JANUARY 2013
TM
SINCE 1980 — VolUME 33 • NUMBER 1
Start the New Year on a Positive Note
Give a Boost to Your Self Esteem
By Lourdes M. Sáenz, Creative Director
How to Deal with Year-Round Sun Exposure
PAGe 10
FEEL YOUR BEST AT ANY AGE
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The hectic holidays are over, and with the start of the new year, many of us consider the tradition of resolutions, with many relating to better health, such as a new diet or allowing more time to exercise. Others will consider quitting bad habits like smoking or overworking, which leads to stress. Many studies, including one conducted by the Journal of Clinical Psychology in 2002, indicate that 45 percent of Americans typically make New Year’s resolutions – and break 64 percent of them by January 31st! If lack of commitment or self control are the reasons why most tend to break away from resolutions, there is one life altering positive change that we can all try to adjust for the better. In all stages of life, self-esteem is a base for our character forming. It is the mental image we have of ourselves and how we manage relationships with those around us. Logically, if we value ourselves and feel accepted, our selfesteem will be at healthy levels from childhood to our golden years. Alternatively, low self- esteem can lead to insecurity, sadness, and feelings of inadequacy or the desire for isolation. As we age and cross the threshold of retirement or
empty nest syndrome, many people face another challenge with their self-esteem. As some end their productive working years, instead of looking forward to the possibilities of relaxation and enjoying more free time, feelings of uselessness and reduction of self worth settle in. Others are affected by their physical or mental faculties declining and they begin to feel less self-worth. This is a time to reflect and analyze the true status and health of our self-esteem. With the start of the new year, here are some considerations to build, boost and maintain a high self-esteem. See esteem, Page 27.
a state of mind, ss e n t body and spirit F Remember cheeseburger, french fries and a coke? That used to be a perfectly acceptable balanced meal. Of course, in those days we walked everywhere, rode bicycles, roller-skated, went hiking and did a lot of swimming, canoeing, dancing and fooling around. We didn’t think much about what we had to do to balance our caloric input with physical output. Our lifestyles took care of that. Granted, people died at earlier ages, but few of my friends and colleagues seemed to think much about it. We took Phys Ed (or PE—depending on where you were raised) an hour a day in school and it was a natural part of the day. I honestly do not recall in my early years that we ever discussed “making time” for exercise. Times have changed drastically. Most people drive to work, have a sedentary, high stress positions, drive home in traffic and wind up in front of the tube eating pre-prepared, reheated microwave meals. See FITNESS, Page 31
By Bonnie L. Quick
TAKING THE KEYS AWAY
PAGE 24
Senior Voice America…in print, on the web and on the air with Health, Wealth & Wisdom. Tune in to AM 1250 WHNZ Monday thru Friday, from 4 to 5 p.m. as Publisher Evan Gold brings you the information to live an active mature lifestyle. Visit our new website, Tampa Bay’s leading news source for seniors, www.seniorvoiceamerica.com.
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Senior Voice America
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JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Page 3
Health Roundup
Caring for Problem Skin
What is eczema? Eczema is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin and visible skin rash. Over 35 million Americans, both children and adults, suffer from eczema. The prevalence of eczema has increased nearly 400 percent over the past 30 years and is projected to continue increasing due to environmental and other factors such as stress, according to the National Eczema Association. In a healthy state, the external layer of your skin acts as a protective barrier. For eczema sufferers, the skin has a deficiency in the external layer that allows the moisture to escape and causes chronic dryness. When skin is dry and unprotected, irritants can reach the
sensitive layers below and cause uncomfortable itch flare-ups.
Common triggers There are a number of things that can trigger an eczema flare-up: • Irritants such as synthetic fibers, detergents, perfumes, rough or poor fitting clothing, dust or sand. • Environmental factors such as hot or cold temperatures, humidity or dry air. • Emotional factors such as anxiety or stress.
Tips for managing eczema The National Eczema Association says that daily skin care is essential to help manage eczema. • When bathing, wash in warm water for 5 to 10 minutes. • Use a non-irritating and fragrance- free wash. Do not scrub skin harshly. • Moisturize within 3 minutes after every shower. It helps lock in your skin’s natural moisture to help prevent eczema-related dryness.
• In addition to your daily skincare rou- tine, try applying a cold compress to soothe your skin. When choosing skincare products, look for gentle, fragrance-free washes and moisturizers, such as Neosporin Essentials products, a line of skincare products which includes a daily body wash, daily moisturizing cream and anti-itch cream specifically designed for people with eczema. Each product has a unique Relipid formula, which contains a lipid, humectant, emollient and botanical blend to help retain the moisture essential for healthy-looking skin. Plus, the daily moisturizing cream contains colloidal oatmeal and was clinically shown to restore visibly healthier skin in three days. Use all products as directed. Eczema can be stressful and make
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
According to the National Institutes of Health, skin is the largest organ of your body. Skin can be a very delicate thing, and as the outermost layer, it needs to be cared for in order to look and feel its best. Unfortunately, for those who suffer from highly prevalent skin conditions, such as eczema, caring for and maintaining skin can be a daily challenge.
daily living challenging and uncomfortable. With diligent skin care and good habits, you can help maintain healthy skin and effectively manage symptoms when they do flare up. To get more information on living with eczema, daily management tips and money-saving coupons, go to www. neosporinessentials.com.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
FROM THE PUBLISHER
What Rights Do We Have Left?
TM
Senior Voice America, Inc. 8406 Benjamin Rd., Ste. G Tampa, FL 33634 Phone (813) 444-1011 • Fax (813) 422-7966 www.seniorvoiceamerica.com Staff Publisher: Evan Gold evan@seniorvoiceamerica.com Associate Publisher: Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com Managing Editor/Broadcast Producer: Deb Goldman deb@seniorvoiceamerica.com Editor: Julie Heidelberg julie@seniorvoiceamerica.com Creative Director: Lourdes M. Sáenz lourdes@seniorvoiceamerica.com Circulation Manager: Sharon Altman sharon@seniorvoiceamerica.com ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES • (813) 444-1011 Timm Harmon timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com John Nichols john@seniorvoiceamerica.com Join our sales team. For information about opportunities throughout Florida and North America, email timm@seniorvoiceamerica.com.
Has our government become one that just keeps mandating every aspect of our lives? Does everything we do need to be legislated, taxed and controlled? Are we no longer people who can decide for ourselves and protect our own interests? With the recent shooting tragedy in Connecticut, Americans’ Second Amendment rights are going to be challenged in the coming months. But will that be the only liberty that is challenged? Free speech is already being challenged. Those in the media who don’t agree with certain administrations are suddenly being audited by the IRS. Coincidence? I doubt it. Let me first say that what happened at the Sandy Hook school is unfathomable and completely reprehensible and nobody should take this lightly. However, to politicize this event is also reprehensible. You should know I am not a member of the NRA nor do I own a gun. And while I will defend the Second Amendment as vehemently as any card-carrying NRA member, I am more concerned with far deeper issues. There is no doubt that there are people with mental health issues falling under the radar and not being diagnosed or being misdiagnosed. And some of those people are the ones committing these acts, like at Virginia Tech and in Colorado at the movie theater. But what are we saying now? That parents are going to need to turn in their children? Wives turn in their husbands? Children turn in their parents? Or, will all of us have to go under a mental health screening? Will each person with what some doctor or, worse yet, the government, perceives as a mental illness be tagged, flagged or even institutionalized? Will “big brother” be watching our Facebook or Twitter posts, e-mails or other personal activities to classify us as “insane?” Does this remind anyone of other governments? Nazi Germany? Soviet Russia? Cuba? Venezuela? You might think I am a little “out there,” but the government is doing everything it can to keep track of our every movement, and nearly a day goes by without a new law or regulation being created to legislate our lives. It is time to ask ourselves what type of society we want for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren! Are we still the land of the free, or are we the land of the overtaxed and over- regulated?
Contributors
Evan Gold
Henry Adams • Abne M. Eisenberg Ruth Fanovich • Judith Sabghir Gannon James Salvatore Giardina • Robert B. Harwood Audrey Hawley • Diane Houser • Ro Martinez Dr. John Michaelos • Eric Pfeiffer • Joe Pippen
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Maria Posani • Bonnie Quick • Kathleen Stasia Bohdan O. Szuprowicz • June Hurley Young Would you like to write for Senior Voice America? Please email editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com
Senior Voice is a Proud Member of Better Living for Seniors The Guardian Association of Pinellas County The Florida Assisted Living Association Senior Voice America is published monthly and is distributed free of charge, courtesy of its advertisers. Distribution area includes Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, Sarasota and Manatee counties. Articles and advertising contained in this issue do not necessarily reflect the opinion or endorsement of the publisher, who does not verify advertiser claims and reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertising.
Tune in to 1250am WHNZ. Monday – Friday From 4-5pm
I enjoyed with interest your editorial, “Are we a Judeo-Christian nation?” As a senior Christian, living in a changing world, we are faced with numerous challenges in the future. You made many excellent points in your article. My only concern is that you brought your political feelings/opinions into the presentation. Your great nation (I am a Canadian, wintering in the Clearwater area) is currently led by a strong President who does not hesitate to profess his Christian faith. I will continue to read your publication with interest. There are many informative, health related topics covered each month. Thank you! Regards, -Morley Davidson Hi Deb, I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your radio show. I happened upon it accidently one day while scanning through stations. You were talking about Jazzercise which immediately caught my attention. I have been a Jazzerciser for the last 6 years. I take it at Tarpon Springs Community Center; Angel Peters is our instructor. It’s a wonderful program and I am so glad that you endorse it. After hearing you talk about it I became hooked on listening to your show. I commute from Clearwater to Tarpon Springs each afternoon and your program helps ease the pain of driving US 19. So, thank you for the great show. I look forward to it each day. Keep up the endorsement of Jazzercise, it’s a great program and I’d like to see more people check it out. Thanks again, -Karen Pronto Our mistake: In the December 2012 edition we called “God Bless America” the national anthem. We meant to say it is an American patriotic song.
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JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
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Health Roundup
Six Ways to Avoid the Flu
The beginning of fall marks the start of aches and pains from seasonal influenza and the common cold for many Americans. Each year, between five and 20 percent of Americans will get the flu, and colds send patients to the doctor’s office more than 100 million times a year for treatment. There are a number of ways to prepare for cold and flu season. One way is to get the annual flu vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all people six months and older receive a flu vaccination, especially those who are at high risk of developing complications if they contract the flu. Examples of people at high risk include: • • • •
Pregnant women (any trimester) People 65 years of age and older American Indians and Alaskan Natives, who were at higher risk of flu complications last flu season People of any age with certain chronic medical conditions
Getting the flu shot before flu season is in full force gives the body a chance to build up immunity to the virus. Peak months for the flu are December through
February, so get your flu shot early and stock-up on preventative over-the-counter cough, cold and flu medicines, hand sanitizers and disinfectants for high-contact areas of the home and office, like phones and door knobs. There are several simple steps you can take to avoid catching the flu or common cold, says Dr. Andrew Myers, an expert in nutrition and preventative health.
• •
bles and whole grains will keep you fueled with antioxidant nutrition. Take a good multivitamin. A daily multivitamin provides important nutrients for healthy immune func- tion like zinc, selenium and betacarotene/vitamin A. Choose a multi vitamin that matches your age and gender-specific needs. Get enough sleep and rest. Researchers have found that the people who slept less than seven hours a night in the weeks before being
• Wash your hands as often as is practical. Colds are most commonly spread with objects or hands con- taminated by the nasal secretions of someone who is infected. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Most of us touch our faces as many as one to three times every five minutes — nearly 200 to 600 times each day. While it can be a hard habit to break, it can prevent the direct spread of the cold from your hands to the susceptible areas of your face. • Eat healthy, high-energy foods. Your body always needs fuel, but when you’re sick, a lot of your body’s energy is devoted to your immune system. Focusing on fruits, vegeta-
exposed to the cold virus were about three times more likely to develop a full-fledged cold than those who slept more. • Drink plenty of water. Dehydration can impact immune system function, so be sure to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. For additional tips on preventing the flu and common cold, go to SamsClub. com/healthyliving.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
Health Roundup
How to Get a
GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP According to the National Sleep Foundation, if you have trouble staying and falling asleep at night, or you wake up feeling unrefreshed in the morning, you may be suffering from insomnia. Almost everyone has trouble sleeping every so often, but for many Americans getting to sleep or waking in the middle of the night is a significant problem. To help, board certified sleep specialist Dr. Russell Rosenberg, Chairman of the National Sleep Foundation, offers answers to some questions about insomnia:
What is insomnia? Insomnia involves difficulty getting to sleep, staying asleep, waking too early, trouble getting back to sleep or lack of refreshing sleep, as defined by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
Are the symptoms of insomnia the same for everyone? Insomnia may affect people differently. Some complain of waking up in the middle of the night and having trouble falling back asleep, while others have trouble initially getting to sleep.
