The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 2021

Free!

THE ROGERSVILLE REVIEW

March 2021

Stories

2 Learn a Stimulating Skill 3 Lifestyle Adjustment Improve

Well-Being 4 Mental Health Makeover 5 Did You Know? n

n

6 7 8 10 11

Health Screenings are a Vital Component of Preventative Health Care

Women More Likely to Develop Osteoporosis

Join a Gym or Fitness Center Exercise Can Help You Live Longer Learn to Play an Instrument Helpful Apps for Seniors Take a Vacation 12 6 Tips for Seniors to Travel Safely 13 Keep Your Immune System Strong

A special publication of

The Rogersville Review © ADOBE STOCK

www.TheRogersvilleReview.com

2 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Learn a Stimulating Skill

I

f your golden years have created a sense of boredom or a sedentary lifestyle, spice things up by mastering a new skill.

Lifelong learning is a critical strategy to keep your mind sharp, maintain or improve cognitive functions and allows the body to remain active. When choosing a new hobby, select one that stimulates the brain.

The National Institute on Aging suggests that stimulating the mind is shown to create something scientists call cognitive reserve. It is thought to help the brain become more adaptable while mental functions typically deter with age.

Skills or hobbies that benefit the mind include volunteering, reading or playing games. Here are few ideas to try, as suggested by the United Methodist Homes group.

GARDENING Planting and harvesting a garden are great activities that help senior citizens get regular

© ADOBE STOCK

exercise, lubricate joints and promote better mobility. When planning your plot, choose an area in your yard that receives ample sunlight and is near a water source.

Visit a local nursery to discover which types of fruits and vegetables can thrive in your region. If you live in a city with little spare yard space, consider building a makeshift greenhouse indoors or building a small patio garden.

If you already suffer from limited mobility, take the extra time to stretch before gardening.

By doing so, you will limit the risks of injury, increase blood flow, improve balance while enhancing muscle control.

READING AND WRITING According to a study from the American Academy of Neurology, seniors who partake in reading and writing show signs of slower cognitive decline. You can make both activities social events by joining a book club or attending writing workshops.

Once you gain confidence in your ability to write, consider penning a biography that you can

share with friends and family.

They will enjoy the intimate look into your life, and you will benefit from revisiting happy memories from the past.

VOLUNTEERING The Corporation for National and Community Service suggests that volunteering can improve seniors’ health and well-being.

Inform nonprofit organizations about your desire to donate time to causes like helping homebound seniors or mentoring at-risk youth.

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 3

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | SELF IMPROVEMENT

Lifestyle Adjustments Improve Well-Being While the changes don’t have to be drastic, minor adjustments to your lifestyle can create significant advantages for your health, financial situation and emotional well-being.

UPDATE YOUR VACCINES Ensuring your health is in peak condition is crucial as you age.

Resolve to make an appointment with your doctor for a wellness check and become up to date on vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens should maintain updated immunizations to prevent these conditions:

• Shingles.

• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine which prevents meningitis and bloodstream infections.

• A pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to protect against pneumonia.

Your health expert will discuss a plan for the frequency of the vaccines once you are on schedule.

advice on how to pay down debts.

If you find it uncomfortable to trust an unfamiliar expert with your financial history, talk to your daily bank or credit center. They can likely refer you to a qualified professional or even offer in-house service.

SPEND MORE TIME WITH FAMILY It’s easy for personal time to get VISIT A FINANCIAL ADVISOR lost in the shuffle while balancing Talk with a financial adviser for a a family and career. Enjoy your detailed review of your fiscal senior years by taking measures to standing. They can steer you ensure relationships with your toward beneficial investments, loved ones can grow. create a spending strategy to keep While it may be challenging to your retirement on track and offer coordinate visits and trips with

members who live far away, consider investing in a smartphone or tablet that supports video-chat software. Sometimes, a simple phone call can help reconnect people and encourage a positive bond.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF Keep your mind and body sharp by challenging yourself with mastering a new hobby or skill.

