PAGE 8

PAGE 9

Veterans DayMemoriesLocalveterancouplerecountschancemeetingduringWWII

November 2011 • Vol. 4, Issue 7 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Inside...APerfect SideChef Diane’s Marsala Carrots makea great Thanksgiving side dish.

Pg. 4

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

MemoryMedicBenefits of exercise in combatingmemory loss

Pg. 2

50plus is a monthly publication ofBryan-College StationCommunications Inc.1729 Briarcrest Drive

Bryan, Texas

PUBLISHERJim Wilson

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITORBilly Mau

billy.mau@theeagle.comDISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER

Joanne R. Patranellajoanne.patranella@theeagle.com

SPECIAL PROJECTS/MARKETINGCOORDINATORDawn Goodall

dawn.goodall@theeagle.comFor more information on 50plus advertising

opportunities, call the AdvertisingDepartment at 979-731-4738

Chef Diane: Marsala Carrots 4Financial Literacy: Tax Tips 5Bradway: Constipation in Older Women 6Health Matters 6Calendar 14MoneyMatters 15

CONTENTS

Calendar eventsDo you have an event you’d like on the 50plus calendar? Email it tobilly.mau@theeagle.com (subject line:50plus calendar) or fax it to979-774-0053 (attn Billy Mau). Calendar space is first-come-first-served.

Did you know thatinfections can cause memoryloss? Or that exercise mightprevent such memory loss?The old saying, “an ounceof prevention is worth apound of cure” takes on newmeaning when it comes to thelatest study on the value ofexercise.

I have written beforeon the clear importanceof aerobic exercise for theelderly. The problem withsuch good advice is taking it.The older one gets, the lessthe inclination to exercisevigorously.

Now, new researchsuggests some good news.Maybe we don’t need a wholelot of aerobic exercise to getits benefit. That is good newsbecause the best aerobicexercise involves jogging,which is hard on arthriticjoints, or swimming laps,where lap pools may not beavailable.

A research lab at theUniversity of Colorado hasshown that infections can

cause brain inflammationin rats and are a cause ofan associated long-termmemory loss. Moreover, thememory loss is much greaterin infected older rats thanin younger ones. This lab’srecent study was done inlate middle-aged rats that

were testedfor memoryafter abacterialinfection.Rats wereinfectedwith E. colibacteria,a common

infection in humans. Studiesby others had establishedthat bacterial infectionscause the immune cells ofthe brain, called microglia,to become more reactive withage and release more of theinflammatory molecules.This inflammatory responseis exaggerated and prolongedin older animals.

In the current study, theresearchers allowed rats

unlimited access to a runningwheel in order to see ifaerobic exercise could reducethe brain inflammatoryresponse to E. coli infection.A standard way to exerciserats is to give them access toa running wheel, which theyregard as fun to use. Old rats,not surprisingly, weren’t tookeen on running, but theydid run an average of 0.7km per week. This is a smallamount of exercise comparedwith young rats, but it wassufficient to completelyreverse infection-inducedimpairments in long-termmemory compared withsedentary animals. Whenrats were examined afterdeath, the brains of exercisedolder rats did not show theactivation of microglia andbrain inflammation.

As a practical matter forhumans, this study suggeststhat maybe just a little

Dr. BiLL KLeMMthe memory meDiC

A little exercise can go a longway in helping your brain

SeeMemoryMedicpage 13

2

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

First PresbyterianChurchBryan,Texas

Sunday Church School - 9:30amSunday Worship Services - 10:45am

1100 Carter Creek Pkwy • 979-823-8073www.fpcbryan.org

3

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

50plus is a monthly publication ofBryan-College StationCommunications Inc.1729 Briarcrest Drive

Bryan, Texas

PUBLISHERJim Wilson

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITORBilly Mau

billy.mau@theeagle.comDISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER

Joanne R. Patranellajoanne.patranella@theeagle.com

SPECIAL PROJECTS/MARKETINGCOORDINATORDawn Goodall

dawn.goodall@theeagle.comFor more information on 50plus advertising

opportunities, call the AdvertisingDepartment at 979-731-4738

Chef Diane: Marsala Carrots 4Financial Literacy: Tax Tips 5Bradway: Constipation in Older Women 6Health Matters 6Calendar 14MoneyMatters 15

CONTENTS

Calendar eventsDo you have an event you’d like on the 50plus calendar? Email it tobilly.mau@theeagle.com (subject line:50plus calendar) or fax it to979-774-0053 (attn Billy Mau). Calendar space is first-come-first-served.