What can I do to help me fall asleep at night?
Establish a regular bed and wake
time. Create a sleep-conducive environment that is dark, quiet and comfortable. Allow time at night to “wind down” before climbing into bed. Doing work, watching TV and using the computer, both close to bedtime or in the bedroom, can hinder your ability to fall asleep. Avoid violent shows and news reports before bedtime as they can be agitating.
If I wake up in the middle of the night, what are some tips to help me fall back to sleep? If you wake up in the middle of the night and stay in bed, don’t stare at the clock. Also, do not watch TV, use your computer or cell phone, because use of these technologies can stimulate your brain and make it harder to fall back to sleep. Avoid drinking beverages containing caffeine or alcohol. Most importantly, you should try to relax.
What can I do during the day to help my insomnia? Good daytime habits may help with both types of insomnia. “I tell my patients to avoid caffeine after lunch,” stresses Rosenberg. Also, get regular exercise but avoid rigorous exercise close to bedtime and always check with your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.
Our patients say it all:
If those suggestions don’t help, what else should I do?
You should speak with your health-
care professional if you are having trouble sleeping. He or she can determine whether or not you suffer from insomnia and if treatment is needed.
Where can I learn more about insomnia? For more information regarding insomnia, visit the National Sleep Foundation website at http://www. sleepfoundation.org/article/sleep-related-problems/insomnia-and-sleep.
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Senior Voice America
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Health Roundup
Fitness Training for Mature Adults Jimmy Bowen - Certified Personal Trainer and Senior Fitness Specialist The current research on fitness training for mature adults is clear but there are some glaring misconceptions that can cloud a person’s fitness decisions. Many activities that you read about are being presented as cure alls or “easy” remedies to the reality of aging. What activities to avoid and how to engage in a safe and productive exercise program can be confusing and there are not very many resources for mature adults to find the right answers. Most information you receive will be in the form of a sales pitch. Outlined below are several of the myths you may have read or heard and the truths behind some common wellness issues for senior adults.
crease your heart stroke volume, your energy levels and your well-being. Grab a friend and do some walking. You will feel the benefits rapidly and your body will thank you!
Myth#2 Weight training is for growing big muscles and if I try to lift weights I’ll probably hurt myself. Truth- A significant improvement in your fitness level can be attained with moderate elements of weight training. Adding a few extra pounds to your shopping cart, placing your own groceries in your car and returning the cart to the store are all examples of simple weight training exercises. A productive element of resistance training added to your fitness program can be implemented and completed entirely in your own home using items you already have. No expensive machines to buy or need to visit a gym every day.
Myth #3
Myth #1 Improvement of my heart health can only be attained by completing high intensity aerobic exercise for an extended period of time. If I’m not completely exhausted at the end of my workout I probably didn’t do myself any good. Truth- You do not need to maintain lengthy periods of intense exercise to improve your cardiovascular conditioning. A simple, consistent walking program around your neighborhood, at the mall or a local park will help in-
Eating healthy is expensive. Truth- It is true that engaging in a 100% organic diet is more expensive. This does not mean that you will have to exceed your food budget. You can make some generalized improvements in diet by learning some basic nutritional information and ensuring that you consume the necessary nutritional elements for maximum health. Eating healthy means limiting high fat content items and concentrating on items that will help you fuel your body the right way. Eating right is not as hard as you might think! Utilizing a trainer or designing a program on your own will result in many improvements. Be sure to consult with a professional before engaging in any exercise program to be sure the details are right for your conditioning level and physical circumstances. As the famous sportswear company says, Just Do It! The changes you hope for are attainable and realistic. Be healthy and safe! For more details or inquiries on personal fitness, contact 50 and Beyond Fitness at 727-504-4613 or www.50andbeyondfitness.com.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
CANCER ANSWERS
Unwanted Immune Responses Challenge Bone Marrow Cancer Treatment Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a therapy with the potential to cure bone marrow cancer. A major obstacle to the success of HCT, however, is graft-versus-host disease, or GVHD. GVHD occurs when immune cells from the donor (the graft) recognize the recipient’s body (the host) as foreign and begin to attack. The donor’s immune cells may attack certain organs, most often the skin, gastrointestinal tract and liver. “GVHD is a pretty descriptive name,” says Claudio Anasetti, M.D., chair of Moffitt Cancer Center’s Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) Department, “because literally the graft works against the host. Once we transplant stem cells, the donor cells try to reject the host body. The response can be violent.” The initial sign of acute GVHD, which occurs in the first several weeks following an allogeneic transplant, is usually a rash, often accompanied by a burning and redness of the skin, which can spread over the entire body. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, jaundice, and weight loss. Chronic GVHD, which can occur several months or years after a transplant, can damage the skin or tissues below it, the lungs, and the exocrine glands. (An allogeneic transplant is a procedure in which a person receives bloodforming stem cells from a genetically similar, but not identical, donor. The donor often is a sibling, but could be an unrelated donor.) “Both acute and chronic GVHD are unwanted immune responses and major contributors to transplant-related mortality,” says Joseph Pidala, M.D., of Moffitt’s BMT and Immunology Programs. “It’s one of the reasons people don’t do well after hematopoietic cell transplantation.” To prevent GVHD, doctors use the combination of tacrolimus (Prograf) and methotrexate—now considered the standard of care for GVHD. Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressant used to reduce the activity of the patient’s immune system and lower the risk of rejection. Methotrexate is used to treat autoimmune diseases by inhibiting Tcell activation. To treat GVHD, doctors administer glucocorticoids, primarily prednisone, to suppress the T-cell-mediated onslaught against host tissue.
Dr. Anasetti
Dr. Pidala
When this primary therapy fails, physicians move on to other immune suppressive treatments. A number of clinical trials are underway or being planned at Moffitt to prevent GVHD from occurring.
Race, Ethnicity Affect Likelihood Of Finding Suitable Donors For Stem Cell Transplants A patient’s ideal donor for HCT is a genetically matched sibling. Because most HCT candidates do not have a sibling who fits this description, unrelated volunteer donors play a vital role in successful HCT. In August 2012, Moffitt researchers published a study in Bone Marrow Transplantation describing the difficulty in finding matched, unrelated donors for non-Caucasian patients who are candidates for HCT. According to the National Marrow Donor Program, the genetically matched donor rate is 90 percent for Caucasian patients, but plummets to 60 percent for those of African ancestry. “Using unrelated adult donors to facilitate HCT has provided major opportunities for patients without a matched sibling donor,” says Dr. Pidala, the study’s lead author. Compared with Caucasians, say Dr. Pidala and his study colleagues, African-Americans, Hispanics and Native Americans have greater difficulty in finding a suitably matched, unrelated donor, as well as less likelihood of successfully reaching HCT. “Our data are consistent with the expectation that – if suitable unrelated donors could be more expeditiously identified – patient outcomes would improve, particularly for racial and ethnic minorities….” Dr. Pidala and coauthors reported in the published study. The increased representation of ethnic minorities within unrelated donor registries will increase the likelihood of finding suitable donors.
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
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DID YOU KNOW
H a p p y B i rt h d ay !
The Don CeSar is Eighty-five Years Young By June Hurley Young On January 16, 2013 the Don CeSar Resort Hotel will celebrate 85 years as Florida’s West Coast Landmark. Built on a wilderness island by Thomas Rowe, from 1925 to 1927, it opened on Monday, January 16, 1928. A full page ad in the St. Petersburg Times read, “Hurling its beauty to the sky, this Castle-like hostelry on the shores of the Gulf thrills you with its Grandeur.” The Bentleys, the Rolls Royces and the opulent town cars drove up to the hotel and hundreds of men in tuxedoes and women in furs and satins hurried into the hotel. The special menu was $7.50 a plate and guests danced and partied all night. Thomas Rowe, in his usual white suit, smiled on everyone as the elegant host of his spectacular hotel. Now, on that same night in 2013, the elegant Pink Lady will proudly greet her guests. She’s had several face lifts in 85 years, and her walls could tell stories of her many lives and the many roles she’s played in her lifetime. All the building materials were brought in on shallow barges. A primitive dump and chute method was slow and laborious. The walls were filled in with red hollow tiles. It took two years to build, in times of the year with unbearable heat and mosquitoes. Rowe became the Mosquito Control Director to solve his problem. A view of the legendary Don CeSar hotel and some images preserved in vintage postcards of the hotel and St. Petersburg. As he built, he kept adding wings and higher floors and by the time he finished, he had no money left to furnish his grand hotel. He borrowed money June Hurley Young is the author of “The Don CeSar Story,” “Florida’s Pinellas from Warner Webster to furnish his rooms with Oriental Rugs and horsehair Peninsula” and “Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Do it” published by Partnership Press, 362 mattresses. The building and furnishings cost about a $1.5 million. 89th Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33702 • 727-424-4076 The Don had two seasons, 1928 and 1929. The Stock Market Crash of October, 1929 and, subsequently, the Great Depression brought tourism to a standstill. Like so many others, The Don failed. However, the bank let Rowe remain there to work it out of debt. With the help of the department store moguls, the New York Yankees and alcohol, he made good the losses by 1940. Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig were there every season. Rowe died in 1940 and his estranged wife, Virginia Rowe, inherited the hotel. After Pearl Harbor, all branches of the service came to Florida for basic training. All the hotels except the Don were leased to house the troops. The Don was an exception. In 1942, it was purchased by the Army for $450,000. Planned as a Veteran’s Hospital, it became unsuitable and, instead, it became an R&R facility for battle weary airmen. When the war ended in 1945, it was transformed into a Veteran’s Administration Office Building and outpatient clinJanuary 15th ic. During that era, all the furnishings were removed and sold. A group of engineers toured the building in 1968 and condemned it as a fragile @ 12:00 PM structure too worthless to be restored, so General Services made it available to A Taste of France Luncheon federal, state, county or city governments who could use it. “Tear it down” was the and Tour of Community, verdict. Limited Seating That is when I began writing articles for local papers, crusading to find a new RSVP to 727-894-6788 use for the Don. My articles attracted supporters and I headed the “Save the Don” Committee. We attracted a local developer, William Bowman, Jr., and he came up with an acceptable plan to renovate and open the Don as a grand hotel again. In 1972, we met with GSA. The Mayor held Bowman’s check for $460,000 and the keys, and he gave GSA the money and Bowman the keys. Bowman engineered a ramp across Gulf Blvd. to create a grand entrance to the hotel. He added balconies, a swimming pool and tennis courts, renovated the hotel and furnished it in the Moorish traditions of the original building. What a celebration it was in November, 1973 when the hotel opened. By 1975, Bowman was successful in having it named to the Registry of Historic Buildings. All Inclusive...Three Chef Prepared Meals Daily • Housekeeping Services Because of many adverse conditions from 1973 to 1975, Bowman had put $2 million of his own money into the renovation, but he was unable to pay down his Life Enrichment Programs • Bring Your Pet: New Dog Park Wellness Center On$6 million debt to the lender, Connecticut General. No one came out to help him. Site Non-Evacuation Community • Heated Pool and Sun Deck • On-Site Art Studio Completely discouraged he handed over the keys to the lender and walked away Community Garden & Garden Club • Transportation Available on his 50th birthday, October 24, 1975. His biography “Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Do Walk to Museums and Cafes • State of the Art Media Center/Game Room It,” came out in 2008, the year he finally returned to the Don to be honored for all he did to save and insure its success. 411 First Ave. N • St. Petersburg, FL 33701 An internationally famous destination, the Don CeSar is owned 20 percent by Lowes Hotels and 80 percent by Prudential Insurance Company.
Active Senior Living Community In the Heart of Downtown St. Petersburg
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
Health Roundup
How to Deal with Year-Round Sun Exposure formed and take the time to protect your skin and your grandchildren’s skin from overexposure year-round by limiting the amount of time you spend outdoors at least between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when you are at most risk. Using sunscreen (applied 20 minutes before exposure), wearing long sleeve clothing in fabric with built-in sun protection, a hat, sunglasses or shielding yourself with a good umbrella are ways to prevent sunburn that can cause problems. These are ways to protect yourself while on the job, on vacation or when you exercise outdoors. Having a healthy respect for the sun will allow you to enjoy the elements and take in the beauty that we call home.
