THE VILLAGE REPORTER

SENIOR
LIVING GUIDE

THE WAUSEON REPORTER

2013

2 - Senior Living Guide 2013

(THE VILLAGE REPORTER / THE WAUSEON REPORTER)

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

Shedding Pounds After 50

Keeping Marriage Going Strong Into Your Golden Years

The trend of long-married couples calling it quits has been growing. However, there are some steps couples can take to keep their relationships going strong. According to the AARP, divorces among people over the age of 50 have doubled since 1990. According to Susan Brown, codirector of the National Center for Family & Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University, one out of three Boomers will face their golden years unmarried. There are a number of reasons why divorce rates have skyrocketed among the over-50 set. Understanding just why these divorces are taking place and taking proactive steps to alleviate some of the divorce triggers can be a recipe for a happy marriage that continues throughout a couple's golden years. Increase accountability. Ours is a transient society where families no longer bat an eyelash over moving great distances away from other family members. As a result, Boomers may feel like they are not connected to children or grandchildren. With this in mind, they may feel less attached to their marriage or their responsibilities or believe that no one will get hurt by a divorce. Keeping families close and remaining in frequent contact can increase accountability and reduce the propensity for divorce. Get things out in the open. A major reason for a failed marriage is years of avoiding significant issues rather than addressing problems. Couples should make time to talk to each other about anything that might be bothering them rather than letting too many things slide. If these conversations turn into shouting matches, there is always the option of bringing in a third party to serve as a mediator. Spend time apart. After retirement, couples may find themselves spending hours upon hours in each other's company. While togetherness

WORKING IT OFF ... Muscle-strengthening activities, including yoga, can help men and women over 50 lose weight and keep the weight off. Losing some weight is a goal for many people regardless of age. While youngsters and young adults might be able to get away with a few extra pounds without suffering any significant consequences, older adults carrying some extra weight might be putting their overall health at considerable risk. Shedding weight after the age of 50 is not always easy. As a person ages, muscle mass tends to dwindle while body fat has a tendency to increase. Since fat burns fewer calories than muscle, weight gain as a person ages is bound to happen. But that doesn't mean such weight gain is inevitable. In fact, men and women willing to make certain changes with regard to diet and exercise can shed pounds after 50 while preventing future weight gain.

KEEPING YOUR MARRIAGE GOING ... Going on dates is a great way for older married couples to create excitement and romance.
can be beneficial, too much time spent together may lead to feelings of suffocation and the perception that each member of the relationship is no longer his or her own person. Individuals can remedy this by doing more things on their own, whether spending time apart with friends or engaging in hobby time without your spouse. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Brief periods of separation can make the time married couples do spend together feel more meaningful. Recommit to your vows. After 30 or more years, the vows you shared on your wedding may be a distant memory. Some people may have different views on the permanence of vows, putting personal happiness ahead of the happiness of the couple. Take stock of what you promised one another on your wedding day and stick to those words. Become a comedian. Laughter has a way of dissolving a tenuous situation. Focus energy on laughing at mistakes instead of pointing blame. Couples can make fun of themselves and resolve to not take things too seriously. Act like you're dating. Couples often become complacent after many years of marriage. They may forget about the little details that made the relationship fun in the early years. The personal notes and cards and other surprises may fall by the wayside after being together for some time. Make an effort to go on dates, write love notes and think of what was appreciated by your partners when you were in the dating stage. Practice selflessness. Sometimes all that is needed to rekindle a relationship is a selfless act that shows how much you care for your partner. Couples who are on the fence with regard to divorce can make an effort to improve the relationship rather than simply see divorce as the best option.