Whether you commit to improving your physical fitness, take an art class or read more, resolve to spend the year improving your health and mental function.

S

ignature Lifestyles of Rogersville features personalized, assisted living for those who desire social connections, clinical support, or need help with routine activities of daily living.

Apartments start at $2,100 per month!

Available Floor Plans: • Maple, 376 sq. ft.

• Dogwood, 380 sq. ft.

• Oak, 414 sq. ft.

• Magnolia, 568 sq. ft.

Apartment Features:

• Individually controlled heat/ air and roll-in showers • Spacious walk-in closets and large windows • Kitchenette with refrigerator and microwave • Courtyard access and more!

Services include:

• Medication administration by Licensed Nurses • Assistance with activities of daily living • Weekly housekeeping, linen and personal laundry service • Scheduled transportation, safety checks, concierge service and more!

Dining Services Include: • Gluten-free, diabetic and cardiac care diets available • Homemade, chef-created desserts, seasonal fresh fruit and more!

• Private dining and room service also available

Amenities Include:

• Full-time Activities Director • Salon services and library • Patio, porch, and courtyard • Lifestyle Enrichment, Spirituality Programs and more!

Ask us about Veterans Assistance

Signature Lifestyles of Rogersville Assisted Living Christina Curtsinger, Executive Director 1341 E. Main Street • Rogersville, TN 37857

423-293-3700

www.siglifestyles.com

4 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

N REVISED EDITIO

ntss Haunts, Hai er th O & Taleess ysterious M

ins kkins of Hawki ty nty n un Cou

A

$ ow N nly O

10

O TW $ . . . r FOR

O

FOLKLORE TINGLING -TIN N OF SPINE EVIEW OM ILATIO COMP CO COM C SVILLE R SV OGER O HE ROGE 1 M THE OM O ROM RO R FROM FR F

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | HEALTH

Plus Sales Tax Add $4 for shipping if mailed

$15 h c a E

15

Was

MIX ’N MATCH (Plus Sales Tax. Add $8 shipping, if mailed.)

“Haunts, Haints & Other Mysterious Tales of Hawkins County” tale of Church Hill’s

Spine-chilling local tales including the of Ghoulie Hollow, infamous Sensabaugh Tunnel, the legend Lady in White, rare the New Canton knocking spirit, Rosemont’s photos of ghostly images and more.

“Down Home Cookin’: Recipes for Every Occasion” "All I can say is, let’s eat, shall we eat?"

Jan Lee

Jan Lee, former Review A collection of favorite recipes from the late Home Cookin’” is a columnist, known as the “Singin’ Chef.” “Down home cooking and is a delightful book for anyone interested in local unique addition to your culinary library.

The Rogersville Review

72-7422

rsville, TN 37857 | 423-2 PO Box 100 | 316 E. Main Street | Roge .com www.TheRogersvilleReview

Dr. Regina Brotherton DVM, M, CCRP, PhD D

Caring Healing Loving You’re committed to your pet. We’re committed to providing them with the quality care they need to stay happy, healthy and active.

We’re also committed to offering you the excellent service, understanding and professionalism you deserve from your pet’s trusted healthcare provider.

10% Off for Seniors!

5276 H Hwy 11W • Rogers Rogersville, ille TN 37857

423-293-0199 • Fax: 423-546-4103 Hours: Monday - Friday: 8-5

drbhealthypets@yahoo.com

Mental Health Makeover A ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 20% of senior citizens experience mental health issues.

Analyze the state of your emotional well-being and take steps to correct problems. Physical activity, a healthier diet and social interactions have been shown to improve some mental conditions.

However, when these strategies do not seem to help, it’s crucial to talk to your medical provider for assistance.

To better understand the risks that aging has on mental health, check out these statistics from the CDC. • Common conditions that senior citizens face include anxiety, cognitive impairment, depression and bipolar disorder.