By Ro Martinez
F
loridians are proud to live in beautiful surroundings. Moderate temperatures allow us to take advantage of the beaches and parks yearround. We spend so much time outdoors that skin protection is a must. Although we may think and dress young, the earliest signs of aging can be seen in our skin. We are exposed to the sun on most days whether we realize it or not. Skin exposure can occur while: • Working -- Some jobs require more sun exposure than others: think construction workers, lifeguards, realtors, and crossing guards. • Vacationing -- Most of us do not go on vacation to stay inside a hotel room or in a cabin while on a cruise. Our intention is to sight see or lounge at the beach or poolside, spending as much time as possible relaxing outside. • Exercising -- For some, walking or running on the beach or pavement near their home taking in the rays are ways to get fit.
Ro Martinez, author, model and modeling coach, has been in the business for over 25 years. Her book Modeling At Any Age is a step-by-step, comprehensive, easy-to-read guide for modeling and how to flourish in the industry. For information on beco-ming a model or actress, visit www.modelingatanyage. net or email Ro at romartinezmodel@ hotmail.com
This web site, www.skincancer.org, offers five ways to ease sunburn pain and limit the damage...
1. Act Quickly If you feel the telltale tingling of a burn or see any sign of skin reddening on you or your child, get out of the sun and start treatment. “Sunburn tends to sneak up on us. It can take four to six hours for the symptoms to develop,” says Barton Schmitt, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital Colorado and author of a new book, My Child Is Sick! Expert Advice for Managing Common Illnesses and Injuries, published by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
©Photos By Angela Mann Photography. 727-518-4977
2. Moisturize After a cool shower or bath, slather on a moisturizing cream or lotion to soothe the skin. Repeat frequently to make peeling and flaking less noticeable. And consider a product containing vitamin C and vitamin E: it might help limit skin damage (though studies have not proved that), according to Shawn Allen, a dermatologist in Boulder, Colo., and spokesman for The Skin Cancer Foundation. It’s also OK to use a hydrocortisone cream for a day or two to relieve discomfort, Allen says. Not OK: scrubbing, picking or peeling your skin or breaking blisters.
3. Hydrate Any burn draws fluid to the skin surface and away from the rest of the body. So drink extra water, juice and sports drinks for a couple of days and watch for signs of dehydration: dry mouth, thirst, reduced urination, headache, dizziness and sleepiness. Children are especially vulnerable, so check with a doctor if they appear ill.
4. Don’t Wait. Medicate. Take (or give your child) a dose of ibuprofen (for example, Advil) as soon as you see signs of sunburn and keep it up for the next 48 hours, Schmitt advis-
es. “It cuts back on the swelling and redness that is going to occur,” he says, and might prevent some long-term skin damage. “It’s not just treating the symptoms; it’s treating the severity of the symptoms.” Acetaminophen (for example, Tylenol) will treat the pain, but does not have the same anti-inflammatory effect.
5. Assess the Damage Most sunburns, even those that cause a few blisters, can be treated at home. But if a blistering burn covers 20 percent or more of the body (a child’s whole back), seek medical attention, Allen says. Anyone with a sunburn who is suffering fevers and chills should also seek medical help, he says. While it may be difficult to stay out of the sun completely, following this advice will prevent sunburn, help you avoid the pain and discomfort that come with it, and may even prevent some forms of cancer later. Get out and enjoy the outdoors, but be in-
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
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senior accomplishments
Seniors Sport Athletic Skills in Competition By Nick Gandy, Director of Communications, FL Sports Foundation The annual gathering of Florida’s finest senior athletes was held December 1-9 in Polk County as more than 2,200 were on hand for the 2012 Florida International Senior Games & State Championships. This year, athletes were competing for a chance to qualify for the 2013 National Senior Games, to be held in Cleveland, Ohio, during the summer of 2013. The athletes converged on Polk County for competition in 22 sports. Some sports required strength, speed and stamina, including Powerlifting, Track and Field, Swimming and Cycling. In other sports, athletes needed to focus on accuracy and strategy for events such as Archery, Billiards and Shuffleboard. While the goal of some of these athletes was to experience the thrill of victory, there were other reasons for the 2,200 athletes to have gathered in Polk County. Some thrived on the competitive nature of their sport and were there to beat the athlete next to them. Some set goals for themselves within their sport of choice. Others have been diagnosed with an ailment that can be kept in check with physical activity, and for some, it was a social occasion to enjoy sports with friends they see only at Senior Games events. The Florida Senior Games Cycling competition offered the 5K and 10K Time Trials and the 20K and 40K Road Race. This event may have been the most competitive of the 22 sports as the athletes rode on bikes worth thousands of dollars and pushed themselves to the
limits of their physical capabilities. The Time Trial race winners are those who can “endure the most pain,” said Dave Viney, a State Championships record holder in the 60-64 age group from Montverde. Mickey Hooke, a 52-year old runner from Bradenton, set a 2012 goal for himself to not only be the top overall finisher in the Florida International Senior Games & State Championships 5K Road Race but to set the overall record in the process. After 41 road races in 25 Florida cities leading up to the December 8 race around Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, Hooke crossed the finish line with a time of 17:24, four seconds ahead of the overall top finishing time set in 1998. Having been diagnosed with diabetes, June Stern, of Leesburg, registered for events in swimming, pickleball and track and field. In an effort to curb the disease, Stern and her husband, Stephen, were set to compete in 14 events. While Stern did not set any recordbreaking times in the 55-59 age group, she was there at Gandy Pool competing in backstroke and breast stroke swimming events and ran in 100, 400 and 800 meter running events and the 1500 meter race walk at All Saints Academy. In every event, Stephen was there cheering her on. Table Tennis sensation John Shultz, of Inverness, holds the longest record for consecutive-year medal winning among all Florida Senior Games athletes, having earned a medal in 20 con-
Group of cyclists during preparation before a race at the FL Senior Games.
secutive years, most recently in the 75-79 age group. While he enjoys winning and is truly a humble winner, giving credit to his men’s and mixed doubles partners, it’s seeing friends during the annual day of competition at the State Championships Table Tennis event that keeps bringing him back. While the hairline may no longer be as full as it once was and there may be a few wrinkles in the face, the Florida International Senior Games & State Championships offers athletes a chance to go back in time and experience the games they played in their youth once again. At the end of the day’s competition, the smiles on the athletes’ faces and the handshakes and embraces exchanged with their fellow athletes definitely reflect the joys of youth. For a complete list of results of the 2012 Florida International Senior Games and State Championships, visit www.flasport.com.
June Stern of Leesburg, during a running event at the FL Senior Games. Stern competed in swimming back and breast stroke events, ran in the 100, 400 and 800 meter races and the 1500 meter race walk.
John Shultz of Iverness, Table Tennis champion and holder of the record for winning consecutive medals of all FL Senior Games.
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Senior Voice America
technology
Share Your Private Family Joys With Loved Ones Far and Near By Julie Heidelberg, Editor The holidays have passed, a time when some of us are lucky enough to regroup with family members we rarely see. Unfortunately, many families are scattered, with the kids and grandkids having moved out of town or vice versa, and travelling for the holidays just isn’t always in the cards. It’s hard to get an entire family together anymore. So how can we stay connected? Well, in this day and age there’s social media, and more and more seniors are using it. According to a recent Pew study (available at pewinternet.org), from 2008-2010 the percentage of total social networking site users 50 years or more jumped from 11 percent to 26 percent. Over a quarter of all social networkers are now seniors! And the number one reason seniors are online: to connect with family. Of course there’s Facebook, but according to that same Pew study, just 20 percent of peoples’ Facebook friends are family (while a whopping 30 percent are practically strangers). So, we are faced with a dilemma, because there’s so much we’d like to share with family, but definitely not always the other “friends,” and certainly not with strangers! Enter a new concept in social networking: FamilyLeaf, a private social network just for family. Its’ cofounders thought of the idea when away in college as they realized there was such a disconnect between them
and their grandparents, cousins, and rest of the family. FamilyLeaf is a very simple to use site where the family can stay connected, no matter how geographically scattered they may be. Photos/videos can easily be posted right from the phone or computer (a unified family photo album!), anyone can share a “tidbit” from their day, or someone can begin an open conversation about reunion plans. It also serves as a “family rolodex” where everyone can update their address/phone/email info. “FamilyLeaf has been brilliant for us,” says Sophia S. (identity protected). “We have all become closer and I genuinely feel happier in my everyday life knowing that although we all live so far apart, my family is there for me anytime. My Mom took a while to find the confidence to post anything, but now leaves loving comments all the time which warm my heart!!” Admittedly, there is a time and place to tell the “world” about your life, but family time is any time and this resource sounds like something worth investigating for your family – for their enjoyment and for their privacy.
JANUARY 2013
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Page 13
SELF HELP
Feel Your Best at Any Age Age is just a number, according to the old adage. Whether you are turning 20 or 60, it is your inner age and how young you feel that really counts. This is even more true when you create everyday healthy habits that help you feel younger. “Living a healthy life starts from the inside,” says Bonnie Taub-Dix, registered dietitian and national CocoaVia supplement spokesperson. “We don’t often think about it, but the health of your circulatory system is essential for a healthy life – it should be important to everyone and taken care of as you would any other part of your body. This is key to healthy aging.” Your circulatory system impacts many facets of your health and the way you look and feel. In fact, explains Taub-Dix, heart, brain and eye health – even exercise performance – depend on a healthy circulatory system. But as you age, your blood vessels may become less flexible and less able to expand when needed to keep circulation running smoothly. “Cocoa flavanols are scientifically proven to help support healthy circulation by helping your blood vessels stay flexible and expand as needed, even as you age,” says Taub-Dix. “With daily intake, cocoa flavanols help oxygen and nutrients reach your organs and tissues, so you look and feel your best today and every day.” To help keep your circulatory system healthy, Taub-Dix has found a number of ways to help you be your inner best, including the following tips. Start your day on a healthy note. When you wake in the morning, set a healthy tone for the rest of your day and begin with a wholesome breakfast, such as almond butter mixed in oatmeal with a fruit smoothie or a yogurt parfait to make sure you’re nourishing your body with exactly what it needs. With 250 mg of cocoa flavanols, it’s an easy way to have a delicious breakfast and support your cardiovascular health by supporting healthy circulation. Fit exercise into your day. According to the Mayo Clinic, taking daily walks is a great way to get your blood flowing, but speak with your doctor about the level of activity best suited for you. When possible, avoid sitting for long periods of time. If you work in an office, make sure to fit in small walks throughout the day – even if that means taking a short 15 to 20 minute walk during your lunch break. Try to get up and move around every half hour or so. Stay hydrated. Hydration is important for many reasons, but if you’re looking to stick to your goal of exercising daily, you want to make sure your body is properly hydrated. If you’re a soda drinker, consider switching to flavorful options that offer health benefits. To learn more, follow CocoaVia on Twitter at @CocoaVia, like CocoaVia on Facebook or visit www.CocoaVia.com for more information.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
Health Roundup
Top New Year’s Resolutions for Men’s Health This year, millions of New Year’s resolutions will be made - and then broken soon after. But there is one resolution that all men should keep: to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Prostate cancer is the most common, non-skin cancer in America, affecting one in six men, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. In addition, heart disease killed 26 percent of the men who died in 2006. And half of the men who die suddenly of coronary heart disease have no previous symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). There are many simple ways men can reduce their risk for life-threatening health conditions. Make a New Year’s resolution to improve your health and better your life with these easy tips.
Get Checked Sometimes improving your health is as simple as a trip to the doctor. As you age, the likelihood of being diagnosed with prostate cancer increases significantly. Men over 40 should begin discussing their prostate health with a physician. Catching prostate cancer in its earliest stages can greatly improve a man’s chance at survival, so it’s important to be proactive and talk to your doctor about your prostate health. You can learn more about risk factors and prevention on the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s website at www.PCF.org.
Eat Healthy Choosing healthy snacks and avoiding fatty meals can help reduce your risk of heart disease, diabetes and certain forms of cancer. Foods that are low in saturated fat and dietary cholesterol and high in fiber can help prevent high cholesterol, according to the CDC. Additionally, several studies suggest that eating fish can help protect against prostate cancer because they have “good fat,” particularly omega-3 fatty acids.
Exercise Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial to preventing heart disease. Physical activity will help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol. According to the Surgeon General, adults should engage in moderately intense exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. By maintaining a healthy weight, you will also lower your risk for diabetes.
