Content 6 - 10 Fatigue Fighter 8 - Fruit Fights The Flu 10 - Calendar 14 - Healthy Habits that can Backfire 18 - Volunteer of the Year 20 - When Families Live Together 22 - Directory of Services President Gene Lara 806-231-0562
Volume 2 Issue 7 October 20100
Sales Eric Muehlhausen
Editor Camey Maldonado Contact Information 806-231-9822 806-231-0562
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Camey Editor for Silver Magazine
As I get on the treadmill everyday and curse the fact that I am aging and my metabolism has slowed down I often think of my grandparents and how they are pretty active people. I like to encourage seniors to stay active in order to promote quality of life and of course, enjoy what life may bring during their retirement years. I am most particular with seniors enjoying the company of family and friends, being able to do the things that are otherwise impossible back in the working years and keeping balance on all aspects of one’s life. Research has shown that inactivity makes the aging process go faster than it should. Not the natural aging process, but the way you use your body determines your life span as well as the quality of life you are most likely to have in your later years. With this said, staying active is the only way to go, that is, if you still want to stay on top of your game, wrinkles and all! Physically, it improves your mobility and flexibility, two things that are essential in staying independent. Mentally, staying active boosts selfesteem and self-confidence since you are most likely be feeling good about yourself in general. Socially, it encourages you to participate in activities wherein there will be other seniors of the same interests thus making it easier to make friends and not feel isolated or alone. So dust of your walking shoes and get out there and enjoy the cool weather. Who knows I might just join you!
Camey
You know you haven't run a marathon, climbed a mountain, or even done much more than slog through a giant stack of paperwork -- so why do you feel exhausted at the end of every day? That's the tricky thing about stress: it can make you feel mentally and physically exhausted. If you're so pooped you can't socialize, enjoy hobbies, or participate in activities that make you happy, it's time to reassess. Find the fatigue fighter that leaves you feeling relaxed, refreshed, and invigorated. Exercise. It may seem counterintuitive -- you're so tired you can barely drag yourself home at the end of the day, so why would running a few miles help? The fact is, exercise is one of the best ways to combat fatigue. More movement, not less, boosts energy levels. And you can exercise without leaving the comfort of your own home. Invest in some 8- or 10-pound weights and do some work on your arms while you're watching TV or talking on the phone. Or buy an aerobic workout video and do 20 minutes in the morning for a before-work cardio-boost. Sleep. It sounds simple, but how often are you getting a good night's sleep? If you actually keep a log of your sleep habits, you may find that your late-night puttering is robbing you of precious hours of shuteye. Set a bedtime for yourself, and stick to it. Healthy diet. Stick to a healthy diet. While sugary snacks and caffeine-laden soft drinks may give you a short-term boost, they will quickly dump you into a low-energy slump. So what should you eat instead? Try dried apricots along with one ounce of almonds for a low-fat energy boost -- this combo snack gives you up to 50 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, and 20 percent of your daily iron allowance. Raisins and yogurt, or a fresh peach are some other nutrition-packed snacks that can help you boost your energy levels. Cooling eye mask. Okay, you may feel a little silly, but who cares how you look? These eye masks typically contain a cold-retaining gel. Keep a few in the fridge and pop them on at the end of the day when your eyes are burning from computer glare or throbbing with tension. Look a little funny, feel fantastic.