Did you know thatinfections can cause memoryloss? Or that exercise mightprevent such memory loss?The old saying, “an ounceof prevention is worth apound of cure” takes on newmeaning when it comes to thelatest study on the value ofexercise.

I have written beforeon the clear importanceof aerobic exercise for theelderly. The problem withsuch good advice is taking it.The older one gets, the lessthe inclination to exercisevigorously.

Now, new researchsuggests some good news.Maybe we don’t need a wholelot of aerobic exercise to getits benefit. That is good newsbecause the best aerobicexercise involves jogging,which is hard on arthriticjoints, or swimming laps,where lap pools may not beavailable.

A research lab at theUniversity of Colorado hasshown that infections can

cause brain inflammationin rats and are a cause ofan associated long-termmemory loss. Moreover, thememory loss is much greaterin infected older rats thanin younger ones. This lab’srecent study was done inlate middle-aged rats that

were testedfor memoryafter abacterialinfection.Rats wereinfectedwith E. colibacteria,a common

infection in humans. Studiesby others had establishedthat bacterial infectionscause the immune cells ofthe brain, called microglia,to become more reactive withage and release more of theinflammatory molecules.This inflammatory responseis exaggerated and prolongedin older animals.

In the current study, theresearchers allowed rats

unlimited access to a runningwheel in order to see ifaerobic exercise could reducethe brain inflammatoryresponse to E. coli infection.A standard way to exerciserats is to give them access toa running wheel, which theyregard as fun to use. Old rats,not surprisingly, weren’t tookeen on running, but theydid run an average of 0.7km per week. This is a smallamount of exercise comparedwith young rats, but it wassufficient to completelyreverse infection-inducedimpairments in long-termmemory compared withsedentary animals. Whenrats were examined afterdeath, the brains of exercisedolder rats did not show theactivation of microglia andbrain inflammation.

As a practical matter forhumans, this study suggeststhat maybe just a little

Dr. BiLL KLeMMthe memory meDiC

A little exercise can go a longway in helping your brain

SeeMemoryMedicpage 13

2

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

DADSLicense #102654

AHeartfelt Choice

For the last 20 years, JEA Senior Living has been doing what we dobest, and that is taking care of seniors. AtHudson Creek we specializein Alzheimer andDementia care, and we pride ourselves in providingoutstanding care in a warm homelike environment. Our hope is that

you will recognize our commitment through our quality of care.

• Pre-admission home visit and assessment.• Licensed nurse on site 24 hours a day.• Specially trained staff assist with all aspects of care

while maximizing and encouraging independence.• A fully supervised, success-oriented activities

program offered everyday.• Regularly scheduled social events with family

involvement welcomed.• Three nutritious meals served daily, with snacks

available throughout the day.• Supervised outings to nearby points of interest.• Furnished linens and routine housekeeping.• Comfortable, attractively decorated living rooms,

activity rooms and private conversation areas.• Cable TV and fireplace in living rooms.• Beautifully landscaped secured courtyard with

walking areas.• Individualized service plans.• Electronically monitored security system.• TV and phone outlets in all resident rooms.• Support groups, educational programs

and referral services.

Life at Hudson Creek offers these amenities for onemonthly fee:

• Supervised outings to nearby points of interest.• Furnished linens and routine housekeeping.• Comfortable, attractively decorated living rooms, • Comfortable, attractively decorated living rooms,

activity rooms and private conversation areas.activity rooms and private conversation areas.

• Beautifully landscaped secured courtyard with • Beautifully landscaped secured courtyard with

• Electronically monitored security system.• TV and phone outlets in all resident rooms.• TV and phone outlets in all resident rooms.

Call Todayfor More Information

and toSchedule a Tour!

Accepting Residents!

• Support groups, educational programs and referral services.

Schedule a Tour!

3850 Coppercrest Drive • Bryan, TX979-774-0700 • www.jeaseniorliving.com

This savory carrot dishis typical of Italian homecooking – basic ingredients,simply prepared, turned into anoutstanding dish. I thought itwould be a great Thanksgiving

side dish.It’s alwaysa challengeto find goodcarrot recipesthat are nottoo sweet,and this onefits the bill.Marsala isa fortifiedItalian wineand comes inboth sweet

and dry. It will keep for monthsin the refrigerator; however youcould substitute either white wineor white grape juice (for a non-alcoholic version). Dependingon your football alliance youcould use either maroon or orangecarrots.