Relax Don’t sweat the small stuff. Reducing your stress at work and at home can help improve your overall health and lead to a longer, happier life. Seek medical treatment for stress, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and depression. Treating these conditions may save your life and have been shown to improve survivorship in prostate cancer. These are resolutions to keep. Now is the perfect time to make changes to improve your health.
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Page 15
FOR CAREGIVERS
NEUROPATHY &
Is It Time for
OTHER FOOT PROBLEMS? YES, YOU CAN FEEL GREAT ABOUT YOUR FEET AGAIN! WE HAVE YOUR TREATMENT PLAN
Suncoast Hospice? By Suzanne “Sue” Rice, RN, CHPN, Suncoast Hospice Dir. of Admission Practices Are you wondering if it’s the right time for hospice care for you or someone in your care? It might be time for hospice if you have any kind of advanced illness that’s causing you uncontrollable pain, difficulties functioning and/or sending you to the hospital repeatedly. Maybe you could really use assistance with your care and comfort at home or wherever you live. Hospice care provides physical, emotional and spiritual comfort during the last months of life. However, many people wait until their final weeks, days or even hours of life to call hospice. The sooner people receive hospice care, the more they’ll fully benefit from it and experience a better quality of life. Those who live in Pinellas County may call Suncoast Hospice any time to learn about care and services. Suncoast Hospice cares for patients in their homes, Suncoast Hospice houses or other residences and provides support for their families and caregivers.
Signs It May Be Time for Hospice • Your illness is progressing. • You no longer wish to receive curative treatment or it’s no longer working. • You’re experiencing increased severe pain, shortness of breath, fatigue or loss of appetite. • You’ve been in and out of the hospital three times or more. • You’re having difficulty walking, dressing, bathing, eating or toileting. • You’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed from providing care and need some help.
NEW DR. BONNIE SANCHEZ
out about care for themselves or those in their care. An order from a doctor isn’t needed to make the call. After sharing some basic information over the phone, a registered nurse (RN) may be scheduled to go out to a person’s home to do an assessment. During assessments, the RN will talk with the patients and their families about medical history and medical needs to determine eligibility for care. The RN will explain any care and services that are available along with payment options, which may include the Medicare hospice benefit, health insurance and other methods. If a patient’s ready for hospice care, the RN will start the admission process.
Suncoast Hospice Care
Suncoast Hospice care teams work together with patients and their doctors, families and caregivers to create the best plans of care for patients. The care teams include skilled staff and trained volunteers who provide everything needed for the patients’ comfort at home or other residences. Team members are always available to answer questions or to help. Suncoast Hospice services may include palliaTalking with Your Doctor tive therapies, such as massage or music, medical You may wish to talk with your doctor as you equipment and supplies, personal care, volundecide about hospice care. You may ask: teers’ assistance, counseling and more. The care teams also may provide ongoing education and • How do you expect my condition to change? support to families and caregivers. • What symptoms might I experience? To learn more about Suncoast Hospice care, • What are my treatment options and how will call 727–HOSPICE (467–7423) or visit suncoast they affect me? hospice.org. • Will I be able to continue my daily routine and care for myself? Suzanne “Sue” Rice, RN, CHPN is the director • What kinds of help could benefit me? of admission practices at Suncoast Hospice Hospice care? based in Clearwater, Florida. Sue has been a registered nurse for more than 28 years includ You may keep your own doctor if you’re in Sun- ing several years working in critical care. She coast Hospice care. has worked in hospice care in the U.K. and the U.S., serving at Suncoast Hospice for almost 19 Calling Suncoast Hospice & years. Sue has spent the past 11 years in SunAt–Home Assessments coast’s admissions department instructing ad Pinellas County residents may call the Sun- missions staff on care programs with the goal of coast Hospice information line any time to find increasing the community’s access to care.
EXPANDED HOURS FOR 2012
• DIABETIC FOOTCARE & SHOES • UGLY/PAINFUL TOENAILS • PLANTAR FASCITIS Accepting Private • TENDON STRAIN Pay and Insurance Patients • HAMMERTOES • NEUROPATHY Call to see the Doctor • HEEL SPURS (727) 824-5100 or • BUNIONS (813) 645-1993 • ORTHOTICS
Why suffer any longer? Come see us, your gentle touch Doctor of Podiatry.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
Senior Happenings For information call (863)665-0062. The InternaWW II, and the Korean and Vietnam wars. Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 12-5 p.m.; tional Market World is located at 1052 U.S. HWY 92 Closed on major holidays. Admission: Adults $10; West Auburndale, FL 33823. www.intlmarketworld.com. youths (4-12) $5. Available at ticketweb.com, 1-866-468The 5th Dimension featuring Florence LaRue 7630, or on ship. Largo Cultural Center For information call (813)228-8766 Address: 705 January 12 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL 33602. The 5th Dimension is known for its soulful sophistiBECOME A GOOGLE MASTER cation and smooth harmonies with a touch of class. The Largo Public Library: Jenkins Community Wing group has received 14 gold records, six platinum records and six Grammy Awards with multi-million selling hits January 8 including “Up, Up, and Away”, “One Less Bell to AnThis class will help you increase your Google search swer”, “Wedding Bell Blues”, “Stone Soul Picnic”, and skills and take those first steps toward becoming a “Aquarius/Let The Sun Shine In.” 4 p.m. & 8 p.m., Google ninja master. 3:00 p.m. For information call (727) 587-6715. The Largo tickets $34.50-$44.50. For information call (727) 587-6793. The Largo Public Library is located at 120 Central Park Drive, Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park Dr., Largo, FL. Largo, FL 33771. DOCTOR/PATIENT COMMUNICATION Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market Tea Dances
Coliseum January 2, 16 Enjoy a relaxing afternoon dancing. First and third Wednesday monthly. Dance instruction 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., taped music 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m. and live music by various bands 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. For information call (727)892-5202. The Coliseum is located at 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Cocktails For A Cause
Tampa Museum of Art January 4 Please join us for Cocktails for a Cause on Friday, January 4, 2013 at the Sono Cafe - Tampa Museum of Art. The event will include complimentary hors d’oeuvres. A percentage of the proceeds from the additional sale of food and cash bar benefit the Florida Holocaust Museum. 5 p.m.-7 p.m. The Tampa Museum of Art will be open for viewing until closing at 8:00 p.m. For information call (813) 274-8130 The Tampa Museum of Art is located at 120 Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL.
Largo Public Library: Jenkins Community Wing January 9
Sometimes talking to your doctor is hard, but the good news is that it doesn’t have to be. Professor Eisenberg, author of Prescriptive Communication for the Healthcare Provider, understands doctor/patient relationships and is here to make sure that you do, too. 3:00 p.m. For information call (727) 587-6715. The Largo Public Library is located at 120 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL. IPADS FOR BEGINNERS
Largo Public Library: Jenkins Community Wing January 10 Are you baffled by your iPad? Can’t figure out how to get an app or how to erase a photo? This is the class for you! This beginners class is meant to make you more familiar and comfortable with your device. 3 p.m. For information call (727) 587-6715. The Largo Public Library is located at 120 Central Park Drive, Largo, FL. The Sunshine City Antiques & Collectibles Show
Coliseum January 11-13
Hillsborough High School January 13 The Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market will feature 80+ vendors, a large variety of local, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, Florida grown plants, herbs and flowers, organic garden food/ supplies, locally made take-home foods such as jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils. Local artists will showcase their creative efforts and ecofriendly products. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., FREE. Hillsborough High School is located at 5000 N. Central Ave., Tampa, FL 33673. hearing solution seminars
Sound Advice (2 Locations) January 15, 17 A one hour seminar on hearing loss, followed by lunch with the chance to talk with our specialist. Free hearing tests will also be offered. For your convenience we offer two events at two locations; St. Petersburg seminar will be on January 15, 11:30 a.m. The Largo seminar will be on January 17, 11:30 a.m. For information on the St. Pete event call (727)8222132. 3173 4th St. N, St. Petersburg, FL. For information on the Largo event call (727)518-1111. 861 West Bay Drive, Largo, FL.
Marty Stuart Tampa Bay’s premiere antiques show features many booths of antiques. It is a fabulous shopping,entertaining JOURNALING WORKSHOP FOR CAREGIVERS IN LARGO Largo Community Center and social event. Show hours are Fri. Jan 11, 5 p.m. - 8 January 18 Grand Villa Senior Living p.m.; Sat & Sun Jan 12 - 13, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission: Known for his musical merging of honky tonk, rockaJanuary 5 $6.00 Appraisals Sat & Sun for a fee of $5 per item. Join local Author and Senior Advocate, Linda S. For information call (239)877-2830. The Coliseum billy, country-rock, traditional country and bluegrass, Burhans as she teaches tips and strategies for journaling is located at 535 4th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Grammy-winning music icon Marty Stuart is now accompanied by his band, The Fabulous Superlatives. He has from a caregiver’s perspective. A very useful tool for any performed with countless music legends such as Merl and all caregivers. 10:00 a.m. Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow Haggard and Johnny Cash, and is destined to join their For information call (727) 216-2837. The Grand ranks as one of country music’s most influential stars. International Market World in Auburndale Villa Senior Living is located at 750 Starkey Road, Come see Marty’s flamboyant showmanship shine with Largo, FL 33771. January 11-13 and January 18-20 International Market World in Auburndale hosts the his band for a one night only performance in Largo. American Victory Ship Mariners Museum annual Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow. Enjoy Native 8 p.m., tickets $34.50-$44.50. Channelside Dr. For information call (727)587-6793. The Largo American dancers and drumming, demonstrations, food, crafts and more. Over 1200 unique vendors make Cultural Center is located at 105 Central Park Dr., January 6 Re-live history as you board the S.S. American Victo- up the International Market World family of shops. The Largo, FL 33771. ry Ship Mariners Museum--one of only four fully opera- farm fresh produce will change your kitchen menu, and tional World War II ships in the U.S. Built in 1945, she the alligator show will make you change your mind has sailed the Seven Seas transporting cargo during about gators. Cost: Adult $5.00
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Page 17
Senior Happenings Winter Dog Day
Gasparilla Parade
Bok Tower Gardens January 19
January 26
Leashed and friendly dogs are invited to visit the Gardens for one special day. Judges will select the cutest, most unusual, owner look-a-like, most talented and best kisser. Dog grooming tips, health, safety and adoption information will be available. Dog admission includes a doggie gift bag. Fifty percent of the proceeds benefit the Humane Society of Polk County. Regular human admission rates apply. Cost: $12 for Adults $3 Children (5-12) and $5 per dog For information call (863)676-1408. The Bok Tower Gardens are located at 1151 Tower Blvd. Lake Wales, FL 33853. www.boktowergardens.org. The Festival of Chocolate
Museum of Science and Industry January 19, 20
Ahoy mateys! Are ye up for adventure? Do you fancy a trip with Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla as we prepare to invade the unsuspecting City of Tampa and share our rich plunder with all those who dare to join us. It’s a celebration we’ve honored since 1904, and one that grows more exciting every year! Our majestic pirate ship, the Jose Gasparilla is in fine form, and we’ll be setting a course for Tampa where we’ll land in full force! 2 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Free. For information or to purchase reserved seats go to http://gasparillapiratefest.com/parade.html. SPRING VEGETABLE GARDENING SEMINAR
Home Depot January 26 Spring is just around the corner. This is the perfect time to plan and start plants for your spring vegetable garden. Methods for starting seeds and using transplants will be discussed at this FREE Pasco Extension seminar taught by a local Master Gardener. Free. For questions about this class, contact the Extension office at 352-518-0156, 813-996-7341, or 727-8472411, and ask for the Extension office. The Home Depot is located at 10017 US Highway 19, Port Richey, FL.