DIET Men and women need fewer calories as they age. For example, men and women in their 40s may need as many as 200 calories more per day than they will when they reach their 50s. Counting calories might seem difficult, so men and women in their 50s and older who don't think they can count calories can try to eat more low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Consuming fewer calories often requires changing dietary habits, not only with regard to what you're eating but also how you're eating and even how you shop for food. Men and women used to dining out for lunch every day can start bringing their own lunches so they can gain greater control of their daily caloric intake. For those who find they're frequently too exhausted to cook each night, they can prepare meals in advance to have healthy, homemade meals waiting instead of always ordering takeout or delivery. When shopping for food, people should avoid The Internet and related techdoing so on an empty stomach so they're less inclined to nologies have been a game-changer buy unhealthy snacks. for people of all ages. The instant connectivity made possible by these EXERCISE Exercise is another essential component to shedding advancements has been valued by pounds after 50, though men and women over 50 should young adults and children for years. always consult a physician before they begin a new exer- But now social media is attracting an cise regimen. The Centers for Disease Control and Pre- entirely different demographic -- sevention points out that regular exercise can help older niors. More than just a method of chanmen and women prevent the onset of a host of ailments, including heart disease and diabetes. In addition, the neling information to the comfort of CDC notes that regular physical activity as one ages helps home, the Internet and the various muscles grow stronger, which increases the chances that social media platforms, including an individual will be able to perform necessary daily ac- Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Intivities without the assistance of others. Maintaining that stagram, are ways for older adults to independence into older adulthood is a goal for many men stay connected with friends and famand women, and it's a goal that's far more realistic for ily. For seniors faced with mobility ismen and women who exercise than it is for those who sues, social media helps to bring the world to them. don't. Despite the stereotype that seWhen coupled with a healthy, low-calorie diet, routine exercise can help men and women over 50 shed extra niors do not want to learn to use new weight and keep the weight off once it's gone. According technology, many seniors are getto the CDC, older adults need at least 2 hours and 30 ting on board. Findings from the Pew minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as Research Institute show that social brisk walking, every week and muscle-strengthening ac- networking use among Internet ustivities on 2 more days a week. These muscle-strengthen- ers ages 50 to 64 grew by 88 percent ing activities should work all the major muscle groups, in- between April 2009 and May 2010. cluding the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, The research also found that the perand arms. Muscle-strengthening activities include lift- centage of those 65 and older using ing weights, working out with resistance bands, exercise social media grew from 13 percent to such as push-ups and sit-ups that use body weight for re- 26 percent during that same stretch. sistance, and yoga. Even gardening that involves digging Although young adults continue to and shoveling can be considered a muscle-strengthening be the primary users of social media, older users are gaining momentum activity. Weight gain is often an expected side effect of aging. and surpassing youth in the number But men and women don't have to gain weight as they get of new users. Individuals who are not yet utilizolder. Some simple dietary changes and a commitment to ing social media to manage their comroutine exercise is all it takes to shed weight after 50 and munication efforts may be inspired by keep that weight off once it's gone. these benefits to doing so. Photo and video sharing: The majority of photos being taken today are digital, as fewer people are making prints of their photos. Rather, they are being shared via e-mail or through social media sites. Grand-

Social Media No Longer Just Child's Play

parents can see their grandchildren in photos in real time. Also, if they've managed apps that enable video sharing, they can view and chat with relatives who live miles away, just as if they were sitting across the table. Conversations with family: In a world where families are no longer centrally located, communication may be lacking. Despite the prevalence of mobile phones, fewer and fewer people seem to pick up the phone and make calls as they once did. Instead, they're texting and updating social media posts. They're also e-mailing one another. Older adults who have no access to this technology could be left out of the mix. This is a way for seniors to stay close to family. Convenient check-ins: At times when a full-blown conversation may not be practical, having a quick method to check in with a loved one can make social media advantageous. Men and women can send a quick text to their parents to find out how they're feeling or if they need anything. Such ready access can provide some peace of mind to adults concerned about their elderly parents. Online shopping: Seniors who don't get out much or who cannot safely drive a vehicle might not be able to shop as often as they would like. Having Internet access and experience with browsing Web sites enables older men and women to shop from reputable Web sites who ship items directly to the house. With the vast array of items now sold online, anyone can have their choice of items and not be forced to settle because of their age. Improved feelings of well-being: Avoiding feelings of isolation and loneliness can benefit older men and

STAYING CONNECTED ... A quick chat with a loved one can help seniors fight off depression. women. A study by Dr. Shelia Cotten, a sociologist and associate professor from the University of Alabama, Birmingham, revealed that Internet use was associated with a 30 percent decrease in depressive symptoms among older adults who used it regularly, while other studies have shown similarly impressive results. Working the mind: Going online, chatting on social media or simply writing an e-mail works areas of the brain. Typing also helps improve manual dexterity. These factors can be beneficial for seniors looking to stay sharp. Using the Internet as a form of communication is a growing trend among the 50-plus demographic. It enables them to stay connected with family and the world in a variety of ways.

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Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

(THE VILLAGE REPORTER / THE WAUSEON REPORTER)

