to avoid alcohol when taking such medicines. However, people may
not be as careful with over-thecounter medications, even though the NIAAA warns that mixing alcohol with OTC medicines can be dangerous and even deadly. OTC medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, allergy medicines, and sleeping pills can interact badly with alcohol.
Alcohol consumption should be limited to two drinks or less. As noted, a significant percentage of adults over 60 qualify as binge drinkers. That may alarm some older adults who do not feel as though they have a problem with alcohol but still meet the qualifications for binge drinking. Refraining from alcohol is arguably the safest option, but individuals over 50 who still like to enjoy a drink every now and then are urged to keep their consumption to two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less in a day for women. It's important that individuals recognize they cannot save up drinking for one night of the week. So those who abstain six days a week cannot then consume between seven and 14 drinks on the day they drink. Such an approach is unhealthy, unsafe and potentially deadly.
Adults over 50 are urged to learn about the ways alcohol affects aging bodies. More information is available at niaaa.nih.gov.
Brownsville railroad museum offers glimpse into history
by Melissa Gibson
Ernie Bradmon remembers the group of men that worked on the Monongahela Railway (MRY) out of Brownsville.
In fact, many of them serve as docent, photographer and historian of the Monongahela River, Railroad and Transportation Museum today, keeping
the history of the railway alive for the community and visitors.
The Monongahela Railway was formed as a joint operation of the Pennsylvania Railroad and the New York Central-controlled Pittsburgh and Lake Erie Railroad to move coal to the steel production centers in Pittsburg and northern Ohio.
After mergers and bankruptcies, only two owners remained by the 1980’s: CSX Transportation and Conrail. CSX eventually sold out to Conrail and the MRY disappeared as a corporate entity in 1993.
When Conrail bought MRY, the new company tossed everything in the dumpsters, but Bradmon and others had the foresight to salvage anything they found interesting.
Once volunteers obtained the old Northside Fire Station at 412 Church St., Brownsville in 2007, they replaced the ceiling, pulled up the floors and started collecting display cases.
Former state representative Bill DeWeese secured a $25,000 grant from the state Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED)
that helped move the project forward, and it officially became the Monongahela River, Railroad and Transportation Museum.
As a result of the men salvaging to protect past, the museum has a large map and paper collection, the old Remington typewriter used to print out barcodes, phones from the early 1900’s, lanterns and tools used by the car inspectors, track operators and more.
“There’s so much history here in Brownsville. The MRY was formed in 1903, and it was the seventh largest coal-hauling railroad in the nation. The railroad serviced something like 80 coal companies at the time,” Bradmon said.
The museum has continued to expand over the years.
In 2014, the Pittsburgh Garden Railway Society (PGRS) was looking for a new venue to set up their 24' x 24' G-gauge model railroad display, and it was the beginning of a cooperative relationship between PGRS and the museum. The model train layout, although with modifications, continues to be an attraction in the lower level of the museum.
In addition, a trip to Kansas City led to Bradmon bringing back artifacts from The Arabia, a boat that sank in the Missouri river but was originally built in Brownsville in 1850.
In 2019, the 70-year-old MRY caboose was moved to the museum for display and tours.
“As we expanded, we decided to call it the River, Railroad and Transportation Museum. We don’t have a whole lot for airplanes yet but a lot of information and artifacts
from rivers and railroad,” Bradmon said.
They host school groups and historical groups, sharing the rich history of Brownsville, once a booming river town.
“It’s very educational. We’ve had school groups come in, and they’re on the floor, inches away from the artifacts and model trains. When the teacher said it was time to go, they wanted to stay longer,” Bradmon said.
The Monongahela River, Railroad and Transportation Museum is open 9 a.m. to noon every Wednesday, the first Saturday of every month and is available upon request.
There is no charge for tours or museum admission. Special requests can be arranged by calling 724-880-5960 during open hours or by email at MMRandTM@gmail. com.
Courtesy of the Observer-Reporter
An antique typewriter on display at Monongahela River, Railroad and Transportation Museum.
Three tips to get a more restful night's sleep
There is no magic formula to ensure long-term health. However, if there were such an equation, sleep would be a critical component. Though adults may be able to function with less sleep than doctors recommend, the National Institutes of Health note that consistent lack of sufficient sleep can interfere with work, social functioning and driving ability.
The National Institute on Aging notes that adults of all ages generally need the same amount of sleep, typically between seven and nine hours of rest per night. That's an important distinction, as busy adults in mid-life might feel as though they can operate on less sleep without adversely affecting their overall
health. However, in addition to the problems noted by the NIH, the NIA reports that ongoing lack of sleep, or even consistently poor sleep quality, can increase risk for cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and obesity.
Adults who feel their sleep quality is poor or those who aspire to sleep more each night can consider these three strategies to ensure a more restful night's sleep.
1. Keep devices out of the bedroom.
Screens are everywhere in modern life, and that includes the bedroom.
In fact, the National Sleep Foundation's 2022 Sleep in America® Poll found that 58 percent of survey participants acknowledged looking at screens within an hour before bedtime. The NSF reports that device usage so close to bedtime can adversely affect sleep quality because the blue light emitted from screens has shorter wavelengths than other colors in the visible light spectrum, which results in more alertness than warmer tones. The blue light actually confuses the brain into thinking it's earlier in the day, thus making it harder to fall asleep.
2. Skip late afternoon naps.
Short naps can help people reenergize, but the timing of naps could adversely affect how well people
sleep at night. The Mayo Clinic notes that napping after 3 p.m. can make it harder to sleep soundly at night.
And while short naps can provide a necessary jolt, it's important that naps be no longer than 30 minutes. Naps that exceed a half hour can contribute to feelings of grogginess and even compromise your ability to get restful sleep overnight.
3. Avoid alcohol.
Some may consider alcohol a sleep aide, and there's good reason for that perception, even if it's misguided. Hackensack Meridian Health notes that alcohol acts as a depressant for the central nervous system that can cause brain activity to slow down. As a result, alcohol can increase feelings of relaxation and tiredness. However, that effect is not long-lasting, and as alcohol levels in the blood drop, individuals are likely to wake up and may even find it hard to fall back asleep. Waking up in the middle of the night cuts down on the time individuals spend in the most restorative stage of sleep, which is why individuals often feel as if they got little rest after a night of drinking.
Sleep is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. Some simple strategies may help adults get a more restful night's sleep.