The event features the area’s best chocolate and confection companies selling tastes and treats of everything chocolate, from truffles, cakes cookies, brownies and ice cream. There will even be chocolate body products! Award winning pastry chefs and chocolatiers will host interactive demonstrations, and a live chocolate showpiece competition will give artistic sculptures a tasty twist! Learn chocolate-ology while A Gathering of Angels touring a chocolate themed museum within the festival, and be amazed by the science of chocolate, view The Ritz Theatre the CocoCouture fashions, and test your chocolate January 26 knowledge by playing Brownie Bingo! 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Returning for our 13th year, you will find this special tickets $12-$15 For information call (813) 987-6320. MOSI is lo- fund raising event won’t be “just any night out!” The Historic Ritz in downtown Winter Haven will host this cated at 4801 E Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33617. gala that features dining, dancing, entertaiment and a Opening Reception: Judith Goldstein silent auction of jewelry, art and travel. This event is Theatre Winter Haven’s larget and oldest fundraiser of Florida Holocaust Museum the season. Cost: TBA January 20 For information call (863)299-2672 263. The Ritz Please join us for the opening reception for From Joys to Sorrows: The Art of Judith Goldstein. Light Theatre is located at West Central Ave. Winter Haven, refreshments will be served. The event will include a FL 33880. www.theatrewinterhaven.com. talk by artist and survivor, Judith Goldstein. Snowbird Extravaganza Free to members. Regular admission rates apply for non-members. 2 p.m.-3:30 p.m. The Lakeland Center For information please call (727) 820-0100. The January 29 Florida Holocaust Museum is located at 55 5th Street Snowbird Extravaganza is the Canadian Snowbird South, St. Petersburg, FL. Association’s flagship event, held in Florida since 1993 Pinellas Folk Festival and in Lakeland for the past eight years. Snowbirds flock from all over Florida to attend this event, which Heritage Village is one of the largest mature-lifestyle events in North January 26 America. Hundreds of exhibits, keynote speakers, inDozens of the Tampa Bay area’s premier folk musi- teractive feature areas, and world-class entertaincians will be playing traditional folk, gospel, country ment. Extravaganza Feature and bluegrass music on stages throughout Heritage Areas on the main stage in Village at this festival. Sponsored by the Pinellas County Historical Society. There will be historical Youkey Theatre, the Bingo demonstrations and activities. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., $5 do- stage in Exhibit Hall, the nation. Shuttle to event entrance located from free Medipac Stage in Sikes parking on 119th St. between Ulmerton and Walsing- Hall, and the Hospitality ham Rds.; handicapped parking and drop-off located Stage in Jenkins Arena. For information call at 12211 Walsingham Rd. The For information call (727) 582-2123. Heritage (800)326-9560. Village is located at 11909 125th Street N., Largo, FL Lakeland Center is located at 701 W. Lime Street 33774. Lakeland, FL 33815. snowbirdextravaganza. com/florida.html.
Winter Haven Senior Adult Center Classes and Events wellness with wilma
Tuesdays and Thursdays Wellness with Wilma is a 60 minute low-impact total body workout that includes aerobic, strengthening, balance and flexibility modalities. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Free. Registration is required. Tai Chi
Wednesdays Tai Chi uses a series of slow movements designed to strengthen the body, increase flexibility and calm the mind. Experience the gentle flowing movements of Tai Chi and treat your whole body to a gentle and relaxing workout. 1:30 p.m. $4 Resident, $5 Non resident. Registration is required. Chair Yoga
Wednesdays and Fridays Designed for seniors and focuses on flexibility, strengthening, stress reduction and relaxation. 10:30 a.m. -11:30 a.m. Free. Registration is required. For information call (863) 291-5870. The Winter Haven Senior Adult Center is located at 250 S. Lake Silver Dr. NW., Winter Haven, FL 33881.
Email Your Senior Happenings to: Happenings@Seniorvoiceamerica.com
The Deadline for the February Issue is January 15th
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
TRAVEL
Key West: From the Surreal to the Sublime By Evan Gold, Publisher and Host of Health, Wealth & Wisdom It still amazes me when I talk to people who live in Florida and they tell me they have never visited Key West, let alone the Keys. While there is a lot to see and do in the Keys, Key West is the focus here. Known as The Conch Republic to some and
the Southernmost City to others, Key West is not like many places you can visit in the U.S. Actually closer to Cuba than to Miami, Key West is one of those places that is whatever you make it to be. For some, it is a quiet island
that offers amazing fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. For others, it is a town that goes to the wee hours of the morning, offering the opportunity to have a drink at bars that hosted the likes of Ernest Hemmingway, Tennessee Williams and Cuban freedom fighter (from the late 1800’s) Jose Marti’. Key West offers so much to do by day or night. If you’re someone who enjoys snorkeling or diving, the island is probably unmatched on the U.S. mainland for its vibrant coral reef and undersea life. There are numerous companies that can take you out for a half day, full day or, if you are the more adventurous type and you know your way in the water, you can even rent a boat. As for fishing, you can go flats fishing or deep sea fishing. And, if you bring home some fresh catch, there are many restaurants that will gladly serve it up for you. If you like to just be out on the water, companies like Fury and Sunny Days offer some great sunset or daytime charters that are really enjoyable. Speaking of restaurants, this is where Key West really shines. First and foremost is the seafood. The freshest and tastiest I can find in Florida is served in the Florida Keys. From stone crab to lobster to snapper, you can’t beat these restaurants. So where to go?
Breakfast: Blue Heaven Don’t show up starving is my first note here. This place is so popular that on the weekends there can be a bit of a wait. However, it is worth the wait. How about starting your day with shrimp and eggs or a lobster omelet? Or what about their famous BLT Benedict? Substitute the lettuce with lobster, and this sandwich goes to a new dimension in delicious. They do serve lunch and dinner, and we have heard people rave, but we have only sampled their breakfast. The chickens walking through the courtyard makes it even more fun.
Lunch: Harpoon Harry’s This was a lucky find on one of our trips. They are most famous for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is pretty typical although the pancakes are heavenly. Our favorite at Harry’s is lunch. There is never a trip that Deb does not stop in for the Lobster Roll. And I usually go for their blue plate specials. And if you like delicious Bloody Mary’s, don’t be shy; they offer a full bar. For the meat lover? Cheeburger Cheeburger is superb.
Seafood: The Raw Bar In my humble opinion they serve some of the finest seafood in Key West. Deb is a huge shellfish fan and has never complained of a meal here. I usually go for the grouper or snapper and it
never disappoints. It is one of our favorites and should not be missed. If you like Italian, La Trattoria is good and for lobster, but don’t expect Southern Italy here. A & B Lobster House is also excellent.
Better Than Sex: A Dessert Restaurant Dessert lovers must not miss this – a restaurant so popular than they had to move within a few years of opening to a larger location. The desserts are out of this world and the atmosphere offers a bit of romance and fun. For those of you with a sweet tooth, I offer two pieces of advice. First: do not fill up on dinner, and second, keep in mind they are only open from 6 p.m. to midnight so make a reservation. Deb’s favorite is chocolate chip cookies, believe it or not, so be sure to check out Matthessen’s. Those are the best. Key Lime pie lover? Go to Blue Heaven!
What to do on land? There are a number of museums to check out with the maritime and shipwreck museums as my favorite. Deb really enjoyed the Aquarium, but as I say, “once you have swum with them, who needs to see them in a tank.” The Hemmingway house is better than it sounds and is a must see, and the trolley tours can be enjoyable, offering a lot to learn. Our favorite is the Haunted Trolley, but only take that at night.
Now, where do you stay? We have stayed in numerous different establishments, but our favorites are the bed and breakfasts or the smaller specialty hotels. One example of the specialty hotels is The Eden House, which boasts guests who have been returning for the past 20-30 years. Owner Mike Eden offers a number of different room types, but due to their size, you really feel like you’re at home. They are large enough to offer a restaurant, and don’t miss their daily complimentary happy hour. As for the bed and breakfasts, this is where Key West is really unique to Florida. There are far too many to list in this article, but suffice it to say that you can easily find one that fits your personality, taste and price point. So what are you waiting for? Hop in the car (8 hours), take a flight or even a boat (from Ft. Myers) to have a vacation that can be truly one that offers nearly something for everyone.
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Page 19
DID YOU KNOW
Clock Ticks Down on 2013 Medicare Changes By Hilary Zaragoza, Insurance Adviser, American Senior Benefits Medicare enrollment has come and gone once again, but for a select group, there may be a little wiggle room to make policy adjustments up until Feb. 14, 2013. Specifically, if you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan, you are permitted to leave your plan and switch to Original Medicare, with coverage beginning on the first day of the following month. This is the only change allowable from this point until Feb. 14, but it does come with the option to join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan if you switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare before Feb. 14. Your prescription drug coverage will begin the first day of the month after the plan gets your enrollment form. Again, these are the only allowable changes. During this period, you may not do the following:
• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. • Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another. • Switch from one Medicare Prescription Drug Plan to another. • Join, switch, or drop a Medicare Medical Savings Account Plan. If you need further clarification, contact your personal Medicare insurance consultant right away, as this deadline is coming fast. Hilary Zaragoza, David Demus and their team of licensed insurance agents at American Senior Benefits, Palm Harbor can be reached at 1-877-864-0263.
with
Health, Wealth & Wisdom Looking for medical or financial information? Relevant news for seniors or mature adults? Or just a healthy perspective on life & intelligent discussion?
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
ASK OUR ATTORNEY
Trust Power
By Joe Pippen Have you been avoiding living trusts as a method of estate planning because you fear you will lose control of your assets if they are placed in trust? I’d like to reassure you that the fear of “losing control” is without merit. Here’s why: a clause usually found in the trust agreement is called “Grantor’s Life Interest.” This clause usually directs that the income and principal must be used for the benefit of the grantor (person creating the trust) as long as he/she lives. The income or principal of the trust can be spent exactly as though the assets were owned individually, even though they are now in the trust. For example, if husband and wife created a living trust and the husband died and the wife later became incompetent, the successor trustee(s) named by the grantors are directed by the trust to manage the assets for the wife’s (grantor’s) interest for as long as she may live. It is entirely possible that if the husband and wife placed most of their assets in the trust, incompetency proceedings in court could be avoided. In order for the successor trustee(s) to take over bank accounts and stocks, etc., the trust usually grants that the successor trustee can provide the statements of two licensed doctors of medicine to establish the incapacity of the grantor to act on his/her own behalf. The trust in this case has made it possible for successor trustee(s) to take over assets without a court hearing and approval from the court on expenditures. Successor trustee(s) can resign at any time in most trust agreements by giving 30-day notice to the beneficiaries, and other successor trustee(s) can take over. Thus, if the grantors have named their children as first, second and third successor trustees, and after the husband and wife have died or have become incompetent, and the first successor is then unable to perform the duties of trustee, then he may resign and the second successor may take over. If all three successors cannot perform the duties of successor trustee, then they and the beneficiaries may appoint a trustee. In summary, the person(s) creating a “living trust” do not lose power or control of the assets they place in the trust. They have absolutely the same control over the assets in the trust as they do over assets owned individually. By creating a trust, they have also controlled who would manage the assets if they were to become incapacitated in any way.
Ask Our Attorney! This is a Regular Feature in Senior Voice America.
Do you have a legal question or concern? We are here to help.
Attorney Joe Pippen will answer your questions right here every month.
You can send your questions to us two different ways. Email: editor@seniorvoiceamerica.com or mail to Senior Voice, 8406 Benjamin Rd., Suite G, Tampa, FL 33634
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
Let’s Talk Oh yes, the golden years..... Time can and does take its toll on our body and our mind. For most of us, there will come a time when we can no longer care for ourselves. What will you do? If you think you are going to stay at home, think again. Who is going to care for you? If you’re from the generation when your elders lived with family, I don’t want to offend anyone, BUT it’s not like that anymore. There are many reasons.....we are living longer, family has moved away, or we are estranged. Many families are blended (and I use this term lightly). It’s the blended family that many times becomes the issue. Which side of the family will step up to the plate? Will anyone step up? I remember when I was growing up, my Nana wasn’t well. My Aunt Nora moved in to help care for her. I also remember on several occasions asking my mother who is the stranger (and I do mean strange) in the other room. My mother would take in strangers to live with us because they were in need. Today, would any of us take in a stranger? Probably not. Times and society have changed. If you don’t agree, read the newspaper or watch the news. So where will you go? Start thinking about the “what ifs.” What if I can no longer physically care for myself? What if my state of mind makes it dangerous
By Nurse Ruth
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Where Will I Go?
for me to be alone? Talk with your family and friends and plan your journey. Don’t sit back and let your fate fall into the hands of someone else. Many prefer the comfort of their own home. Provided the funds are available (perhaps through a long-term care insurance policy or a nest egg), staying home with private duty can definitely be an option. Some look into assisted living arrangements. Several of my clients thought they wanted to go to assisted living, only to realize that the loss of control and limited stimulating conversation wasn’t for them. In some cases, the clients or residents in an assisted living are not as alert and may exhibit signs of dementia, which makes it difficult to communicate. So, listen up…there are alternative living arrangements and things you can do BUT you must plan and
you will need an advocate. So, if you don’t have a plan, Let’s Talk! Provided by Ruth Fanovich, RN, LHRM, Owner, Care Placement Home Health Agency, Inc. and RMF Care Management, Inc. www.CarePlacementHH.com
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
FOR CAREGIVERS
Home Healthcare Your Right, Your Choice By Denise Seaman, Owner of CareMinders® Home Care Deciding when it’s the right time to hire a caregiver to come into your home and help care for you or a loved one can be difficult if you’re not familiar with the types of home healthcare providers available to you. You should understand all of the important factors to take into account when making your decision. It’s important for a home healthcare consumer to understand they have a right to choose. For example, if you or your loved one is being released from a hospital, a rehabilitation facility, or even coming home from a nursing home or assisted living facility, you have the legal right to choose your home healthcare provider. No one can force you to receive the in-home care from a provider that you have not selected as your personal choice. How do you go about making the right choice? It’s important to understand the various options available to you, and the questions to ask when interviewing an agency. There are significant differences in the types of home healthcare providers available to you, but it’s not hard to learn what those are. You can start by asking these questions: 1. Are you accredited? 2. Are your caregivers and nurses your employees, or do you use contractors? 3. Are your caregivers covered under your liability and worker’s compensation insurance? 4. What background screenings do you perform? 5. How do you know if your caregivers are trained and competent? What training do you provide? 6. Do you have 24/7 on-call services where the agency can be reached any time? 7. Do you have a minimum number of hours? 8. Are you a companion agency, nurse registry or a licensed home health agency? 9. What insurances do you take? There are distinctive differences between home healthcare providers here in Florida. It’s important to understand these differences as part of your decision making process. Homemaker/Companion Services: Services
provided by homemakers and companions include housekeeping, meals, shopping, and trips outside the home. They cannot provide personal care such as grooming or bathing. They pay $50 to register their business with the state and are not required to operate at a business location. Many companies only utilize contractors and do not provide liability or worker’s compensation insurance.