2013 Senior Living Guide - 3

Advice For Aging Athletes These Are Not Your Grandmother's

Retired professional athletes often speak about the difficult moment when they knew it was time to retire from professional competition. The transition can be easy for some but far more difficult for others. But aging amateur athletes know you need not be a professional to realize there comes a time when your body is telling you it's time to ease up. Athletes are used to pushing themselves and stretching their limits, but some limits are best not pushed. Such is the case with the limits posed by aging. While athletes don't have to completely fold up shop and hang up their cleats, tennis shoes or other athletic equipment as they approach senior citizen status, there are steps aging athletes can take to ensure they aren't pushing their bodies too far as they grow older. Recognize your new recovery time. Veteran athletes tend to have a sixth sense about their bodies, knowing how long they need to recover from common ailments like ankle sprains, knee pain, back pain and shin splints. Despite the body's remarkable ability for recovery, it's not immune to aging, and that recovery time will increase as the body ages. Whereas a sprained ankle might once have been as good as new after a few days or rest, aging athletes must recognize that the same ankle sprain now might require more recovery time. Returning too quickly from an injury can only make things worse for aging athletes, so don't push yourself. Take more time to warm up. As the body ages, its response time to exercise increases. This means the body needs more time to prepare itself for cardiovascular and strength training exercises. Increase your warmup time as you age, gradually increasing the intensity of your warmup exercises until your body feels ready for more strenuous exercise. Focus on flexibility. The more flexible you are, the more capable the body is of absorbing shock, including the shock that results from repetitive activities. But as the body ages, it becomes less flexible, which makes it less capable of successfully handling the repetitive movements common to exercise. Aging athletes should focus on their flexibility, stretching their muscles

Retirement Communities

As the Baby Boomer generation enters retirement age, there has been an increased demand for services that meet the needs of this segment of the population. Amenities such as active-living communities that boast top-of-the-line features typically are the first things individuals seek. There are many choices with regard to active adult retirement communities. Many of these developments boast everything from detached, single-family homes to villas to condominiums. These residences are built with the active adult in mind. Here are some of the benefits that these communities boast. COMMUNITY COMPANIONSHIP Due to the age-restricted nature of active-adult-home-developments, the residents are all in a similar age range, and may have similar interests. At a time in life A COMPETITIVE EDGE ... Adding years when friendships from work may waver OFFERING MORE ... An active lifestyle is does not mean you need to give up sports. due to retirement, and older children may at the heart of 55-plus communities. be busy with their own lives, these combefore and after a workout. In addition, ac- munities can help foster new friendships. SECURITY tivities such as yoga can work wonders on Individuals who are no longer bogged LOW- OR NO-MAINTENANCE LIVING improving flexibility for young and aging down with work requirements may be One of the biggest attractions to active- more likely to take vacations or go visiting. athletes alike. Don't stop strength training. Some adult living is that these homes are built In a traditional home, there may be woraging athletes mistakenly feel they should to provide worry-free living. Included in ries about leaving the home unattended stop strength training as they get older. No the home ownership fees are provisions to for a period of time. However, in 55-plus longer concerned about building muscle, take care of much of the interior and ex- residences, homes may be in gated comaging athletes might feel as if they have terior maintenance. That means should a munities or have security patrols. nothing to gain by lifting weights and con- pipe leak or the lawn needs mowing, maintinuing to perform other muscle strength- tenance staff rather than the homeowner CONCIERGE SERVICES ening exercises. But the body gradually will handle the problem. Some of the more exclusive communiloses muscle mass as it ages, and that ties may have staff who can help with evACTIVITY-BASED FUN loss puts the joints under greater stress erything from booking vacations to helping Many communities build activities into with moving details. There also are develwhen aging athletes perform other exercises. That stress can put people at greater the living plan. Therefore, there may be a opments that offer transitional homes, and risk for arthritis, tendinitis and ligament workout room, the game center, exercise someone may be available to help with the sprains. While you no longer need to max classes, movie nights, and many other at- transition from an active-style home to out on the bench press or challenge your- tractions to keep residents busy. Active- one that has nursing staff or assisted livself on the biceps curl, it is important to adult communities may be similar to all- ing offerings at that time in life when it is continue to make strength training a part inclusive vacations and cruises in that needed. they have their own activities coordinator of your fitness regimen as you age. Active-living communities offer many Aging athletes need not associate ag- on staff. Should residents prefer solo ac- of the features that recently retired people ing with ceasing their athletic pursuits. tivities, the property on which these homes seek in homes that do not compromise on But recognizing your limitations and the are built are often created with recreation amenities. Individuals who are looking for changes your body is going through is an in mind. There can be walking paths or ar- comfortable, maintenance-free homes ofimportant element of staying healthy as eas for cycling. Pools and spas are often ten seek out these developments for the part of the living package as well. your approach older adulthood. convenience and services they offer.