Pounding beat. Put on some music that gets you going. Remember when you could dance until dawn and watch the sun rise? Those days may be long gone, but your old AC/DC album may give you just enough energy to clean the kitchen. Or try an energizing yoga workout to rejuvenate your body and mind. Astringent. Whether they contain herbal extracts, essential oils, or pore-tightening alcohol, astringents are a slightly tart face wash that are meant to be invigorating and refreshing. Choose your favorite and give it a try. At the very least, you'll smell nice and have squeakyclean skin. Just say no. To too many commitments, that is. Are you feeling exhausted because you're trying to do too much? It may be time to say no every once in a while. Soak your fatigue away. Take a hot bath -- the warm water loosens tight muscles and cuts stress, leaving you with more energy. A hot soak can erase the day's tensions and leave you ready to face the rest of your evening with a little bit of pep. Plus, it will help you sleep better. See a doctor. If your fatigue is persistent, and you have other symptoms, such as trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, or a loss of interest in your usual activities, you may want to talk to your doctor. Such symptoms can be a sign of depression. Take a walk. Take a break at work or at home. Some fresh air can help clear your mind and fight that foggy feeling. Believe it or not, walking can help you fight off the blues. A recent Duke University Medical Center study found that a quick 10-minute walk may be enough to make clinically depressed people feel better. The study involved a group of inactive, depressed people who were 50 and older. After just eight minutes of walking, 82 percent of them said they felt less tense, tired, and angry.
Fruit Fights the Flu
If you're not eating the recommended 5 fruits and vegetables a day, here's a new reason to head to the produce aisle Fruit fights the germs we're exposed to in the winter. "The vitamin load keeps your immune level high, allowing you to fend off colds and flu," says Amy Howell, Ph.D., a research scientist at Rutgers University. Fruits also reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Try the five below to give your immune system a boost. Apples The most popular source of antioxidants in our diet, one apple has an antioxidant effect equivalent to 1,500 mg of vitamin C. Apples are loaded with protective flavonoids, which may prevent heart disease and cancer. Papayas With 250 percent of the RDA of vitamin C, a papaya can help kick a cold right out of your system. The beta-carotene and vitamins C and E in papayas reduce inflammation throughout the body, lessening the effects of asthma. Cranberries Cranberries have more antioxidants than other common fruits and veggies. One serving has five times the amount in broccoli. Cranberries are a natural probiotic, enhancing good bacteria levels in the gut and protecting it from foodborne illnesses. Grapefruit Loaded with vitamin C, grapefruit also contains natural compounds called limonoids, which can lower cholesterol. The red varieties are a potent source of the cancer-fighting substance lycopene. Bananas One of the top food sources of vitamin B6, bananas help reduce fatigue, depression, stress, and insomnia. Bananas are high in magnesium, which keeps bones strong, and potassium, which helps prevent heart disease and high blood pressure.
WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 6 2:00PM PARKINSON’S DISEASE SUPPORT GROUP SOUTHWEST CHURCH OF CHRIST
Silver Calendar
7:30PM DON WILLIAMS IN CONCERT AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER AUDITORIUM $35.00-$55.00 PER PERSON THURSDAY OCTOBER 7 1:30PM-3:30PM HEALTH REFORM BILL LECTURE BUSINESS & INDUSTRY CENTER AMARILLO COLLEGE FREE TO ATTEND 6:00PM-10:00PM “THINK PINK” LADIES NIGHT OUT GLOBE NEWS CENTER VIP TICKETS: $64.50 $32.00-$22.00 PER PERSON 6:00PM-10:00PM OPPORTUNITY SCHOOL “LIPS” AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER GRAND PLAZA FRIDAY OCTOBER 8 3:00PM-8:00PM THE PEDDLER SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL SATURDAY OCTOBER 9 9:00AM-6:00PM THE PEDDLER SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL 7:00PM AMARILLO BULLS VS TEXAS TORNADO AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM $10.00-$16.00 PER PERSON 9:30PM PAT GREEN IN CONCERT