• Men aged 85 years or older have a suicide rate of 45.23% per 100,000, compared to the overall rates of 11.01 per 100,000 for all ages.

• Critical contributors to senior depression is a lack of social and emotional support.

Commit to becoming a healthier, happier you by giving yourself a mental health makeover.

© ADOBE STOCK

effects on better mental health.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness urges us to remember these eight keys to motivate the beginning of an exercise regimen.

• Health your mind and body.

• Improve your self-esteem.

• Exercise as a family.

• Get motivated.

• Change your perception.

• Overcome obstacles.

• Get FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Type and Time).

• Set long-term goals.

NAMI suggests that with proper exercise, symptoms like bad moods, stress, pain and chronic illnesses can be managed.

FORGIVE The American Psychological Association says forgiveness is directly linked to mental health outcomes such as reduced anxiety, depression and major psychiatric disorders. Our CHANGE YOUR LIFESTYLE physical health is also improved Harvard Health Publishing as there are lesser symptoms of reports that mental health is chronic stress and lower mortality closely connected with the quality rates. and duration of sleep you get each Letting go of a grudge will night. Find a balance and create a require patience, learning and slumber schedule that fits in with practice. It’s essential to dissuade your daily routine and allows for the misconception that sufficient rest. forgiveness is a sign of weakness A healthy physical routine and and become more gracious for diet can also have significant your overall health.

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 5

www.therogersvillereview.com

DID YOU KNOW? Health Screenings are a Vital Component of Preventative Health Care Specific screenings for older adults can help them stay healthy. Healthline and WebMD recommend older adults schedule these routine tests. The frequency of the screenings may depend on individuals’ health histories, so each test should be discussed with a physician during adults’ annual checkups.

• Blood pressure check • Blood test to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Colorectal cancer exam starting at age 50 • Weight screening to check for gains or losses

DENTAL Insurance

Get the dental care you deserve.

Medicare does not cover dental care1. That means if you need dental work done, it can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars out of your own pocket.

• Prostate cancer screening for men age 70 and older • Breast exam and mammogram for women, starting at age 40 • Pap smear and HPV tests at the recommended intervals advised by a doctor • Hearing test • Osteoporosis test • Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines • Eye exam • Periodontal exam once per year

Get Dental Insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. It helps cover over 350 procedures — from cleanings and fillings to crowns and dentures. Call today to get help paying big dental bills.

• See any dentist you want, but save more with one in our network • No deductible, no annual maximum • Immediate coverage for preventive care

Call to get your FREE Information Kit

1-833-601-1226

Women More Likely to Develop Osteoporosis According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, certain factors make women more likely than men to develop osteoporosis, a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, produces too little bone or both. One such factor is that women tend to have smaller, thinner bones than men. Another reason women are more vulnerable to osteoporosis than men concerns the hormone estrogen. Estrogen is a hormone in women that serves many functions, one of which includes protecting bones. Production of estrogen decreases sharply when

women reach menopause, the period in a woman’s life when she ceases menstruating. The National Institute on Aging notes that the average woman has her final period at age 51. Once women reach menopause, the accompanying decline in estrogen production can cause bone loss. This is one reason why women’s risk for osteoporosis increases after menopause and why recommended intake of calcium and vitamin D, both of which can help women prevent osteoporosis, is different for women age 50 and below than it is for women age 51 and older.

dental50plus.com/rogrev

“Medicare & You,” Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, 2020 Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Product not available in all states. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, LA, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN); Rider kinds B438/B439 (GA: B439B).

1

6255

6 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | GET FIT

Y

Join a Gym or Fitness Center

ou don’t have to be a marathon runner or bodybuilder to engage in physical fitness at the gym.

Health leaders’ exercise goals are manageable when you’re aiming to promote a healthier lifestyle. Check out these guidelines from the World Health Organization for adults that are 65 years and above.

1. Senior citizens should do at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week.

2. Aerobic exercise should be performed in sets of at least 10 minute durations.

3. Older adults with low mobility should perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on three or more days per week.