How To Reduce Your Risk For Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease affects millions of people across the globe. In the United States alone, the Alzheimer's Association estimates one in eight older men and women has the disease, which is the sixth-leading cause of death in the country. Few families have not been affected by Alzheimer's disease, and many relatives of those with the disease fully understand the role family history can play. Research into the disease is ongoing, and it's already yielded valuable information that may help reduce the prevalence of this devastating disease in the years to come. One byproduct of researchers' efforts is the discovery that it may be possible to prevent or delay the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease through the implementation of a combination of healthy lifestyle choices. The following are a few healthy habits that may help men and women reduce their risk for Alzheimer's. Exercise regularly. A study conducted by Scottish researchers and published in the journal Neurology in 2012 touted exercise as the most effective way for adults to protect their brains from Alzheimer's disease. Researchers examined roughly 700 70-year-old participants, all of whom were born in 1936, who were asked to report their levels of physical activity. Each participant then received an MRI at age 73. Those tests revealed that the participants who were more physically active showed less brain shrinkage and fewer white matter lesions, both of which are indicators of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, the Alzheimer's Research & Prevention Foundation reports that physical exercise reduces a person's risk of developing Alzheimer's by 50 percent and can even slow further deterioration in those who have already begun to develop the cognitive problems associated with Alzheimer's. Researchers continue to study the relationship between physical activity and the development of Alzheimer's diseases, but the evidence is mounting that regular exercise, regardless of a person's age, is a great way to reduce risk for Alzheimer's. Eat healthy. What you put into your body may also reduce your risk for Alzheimer's disease. The brain operates at its best when it is fueled with a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein. A heart-healthy diet is also brain-healthy, and researchers have found a potential link between heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. Researcher Larry Sparks of the Sun Health Research Institute in Arizona and formerly of the Kentucky medical examiner's office studied brain tissues with a goal of finding early signs of Alzheimer's disease. He discovered that those who had the telltale plaques of Alzheimer's disease also had heart disease, suggesting heart disease may be a forerunner of brain diseases like Alzheimer's. The Alzheimer's Association feels this link between the two will only grow stronger in the years to come, suggesting that a heart-healthy diet that reduces a person's risk of heart

STAY ACTIVE ... Staying physically active as you age can prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. disease may also reduce the risk for Alzheimer's down the road. More information on a heart-healthy diet is available at www.heart.org. Stimulate yourself mentally. Mental stimulation can help the brain stay sharp, and men and women who find ways to stay mentally stimulated can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer's. Embrace activities that require communication and interaction with others, and find time for additional tasks that can stimulate your brain. These may include studying a foreign language, reading, trying your hand at mentally stimulating puzzles such as crosswords or Sudoku, and other activities that emphasize organization. Such activities are essentially workouts for your brain that can help it stay sharp as you age. Remain socially active. Staying socially active into older adulthood is important for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that research has indicated the brain functions better when men and women are not isolated from others. Memory and cognition are stronger when people remain socially active and engaged in their society, so retirees should look for ways to revive their social lives as a means to protecting their brains from the onset of Alzheimer's or dementia. Alzheimer's disease remains an enigma in many ways. But ongoing research continues to show that men and women can take measures to actively prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and improve their quality of life as a result.

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4 - Senior Living Guide 2013

(THE VILLAGE REPORTER / THE WAUSEON REPORTER)

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

Older Drivers Have To Reassess Abilities For Safety

For many older drivers, driving is more than getting from point A to point B. Getting behind the wheel allows older drivers to remain independent as well as mobile. But as a person ages, his or her risk of injury on the road increases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older adults and their family members need to make plans for handing dwindling skills behind the wheel and the point in time when it is no longer safe for a loved one to continue driving. In rural and suburban communities, driving is a necessity for independent living. With limited resources available for older individuals to get around, seniors may hold onto the notion of driving longer than is safe and practical. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that in 2009 alone, 5,288 people age 65 and older were killed and 187,000 were injured in traffic accidents. Older people are involved in around 15 percent of all traffic accidents in a typical year. Getting older doesn't mean it's time for you or a loved one to turn in your license just yet. There are ways people can come together to make the driving experience go smoothly, and it often begins with an honest conversation. Let a loved one know you are on his or her side. Make sure the first topic of conversation is that it is not your intention to take away the keys of the car. Indicate that you want to work together to help keep this person behind the wheel as long as possible. Being open and honest about intentions may eliminate arguments or animosity. Figure out safe ways to keep your loved one driving. This may include identifying a new car with upgraded safety features, such as brighter headlights, a back-up camera and a better safety record. Enroll together in a driving safety course to brush up on driving skills. Go for a "test drive." Family members can ride along with an older driver to get a better sense of his or her ability behind the wheel. If drivers have too many close calls, frequently get lost in familiar places, exhibit slower response times or are easily distracted, this should be a wake-up call and the loved one should intervene. Schedule a vision and hearing exam. Driving abilities can be affected by poor vision and hearing, both common side effects of getting older. Getting a senior a new eyeglass prescription or a better hearing aid may make all the difference in his or her driving ability. Review prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. Many seniors take a bevy of different medications, and the side effects to these drugs could impact their driving abilities. If medications cause drowsiness or dizziness, speak with your loved one's physician about a possible alternative treatment that might make driving safer. Be honest. If an older driver is no longer safe behind the wheel of their automobile, it is important to involve other family members and make a joint decision to remove driving privileges. Have other solutions available, such as senior busing or courtesy vans, so your loved one doesn't feel he or she will be confined to the house. Driving is a sensitive subject for older drivers who see being able to get behind the wheel as an opportunity to maintain their independence. But individuals need to be honest with themselves to remain safe on the road.