October 2010 AMARILLO NATIONAL CENTER $20.00 PER PERSON SUNDAY OCTOBER 10 11:00AM-4:00PM THE PEDDLER SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL TUESDAY OCTOBER 12 10:00AM-4:00PM AMARILLO JOB FAIR AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL FREE TO ATTEND 6:30PM-10:00PM TASTE OF HOME COOKING SCHOOL AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER S. EXHIBIT HALL TOP CHEF =$38.00 AT DOOR/ $33.00 IN ADVANCE GENERAL= $23.00 AT DOOR/ $18.00 IN ADVANCE THURSDAY OCTOBER 14 9:00AM-2:00PM SENIOR FALL FESTIVAL AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL FREE TO ATTEND FRIDAY OCTOBER 15 12:00PM-1:00PM AMARILLO SYMPHONY’S LUNCH & LEARN GLOBE NEWS CENTER 7:00PM-10:00PM AMARILLO BULLS VS TOPEKA ROAD RUNNERS AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM 8:00PM AMARILLO SYMPHONY’S EXOTIC & EXTRAORDINARY GLOBE NEWS CENTER
SATURDAY OCTOBER 16 9:00AM-4:00PM KVII GREEN EXPO AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER N. EXHIBIT HALL 9:00AM- 6:00PM PIONEER GUN SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER S. EXHIBIT HALL 10:00AM-6:00PM CARDIOLOGY CENTER OF AMARILLO BLOCK PARTY CARDIOLOGY CENTER PARKING LOT
1:00PM & 4:00PM DISNEY’S LIVE “MICKEY’S ROCKY ROAD SHOW” AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER AUDITORIUM $20.00-$33.00 PER PERSON 6:30PM-11:30PM MARCH OF DIMES “SIGNATURE CHEFS” AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER HERITAGE ROOM 7:00PM-10:00PM AMARILLO BULLS VS TOPEKA ROAD RUNNERS AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM $10.00-$16.00 PER PERSON 8:00PM AMARILLO SYMPHONY’S EXOTIC & EXTRAORDINARY GLOBE NEWS CENTER SUNDAY OCTOBER 17 9:00AM-5:00PM PIONEER GUN SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER S. EXHIBIT HALL 3:00PM-4:30PM AMARILLO YOUTH CHOIRS FALL CONCERT GLOBE NEWS CENTER
TUESDAY OCTOBER 19 6:00-9:30PM AMARILLO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE “ANNUAL BANQUET” AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER HERITAGE ROOM THURSDAY OCTOBER 21 5:00PM-8:30PM BEST OF AMARILLO TRADE SHOW AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER HERITAGE ROOM 6:30PM-9:00PM THIRD THURSDAY AMARILLO MUSEUM OF ART FREE TO ATTEND 8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $17.00/ CHILDREN $11.00 FRIDAY OCTOBER 22 10:00AM-2:00PM ARE YOU READY FOR RETIREMENT? CENTRAL CHURCH OF CHRIST SNEED HALL CALL 331-2227 5:30PM-9:30PM NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM PANHANDLE PLAINS HISTORICAL MUSEUM
7:00PM-10:00PM AMARILLO BULLS VS WICHITA FALLS WILDCAT AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM $10.00-$16.00 PER PERSON 8:00PM LONE STAR BALLET PRESENTS “DRACULA” GLOBE NEWS CENTER $13.00 -$48.00 PER PERSON
8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $19.00/ CHILDREN $13.00 SATURDAY OCTOBER 23 10:00AM-5:00PM CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER S. EXHIBIT HALL 6:00PM BILL GAITHER “HOMECOMING TOUR 2010” AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM $29.50 & $39.50 PER PERSON 6:00PM-11:00PM OKTOBERFEST SUNSET CENTER $25.00 IN ADVANCE/$30.00 AT DOOR 7:00PM-12:00AM MAD SCIENTIST BALL DISCOVERY CENTER 8:00PM LONE STAR BALLET PRESENTS “DRACULA” GLOBE NEWS CENTER $13.00 -$48.00 PER PERSON 8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $19.00/ CHILDREN $13.00 SUNDAY OCTOBER 24 1:00PM-5:00PM CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER S. EXHIBIT HALL 2:30PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $17.00/ CHILDREN $11.00 WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 27 7:30PM FIDDLER ON THE ROOF AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER AUDITORIUM THURSDAY OCTOBER 28 9:00AM-12:00PM MEDICARE PART D 2010 PANHANDLE REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 3RD FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM CALL 331-2227