4. Muscle-strengthening activities involving major muscle groups should be done on two or more days per week.

5. If health conditions hinder an older adult’s physical performance, they should be as active as their abilities and symptoms allow.

Some of the benefits you should expect once you begin an active lifestyle include: • Lower rates of all-cause

© ADOBE STOCK

mortality, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, typetwo diabetes, colon cancer and breast cancer.

• Creates a biomarker profile that is more favorable for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

• Exhibits higher levels of functional health, a lower risk of falling and better cognitive functions.

Suppose this is the first time you have considered joining a gym. In that case, it may prove challenging to find a facility that offers agefriendly exercise programs. Here

are some tips from the American Association of Retired Persons.

ONLINE TOOLS A great way to get started is to use the Age-Friendly Facilities and Services Locator, offered online by the AARP and International Council on Active Aging. The resource is provided to help increase awareness of the importance of physical activity and helpful institutions.

When using the tool, you must enter your ZIP code into the search box. It will provide information about the available

facilities. You will only see companies that encourage older adults to check out their programs.

The business owners must sign a code of conduct in which it agrees to follow industry standards, provide age-specific screenings, and offer activity programs.

BRING A FRIEND Once you settle on a gym, invite a friend to join you on your journey to better fitness.

Committing to an exercise program can be difficult at first; having a partner will help you stay motivated to reach your goals.

Please contact the gym or fitness center for updated hours/services due to the COVID-19 advisory.

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 7

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | EXERCISE

Exercise Can Help You Live Longer E

xercise keeps the body and brain healthy.

That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age.

There are many reasons to get in shape. Weight loss is a prime motivator, as is reversing a negative health effect, such as high cholesterol or increased diabetes risk. Routine exercise also can improve life expectancy.

WebMD says exercise keeps the body and brain healthy. That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age.

Research published in the journal Immune Aging found that how people age is 75 percent lifestyle and only 25 percent genetics, which underscores the importance of the lifestyle choices people make. rate from all causes, irrespective of the women’s weight.

CARDIORESPIRATORY FITNESS Many health experts say that MANAGE STRESS AND MOOD cardiorespiratory fitness may be Exercise has direct stressjust as valuable a metric to busting benefits that can promote determine overall health as blood longevity. The Mayo Clinic says pressure and lipid levels. People physical activity can increase the with a high aerobic capacity can production of endorphins, which deliver oxygen to tissues and cells are the body’s feel-good efficiently to fuel exercise, neurotransmitters. In addition, according to data published in exercise can imitate the effects of 2014 in the journal Aging & stress, helping the body adjust its Disease. In a study involving flight or fight response 11,335 women, researchers accordingly, and help them cope compared V02 max, also known with mildly stressful situations. as aerobic capacity, in women While engaged in exercise, people with mortality data. Women who may forget about their problems were fit from a cardiovascular as they are focused on the activity perspective had a lower death at hand.

© METRO PHOTO

IMPROVE BONE HEALTH Strength training and physical activity can stave off the effects of frailty and osteoporosis, which affects bone strength. A study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine found that hip fractures are associated with diminished quality of life and survival among the elderly. One in three adults aged 50 and over dies within 12 months of suffering a hip fracture, and older adults have a five- to eight-times greater risk of dying within three months following a hip fracture.

Building muscle strength, balance and bone density through exercise can reduce falls and frailty, helping to prevent

fracture-related health risks.

ADDRESSES SARCOPENIA The health and wellness resource Healthline defines sarcopenia as the loss of muscle mass specifically related to aging.

Doctors once considered this muscle loss inevitable, and it can affect stamina and lead to weakness. However, new indications suggest that exercise is the main treatment regimen for sarcopenia, particularly resistance training. This is designed to improve muscle strength and help balance hormone levels by turning protein into energy for older adults.