KEEPING THEM SAFE ... Regular driving assessments can help keep aging loved ones safe.

Helping To Adapt To A Nursing Home Are Expired Medications

Many older men and women find the transition to a nursing home somewhat difficult. Men and women tend to see a move to a nursing home as a step toward surrendering their independence, and this can be a difficult hurdle for seniors and their loved ones to overcome. Adding to the difficulty is the fact that many men and women move into nursing homes because their physical or mental status requires the help of a professional nursing staff, leaving family members with little to no recourse when aging relatives protest the move. But there are ways to ease a loved one's transition into a nursing home. Keep a positive attitude. The stress of moving an aging relative into a nursing home can be significant for all parties involved. But focusing on the positives of nursing homes, such as around-the-clock care and daily activities, can help aging relatives look at nursing homes in a new light. In addition, family members who familiarize themselves with nursing homes will begin to see they are often great places for aging men and women to socialize with others their age while receiving the care and attention they need. When discussing the move to a nursing home, focus on these positives and your relative will be more likely to follow your lead. Choose a nursing home that's close to home. One of the more difficult parts of transitioning to a nursing home is the notion that men and women are leaving their lives behind once they move into a home. Choosing a nursing home that's close to home and makes routine visits from friends and relatives possible enables men and women maintain a connection to their current lifestyle. A home that is miles and miles away from a person's support system can foster feelings of isolation and loneliness. Plan trips with your loved one. Just because an aging relative lives

Still Safe To Take?

REGULAR VISITS ... When moving a relative into a nursing home, find a facility that's close to home so men and women can still enjoy regular contact with friends and relatives. in a nursing home does not mean he or she can no longer travel. If a relative is healthy enough to travel, include them on family trips and outings. This includes more routine events like weekly Sunday dinners, kids' sporting events and other extracurricular activities. The more involved your aging relative are in the daily life of your family, the more likely they are to see the advantages of living in a nursing home. Encourage your loved ones to take some personal items with them. When moving into a nursing home, men and women must leave behind many of their possessions. This is a simple space issue, as the rooms in a typical nursing home cannot accommodate a life's worth of keepsakes and possessions. But that doesn't mean men and women have to leave everything behind. Encourage your loved one to bring along some possessions, such as his or her family photos, a favorite chair or smaller mementos from places he or she visited throughout his or her life. Such items can make a nursing home seem less antiseptic and more like a home. Set up an e-mail account for your loved one. If your loved one still has his or her mental health, then set him or her up with an e-mail account. This allows your loved one to maintain daily contact with family and friends. Many of today's nursing homes provide facilities where residents can access the Internet. If not, speak to the staff and ask if your relative can bring his or her own computer. If your relative will be able to routinely access the Internet, consider purchasing a digital subscription to the local newspaper so he or she can further maintain a connection to the community.

It is 2 a.m. and that cough and stuffy nose you have been battling is still keeping you up. You reach for the nighttime cold relief medicine only to find it expired a few months ago. If you take a dose to ease your symptoms, will you be putting yourself at risk? This situation is a relatively common occurrence. Many medicine cabinets are stocked with over-the-counter drugs as well as prescription medications that may be past their expiration dates. It is a good idea to routinely discard expired medicines, but if you happen to take a drug that has passed its expiration date, you will most likely suffer no ill effects. According to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide, the expiration date on a medicine is not the dates when a drug becomes hazardous. Rather, it marks the period of time after which a drug company can no longer guarantee the efficacy of the medication. Since 1979, drug manufacturers selling medications in the United States have been required by the Food and Drug Administration to stamp an expiration date on their products. This is the date until which the manufacturer can still guarantee full potency of the drug. Expiration dates also may be a marketing ploy. Francis Flaherty, a retired FDA pharmacist, has said drug manufacturers put expiration dates on products for marketing purposes rather than scientific reasons. It doesn't make financial sense to a company to have products on the shelves for years. Therefore, most drug manufacturers will not do long-term testing on products to confirm if they will be effective 10 to 15 years after manufacture. The U.S. military has conducted their own studies with the help of the FDA. FDA researchers tested more than 100 over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Around 90 percent were proven to still be effective long past the expiration date -- some for more than 10 years. Drugs that are stored in cool, dark places have a better chance of lasting because the fillers used in the product will not separate or start to break down as they might in a warm, humid environment. Storing medicines in the refrigerator can prolong their shelf life. Although a pharmacist cannot legally advise consumers to use medication past an expiration date, most overthe-counter pain relievers and drugs in pill form should still be fine. Certain liquid antibiotics and drugs made up of organic materials can expire faster than others. For those who still want to err on the safe side, routinely clean out medications from cabinets once they expire. However, if an expired medication is taken by mistake, there's little need to worry about potentially adverse effects.