Marsala Carrots with Sage

• 1 to 2 tablespoons extra-virginolive oil

• 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled andcut diagonally into 1 1/2 inch pieces

• 1/4 medium onion, cut into longslivers

• 10 fresh sage leaves, large• 1/2 cup dry Marsala• 1/2 cup chicken broth• Salt and freshly ground black

pepper1. Heat the oil in a 12-inch

skillet over medium-high heat.Add sage leaves for a minuteor two until quickly crisp andremove. Add carrots and onionsand sauté about 10 minutes tobrown the onion. Season with saltand pepper as vegetables cook.Pour in the marsala and broth,adjusting heat to gentle simmer.Cover and cook 15 minutes oruntil carrots are tender.

2. Before serving, uncoverand simmer off any liquid,leaving only enough to cloak thecarrots in a moist glaze. Taste forseasoning, sprinkle with sage andserve.

Diane Lestina, a certified personalchef, holds cooking classes andcooks for residents in the Bryan-College Station area. To learnmore, visitwww.chefdiane.com

Diane LestinaCook it Simple

www.ChefDiane.Com

Enjoy Italian home cooking with carrot dish

Good carrot dishes can be hard to come by, but this one uses Marsala and sage to providea balance to the sweetness of the carrots. Add this to theThanksgiving menu.

4

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

FREE90-Day Trial

on alldigital hearing devices

And FREE Batteries for Life!

Ronny Baker B.S.,A.C.A.2805 Earl Rudder Freeway S.

College Station • 979.680.8808centraltexasent.com

2010 BusinessPerformance Award

Over 30 Years Experience Caring for the Hearing Needs of the Brazos Valley

“It’s not fair!” Every week I hearthis from a divorce client about someobscure gotcha rule that affects theirdivorce settlement outcome. They arelucky. They’re getting hit upside thehead only during a once-in-a-lifetimedivorce. You, my dear reader, are notso lucky. IRS gotcha rules can hit youupside the head each and every year,if you’re not careful. And those ruleskeep changing.

I recently interviewed DillardLeverkuhn, a Bryan CPA and partnerwith Thompson, Derrig & Craig, PC(www.tdccpa.com) about the mostvexing tax issues he sees. To assistyou in your tax planning before year-end, I give you just a few of his tips.

Foreign Bank AccountsThis one is becoming so big

that Dillard’s firm has moved it tothe first question on their clienttax organizer questionnaire. Mostfinancial advisors and their clientsassume that filing a tax return witha foreign country means that foreignaccount holders aren’t required to fileanything with their US tax return.Not true.

If you have a foreign bank accountand you have never filed a Report ofForeign Bank and Financial AccountsForm TDF 90-22.1, you may need toseek professional advice. If you own

foreign account(s) and the aggregatevalue (converted to US dollars) of allforeign accounts is $10,000 on any dayduring the year, you must file this IRSform for that year.

Failure to file has cost some localcitizens between tens of thousandsto hundreds of thousands of dollarsin additional tax and penalties fornot filing the report, plus regular

penalties, plusinteres,t plus CPAfees, plus attorneyfees. Yes, attorneyfees. Failure tofile this form hasbecome a seriousproblem.

For 2011, youneed to file thisform by June 30,2012. No extension.Dillard has had

to go back six years and re-file taxreturns for clients. This is three yearsmore than the statute of limitations.

WhenTax Exempt Interest Is NotTax Exempt

Many folks invest in tax-exemptbonds to avoid income taxes. If yourbonds are specified private activitybonds, your tax-exempt interest mightsuddenly become taxable. It is addedback into your Alternative Minimum

Tax (AMT) calculation.You can see whether your bond is a

private activity bond by checking theForm 1099. You may want to checkwith your investment advisor aboutrepositioning your bond investmentsif your advisor is not aware that youare subject to AMT. If you are pickingyour own investments and preparingyour own tax returns, you areparticularly at risk for this gotcha.

Losing Out on a DeductionDillard has seen a trend among

clients who previously prepared theirown tax returns on do-it-yourself taxpreparation software. These clientswere missing the sales tax deductionon prior returns. He offers to amendprior returns so his clients canrecapture that deduction.

Looking forward, the sales taxdeduction expires on December31. 2011. If you are thinking aboutreplacing a car, buying a truck,boat or RV, you might want to thinkabout buying it before year-end. Forexample, if you buy a $40,000 vehiclebefore December 31, 2011, and you arein the 25 percent tax bracket, you cancapture an income tax savings of $625.