8 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | GET CREATIVE

Y

Learn to Play an Instrument

ou already know the importance of staying physically active to promote a healthier lifestyle. While exercise does stimulate parts of the brain, the National Association of Music Merchants reports that listening to or making tunes counteracts some seniors’ adverse health effects.

The benefits include a more significant memory and delaying hearing loss while enhancing social awareness for aging Americans.

You can take lessons to master an instrument to keep your mind sharp and improve agility. When choosing which tool you want to learn, consider one that you can play comfortably.

Gear like a ukulele or banjo may be challenging for those with compromised finger joints. The small fretboard can be challenging to navigate.

Visit your local music shop and play around with a few display models they have available. Sit down at a piano, hold a guitar or even bang the drums to see which instrument gives you satisfaction.

After making your purchase, ask the experts if they offer lessons to

© ADOBE STOCK

help make the learning process more comfortable.

GUITAR Both acoustic and electric guitars offer unique abilities and sounds. The right type for you depends on the style of music you intend to learn.

Acoustic models are more inexpensive investments. They require little gear, where an electric unit relies on an amplifier and power cables to work to its full potential. If you find the strings are too difficult to push down on the fretboard, ask the

salesman if they can equip it with a lighter-gauge set before you make the purchase.

PIANO A study performed by the Frontiers in Psychology journal on aging adults reveals that seniors who learn to play piano experience: • Enhanced levels of cognitive function.

• Slowed deterioration in the fight against the aging process.

• Improved mood.

• A boost in self-esteem.

Learning the keyboard can be

daunting, but an expert can show you the ropes, teach you scales and introduce you to learning and composing your favorite songs.

DRUMS The organization Next Avenue suggests that playing the drums reduces anxiety and significantly lower blood pressure. If you fear that your neighbors won’t appreciate your new hobby, consider investing in an electric model. Most high-end systems work with headphones and produce accurate sounds comparable to a traditional setup.

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 9

www.therogersvillereview.com

One solution for oxygen at home, away, and for travel Introducing the INOGEN ONE It’s oxygen therapy on your terms No more tanks to refill. No more deliveries.

No more hassles with travel. The INOGEN ONE portable oxygen concentrator is designed to provide unparalleled freedom for oxygen therapy users. It’s small, lightweight, clinically proven for stationary and portable use, during the day and at night, and can go virtually anywhere — even on most airlines.

Inogen accepts Medicare and many private insurances!

Reclaim Your Freedom And Independence NOW!

Call Inogen Today To Request Your FREE Info Kit

1-855-764-9667 © 2020 Inogen, Inc. All rights reserved.

MKT-P0108

10 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | TECHNOLOGY

Helpful Apps for Seniors

© ADOBE STOCK

T

echnological advances of smartphones and tablets help us communicate easier, monitor our health and stay on top of our financial security.

Senior citizens who may not be comfortable using the new technology can benefit from taking classes or asking younger family members to introduce them to smart machines.

If you need a device, choosing between the options on the market may seem daunting. Visit your local electronic store to speak with an expert. Make sure to be clear with your expectations and how you intend to use the gadget.

You will have to decide between one that requires a separate cellular network or tools that rely on a wireless internet signal. With your new

© ADOBE STOCK

smartphone in hand, check out how apps can make your life easier and more fulfilling.

SOCIAL NETWORKING Get back in touch with family members and friends with apps that support video calls, chatting and social media. Consider making your own profile and communicating with people that you have had little contact with.

When creating your page, list things like where you went to school, occupations and your maiden name, if it has changed.

This information will make it easy for those in the past to find your profile and initiate a conversation

or send a friend request. In turn, you can use search keywords to find companions or loved ones from your past.

HEALTH While an app is not a substitute for regular wellness checks with your health provider, they can prove to be a supplemental monitor of how your body is operating. Some software uses your fingerprint to determine factors like your stress levels, blood sugar numbers and blood pressure. If you find yourself concerned with the results, it’s critical to reach out to your regular doctor. Another benefit that

smartphone applications offer is making it easier to manage prescriptions. They can alert you when it’s time to take medicine, order a refill and help analyze your intake.