7:00PM AMARILLO COLLEGE PRESENTS “JAMES BRADLEY LECTURE” GLOBE NEWS CENTER 7:30PM FIDDLER ON THE ROOF AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER AUDITORIUM 8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $17.00/ CHILDREN $11.00 FRIDAY OCTOBER 29 8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $19.00/ CHILDREN $13.00 SATURDAY OCTOBER 30 8:00AM-10:00PM WORLD OF WRESTLING TOURNAMENT AMARILLO CIVIC CENTER COLISEUM 8:00AM-12:00PM AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION HEART WALK MEDIPARK DONATION ACCEPTED 7:30PM WTAMU MUSIC DEPT. PRESENTS “PHANTOM OF THE OPERA” GLOBE NEWS CENTER 8:00PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $19.00/ CHILDREN $13.00 SUNDAY OCTOBER 31 2:30PM “EURYDICE” AMARILLO LITTLE THEATRE ADULTS $17.00/ CHILDREN $11.00
Fall Table Centerpiece Projects Draw the focus to the center of the table with a seasonal autumn centerpiece. Cast a glow across the table with ambient candlelight or creatively carved Jack-o-Lanterns. Showcase the bounteous harvest with a mixture of pumpkins, apples and leaves. Anticipate the joys of the Thanksgiving feast with an elegant, homemade turkey centerpiece. Centerpieces are limited only by the bounds of your imagination. In every case, warm yellows, oranges, reds and browns cast a seasonal coziness around the house. Harvest Decorate the table with deliciously beautiful reminders of the harvest. Fall is a season of pumpkins, apples and richly colored produce. Arrange these items in a circular shape to create a wreath, or try a more elaborate centerpiece. Add color by spray painting pumpkins or apples with gold, silver, black or other colors of paint. Fill a hollow pumpkin with seasonal flowers, candles, candies or other fall produce. An elaborate cornucopia can be created by filling a large pumpkin with apples, cranberries, Indian corn, small gourds, wheat stalks, dried flowers, small pumpkins and other produce. Create an elegant bouquet of dried grains and grasses. Divide more than a hundred stalks into bundles of about 15 stems. Wrap each bundle with floral tape and assemble the bundles in a spiral shape so that the stalks can stand upright. Cover the bundle marks with a large, lavish bow of satin or ribbon. Toss red and green apples into a basket and mix in a few miniature pumpkins or waxed leaves for color for an impromptu centerpiece that is visually appealing. Leaves can be waxed easily by ironing fresh leaves between two sheets of wax paper for approximately 30
seconds. The waxy sides of the paper should be pressed against the leaves. These leaves can then be strewn across the center of the table for a whimsical look. Lighting A small paring knife can be used to carve the tops from miniature pumpkins and apples. Shallow votive candles or tall taper candles can then be placed into the openings. Place several pumpkin and apple candleholders of varying sizes above a bed of berry sprigs and waxed leaves. Wrap a vase or other object with fall-colored Christmas lights for a glowing centerpiece that commands attention. Tightly wrap a Styrofoam ball with orange lights and add a brown stem to create a glowing pumpkin. Lights can also be taped to the underside of a glass table for a subtle glow that emanates through a tablecloth. Holiday Fall is a season of holidays and celebrations. Halloween and Thanksgiving are two of the most prominent autumn days. Celebrate Halloween by carving a Jack-o-Lantern for your table. For less mess, pumpkins can be painted. A bat can be made easily from two Styrofoam balls painted black and construction paper wings. A ghost can be made by draping a white pillowcase over a bent closet hanger. Invite a pumpkin turkey to the Thanksgiving table. Glue large waxed leaves to the back of the pumpkin for the tail feather display. Use cardboard to cut out a neck and head shape and glue this to the stem. Attach a pilgrim hat and a black and white bib to complete the Thanksgiving ensemble.