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2013 Senior Living Guide - 5

Travel Ideas For Active Seniors

in one. With the myriad activities offered on board, cruises are a versatile vacation option for seniors. Also, there is no need to worry about traveling far for meals and other entertainment options, as everything is self-contained on the cruise ship. For more active seniors who enjoy the daily getaway, excursions in ports of call can provide the variety desired. Guided tours: Seniors who want to experience a piece of history can sign up for tour packages backed by reputable companies. The tours may involve train or bus travel, and various attractions will be visited. At the end of the tour, individuals can choose to extend the vacation by checking into a hotel nearby. RV trips: Another self-contained KEEP TRACK ... Empty nesters can track their monthly expenses, including vacation that is entirely up to the people how much they spend on dining out, to ensure they aren't overspending as traveling is vacationing by recreational they inch closer to retirement. vehicle. Seniors can customize their routes depending on which areas they Those who have said goodbye to other more placid activities that would want to see. Companies like Cruise the work-a-day grind now have many appeal to those who prefer to keep America RV enable people to rent an hours to settle down and relax. People their feet firmly on the ground rather RV so they needn't worry about the exwho have continually put off vacations than looping through the air on a rock- pense of buying one outright. However, in lieu of work responsibilities may et-propelled coaster. With animal pre- should RV traveling become addictive, now have all the time they need to ex- serves, water parks, fine dining, and there always is the option of buying a plore the world. a bevy of hotels either in the park or camper later on. Setting an itinerary Traveling for seniors can be re- directly on the outskirts, theme parks and then establishing the pace enables warding and relaxing. Those with a provide many activities for older trav- travelers to tour the country or cross substantial retirement nest egg have elers. Although theme parks require the border as desired. From beaches numerous destinations at their dis- a lot of walking, many provide wheel- to national parks, many areas offer RV posal. Mature vacationers travel more chairs or motorized scooters for those hook-up areas and amenities. Exotic tour: Seniors who were frequently and stay longer than any who need to get off of their feet. They other age group. Travel ranks among also make a great option for seniors never able to afford or spare the time the top leisure activities for men and who will be traveling with the entire for an extensive vacation may now want to visit those exotic locations that women over 50, according to the Web family, including children. site Suddenly Senior. Beach resorts: Provided flying is have beckoned for years. Now could Seniors can find several travel ad- medically safe, a beachside vacation be the time to book a ticket for Euvantages at their disposal. Also, thanks can be the ideal trip for seniors looking rope and visit all of the cities that have to special senior discounts, travel may for the utmost in relaxation. For those made the history books. Those looking be even more affordable than first ex- who have passports, the possibilities for even more adventure can travel to pected. are endless. Those who prefer to re- the South Pacific and explore tropical While certain destinations are not main on relatively domestic soil can islands. Others may want to go "down always practical for certain age brack- retreat to Puerto Rico, south Florida, under" and experience the rugged Outets, there are many places to which se- the California coast, Hawaii, and the back or the culture of Australian city centers. niors can visit comfortably and enjoy a U.S. Virgin Islands. With a bevy of free time and fewer wealth of memories. Cruising: Cruising is a preferred Theme parks: Although theme vacation choice for the 50+ set because restrictions holding them back, separks may seem carved out entirely for it offers the convenience of an all-in- niors could be ready for the next great the adventure-seekers, there are many clusive package and transportation all travel adventure

Get To Know Cataracts & Their Risk Factors

As men and women age, they can experience certain physical changes and health challenges. Vision impairment is one condition that many associate with aging, and cataracts are a primary concern for those of middleage and older. Today, more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts. According to the National Eye Institute, by age 80, more than half of all Americans will either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Cataract is clouding of the eye's lens that blocks or changes the passage of light into the eye. Normally the lens is clear, which allows light to pass through to the back of the eye, so that a person can see well-defined images. If a cataract forms and the lens becomes covered in an opaque film, light cannot pass through easily. The result will be fuzzy vision, almost like looking through a fogged-up window. If cataracts are not treated, an individual may eventually lose most of his or her vision. One or both eyes can be affected by cataracts. In the case of both eyes being compromised, one eye is usually worse than the other. The primary risk factor for developing cataracts is age. The older a person is, the greater their risk. However, there are several other risk factors as well. Intense heat or long-term exposure to UV rays from the sun Certain diseases, such as diabetes Obesity High blood pressure Inflammation in the eye Hereditary influences Long-term steroid use Eye injuries Other eye diseases Smoking Prevent Blindness America provides free information to the public on everything from cataract basics to tips on what to expect from cataract surgery. Visit preventblindness.org/cataract or call its toll free number at (800) 331-2020. And, as part of its new Healthy Eyes Educational Series, PBA offers a specific online module on cataracts, including a Power Point presentation and guide. The organization shares this information about cataracts: Early symptoms of a cataract may include cloudy or blurry vision. Lights may cause a glare, seem too dim or seem too bright. Sufferers may also find it difficult to read or drive, especially at night. Individuals may have to change their eyeglass prescriptions often. There are no medications or other treatment options besides surgery to correct cataracts. In the United States, cataract surgery has a 95 percent success rate, and patients often have 20/20 or 20/40 vision postsurgery. Cataract surgery is also the most frequently performed surgery, often performed as an outpatient procedure. In Canada, where, according to Statistics Canada, seniors will make up 21 percent of the population by 2026, cataract surgery is also frequent and well tolerated. Approximately 250,000 cataract surgeries take place in Canada each year, according to The National Coalition for Vision Health. It is widely recommended to get regular eye exams to check for cataracts early on. "By getting a complete, dilated eye exam, your doctor can discuss with you the best strategy to protect your vision well into the future," said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. "We encourage everyone, especially those ages 40 and older, to make their vision a priority by scheduling an eye appointment today."