FINANCE Find an app that monitors your spending behaviors, so you can adjust your habits and set saving’s goals. Some can link to your bank accounts and alert you when a deposit or withdrawal has been approved. Financial apps are great for running numbers on how you’re spending and can signal you when your accounts have been compromised or stolen.

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 11

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | TRAVEL

Take a Vacation

Shake the cold-weather blues by visiting somewhere warm and exciting.

While your idea of fun may have changed in your golden years, there are unique places across the country that are seniorfriendly. Grab your loved ones and plan a vacation to re-invigorate your curiosity and sense of adventure.

Some destinations are within easy driving distance for a roadtrip or overnight stay. When planning a more lenghty trip, talking to a travel agent can help score great deals and take care of traveling nuances. They can book your hotel, help find rental vehicles and discover discounted flight tickets if necessary. Many times, bundling different fees can lower costs, giving you more revenue to spend exploring gorgeous destinations.

Check out some of the most exciting locations that offer senior citizens a fantastic vacation experience.

U.S. NATIONAL PARKS Protected parks in the country provide unreal views, a reconnection with nature and allow seniors to spend time navigating the outdoors. For active people, paddling a canoe or hiking up rugged terrains provide a challenging venture. However, if you have mobility issues or limited physical abilities, many parks offer guided tours. Consider visiting Yellowstone to take in the natural geysers or tour the Smoky Mountains to view amazing

forests, wildlife and flowers.

If you’re on a budget, check out the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass for discounted prices and to help provide revenue for the land.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWNS Suppose your bucket list includes traveling to locations that are trapped in a time capsule and reserve their historic presence. In that case, visit one of America’s many old-fashioned downtown settings. Spend the afternoon viewing relics from the past while visiting exciting shopping centers and dining spots. Here is a list of hot areas for seniors, as suggested by the American Association of Retired Persons.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. Find your paradise in this beautiful town set in the serene Blue Ridge Mountains. If you’re an architect enthusiast, you will be stunned by intricate views of early 20th-century designs. The region is also an outstanding option for those retreating from winter weather as it typically hosts comfortable temperatures throughout the year.

When searching for entertainment, Asheville is home to numerous art facilities and niche museums celebrating pinball machines, science centers and the historic Biltmore Estate.

Be sure to call ahead for updated hours/services due to the COVID-19 advisory.

Final Expenses Check this off your to-do list!

Guaranteed, modified whole life coverage from Physicians Life Insurance Company that’s affordable and easy to get. This extra measure of protection can make a world of difference to your family — up to $15,000.00 • Guaranteed acceptance for ages 45 to 85* • No medical exam!

No health questions!

• Lock in your rate for life

Call for a FREE, no-obligation Information Kit. You’ll receive a FREE Final Wishes Planner just for calling!

1-844-742-8070 >> www.life55plus.info/rogrev

*Ages may vary by state. Guaranteed for one of these life insurance policies.

Benefits reduced first two years. Insurance Policy L770 (ID: L770ID; OK: L770OK; TN: L770TN).

6238

12 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | TRAVEL

6 Tips for Seniors to Travel Safely Age does not have to restrict one’s ability to travel, and with age comes experience and more opportunities to enjoy travel.

Before taking off for parts unknown, men and women over 50 can take steps to ensure their excursions are as safe as they are memorable.

1. Consider risk. The coronavirus pandemic of 2020 taught the world that situations can change rapidly. Before booking any travel, weigh the risks and the benefits of a trip.

Determine if COVID-19 is spreading where you live or at your destination. Older adults have a higher risk for severe illness

caused by the virus. Until you are vaccinated, it may be best to wait to travel.

2. Use senior-friendly services.

Seek out travel services that offer the best perks for older adults.

Many travel providers no longer offer senior discounts, but they may offer other benefits, such as early boarding or assistance with traveling from gates to baggage areas.