Home Health Agencies: Home health agencies provide nursing care; physical, speech, occupational, respiratory and IV therapy; home health aide and homemaker/companion services; home medical equipment; nutritional guidance; and medical social services in the patient’s home or place of residence. The state now requires all new agencies to be accredited.
Nurse Registries: Nurse Registries arrange for nurses, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), home health aides, or homemakers/companions to provide services to patients in their home or place of residence. Their caregivers are contractors of the registry, not employees. How do you know which type of provider they are? Their license/registration number will tell you. Home Health Agency license numbers are prefaced with an “HHA,” Nurse Registries with an “NR,” and Homemaker/Companion Services are not licensed – they are registered only. If you select a provider that uses contractors, you should ask who will be responsible to pay household employment taxes, income withholding taxes, and unemployment taxes. If the caregiver does not pay these taxes, you may be required to pay them. If practical, do your homework in advance of needing in home care rather than waiting until a time of personal stress or urgency. Many providers will be happy to answer your questions and help in your decision making process. Use the internet, newspapers, phone books, or even better – referrals from trusted sources to identify potential providers that can provide the level of care you may need. And remember, it’s your right to choose! Make it an informed choice. CareMinders® Home Care is a licensed Home Health Agency serving Pinellas and Pasco counties. We are locally owned and operated, and accredited by the Joint Commission. We provide home health care to people of all ages so they can remain in their own homes. We believe Life at Home is the Key to Independence! For more information, visit www.careminders.com/ northpinellas or call 727-330-7804.
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
self help
BOREDOM
By Professor Abne M. Eisenberg
People say they are bored for practical and for impractical reasons. It can strike people at any age. When people are bored, they are bored with their own selves. People choose to be bored. Millions of people have difficulty dealing with a lack of engagement. They constantly need to be occupied, doing something. At the turn of the 20th century in America, the eight hour workday did not exist. People worked 12-16 hours a day and had very little time to feel bored. Children had chores to perform before and after school. Leisure time was a luxury. The average life span rarely exceeded fifty. The expression, “I’m bored” was rarely heard. As we entered the middle of the 20th century, things changed radically. Working eight hours a day, five days a week, became the rule (with the exception of paid overtime). That left a great deal of time to be filled -a challenge with which people were not previously accustomed. Vacations and hobbies became big business. Beyond earning a living, leisure time needed to be filled. If it wasn’t, people would say, “I’m bored.” Children were given toys to keep them from being bored. When, a century ago, an empty shoe box or playing with marbles
could serve as a toy, these simple forms of play disappeared. Free time became a curse and a blessing. Today, there are people whose lives are filled with excitement and unimaginable luxuries who suffer from boredom. By comparison, there are ordinary people living very simple and uneventful lives who are not bored. It has been suggested that the best cure for boredom is curiosity. But all the curiosity in the world is meaningless unless the curious person is motivated to satisfy it. The difference between those who are not bored and those who are bored stems from what they do about their curiosity. “What are you going to do about it?” should always be asked of the bored individual. People who are chronically bored often crave pity hoping that others will make the feeling go away. What they fail to realize it that there is no external remedy, no magic bullet. Only the bored person can execute a cure. Taking various mood-altering drugs is not a good idea because they treat symptoms, not causes. While they might be helpful short-term, prolonged use can create an addiction. Bored people must convince themselves that boredom is what psychologists call, a “self-fulfilling prophecy.” By constantly dwelling on your boredom, you perpetuate it. Either boredom defeats you or you defeat it. Make small changes in your life. Start learning a new language, go someplace that you have never been, try eating a foreign food, eat with your left hand or, if you are left handed, with your right hand, start reading a book that you would ordinarily not read. Since boredom is a rut, getting out of it requires making small changes in your routine life. Think small, not big. Break the viscous cycle created by boredom.
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
BEHIND THE WHEEL
Taking the Keys Away
Easing into a Tough Decision Taking away car keys from a senior is flat out difficult: difficult for the senior to accept their loss of freedom to drive their vehicle, and difficult for their children to confront them with that reality. This battle between freedom and safety rages every day, but a personal driver service offers an alternative to taking away a senior’s transportation cold turkey. No senior should be left housebound—or, almost as bad, feeling dependent on someone else’s schedule. A personal driver service enables any senior no longer capable of driving safely to get everywhere they want to go, in their own car, without getting behind the wheel.
By David Zwick
Personal Driver Service A personal driver service resembles a chauffeur service except that the client or family member provides the car. A carefully screened and trained driver arrives at the senior’s home and drives him or her to a shop, a doctor’s appointment or to meet a friend for lunch. The trip can be one-way, such as to the airport for a weekend trip out-of-town, or round trip, such as to the grocery store. The significance of the “one-way” service is that a senior may be willing to drive during the day but not at night. If that is the case, a personal driver can meet them at their location and drive them one-way back home. This also works well for those who can drive during the day but not at night, as well as those who can drive to a medical procedure but can’t drive home. Because the service uses the client’s own car, a round trip can cost as little as $33 an hour, which is usually far less expensive than a cab and certainly much nicer. The power and freedom this service offers a senior who has recently given up driving makes it indispensable. In order to support the team of trained drivers, you pay a modest fee to join the agency. You can then make a reservation by phone or online up to 24 hours before your trip. Most agencies offer an app that allows you to track the driver before and during the trip, to give you peace of mind.
What to Expect From a Personal Driver Service You may be surprised at the rigorous screening potential drivers undergo, but most reputable personal driver services are very invested in the quality of their drivers, knowing that only top-rate service will keep their clients coming back. A good agency will conduct background checks on their drivers looking for any red flags—in the area of either driving or personal conduct. After hiring a driver, the agency ensures that the driver knows the local area
thoroughly. You can expect that a driver will always know exactly how to get where a client wants to go before the trip begins. The driver is required to give full attention to the road; texting or talking on a cell phone is forbidden. The driver is trained to provide a smooth and safe driving experience. The client can sit back and enjoy the trip.
Advantages to Using a Personal Driving Service Because of its unique structure, a personal driver service is perfect for any senior no longer capable of driving. They can go places the way they always have—in their own car! There’s no need to worry about uncomfortably hot or cold temperatures, distasteful music or odors. Personal drivers wear a distinctive standard set of clothing, so that when they arrive at a client’s house, they can be instantly identified. When picking a senior up from a doctor’s office, store or restaurant, the driver will arrive right at the entrance. Moreover, the client will recognize the car and know that this is their ride. The driver will take care of locating the right destination, parking and picking up the car.
Choosing the Service A quick search under “personal driver” will give you a range of agencies to choose from. Here are the qualities you should look for in choosing a personal driver agency: • Screening and Training—make sure that the agency conducts rigorous screening and training of its drivers. • Cost—prices range for personal driver agencies, but all are less expensive than traditional black-car chauffeur services. There is often a modest minimum fee for each trip. • Ease of Use—is the agency set up for both an aging senior and the computer-savvy child? It is likely the senior will occasiona- lly be setting up reservations or checking on the status of a driver. You want to choose an agency that is easy to commu- nicate with and get information from. • Years in business—usually, the best way to judge quality is whether an agency has been able to retain its customers over the years. A personal driver service provides something that is priceless, peace of mind! David Zwick is founder and CEO of Ft. Lauderdale-based RedCap, a membership-based, premium “Driver as a Service” model for people who value safety, convenience and privacy at an affordable price. For additional information go to www.myredcap.com.
JANUARY 2013
Senior Voice America
FINANCES
Don’t Gamble with Your Golden Years Will you have enough money for retirement? That question may keep you up at night. Or you may avoid thinking about it altogether. “What scares me for this country, especially for the baby boomer generation, is that many people will have to rely on their investment smarts in managing retirement funds,” says economist Steven Weisbart of the Insurance Information Institute. “Many have no training, or interest, in managing money.” One possible solution? Annuities — contracts sold by life insurance companies that offer a guaranteed stream of income for those golden years. Fixed savings annuities, also known as deferred annuities, have guaranteed interest rates and tax-deferred benefits. And immediate income annuities offer guaranteed income for life. Most importantly, they both promise peace of mind. Both are popular during market downturns. At USAA Life Insurance Co., one of five life insurers that is AAA rated, total annuity sales grew 26 percent from 2008 to 2009. And the company says it anticipates annuity growth will increase as Baby Boomers get further into retirement. “Annuities come up in conversation when people are concerned about market turmoil, or when they do a retirement income plan and are worried about running out of money,” says J.J. Montanaro, a certified financial planner with USAA.
Now More Than Ever With a draining Social Security reserve, traditional pensions on the wane, a volatile stock market and homes losing value, retirees should be thinking harder than ever about protecting and growing retirement assets. Longer life spans mean retirees may have to amass more money and preserve it many more years than previous generations. Having a portion of retirement money in a fixed savings annuity with a fixed interest rate offers certainty in an uncertain investment market, Montanaro says. And using a portion of your savings to buy an income annuity can offer a pension-like stream of monthly payments to help pay your bills. “Whether you’re talking about creating income or building a retirement portfolio, an annuity can work well as a tool in your retirement toolkit,” says Montanaro.
Fighting Misperceptions Weisbart says annuities in general get an unfair rap, often from people who sell competing investment products on commission. But fixed savings annuities and fixed immediate income annuities are
fairly straightforward, says Montanaro. And their fees are very competitive to other retirement products. In some instances, fees can be waived altogether. You can also name a beneficiary so any money remaining goes to someone you love. Finally, some point out interest rates on annuities aren’t as high as they were a few years back. But annuities with fixed rates can still be a good deal if you’re looking for a secure place to put your money. “Relative to other safe investments, such as certificates of deposit or treasury bills with even lower rates, they are still attractive,” Montanaro says.
How to Choose Deciding which of these kinds of annuities could benefit you is easy, says Joe Montminy, assistant vice president of the annuity research program at LIMRA. Just ask, “Do you need the money now or later for your retirement needs?” If you need it now, consider the immediate income annuity. If your retirement is a few years away and you want to increase your assets, go with a fixed savings annuity.
Here’s how each works: • Savings annuity — Savings annuities earn either a fixed rate for a period of time, say five or 10 years, or a flexible rate that changes over time within an established range. All fixed savings annuities have a guaranteed minimum interest rate, the interest is not taxed until you take the money out and is guaranteed against loss by the insurer. “Think of the fixed savings annuity as a safe harbor,” Montanaro says.” It can only go in one direction: up.” Because taxes are deferred, withdrawals before age 59 1/2 could be subject to penalties. But remember the annuity is really for retirement, so you should try not to touch it anyway. • Immediate income annuity — This kind of annuity helps cover basic living expenses in retirement. To find out if you need one, add up monthly, non-negotiable bills — utilities, food, property taxes, etc. If your guaranteed income from Social Security and military or corporate pensions can’t cover the tab, an immediate income annuity can help fill the gap. You’ll feel secure not having to pay bills with your investment income, which can plunge during market downturns, notes Montminy. Weisbart agrees: “If you have to cancel a vacation because the market’s down, that’s fine. But if you can’t buy medicine or food, that’s a problem.” Though immediate annuities require a
See ANNUITIES Pg. 27
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
DID YOU KNOW
Fraud
Stop Health Care Fraud Did you know that about $90 billion are lost each year to Medicare fraud and abuse? The Florida Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) is ready to provide you with the information you need to protect yourself from Medicare errors, fraud and abuse; detect potential errors, fraud and abuse; and report your concerns. SMPs use trained senior volunteers to help educate and empower seniors in the fight against health care fraud.