TakingMoney Out ofYour IRARequired Minimum Distribution

(RMD) rules are in effect the year

in which the IRA owner turns 70 ½.If you don’t take out enough moneyfrom your IRA by year-end, you mayhave to pay a 50 percent penalty onthe RMD that is required but nottaken.

Dillard has noticed that manypeople don’t understand how tocalculate their IRA RMD amountevery year. Here’s how to do it for2011.

Step 1: Add up the combinedbalance of all IRA accounts as ofDecember 31, 2010.

Step 2: Look up your factor in IRSPublication 590 (find it atwww.IRS.gov). Look to the end of thepublication to Table 3. If your spouseis more than 10 years younger thanyou, go to Table 2.

Step 3: Divide your combinedbalances by your factor. The answeris your RMD – the minimum amountyou need to take out of your IRAsduring 2011.

Note: The IRS Publication 590instructs us to calculate a separateRMD for each IRA and then add themtogether for a combined total RMD.If you have taken an algebra class,you will know that both the method Idescribe and the Pub 590 method will

tracY stewartfinanCial literaCy

Tax tips: What you don’t know can cost you money

SeeTaxespage 11

5

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

This savory carrot dishis typical of Italian homecooking – basic ingredients,simply prepared, turned into anoutstanding dish. I thought itwould be a great Thanksgiving

side dish.It’s alwaysa challengeto find goodcarrot recipesthat are nottoo sweet,and this onefits the bill.Marsala isa fortifiedItalian wineand comes inboth sweet

and dry. It will keep for monthsin the refrigerator; however youcould substitute either white wineor white grape juice (for a non-alcoholic version). Dependingon your football alliance youcould use either maroon or orangecarrots.

Marsala Carrots with Sage

• 1 to 2 tablespoons extra-virginolive oil

• 1 1/2 pounds carrots, peeled andcut diagonally into 1 1/2 inch pieces

• 1/4 medium onion, cut into longslivers

• 10 fresh sage leaves, large• 1/2 cup dry Marsala• 1/2 cup chicken broth• Salt and freshly ground black

pepper1. Heat the oil in a 12-inch

skillet over medium-high heat.Add sage leaves for a minuteor two until quickly crisp andremove. Add carrots and onionsand sauté about 10 minutes tobrown the onion. Season with saltand pepper as vegetables cook.Pour in the marsala and broth,adjusting heat to gentle simmer.Cover and cook 15 minutes oruntil carrots are tender.

2. Before serving, uncoverand simmer off any liquid,leaving only enough to cloak thecarrots in a moist glaze. Taste forseasoning, sprinkle with sage andserve.

Diane Lestina, a certified personalchef, holds cooking classes andcooks for residents in the Bryan-College Station area. To learnmore, visitwww.chefdiane.com

Diane LestinaCook it Simple

www.ChefDiane.Com

Enjoy Italian home cooking with carrot dish

Good carrot dishes can be hard to come by, but this one uses Marsala and sage to providea balance to the sweetness of the carrots. Add this to theThanksgiving menu.

4

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

Comeplaywithsomeoneyourown

age!

Senior Circle is out to expand your horizons with an excitingcalendar of events scheduled around town and around the world.If you’re 50 or better, want to meet new people, learn more aboutyour health, travel and just have fun, then Senior Circle is for you.Dues are just $15 a year.

To join or for more information, call Mandy Williamsat 979-764-5107 or visit CSMedCenter.com.Become part of the Circle.

Waterways of Holland and Belgium: Tulips, Windmills & CanalsMarch 26 – April 8, 2012Join Senior Circle on this European river cruise and explore the majestic waterwaysof Holland and Belgium. Meet new friends and make memories on this exciting14-day adventure.

Northwest National Parks • July 13 – 26, 2012Escape the blistering heat of Texas with Senior Circle as we explore magnificentNorthwest National Parks such as Glacier National Park, Banff National Park,Jasper National Park and many more.This 14-day adventure takes us through Seattle,Montana, British Columbia and other destinations, with special visits including theLonesome Dove Ranch and Dr. SunYat-Sen Gardens.

Classic Christmas Markets • November 28 – December 6, 2012Treat yourself for Christmas and join Senior Circle as we explore the classicChristmas markets in Munich, Innsbruck, Wurzburg, Nuremberg and Strasbourg.This nine-day adventure takes us to historic towns in Central Europe where we will havetime to shop for handicrafts and experience delights such as a private choir performancein an 850-year-old church. Call Senior Circle for more details.