3. Get travel insurance.

According to Liz Dahl, cofounder of Boomer Travel Patrol, a website featuring expert advice geared toward the Baby Boomer demographic, travel insurance can be essential for older travelers.

Older travelers may be more at risk of falling or getting sick and some may need extra medication if travel is interrupted or delayed.

Travel insurance can provide extra coverage for a relatively low price if something goes wrong.

4. Don’t advertise your absence. It may be tempting to upload photos of your beachside vacation to social media as you are immersed in paradise.

Unfortunately, seniors tend to be targets for thieves because they are seen as vulnerable. Don’t make the job easier by advertising you are away from home. In addition, have a neighbor periodically pick up your mail and set lights on

timers to give the impression you are home even when you’re not.

5. Share your itinerary. Keep loved ones apprised of your general travel itinerary, especially if you are traveling solo, recommends AARP. Keep a mobile phone on you at all times.

6. Pack copies of important documents. In the event paperwork is lost while traveling, request copies of prescriptions and/or statements of medical conditions from each physician and medical treatment center so you have a second set. Keep copies of your passport, driver’s license, insurance cards, travel tickets, and other documents as well.

e

e ph lif astro ES!

Voice Clarifying TV Headset

S fr

Put on your TV•Ears®

and hear TV with unmatched clarity A powerful hearing aid for television since 1998

TV•Ears Original™ $129.95

Over 2 million

satisfied customers

om

i av

a

EV

a at T ngtial c INU

I live

alone

po

te

n

Y ER

10

M

but I’m never alone.

I have Life Alert. ®

One press of a button sends help fast, 24/7, even when you can’t reach a phone.

NEW SPECIAL OFFER

NOW $5995

+s&h

Use promo code MB59

AS SEEN ON

TV

30-day risk free trial

Call 1-877-540-1248 M-F 6�am�—�6�pm PST 2701 via Orange Way, Suite 1 Spring Valley, CA 91978

For a FREE brochure call:

877-512-0143

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 13

www.therogersvillereview.com

SENIOR LIVING | WELLNESS

Keep Your Immune System Strong • Consume fiber and fermented foods. Fiber can help feed the gut microbiome, which is linked to a robust immune system. The microbiome also may prevent harmful pathogens from entering the body through the digestive tract. Data also suggests that eating more fermented foods can further strengthen and populate healthy bacteria in the gut.

© METRO PHOTO

C

ertain lifestyle choices can promote a strong immune system.

• Exercise regularly. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, advises the American Heart Association. Thirty minutes of exercise each day can go a long way toward keeping the body healthy. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. Exercise causes changes in antibodies and white blood cells. These antibodies and white blood cells circulate rapidly, so they may detect illnesses earlier than they would if you do not exercise. Body temperature also rises during exercise, which could naturally prevent bacteria from growing.

The immune system is a powerful component of the human body. The immune system recognizes when viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders enter or compromise the body, and then takes action to prevent illnesses from taking over. The average person can help his or her immune system do its job more effectively by making the immune system as strong as it can be.

Harvard Medical School says that diet, exercise, age, and psychological stress may affect immune system response. Certain lifestyle choices can promote a strong immune system.

• Get adequate sleep. Doctors believe sleep and immunity are closely tied. A study of 164 healthy adults published by the National Institutes of Health found those who slept fewer than six hours each night were more likely to catch a cold than people who slept for more than six hours. Aim for

© METRO PHOTO

adequate rest each night to keep your body in top form.

protecting a body against free radicals. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer and • Increase your intake of fruits other diseases. Serve fruits and/or and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables with every meal to vegetables supply the powerhouse ensure you’re getting enough antioxidants that are essential for antioxidant-rich foods.

• Try to minimize stress.

According to Simply Psychology, when people are stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced, making people more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can suppress the effectiveness of the immune system. Limiting stress through meditation and breathing exercises, or trying to remove stressors from one’s life, may help.