Healthy Habits That Can Backfire Sometimes too much of a good thing is actually pretty bad—especially when it comes to your health. While you certainly don’t want to skimp on healthy habits like exercising, sleeping and eating plenty of vitamin-rich food, overdoing any of these can be dangerous. Here’s why. Sleeping Too Much Of course you want to be well rested, and most of us aren’t. But oversleeping has its downsides, too. If you tend to get only six hours during the work week, but sleep nine to 10 hours on Saturday morning, don’t be surprised if you wake up with a headache. When you’re asleep, you breathe in and out more slowly, so you get rid of less carbon dioxide. When you sleep in on the weekends, carbon dioxide can build up a bit and lead to headaches. You may also wake up with a pounding head if you sleep past the time when you normally have a cup of coffee. While a headache might be the biggest downside to sleeping in periodically, if you always feel like you need a ton of sleep—or if you feel like you need a lot more than you used to—talk to your doctor. People who get excessive amounts of sleep are more prone to depression, heart disease and even early death. Taking Too Many Vitamins Vitamins—whether they’re from food or pills—are essential ingredients your body needs for so many functions. But did you know you can actually “overdose” on them? Women need to be cautious about fat-soluble vitamins like A, because they can build up in the body’s fat stores. (Extra water-soluble vitamins, like C, are easily excreted in the urine after your body uses what it needs.)
You’ll find vitamin A—which is important for vision, reproduction and a strong immune system—in many types of fruits and vegetables, as well as in eggs and milk. The problem is that many foods are also forti.
What??? Time for a flu shot again…
Yes, it is that time again. The flu vaccine is combined this year so only one injection will protect you from both the H1N1 and the seasonal flu. Check with your health care provider or your local pharmacist. We already have cases of flu reported so don’t hesitate….get your protection now. What else do you need? Every ten years you need to have your tetanus-diptheria (Td) renewed. This prevents what we know as “lockjaw” . You are at risk with any open wound to get this illness. Pneumonia or pneumovax is recommended once prior to age 65 and then once after and may be repeated for some folks with chronic illnesses. Ask your provider about your personal risk.
fied with large amounts of vitamin A, plus it’s commonly found in multivitamins. If you have a serving of vitamin A–fortified cereal with milk, take a multivitamin and eat an egg, you will probably exceed the recommended level for the day. Do this once in a while and it’s not a big deal, but over time the results aren’t pretty. One major culprit: energy bars. Many contain a lot of vitamin A, and some people eat several of them daily. Whenever possible, get your vitamins from whole foods instead of “bars” and consider whether you really need a multivitamin (ask your doc if you’re not sure). Exercising Too Much True, most Americans are so sedentary that they aren’t in any danger of moving too much. But what happens when couch potatoes get inspired to step up their exercise big time? Ouch. People who are new to exercise are more prone to injuries since they are often excited to start or just want to get it over with. Beginner exercisers need to remember that this is a journey that you will continue for the rest of your life, so pick something you really enjoy. If you’re forcing yourself to do something and pushing through pain, then injury is more likely to happen.
Have you had chicken pox? You are at risk for “shingles” and need to have the Zoster vaccine. This is a single injection and can protect you from the painful annoying shingles. Even if you have had a case of shingles you can obtain this vaccine when you are free of symptoms. Check again with your provider.
Using Too Much Hand Sanitizer Experts say that alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help you stop the spread of germs and avoid getting sick. That’s especially important this time of year, when colds and flu are going around. But don’t think you can skip the soap and water. Sanitizer is good if you need to cleanse your hands after getting off the bus or before lunch and you don’t have access to a sink. But if you use it several times in a row without washing [with soap and water], some of the gel can build up and bacteria will start to stick to it. A good rule: If you’ve already used sanitizer three times in a row on a given day, get yourself to a sink. Eating Too Much Fiber Fiber is great for keeping your digestive system healthy and your blood sugar levels on an even keel. It’s also a friend to dieters, since it helps you stay full. But if you’re not getting very much right now, you need to slowly work your way up to those recommended 25 grams per day. Otherwise you may find your tummy aching.
hard or too often, warns Dr. Lewin. “All toothpastes contain small amounts of abrasives [to get rid of stains], and if you use too much you can start wearing away the enamel.” And, brushing too vigorously can damage your gums and cause them to recede. She recommends brushing two to three times a day using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste and a toothbrush with soft-medium bristles. Washing Your Face Too Often If your skin is oily or acne-prone, you may be tempted to scrub it several times a day. But over-washing can irritate sensitive skin and aggravate conditions like aacne. The goal of washing is to eliminate dirt and bacteria, not to strip the protective layers off your skin. For most people, washing your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser is sufficient.