Sponsored by

1604 Rock Pra i r ie Road • CSMedCenter. com

Official Healthcare Provider for Texas A&M Athletics

Editor’s Note: This month’scolumn was written by AlyssaGeorge, MPT.

I have been suffering fromconstipation problems foryears and have tried differentmedications and treatmentswithout relief. I recently readsomething on the internetabout treating constipationwith biofeedback training ofpelvic floor muscles. Can youhelp?

You are not alone.Constipation is the mostcommon gastrointestinal (GI)complaint, affecting well over63 million Americans. A studyin 2000 found that 26.6 percentof women age 45-49 and 27.7percent of women age 70-74suffer from this problem,suggesting, that constipationissues increase as one ages.Women are twice as likely asmen to report constipationand experience obstructivedefecation (a chronic formof constipation involvingprolonged straining,incomplete elimination -notpassing the entire stool, andprolonged time to have abowel movement). Not onlyis this a common condition, itis also very often unreportedto physicians. Obstructive

defecation is common inmiddle-aged women withpelvic floor disorders suchas pelvic organ prolapseand urinary incontinence. It

occurs at leastweekly in 12.3percent ofwomen ages 40-69. This highprevalence ofconstipationleads to morethan 3 millionprescriptions

for laxatives per year andover $725 million spent onover-the-counter laxatives.

Constipation is presentif a person has symptoms atleast three days per month forat least three months, and isonly able to have loose stoolwith the use of laxatives.Those diagnosed withconstipation, defecate (havea bowel movement) less thanthree days/week, experiencestraining or lumpy/ hardstools 25 percent of thetime, or have a sensation ofincomplete emptying. Otherhealth problems associatedwith constipation include:headaches, decreased

Leon BraDwaYphySiCal therapy

Constipation anissue forwomenasthey get older

Care for CaregiversRegularly updated

information for caregivers isavailable in a series of freepamphlets prepared by theMetlife Mature Market Institute.

The advice in the “Since YouCare” series of booklets coverssuch topics as legal planning,dealing with the challengesof Alzheimer’s disease, andchoosing assisted-livingfacilities, among others.

To find out what titles areavailable, check the website atwww.maturemarketinstitute.com and click on AdvicePublications, write to MetlifeMature Market Institute, 57Greens Farm Road, Westport, CT06880, or call (203) 221-6580Aging’s All InYour Head?

It may be possible to turnback your clock a couple ofdecades, according to an itemin a recent copy of “Agenda,”the Aging Services of Californiamonthly publication, thatrefers to the work of Harvardpsychologist and author, EllenLanger.

It appears there may bemore than a grain of truth in theold saw, “You’re only as old as

you feel,” according to her book“Counterclockwise.”

As her website explains, “...opening our minds to what’spossible, instead of clinging toaccepted notions about what’snot, can lead to better health atany age.”

The book deals with severalof her experiments, includingone in 1979 during whichelderly men lived for a week ina retrofitted hotel as though itwas 20 years earlier. The groupwas told to act and think likeit was 1959 and they showedevidence of growing youngerboth physically and mentally.

Maddak Catalog AvailableOnline

To make shopping easy, acatalog displaying more than400 items that Maddak Inc.likes to call ADLs (aids for dailyliving) is available online atthe company’s website, www.maddak.com.

Would-be buyers can checkand choose health aids theywish to have and can purchasethem from a list of retailers.Maddak does not sell itsAbleware products directly from

its website.

ConstipationMythsCleared Up

Constipation is a chronicproblem for many older adultsthat requires an individualizedtreatment plan. Relieving it canbe more difficult than short-term use of a laxative or eatingmore fiber.

Myth: An absence of dailybowel movements indicatesconstipation.

Fact: Constipation is mostaccurately defined as theinfrequent or difficult passing ofstool. Normal bowel-movementfrequency in adults can rangefrom three times a day to threetimes a week.

Myth: Constipation causesthe body to absorb toxins fromstools.

Fact: Not true. This beliefcauses some people to takelaxatives unnecessarily whendaily bowel movementdoesn’t occur. Others try coloncleansing to remove supposedtoxins. These practices aren’thelpful. They even may beharmful.

Mature Life Features

HEALTHMATTERS

See Bradwaypage 13

6

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...Remember When People Tried Harder...~We Still Do~

www.hillierfuneralhome.com979-822-1571

Next to St. Joseph Hospital

Hillier Funeral Home~ SERVING Families Since 1918 ~

Every funeral service deserves to be truly

memorable, flawlessly planned, and correct

to the smallest detail.The families of our

community have long turned to us because we

give every funeral service that kind of respect.