A healthy immune system is vital to fending off or recovering from illness.

14 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021 • 15

www.therogersvillereview.com

Medicare

Baked Sweet Potato Fries Baked Sweet Potato Fries Serves 8

has changed.

7 medium sweet potatoes 1⁄3 cup olive oil 1⁄2 teaspoon salt

Find out how it can affect you.

Important changes to the federal Medicare program became effective at the beginning of the year. As a result, retirees in your state may be eligible for coverage with new options.

Find out if you qualify for Medicare Supplement insurance that can help limit your out-of-pocket expenses.

For FREE information, call:

1-855-549-3096 or visit MedSupBenefit.com/rogrev

© METRO PHOTO

SWEET POTATO FRIES are one of the tastier ways to enjoy sweet potatoes. This recipe for “Baked Sweet Potato Fries” courtesy of the North Carolina Sweet Potato Commission can make for the perfect side when serving steak or burgers.

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line two baking sheets with foil; spray with nonstick cooking spray. For crispier results, place a metal rack on each baking sheet.

Peel the sweet potatoes, if desired, and cut into 1⁄4-inch strips.

In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, oil and salt; with your hands, toss to coat.

Spread sweet potatoes in a single layer on racks or foil without crowding; set aside remaining sweet potatoes.

Bake until crisp, about 30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Repeat until all the sweet potatoes are baked.

A Help Button Should Go Where You Go! To be truly independent, your personal emergency device needs to work on the go.

MobileHelp Features:

Simple one-button operation Affordable service #ORNKƂ GF YC[ XQKEG communication

CEEGUU VQ 7 5 DCUGF GOGTIGPE[ QRGTCVQTU GPS location detection #XCKNCDNG 0CVKQPYKFG

Get the facts that matter to you: Call for a FREE Brochure!

• Critical dates for Medicare eligibility • Options that can help keep more money in your pocket

1-877-505-0043 Optional Fall Button™

The automatic fall detect pendant VJCV YQTMU WHERE YOU GO!

From

19

$

.95 /month

• Medicare benefits many retirees may not be aware of Information will be provided by Physicians Life Insurance Company We are not connected with, nor endorsed by, the U.S. Government or the Federal Medicare Program.

I understand I have no obligation. This is a solicitation of insurance. A licensed agent/producer may contact you. Policy form number L030, L035, L036, L037, L038, F001, F002 (OK: L030OK, L035OK, L036OK, L037OK, L038OK; TN: L030TN, L035TN, L036TN, L037TN, L038TN, F001TN, F002TN) 6243_C

THIS MONTH, GET OUR BEST OFFER EVER! FREE Equipment to use | FREE Shipping* | FREE Lockbox! *$19.95 is the monthly price of subscription to a MobileHelp Classic at home only system. There is a one-time $49.95 processing fee and $15 shipping fee required to subscribe to this plan. Equipment may vary as shown. System featured in photo above is the MobileHelp DUO available at an additional monthly cost. Equipment shown is included at no cost while actively subscribing to the service plan but must be returned upon cancellation of the service plan to avoid equipment charges. See terms and conditions for further details. Free ground shipping and free lockbox ($29.95 value) included with select service plan purchases. This offer is for new customers only and cannot be combined with any other offers. Service availability and access/coverage on the AT&T network is not available everywhere and at all times. Current GPS location may not always be available in every situation. MobileHelp is a registered trademark. Patented technology. MobileHelp is an FDA registered company. Fall Button does not detect 100% of falls. If able, users should always push their help button when they need assistance. Fall Button is not intended to replace a caregiver for users dealing with serious health issues.

MHPN-00441 Rev. 1

16 • The Rogersville Review Senior Review • March 6, 2021

www.therogersvillereview.com

More power from a place you can trust.

2021 Crosstrek

8729 Kingston Pike • Knoxville, TN 37923

888-660-0184

www.GraysonSubaru.com