What's Next After Retirement? Explaining Elder Abuse

Each year thousands of senior citizens are exploited, abused or neglected. Elder abuse is something widely recognized by courts, and there is legislature passed in all 50 states to protect against elder abuse. In terms of what constitutes elder abuse, here are offenses that are broadly defined as abuse and may be punishable. Sexual abuse: Nonconsensual sexual contact. Physical abuse: Pain or injury caused to a senior, including injury from restraining by physical or chemical means. Exploitation: Illegal use or concealment of funds/ property/assets of a senior used for someone else's benefit. Neglect: The failure to provide necessary resources, such as food, shelter, health care, etc. for an elder. GETTING OUT ... meeting with friends and enjoying hob Abandonment: Failure to perform assumed responbies banish boredom associated with retirement. sibilities by a person who promised care or custody of a vulnerable elder. Scores of people spend to the list you've never done their working days dream- before, which can boost ing of the moment they are feelings of excitement. eligible for retirement. They Meet with people. Part may have retirement count- of what makes work fulfilled down to the minutes ing is the opportunity to get and seconds, particularly out of the house and interif they've been in a job that act with others who are not hasn't been the most enjoy- members of your family. able. But many people find Realize it's alright not that once they retire they to love retirement. Just do not know what to do to because the grass seemed fill their time. Boredom ac- greener in someone else's tually may be a side effect yard, doesn't mean it alof retirement, and some ways turns out to be that people actually want to go way. It is OK to accept that back to work. maybe retirement isn't enTree Removal / Trimming / Stump Grinding Much of the focus when tirely what you expected planning for retirement and to make changes that Fully Insured - Free Estimates concerns finances. All oth- can enable the experience Call 419-237-7078 for your free estimate er factors take a backseat. to be better. Therefore, there may be emotional issues that arise during retirement, and retirees are not always prepared to deal with such issues. Having a post-retirement plan in place can mean the difference between happiness and having a hard time adjusting. Here are some tips that can help anyone ease into the golden years. Establish goals. After working for years, the idea of setting goals can seem counterintuitive. But goals can give life direction and have you looking forward to things in the future. Donate time or money. Giving back to others, whether to the community or to a charitable organization, can feel good and give retirees some structure. Volunteering your time at a place can give life some sort of purpose outside of a job. Start a home-based business. Just because you retire doesn't mean you have to fully retire. Now may be the opportunity to start a business venture you have always dreamed about. Try new things. Part of goal-setting is to add things

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6 - Senior Living Guide 2013

(THE VILLAGE REPORTER / THE WAUSEON REPORTER)

Wednesday, May 15th, 2013

Avoid Overspending As Retirement Nears Safeguarding A Home

When the nest is empty and the kids no longer need financial support, many men and women find themselves with some extra money in their budget. Fewer mouths to feed and no more college tuition bills can give parents a sense of financial freedom they may not have had since before starting their family. But that freedom can also lead to overspending, something that can put retirement in jeopardy if people are not careful. Though it's understandable for men and women to splurge on a well-deserved getaway once the kids have finally left the house, it's important for adults to ensure that such splurging does not become routine. The following are a few ways men and women with some newfound disposable income can avoid overspending and putting themselves in financial hot water as they get closer to retirement. Pay with cash whenever possible. Swiping a debit card or credit card is certainly a convenient way to shop, but it can also be dangerous. Many people find it difficult to keep track of their spending when they use debit cards or credit cards to make their purchases. Using cash to make purchases, especially daily purchases like a morning cup of coffee, reduces the likelihood of overspending. This can help you get a better idea of how much money you're spending and if there are any steps you can take to curtail that spending. An effective way to use cash is to withdraw money from the bank once per week and use that as your weekly supply of money. If you find yourself frequently running out of money each week, then you're likely spending more than you should. Keep a financial journal. Men and women who must adapt to having newfound disposable income may find it is not much different from younger men and women learning to manage their money when they first start working. Some of those lessons, like saving more than you spend, might need to be relearned. One way to get a grip on your spending is to keep a financial journal to track your daily and monthly expenses as well as larger purchases like a new television. Write down the monthly expenses you know you have each month, such as a mortgage payment or a car note, and each and every purchase you make, including how much you spend on dining out each month. Do this for at least a couple of months. When you have logged several months' activity, examine your journal to see if there are any expenses that can be trimmed