What is Medicare Fraud?
Fraud
Fraud occurs when an individual or organization deliberately deceives others in order to gain unauthorized benefit.
What is Medicare Abuse? Medicare abuse occurs when providers supply services or products that are not medically necessary or that do not meet professional standards.
Examples of Potential Fraud and Abuse • • • • • • •
Fraud
Billing for services and supplies that were not provided Obtaining Medicare number for “free” services Billing for equipment not delivered “Upcoming” – improper coding to obtain a higher payment Unneeded or excessive x-rays and lab tests; claims for services that are not medically necessary Billing for excessive medical supplies Using another person’s Medicare card to obtain medical care, supplies or equipment
How You Can Help Us End Medicare Fraud
The Florida SMP is always looking for energetic people who want to be a part of the solution. Our volunteers receive training, and they are helping us spread the message of Protect, Detect, and Report. To Volunteer or Report Medicare Fraud call us at 1-866-357-6677
JANUARY 2013 From ESTEEM Pg. 1 • Stay busy and use time wisely — Fill the space that was once used for work and find activities that will keep you occupied; keep in mind that it is important that such activities also build or strengthen your physical or mental capacities. • Take care of yourself — Feeling good about our body does wonders for our self esteem at any age and getting older is no ex- cuse to stop. Exercise to stay fit and eliminate stress, eat a healthy diet and do anything possible to look your very best; a change of hair style, some new clothes or a visit to a spa will renew your general attitude.
• Stay active socially — Make efforts to expand your social net works and don’t lock yourself at home. Integrate more with family, if living together, or make new friends if living in a senior commu- nity. Look for activities that involve sharing time and activities with others. There are many volunteer opportunities for seniors, and there is also a great need for tutors, which is a great way to say busy while helping our youth in need. Don’t be afraid to try new things.
• Value yourself — Try to stop negative thoughts about yourself. Instead, substitute them with your good qualities. You are much more than the memories of what you used to be as a professional or when you were integrated in the job force. You are still the same person, with great qualities that can be shared with those around you. A good start to the new year’s self esteem boost is to write three positive things about you on a daily basis. The more you believe in your self, the stronger you will portray this positive energy to the world. It is never too late to build a positive and healthy self esteem. A new year has started, it is a new beginning and a good time to reflect on us and what we can do to make our lives better. So take a good, critical look at yourself and resolve to make those changes that will lead to better relationships, abilities to resolve any problem, deception or failure and most of all, strengthen a healthier attitude that will make you happier and with a very positive outlook for life.
Senior Voice America
From ANNUITIES Pg. 25 a sizable one-time premium, you’ll have the security of knowing essential expenses are covered — immediately. That’s what makes them worth considering. “It’s the insurance factor — the peace of mind — that people are looking for,” says Montminy. “By having that guaranteed payment for life, you know you have some protection on your overall portfolio.” Experts emphasize that the lump sum you use to buy an income annuity should be just a portion of your retirement assets. You want to diversify your retire-
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ment portfolio to also provide liquidity and to protect against inflation.
The Bottom Line There are only five life insurers that are AAA rated, so make sure the company you buy from has high marks from the insurance rating agencies. You want to make sure the company is around as you age. And review the fine print on your contract with a financial adviser. “The goal is to understand what you’re buying and approve the terms,” Weisbart says.
Senior Voice America can be found at over 1,000 Bay Area locations
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Senior Voice America
JANUARY 2013
Entertainment PAUL ANKA
ELEANOR ROOSEVELT IN WWII
JOHNNY MATHIS
KANSAS
Van Wezel Hall January 9
Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center January 13
Van Wezel Hall January 16
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 19
The smooth Johnny Mathis returns to Sarasota with hits such as “Wonderful, Wonderful,” “It’s Not For Me To Say,” “Chances Are,” and “Misty,” and many more well-loved ballads and standards. Don’t miss this legendary performer who is always a sellout at the Van Wezel! 8:00 p.m., tickets $30-$65.
Kansas makes its Ruth Eckerd Hall debut with a spellbinding show and a Rock Symphony and Laser Light Spectacular! The Topeka “garage band” that achieved success by playing only their own original music, led fans to become well versed in “air guitar” and “arena rock,” and became America’s most successful progressive rock band with hits like Dust in the Wind and Carry On Wayward Son, comes to the Hall backed by a rock symphony orchestra and laser light spectacular. 8:00 p.m., tickets $49-$65.
Legendary singer/songwriter, Paul Anka, was one of the biggest teen idols of the late ‘50s, later moving into the adult sphere as a successful performer, songwriter and recording artist. Known for hits “Diana,” “Lonely Boy,” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” Anka also penned big hits like “She’s a Lady,” and lyrics for Sinatra’s “My Way.” 8:00 p.m., tickets $30-$125. WICKED
Straz Center January 9-27 Back by “Popular” demand. Variety calls WICKED “a cultural phenomenon,” and previous engagements in Tampa have sold out and broken box office records. Winner of 35 major awards, including a Grammy and three Tony Awards, WICKED is “Broadway’s biggest blockbuster” (The New York Times). Call for ticket info. SUNSET BLVD
The Players Theatre January 10-20 Based on the 1950 film of the same title, the plot revolves around Norma Desmond, faded silent screen star living in the past in her decaying mansion. When she meets young screenwriter Joe Gillis romance and tragedy follow. With Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, this blockbuster is the winner of the Tony for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book! Tickets $25, call for times. GIRLS NIGHT: THE MUSICAL
The Lakeland Center January 11 Girls Night: The Musical has been thrilling audiences and earning raves from critics throughout North America since it began touring after its sensational Off-Broadway debut. This touching and hilarious “tell-itlike-it-is” musical takes audiences on a journey into the lives of a group of female friends. And, audience members can’t help but laugh, cry and even find themselves singing and dancing in the aisles as some of the most popular hit songs of the 80s and 90s make this musical a fan favorite! 8:00 p.m., tickets $33-$53.
It is late 1942. Eleanor Roosevelt has just returned from England where she visited with soldiers, generals, royalty, and working people. Find out how the First Lady feels about the individual’s role in a world torn by war, hardship, and uncertainty. Hear Eleanor Roosevelt’s views on what makes life worth living and how we can each make a difference in the midst of a strife-filled world — views that are as relevant today as they were 70 years ago. The one-hour program consists of a fascinating in-character monologue followed by Q & A first with “Mrs. Roosevelt,” and then with scholar-presenter Susan Marie Frontczak. 2:00 p.m., tickets $16-$18. AN EVENING WITH DON WILLIAMS
The Lakeland Center January 16 An Evening with Don Williams, a collection of 15 songs cut during a UK tour. In August 1995, American Harvest released Borrowed Tales, and in October 1996 the label released the album Flatlands. Don Williams was the first country music artist to make a concept music video. It was produced in 1973 in support of his third single for JMI Records (Come Early Morning). In 1986 Don starred in a music video for the Capitol/Nashville single Heartbeat in the Darkness. In 1995 his video Fever was released by American Harvest Recording Society. 7:30 p.m., tickets $36.50-$46.50. THE PIANO LESSON
The American Stage Co. January 16 - March 3 “A lovely tragi-comedy... Haunting as well as haunted.” -New York Newsday. It is 1936 and Boy Willie arrives in Pittsburgh from the South in a battered truck. He has an opportunity to buy some land, but has to come up with the money right quick. He wants to sell an old family piano that has been in his family for generations, but he shares ownership with his sister whom rejected several offers because the antique piano is covered with incredible carvings detailing the family’s rise from slavery. 1990 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
THE BRONX WANDERERS
Ruth Eckerd Hall-Capital Theatre January 16-22 In the Bronx of the ‘50s and early ‘60s, there was magic in the air, the liberating sound of doo wop and rock and roll. The greatest hits and heartwarming stories from Dion, The Beach Boys, Jay and the Americans, the Four Seasons and all the stars of the golden second wave of rock and roll are captured in this new musical event. Join the Bronx Wanderers for a rockin’ musical trip back in time! Call for ticket info. ELVIS LIVES
Mahaffey Theatre January 13 Van Wezel Hall January 17 Elvis Lives is an unforgettable multi-media and live musical journey across Elvis’ life. His iconic style, embraced by many of today’s artists, continues to intrigue audiences of all generations. Featuring finalists from Elvis Presley Enterprises’ worldwide Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, as well as a tribute to Ann-Margret, audiences “Can’t Help Falling In Love” with this phenomenal theatrical concert experience! THE MUSIC OF MICHAEL JACKSON
Mahaffey Theatre January 18 Part of The Florida Orchestra’s new 3-concert Rock series. Crowned the winner of E! Network’s reality TV series The Entertainer, singer James Delisco revisits 40 years of Michael Jackson’s amazing career covering such hits as ABC, I’ll Be There, Beat It, Thriller, Got To Be There, Rock With You, The Way You Make Me Feel and many more...all with a sizzling rockpop band and The Florida Orchestra. Tickets $37.50-$77.50.
NATLIE COLE
Mahaffey January 20 Van Wezel Hall January 24 Nine-time GRAMMY award winner, singer, songwriter and performer Natalie Cole has proven to be one of the most beloved performers of all time. Her hits include This Will Be (An Everlasting Love), Jump Start, I Live For Your Love and Pink Cadillac. Her 1991 release Unforgettable… With Love, an album of standards from the American Songbook that included a duet with her late father, Nat King Cole, sold more than 14 million copies. CHINA NATIONAL SYMPHONY
Mahaffey Theatre January 23 A Chinese national treasure, the China National Symphony Orchestra, made up of an outstanding team of award-winning instrumentalists, is one of the most outstanding professional symphony orchestras in the world. 7:30 p.m., tickets $39.50-$59.50. ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK
The Lakeland Center January 22 Ruth Eckerd Hall January 23 From romantic ballads (the core of his repertoire) to the platinum-selling theme song Lesbian Seagull for the latest Beavis and Butthead movie, Engelbert Humperdinck succeeds in appealing to multiple generations of fans. Golden Globe Entertainer of the Year, more than 150 million records
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Entertainment sold and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame attest to that. 7:30, tickets $40-$75. GREAT ESCAPES 3: CELEBRATE!
Van Wezel Hall January 23-26 The Sarasota Orchestra presents music from all the best parties. Our Mardi Gras medley invites Bill Bailey to come home before the saints march in. Fiesta Latina reminds us of Rio Carnival and Brahms’ Academic Festival brings back memories of college. Holley Hall,tickets $26-$71. ONE INCREDIBLE EVENING WITH VINCE GILL
The Lakeland Center January 25 Vince Gill has sold more than 26 million albums. He has earned 18 CMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year in 1993 and 1994. He is tied with George Strait for having won the most CMA Male Vocalist Awards (five), and is currently second only to Brooks and Dunn for accumulating the most CMA Awards in history. Gill is a member of the Grand Ole Opry, and has received 20 Grammy Awards to date, the most of any male Country artist. Besides being known for his talent as a performer, musician and songwriter, Gill is regarded as one of Country Music’s best known humanitarians, participating in hundreds of charitable events throughout his career. 8:00 p.m., tickets $34.50-$47.50. 105 YEARS OF BROADWAY
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 25 Five Broadway stars and a great New York band re-create magical moments from the best that Broadway has offered during the past one hundred years. Always our quickest sellout. Be sure to get your tickets early! 1:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m., tickets $18-35. 5 p.m. $20 with Buffet. DOO WOP!