Getting Too Many Medical Tests You’ve probably seen ads for heart scans and even full-body CT scans that claim to catch diseases early on. But unless your doctor has recommended a particular test for you, think twice. While most traditional X-rays—like the kind you get at Be especially careful about all those products that have your dentist’s office—expose you to minimal amounts of radiation, CT scans are more detailed and therefore extra fiber added to them. Companies have been expose you to higher levels, which could increase your adding isolated fibers like inulin and polydextrose to foods such as Stonyfield Farm yogurt, Weight Watch- cancer risk over a lifetime. ers cereals and Fibersure fiber supplement, claiming that they are as good as the fiber that’s naturally found A lot of procedures are done because patients are curious, not because they’re medically necessary. Even in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Although there isn't good evidence to support or deny this, insulin may if your doctor is the one to suggest a test, there’s nothing wrong with asking if you really need it, how cause gas or other stomach distress, and polydextrose much radiation it will expose you to and if there’s a may result in ‘a laxative effect from excessive lower- (or no-) radiation option worth considering. For consumption,’ as the packages warn. example, a regular colonoscopy doesn’t expose you to any radiation, but a virtual one does because it uses CT Brushing Your Teeth Too Much We all want to keep those pearly whites sparkly. Good scans (and the prep, which is the worst part, is the same for both types of colonoscopy). oral health has been linked to a lower incidence of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. But don’t scrub too
Volunteer of the Year Volunteering is important as it showcases someone’s gratitude and that is why the RSVP; Humana Market POINT Female Volunteer of the year, for 2010 is B J Campbell. B J has served as a volunteer for the Ronald McDonald Family Room for over 10 years. Originally BJ worked a full time job so she did what she could by substituting for others on different shifts. After, retiring, BJ truly embraced the family room. Though she is only scheduled to volunteer just a few times a month it is not uncommon for her to put in time working three or four three-hour shifts each week. She is truly their “go to” person when they are in need and rarely turns down a request. Sally, the volunteer coordinator, and the staff at the Ronald McDonald house have a deal; they can feel free to ask BJ to put in extra time, if she will promise to turn them down when she has plans. So far it has worked.
The selfless act of helping a person or cause provides a spiritual boost. Knowing you did something good brings an emotional uplifting that can never be matched by money or fame. It’s not a glamorous job, but most who volunteer will tell you that the experience is a positive one. BJ has both compassion and empathy for families with ill or injured children. As she says, “It makes me feel good to be able to help them, I enjoy working with families; it’s such a rewording job. People that you meet are so special” B J lost a daughter after a long illness and while she was sick the family spent time at Texas Children’s Hospital in house. So B J knows first hand how important a room like the Ronald McDonald family room is. BJ was nominated by Sally Strange who is the volunteer director for the Ronald McDonald house.
When Families Live Together: The Finances You don’t anticipate having a full house again once your nest empties — at least not full-time. Tripping over toys and waking up to the joyful shrieks of children are charming when grandkids visit for a weekend, but dealing with them every day probably isn’t part of the retirement picture you envisioned. Still, if you’re an empty-nester whose flock has suddenly flown home, you’re in good company. In a January 2009 Grandparents.com survey exploring the role of grandparents, 12.5 percent of grandparents who responded said they lived in the same home as their grandkids; more than half of them said the reason was that their adult kids and grandkids could no longer afford to live on their own. Given today’s rising unemployment rates and lack of available credit, those numbers are likely to grow. In that same survey, 65 percent of respondents said they believe the current economic downturn will result in an increased number of multigenerational households. Certainly, that can be a blessing, offering financiallystrapped couples some much-needed support while giving grandparents a great opportunity to bond with their grandkids. But it would be naive to ignore the potential for strain in the situation — especially when it
comes to finances. If you're entering into a multigenerational living arrangement, it’s crucial to have a conversation with your returning offspring about your expectations. Let Them Contribute If your adult kids are moving in with you because of a financial crisis, say a job loss or a home foreclosure, your instinct, if you’re financially able, might be to pay for everything. The financially-strapped family will surely welcome that level of generosity, and it’s important to allow your adult kids to show their appreciation. So when they offer to pay for the occasional dinner out, or insist on contributing even a token amount to bills or rent, let them. Who Pays for What? On the other hand, if your adult children move in because of financial stress but are still working, establish upfront which expenses you expect them to cover. As grandparents, you may be used to spoiling grandkids in various ways, from helping to pay for school tuition to funding trips to the amusement park. But when they move into your home, and your grocery and utility bills balloon, the novelty can wear off quickly.