In fact, giving our best is simply the way

we do everything here.

WHATMAKES OUR HOMESO SPECIAL?

Vision for the way you live.

Cataract Screening & SurgeryDiabetic Eye ExamRoutine Eye Exams

In-Office Laser SurgeryLasik/PRK Refractive SurgeryContact Lenses & Glasses

979-776-7564or 1-800-338-7864

William H. Marr, M.D., P.A.Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthamology

Jamie Houser, O.D.2801 East 29th at Memorial Drive • BryanWHENEXPERIENCECOUNTS,WE’RETHEONESTOSEE

MARREYECENTER

ProudlyservingtheBrazosValleyforover25years.

7

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

Editor’s Note: This month’scolumn was written by AlyssaGeorge, MPT.

I have been suffering fromconstipation problems foryears and have tried differentmedications and treatmentswithout relief. I recently readsomething on the internetabout treating constipationwith biofeedback training ofpelvic floor muscles. Can youhelp?

You are not alone.Constipation is the mostcommon gastrointestinal (GI)complaint, affecting well over63 million Americans. A studyin 2000 found that 26.6 percentof women age 45-49 and 27.7percent of women age 70-74suffer from this problem,suggesting, that constipationissues increase as one ages.Women are twice as likely asmen to report constipationand experience obstructivedefecation (a chronic formof constipation involvingprolonged straining,incomplete elimination -notpassing the entire stool, andprolonged time to have abowel movement). Not onlyis this a common condition, itis also very often unreportedto physicians. Obstructive

defecation is common inmiddle-aged women withpelvic floor disorders suchas pelvic organ prolapseand urinary incontinence. It

occurs at leastweekly in 12.3percent ofwomen ages 40-69. This highprevalence ofconstipationleads to morethan 3 millionprescriptions

for laxatives per year andover $725 million spent onover-the-counter laxatives.

Constipation is presentif a person has symptoms atleast three days per month forat least three months, and isonly able to have loose stoolwith the use of laxatives.Those diagnosed withconstipation, defecate (havea bowel movement) less thanthree days/week, experiencestraining or lumpy/ hardstools 25 percent of thetime, or have a sensation ofincomplete emptying. Otherhealth problems associatedwith constipation include:headaches, decreased

Leon BraDwaYphySiCal therapy

Constipation anissue forwomenasthey get older

Care for CaregiversRegularly updated

information for caregivers isavailable in a series of freepamphlets prepared by theMetlife Mature Market Institute.

The advice in the “Since YouCare” series of booklets coverssuch topics as legal planning,dealing with the challengesof Alzheimer’s disease, andchoosing assisted-livingfacilities, among others.

To find out what titles areavailable, check the website atwww.maturemarketinstitute.com and click on AdvicePublications, write to MetlifeMature Market Institute, 57Greens Farm Road, Westport, CT06880, or call (203) 221-6580Aging’s All InYour Head?

It may be possible to turnback your clock a couple ofdecades, according to an itemin a recent copy of “Agenda,”the Aging Services of Californiamonthly publication, thatrefers to the work of Harvardpsychologist and author, EllenLanger.

It appears there may bemore than a grain of truth in theold saw, “You’re only as old as

you feel,” according to her book“Counterclockwise.”

As her website explains, “...opening our minds to what’spossible, instead of clinging toaccepted notions about what’snot, can lead to better health atany age.”

The book deals with severalof her experiments, includingone in 1979 during whichelderly men lived for a week ina retrofitted hotel as though itwas 20 years earlier. The groupwas told to act and think likeit was 1959 and they showedevidence of growing youngerboth physically and mentally.

Maddak Catalog AvailableOnline

To make shopping easy, acatalog displaying more than400 items that Maddak Inc.likes to call ADLs (aids for dailyliving) is available online atthe company’s website, www.maddak.com.

Would-be buyers can checkand choose health aids theywish to have and can purchasethem from a list of retailers.Maddak does not sell itsAbleware products directly from

its website.

ConstipationMythsCleared Up

Constipation is a chronicproblem for many older adultsthat requires an individualizedtreatment plan. Relieving it canbe more difficult than short-term use of a laxative or eatingmore fiber.

Myth: An absence of dailybowel movements indicatesconstipation.

Fact: Constipation is mostaccurately defined as theinfrequent or difficult passing ofstool. Normal bowel-movementfrequency in adults can rangefrom three times a day to threetimes a week.

Myth: Constipation causesthe body to absorb toxins fromstools.