For An Elderly Relative

More and more elderly residents are moving in with their adult children, the still-struggling economy has likely played a significant role. Elderly men and women who lost retirement savings as the market tumbled can no longer afford the costly expense of an assisted living facility, causing many of those people to move in with their children. For adult children welcoming a parent or an in-law into their home, a common priority is to ensure the home is safe for an elderly resident. Some safety measures might be easier to plan than others, but the following guidelines should help adults prepare their homes for the arrival of an elderly housemate. REDUCE RISK OF INJURY IN THE BATHROOM Perhaps no room can be more difficult or seniors to navigate than the bathroom. Wet tiled floors can greatly increase the risk of falling, so make sure to have bathroom rugs that are slip-resistant. Another step to secure the bathroom is to install grab bars on the walls, including in the bathtub and next to to save money. Don't go overboard rewarding yourself. Once your last the toilet. As for the bathtub, be sure to place a non-skid mat or child has left the nest, the temptation to reward yourself with a luxury item or two might prove overwhelming. After all, strips on the standing area. This can help secure arguraising a family and paying for college tuition has no doubt ably the riskiest part of a home. required substantial sacrifice on your part, so it's well within reason that you want to reward yourself after all these KEEP THE HOME ILLUMINATED years. Avoid overdoing it so your finances aren't stretched Nightlights should be used in hallways and along the too thinly. A vacation with your spouse is reasonable, but staircase as well as in the bathroom and the kitchen. buying a villa overseas might be a little over the top. Luxuries can be nice, but they can also drain a budget. Your monthly CLEAR OUT THE CLUTTER expenses once the kids have moved out should be lower, so if A cluttered home is a fire hazard regardless of whom is you find your cost of living has increased now that your nest living inside. However, a cluttered home is also a considis empty, you might be forced to determine which of your ex- erable safety risk for seniors. . penses are luxuries and which are necessities. The above are just a few of the many steps homeown Take advantage of your "experience." Though accepting ers can take to make their homes safer for elderly guests. a "senior" discount might be a blow to your pride, it also can be a boon to your bottom line. Many establishments, including gyms, restaurants and movie theaters, offer discounts to men and women age 55 and older. This can help you save a substantial amount of money over time, and no one has to know you've started cashing in on your experience. KEEP TRACK ... Empty nesters can track their monthly expenses, including how much they spend on dining out, to ensure they aren't overspending as they inch closer to retirement.

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Serious Warning Sign Of Stroke Baby Boomers Influential

A transient ischemic attack, often referred to as a "mini stroke," is an event that's similar to a stroke. When a person has a TIA, the symptoms are just like those of a stroke, but they last less than 24 hours before disappearing. However, that disappearance does not mean a person is in the clear, as a TIA is a serious warning sign of stroke. In fact, 10 to 15 percent of people who have a TIA will have a stroke within three months. Symptoms of a TIA are sudden and may include confusion; difficulty speaking or understanding; numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; vision trouble in one orboth eyes; trouble walking; dizziness; and/or loss of balance or coordination. Interrupted blood flow to the brain is often behind a TIA. A lack of blood and oxygen in the brain often leads to the temporary symptoms described above. Should you or a loved one exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms, seek medical help immediately, even if the symptoms feel or appear as if they are subsiding. A quick response might just prevent a full-on stroke. The Baby Boomer generation is one of the most influential demographics in the world today. Boomers represent roughly 28 percent of the total population of the United States, according to "Baby Boomer" magazine, and this means they are the largest generational segment as well as the single largest economic group in the United States. They hold 70 percent of the U.S. wealth and are expected to inherit millions of dollars over the course of the next 20 years. Baby boomers comprise a population of adults who were born between 1946 and 1964. That makes boomers people who are between 49 and 67 years old. Many of these baby boomers have grown to be household names and influential individuals in all areas of business. Actor Brad Pitt, President Barack Obama, Director Peter Jackson, singer k.d. lang and business mogul Donald Trump all belong to the baby boomer generation. Baby boomers have been known to have an unprecedented impact on American culture, society and the economy, and that influence is bound to continue.

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