Let your kids know if you’re willing to cover all the additional expenses their long-term presence will incur, or if you expect them to chip in. Be specific: Explain that you’ll happily cover the bigger electricity bill, for example, but need them to contribute $100 a month toward groceries. Be frank about whether or not you’ll be able to pay for your grandkids' expenses, like summer camp, trips to the movies, or sports-league fees. Those things can add up — and so can your resentment if you find you're expected to open your wallet constantly. Also, discuss how much of your time will be available; let your kids know how much (if any) free childcare you’re prepared to provide, or if you expect them to find sitters for their evenings out. Keep Your Financial Security in Mind This is important. If your adult children are struggling financially, you may want to do everything you can to assist them. But in helping them, don’t jeopardize your retirement. If providing a free (or low-cost) place for them to live is the most you can offer, make sure that your kids know that before they move in, and that they're prepared to pay for their additional living expenses. Tell them you’re glad they’re coming home, but that you’re on a tight budget. Encourage a "let's all pitch in" mentality, and, if you're able, help out in ways that don’t pinch your pocketbook: For example, offer to shuttle the kids to and from school, watch them after school, or help with homework, while the parents work or seek new jobs. Time and peace of mind can have tremendous value for a family struggling financially. For many families, and in many cultures, multigenerational living is, quite simply, a natural fact of life. In families where it’s an unusual arrangement dictated only by financial pressure, the dynamic can be more challenging. So for the sake of family harmony, talk to your kids about finances before they move in. Then go ahead and enjoy your full house.
Directory of Services
ASSISTED LIVING & INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES: THE ARBORS 1910 MEDI PARK AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-467-4700 THE CLAIRMONT 4707 BELL ST. AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-353-0052 CHILDERS PLACE 6600 KILGORE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-350-2200 www.bivinsfoundations.org
THE CRAIG METHODIST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 5500 W. 9TH AVENUE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-352-7244 www.sears-methodist.com
CONNER HOUSE 2 COTTONWOOD DRIVE CANYON, TEXAS 806-655-5965 MEREDITH HOUSE 812 W 25TH STREET PAMPA, TEXAS 806-665-5668 POTTER HOUSE 6800 PLUM CREEK DRIVE AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-353-5185
COUNSELING SERVICES: CENTER 1300 WALLACE BLVD ALZHEIMER’S’ AMARILLO, TEXAS ASSOCIATION TH 415 SW 8 AVE STE 79106 806-359-7681 300 AMARILLO, TEXAS www.amaspeechheari ng.org 79101 806-373-5313 JO WYATT CLINIC www.alz.org/txstar 1411 AMARILLO FAMILY SUPPORT BLVD EAST AMARILLO, TEXAS SERVICES 806-351-7200 1001 S. POLK STREET AMARILLO, TEXAS TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF 79101 DISABILITY 806-342-2500 3501-L WEST 45TH www.fss-ama.org AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-376-7214 EMERGENCY CARE www.dads.state.tx.us SERVICES: AMARILLO URGENT CARE 1915 COULTER AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-5400
OUTREACH HEALTH SERVICES 1616 S KENTUCKY STE 140A AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 806-353-9907