Van Wezel Hall January 25 The Brooklyn Bridge, JT Carter originator of The Crests, The Del Satins, & Manhattan Harmony Doo Wop’s finest, all-time favorite hits: “The Worst That Could Happen,” “Blessed Is The Rain” (The Brooklyn Bridge); “Teardrops Follow Me,” “Feeling No Pain” (The Del Satins); “There’s
A Moon Out Tonight” (The Capris); “Sincerely,” “That Girl’s Alright” (Manhattan Harmony). 8:00 p.m., tickets $10-$55. BILLY ELLIOT
Ruth Eckerd Hall January 29 30 Billy Elliot the Musical is the joyous celebration of one boy’s journey to make his dreams come true. Set in a small mining town, the story follows Billy as he stumbles out of the boxing ring and into a ballet class, discovering a surprising talent that inspires his family and his whole community and changes his life forever. Full of life, laughter, award-winning choreography and an unforgettable score by Elton John, this uplifting winner of ten 2009 Tony Awards (including Best Musical) is a big musical with an even bigger heart. JOHN LITHGOW LIVE
Van Wezel Hall February 4 Presenting the extraordinary John Lithgow in his one-man theatrical memoir, STORIES BY HEART. Following his triumphant appearances at New York’s Lincoln Center and London’s National Theatre, the Tony and Emmy Award winning actor offers a touching and humorous reflection on storytelling as the tie that binds humanity. Known for exceptional work in films such as The World According to Garp, Terms of Endearment, and Shrek; on television in 3rd Rock from the Sun and Dexter; and on Broadway in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, it is truly a treat to watch this talented actor work, live. 8:00 p.m., tickets $10-$55. IN THE MOOD
The Lakeland Center February 5 Much more than a concert, IN THE MOOD presents a retro 1940’s musical featuring the IN THE MOOD singers and dancers with the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra. Sit back and relive the days of sensational days of swing with the music that moved the spirit of a generation. 7:30, tickets $45-$65. AN EVENING WITH GEORGE JONES
The Lakeland Center February 7
Jones recorded “Who’s Gonna Fill Their Shoes,” a song that wondered aloud whether newcomers would come along that could possibly walk in the footsteps of the progenitors and giants of country music. Sit back and enjoy an evening with the Possum as he takes you on a country journey through his hits including “If Drinkin’ Don’t Kill Me (Her Memory Will),” “A Good Year for the Roses,” “ The Grand Tour,” and “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” 7:30, tickets $40. MERLE HAGGARD
Mahaffey Theatre February 8 Singer, songwriter, remarkable musician, bandleader and historian, Haggard may well be the most well-rounded country talent ever to take the stage in front of a microphone or an audience. Over his career, he has been the pulse of an ever-lonesome fugitive, in desperate flight from the prison walls of mediocrity. His has been the voice of the Okie with an attitude, fueled by a well-stoked fire of unflinching convictions and bonedeep beliefs. 8:00 p.m., tickets $39.50$89.50.
VENUE ADDRESSES AND CONTACT INFORMATION Largo Cultural Center 105 Central Park Drive Largo, FL 33771 Telephone: (727) 587-6751 The American Stage Theater — 163 3rd Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Telephone: (727) 823-7529. www.americanstage.org The Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center — 709 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34236. Telephone: 1(866) 508-0611. The Lakeland Center — 701 W. Lime St. Lakeland, FL 33815. Telephone: (863) 834-8100 www.thelakelandcenter.com The Mahaffey Theater — 400 1st. St. South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Telephone: (727) 892-5798. www.themahaffey.com Ruth Eckerd Hall — 1111 McMullen Booth Rd. Clearwater, FL 33759. Telephone: (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com The Players Theatre 838 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34236 Telephone: (941) 365-2494 www.theplayers.org The Straz Center — 1010 North Macinnes Place, Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 229-7827. www.strazcenter.org The Tampa Bay Times Forum — 401 Channelside Dr. Tampa, FL 33602. Telephone: (813) 301-6500. www.tampabaytimesforum.com The Tarpon Springs Performing Art Center — 324 Pine Street Tarpon Springs, FL. 34688 Telephone: (727) 942-5605. www.tarponarts.org Van Wezel Hall — 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. FL 34236. Telephone: (941) 955-7676. www.vanwezel.org
When It Comes to Entertaining Get out from behind your mask and list your Event for Freeright here on the SVA ENTERTAINMENT PAGES!
Email your event information no later than the 15th of the month for the following month listings to: entertainment@seniorvoiceamerica.com
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Senior to Senior Woman Seeking Man
Senior to Senior Abbreviations
W WD F 67 ISO gent 70’s for dancing, travel, flea markets, walks on the beach. I am new to the area. Jersey girl at heart, must like dogs. The holidays are coming why spend them alone. Like to meet someone for friendship first then let’s see. (856) 366-4586.
M: Male F: Female S: Single D: Divorced WD: Widowed W: White B: Black H: Hispanic J: Jewish
W F NS ND D ISO the best guy God has for me to live happily and enjoy each other’s company so spoil each other. If that’s you, call me. Tampa (813) 802-5640. S W F NS ND looking for M NS likes to walk, flea markets, dining, relaxing at home. Only sincere reply, I’m 55+, 5’3”, 125 lbs., LTR. Feel free to leave a message. Zephyrhills (813) 788-1342. Asian L WD 5’1”, very active, like travelling, sightseeing, outdoor activities ISO P gentleman, 6070 NS SD SOH for companionship and LTR. Tarpon Springs (727) 942-8123. Luscious B sincere London lady, 5’ 67 yrs. I love difference, change and natural living. ISO a tall dark man, around 70 for fun, movies, dancing, and travelling. St. Petersburg (727) 864-2744. S W woman seeking single, smart liberalthinking man to share warm evenings, good movies and a glass of Vin Blanc. 60 to 70 age range. Bradenton (941) 705-0394. ISO gent, active 70s, enjoys swims, hikes, movies, daytrips, events – W C F NS ND holistic, 5’2”. Palm Harbor (727) 947-2191. W petite WD from NY ISO prince charming for LTR NS WD gentleman, 5’5-5’8” 70-75 for dinner, movies, the arts, travel etc. and all the goodies. Seminole P.O. Box 4513. Pretty 60 youthful, blonde, nice curves, outgoing, and fun loving. I have a good sense of humor and a good heart. Love life and animals, ISO same, 6068. Clearwater (727) 559-1762.
Senior to Senior™ Mail to: Senior Voice America 8406 Benjamin Rd., Ste G, Tampa, FL 33634 Email: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com Fax: (813) 422-7966
Meet that Someone Special with a FREE listing in Senior to Senior NS ND slim, pretty lady ISO a healthy man, must have car, Christian faith, church active, full of teeth, no visitor, need LTR, financially secure, 57-62. If match, then call me. I’m serious! Must be single! Largo (727) 488-7420. Attractive, slim, intelligent energetic, world travelled woman with GSOH, great company, 7o’s, looks 60, acts 30, seeks lively male friend for golden years. Let’s have fun!! Sarasota (941) 926-2529. 55 yrs. old B F, 5’3”,140 lbs, NS, SD, healthy and attractive ISO black or white average looking man between 60 to 70 yrs. old, serious-minded about relationship, kindhearted. Pasco (727) 389-7144 S W F 61 Born in Russia ISO M 58-72 who is active & like to walk, bicycle, roller skate, travel abroad, and stay home. Please call (727) 548-5225.
man Seeking WOMan
EMAIL: sr2sr@seniorvoiceamerica.com
S W M active, healthy, tall, slim, 60’s. ISO attractive, honest, sincere, NS lady. Any nationality ok. Please call after 8 PM. St. Petersburg (727) 322-6197. S W C M 70’s slender, attractive, healthy, enjoys dancing, music, travel, concerts. Seeks happy, romantic, slender lady for LTR. Bradenton (941) 7582565. 79 Yrs. old S W M 5’8” 150 lbs. in good shape, lonely ISO like-minded, petite 77-82 yrs., S W F to share affection, other ordinary things and to be there for each other. St. Petersburg (727) 302-1324. W S M ISO M 45-65 for LTR, many likes, few dislikes. St. Pete and Pinellas area. Very passionate seeking same, not shy, willing to try anything. South Pasadena (727) 278-2937. I’m looking for you, so if you are looking for a #1, you should call me. 65+, height-weight proportionate. Be romantic and a good dresser. Thank you.
C: Christian ISO: In Search Of LTR: Long Term Relationship NS: Non-Smoker ND: Non-Drinker SD: Social Drinker SOH: Sense of Humor
Holiday (727) 992-2342. W C S M seeks conversation in French, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese. St. Pete (727) 2174936. I am a 64 yrs. old, 5’2”, short, petite, energetic, love to bowl, movies, dining, and sharing things together. No games. I am an attractive lady, has a heart for anyone willing to do the same. (727) 560-1201. C D W M, 63 years old, 250lbs, 6’2”, ISO W F, 55-65, for movies, dining out, walks, quiet evenings @ home, hopefully LTR. Clearwater (727) 453-9066. I am WD W M C, Upper 70’s. ISO NS, W, LTR, good shape. I enjoy travel, swimming, walking, and many activities. St Pete, (727)-578-0644. Partially disabled vet looking for a companion to share my home in exchange for help with cooking, light house work, like to play cards. Clearwater (727) 796-2161. I am WD WM, like a lady friend NS SD to take walks, go to movies, some dancing. I am 6’4” and 66, like a tall lady, 60-70. St. Petersburg (727) 576-7806. Good health, 66 yrs. old, no drugs, don’t smoke, 170 lbs., slim, a lot of hair on my head, looking for a sexy women, oh yes, I am retired, can travel. Call me. Leesville 1-803-312-2857. Quality guy, fun, fit, educated and never married ISO LTR. Way too much to share in 30 words. Let’s talk at length via phone. Call, you won’t be sorry. Tampa (813) 273-8127. Successful, tall, slim, S B C M ISO intelligent, affectionate, slender-petite, marriage-minded, S C F, 40-60 living in Tampa, who enjoys companionship, walking, conversation, Bible study, sightseeing, dining out or staying at home. Tampa (813) 952-3833. Always a gentleman ISO lady friend for LTR for local events or ballroom dancing partner. 70 to 80 age group. Largo KRAAL@webtv.net.
friend Seeking friend S M blonde hair (shaved), blue eyes, descendant of Pocahontas, 62 yrs. old, SS D ISO someone who likes movies and going out. Age not important, M preferred. Lakeland (863) 686-8350. W M 59 5’8” 180 lbs., ISO active healthy M/F under 60 for friendship and more. Largo (727) 6448087. S W F NS ISO Mr. Temporary. Must like dancing, socializing, food, and be as comfortable in golf shorts as in Tux. Let’s talk. (727) 698-3311. Largo-Clearwater area. Looking for new female members for a fun senior group. Meet once a month on the 3rd Thursday at different restaurants. Call Paula (727) 643-6124. S W M seeking M between 58 to 65 unconditional friendship for get-togethers, fun and companionship. Tired of being alone and physically lonely. You need to be honest, loving and caring. Possible LTR. Please call me. St. Pete (727) 347-5522.
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From FITNESS Pg. 1
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YOUR AD
We have all read or heard about the importance of developing an exercise regimen, to work out an hour a day, eat well and sleep for eight hours. For some, the very thought of trying to live up to those expectations just piles on more stress. But is that what fitness really is? Forcing your tired self into yet another activity? The word “fitness” makes many people groan. And what is fitness anyway? To me, the word conjures up the immediate need to deprive myself of things I like to eat and moving way too much more than I want to. On the other hand, it means good health, longer life and feeling well and vibrant all my days. It means preventing the health problems that are preventable and being happy. Pat Baldwin, an over 65 year-old receptionist who works two days a week, broke her hip almost two years ago while in the mall shopping. In order to keep flexible and mobile, she stays fit by walking thirty minutes almost everyday and doing the exercises she was taught in rehab. Pat watches her diet and drinks at least three quarts of water a day. “I was never an athletic person but I have always been active,” said Baldwin. “ I never ran a marathon but I walked and jogged 2-3 miles a day.” Virginia Valenote, self-employed, and very active in community organizations, started to exercise when she began to feel stiff and experience difficulty moving around. Valenote chose to join a gym that houses a “Silver Sneakers” program. She pur chased a few sessions with a personal trainer to teach her stretches and mat exercises that she can do both at home and at the gym that will keep her flexible. “I tell you the truth; the gym is not a social event for me,” confides Valenote. “I go, not because I enjoy it, but because I know it is good for me. Movement releases endorphins that help with depression.” Fitness is a combination of physical, spiritual and mental well-being. Probably one of the biggest enemies to fitness today is lack of rest and relaxation. Stop rushing, take time to breathe deeply and take in the beauty of the universe, look in someone else’s eyes, hold hands, or listen to someone share an accomplishment, a happy event or a sorrow. Give your full attention. Turn off all electronic devices! We allow time, the only irretrievable entity, to pile up on us and keep us captive. Slow down and take a break; it is actually proven to help people be more productive, happier and more peaceful. Tired, irritated people do not stay fit. The body craves what it does. So, if you begin to walk and lift weights, soon you will crave walking and weight lifting. Fitness begins in the mind, is fed by the spirit and carried out by the body.
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