Fact: Not true. This beliefcauses some people to takelaxatives unnecessarily whendaily bowel movementdoesn’t occur. Others try coloncleansing to remove supposedtoxins. These practices aren’thelpful. They even may beharmful.

Mature Life Features

HEALTHMATTERS

See Bradwaypage 13

6

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus NewFallSpecials!

I

888-715-0566isleatwatercrestbryan.com

4091 Eastchester DriveBryan, Texas 77802

Integrated Senior Living

sle at Watercrest–Bryan is Bryan/College Station’s newest in assisted living and skilled nursing. At this beautifully-designedcommunity, residents enjoy supportive services to maintain the highest level of independence.

Isle at Watercrest offers everything you need in one place, including the right amount of assistance when and whereyou need it, practical conveniences and enjoyable activities and amenities. Highlights include assisted living and skillednursing; a premium location adjacent to Watercrest at Bryan active adult community; progressive rehabilitation servicesand personalized care by professional, licensed staff; nutritious meal selections served restaurant-style; and experiencedmanagement by Integrated Senior Living.

Isle at Watercrest–Bryan is located at 4091 Eastchester Drive on the Watercrest at Bryan campus in Bryan, TX. With atotal of 57 assisted living and 36 skilled nursing apartments in the community, Isle at Watercrest offers assisted living,skilled nursing, and a month-to-month rental agreement. In addition, Isle at Watercrest offers short-term and long-termrehabilitation and care. Community services and amenities include a café, business library, salon, landscaped courtyards,clubroom, private dining room, wellness center with fitness equipment, weekly housekeeping and linen service, scheduledtransportation and daily social activities. For more information about our 72-Hour Sale, call 888-715-0566.

72-Hour Holiday Sale!Bring this coupon in and receive December rent for $72!

Call to make an appointment today!

8 9

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

By HOLLI L. ESTRIDGESpecial to The Eagle

Each year the passing of Veterans Day brings arush of bittersweet memories to Bryan residentsEdward and Yolanda Kozlowski.

The couple – Edward, 92, and Yolanda, 96 – metat a party in England during World War II, whenEdward was serving as a Pathfinder Navigatorand Yolanda worked as an army nurse. It wouldbe years before the young couple would see oneanother again.

“On Veterans Day, we both think and talk aboutwhat went on in the war,” Edward says. “It’s acommon bond we share.”

Kozlowski’s job as a Pathfinder Navigator – thelead plane charged with routing piloted missions– was a dangerous one.

He had his first taste of combat during theinitial B-17 bombing run over Cologne, Germany,as part of the 318th Bomber Group.

“We were flying in the daytime, and the GermanMesserschmitts and Fokkers were all over ourformation,” Kozlowski said. “Precision bombingwas out of the question.” The 318th sustainedheavy losses.

By the time the war ended Kozlowski had flown88 missions over combat territory and was shotdown four times. Among the combat missions heflew were a low-level bombing run over Poloesti,Romania – a 2,000-mile trip – and the D-Dayinvasion, leading the second wave of planescarrying the 82nd Airborne.

Of the 27 navigators that left on Christmas Eve1941, only seven survived the war. Kozlowski isthe only one still living.

Yolanda met with Kozlowski shortly after theD-Day invasion and before the 100th EvacuationHospital – with which she worked – departedEngland to follow the soldiers into France. Thecouple spent four hours visiting and dancing, andbefore they parted ways Yolanda agreed to writeKozlowski.

“We wrote to each other for the remainderof the war, but I tried to write as a friend,” saidYolanda. “He didn’t. He wanted to be more than

a friend.”The Kozlowskis corresponded for the next 18

months, while Yolanda followed Patton’s Army toFrance, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

Yolanda – who worked as a triage nurse – andthe 100th Evacuation remained near the frontlines, throughout the war. When the Germanoffensive halted at the Battle of the Bulge, the100th Evacuation was only four miles away,receiving thousands of casualties during some ofthe worst battles. Yolanda was discharged fromthe Army in 1946 as a captain.

Thecouplereconnectedin1945,whileKozlowskiwas pursuing an engineering degree at MarquetteUniversity.Hewent on toobtainadvanceddegreesat Ohio State and eventually joined NASA.

Working at NASA, Kozlowski designed andinstalledheat shields used on theApollomissions.In 1973 he became physical plant director at TexasA&M University.

Yolanda and Edward’s names are now listed on

the Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial in CollegeStation’s Veterans Park, which they visit eachyearonVeteransDay.Thecouplealsoparticipatesin monthly veteran gatherings.