AMARILLO SENIOR CARE www.outreachhealth.com CLINIC 14 MEDICAL DRIVE AMARILLO, TEXAS HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICES: 806-358-8300 TRIUMPH HEALTHCARE 7501 WALLACE BLVD AMARILLO, TEXAS 79124 806-468-9185 HEALTH SERVICES: AMARILLO SPEECH, HEARING & LANGUAGE
COMPASSION HOME CARE 1301 S. COULTER STE 402 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-351-8522 www.compassionhom ecare.us GOODCARE HEALTH SERVICES 4107 S.W. 49TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-373-7373 INTERIM HEALTHCARE 1901 MEDI PARK AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-467-1156 SHEPARD’S CROOK HOME HEALTH 2311 SOUTHWEST 7TH AVENUE AMARILLO, TX 79106-6601 (806) 358-9548 www.shepards-nursing.com
LONG TERM CARE:
ABUNDANT ACCOLADE HOME QUALITY LIVING CARE 6402 OAKHURST 6300 I-40 WEST, STE DR 210 AMARILLO, TEXAS AMARILLO, TEXAS 79109 79106 (806)-358-9807 806-352-3900 ODYSSEY HEALTHCARE CENTRAL LINE INFUSION 6900 I-40 WEST STE 150 1301 S. COULTER AMARILLO, TEXAS STE 201 AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-372-7696 806-352-1212
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES:
RETRIED & SENIOR VOLUNTEER SERVICES 321 SW 7TH AVENUE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-373-8389 Larue.johnson@ pcsvcs.org
MEALS ON WHEELS 219 W. 7TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-374-1521 WEST TEXAS GROCERY DELIVERY AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-433-1403 PHARMACIES:
MOBILITY SERVICES: OPEN ROAD MOBILITY 6103 STAR LANE AMARILLO, TEXAS 79109 806-353-2747
HOME NURSES: NURSES UNLIMITED 4037 W 50TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 79109 806-467-0672 1-888-859-0631
AVONDALE PHARMACY 5135 PLAINS AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-2708 D&S PHARMACY 3324 S. GEORGIA 806-352-2711 3500 N.E. 24TH 806-383-3377 SOUTHPARK PHARMACY 5901 S. BELL AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-358-2428 REHABILITATION:
NUTRITION: FAITH CITY MISSION 401 SOUTH EAST 2ND AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105 806-373-6402
NORTHWEST TEXAS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL 7200 W. 9TH AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-468-2900
RESPIRATORY SERVICES: STATE AGENCIES: QUALITY RESPIRATORY SERVICES & REPAIR 6633 CANYON DRIVE AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-352-4140 SENIOR CITIZEN’S SERVICES: ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES 7132 W. I-40 # B AMARILLO, TEXAS 806-463-5114 AREA AGENCY ON AGING 415 WEST 8TH PO BOX 9257 AMARILLO, TEXAS 79105 806-331-2227 www.theprp.org PANHANDLE SUPPORT SERVICES 1502 SOUTH CLEVELAND AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 806-373-0392 www.pcsvcs.org WIDOWED PERSONS SERVICE OF AMARILLO 2207 WEST 7TH- THE CANYONS AMARILLO, TEXAS 79106 806-374-9772
ELDER ABUSE HOTLINE 1-800-252-5400 FOOD STAMPS 1-806-376-7214 MEDICARE HOTLINE 1-800-633-4227 SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
1-800-772-1213 TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF AGING & DISABILITY HOTLINE 1-800-252-9240 TEXAS VETERAN COMMISSION 1-800-252-3036 TEMPORARY ASSISTANCE SERVICES: AMERICAN RED CROSS 806-376-6309 SALVATION ARMY
806-373-6631 TRANSPORTATION: LE FLEUR
TRANSPORTATION
OF TEXAS 900 S. NELSON AMARILLO, TEXAS 79104 806-367-1476 www.LeFleur.net
Directory of Services
AMARILLO SENIOR CITIZENS ASSOCIATION 1220 SOUTH POLK AMARILLO, TEXAS 79101 806-372-3381
HIGH PLAINS FOOD BANK 815 ROSS STREET AMARILLO, TEXAS 79102 806-374-8562