Yolanda said today when she reflects on thewar, she mostly thinks of the wasted lives. “Thereis so much more that we could have done that wedidn’t, as nurses and as a country,” she said.

Edward said everyone worked as hard as theycould with what they had. “We found out laterthat some of the things we had been doing werenot to our advantage,” he said.

The Kozlowskis and other local veterans willbe honored 4:30 p.m. Nov. 11 in College Station’sVeterans Park. The ceremony will feature anannual observance and a roll call of individualsbeing added to the memorial.

A program, to include an address byCongressman Bill Flores, music and a salute willfollow.

Love andWarVeterans Day special for local couple who met while serving inWWII

Veterans Day around the Brazos ValleyNov. 10

2 p.m. and 7 p.m.3rd and 4th grade music performance:

“Celebrate Freedom” at Southwood ValleyElementary cafeteria, College Station ISD

Nov. 11

9 a.m.Assembly at Jane Long Middle School Bryan

ISD9:30 a.m.AssemblyatSamRayburnMiddleSchoolBryan

ISD

9 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.4th grade musical performance at Creek View

Elementary cafeteria, College Station ISD11 a.m.Veterans will gather at the American Legion

Hall in Bryan for a joint meeting and program,100 Waco Street, Bryan

2 p.m.Musical patriotic program, honoring veterans

at Greens Prairie Elementary cafeteria College

Station ISD2:30 p.m.Veterans Day Ceremony at A&M Consolidated

Middle School gym, College Station ISD3:05 p.m.Band, orchestra and choir will perform at

College Station Middle School College StationISD

4 :30 p.m.

VeteransDayAnnualObservance,withroll call,speaking program and musical performances atCollege Station Veterans Park

10

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

CENTER FOR REGIONAL SERVICES

3991 East 29th Street

Bryan, Texas

11:30 a.m. to 1:00p.m.

Call Today to RSVP:Susie Brown or

Bobby Gail Jeffries979-595-2800 ext. 2025

Lite Lunch Provided

Memorial Funeral ChapelBryan • (979) 823-8125

CENTER FOR REGIONAL SERVICES

3991 East 29th Street

11:30 a.m. to 1:00p.m.

PROUDLY SPONSORS

2011 Senior Seminar SeriesDifferent Levels of CareNovember 8, 2011

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

RSVP is accepting donations for our AnnualShirley’s Senior Christmas. RSVP volunteers assembleand stuff 600 Christmas bags with items requestedby nursing home residents and homebound seniorsreceiving Home Delivered Meals. RSVP acceptsdonations of cash, new and like new clothing andgift items. RSVP will store them until Thanksgiving -when we begin the work of preparing the 600 bags.If you would like a list of items and sizes requested,please call the RSVP office at (979) 595-2800 x2026or email ckraus@bvcog.org.

Would you like to be part of our Senior ChristmasTeam? Here is what Shirley Jones, Luci Smith andVicki Anders need help with:

“Shopping bag decorators” We have sturdywhite shopping bags to deliver the gifts to seniors,but to make them fun and festive, volunteers whoenjoy arts and craft can take however many bagthey choose home, decorate with a Christmas themeand make them beautiful. Seniors have come totreasure their “handmade”bags as part of their gift.Just call the RSVP office and we will set aside thenumber of bags you request for pick up, then returnbags by November 28th.

“Laundry” - Although we ask that cleanclothing be donated, sometimes items need alittle “freshening up”. Here’s the mission: the firstthree days when volunteers are sorting throughdonations, volunteers come by around 3:30 pm,

take home items to be laundered, then return themaround 9:30 am the next morning. After the firstfew days you might be contacted to help if anyadditional donations come in that need attention.

“Small Repairs” – Some beautiful items justhave a missing button, sagging hem, or torn seamand so on. Volunteers would follow the sameprocedure and schedule as for the laundry.

“Candy packers”–Last year we had pennycandies packed in snack-size baggies. It made amuch better present than a single candy cane. Thiscould be done by a church group or social groupthat buys the candy and the baggies, stuffs them,and delivers them by December 1st.

“Shoppers”– Sometimes our wish list hasspecial items, like a bird house or sizes larger than 3xthat need to be searched for and purchased.

“Seamstress” – people who can sew dustersor nightgowns (RSVP does accept donated cotton,cotton flannel and lightweight fleece) from patternsavailable for you to use.

“Makers”- Not a handy with a sewing machine?Volunteers can make fleece scarves – no sewingskills necessary, just a rotary cutter and cutting mat.For those who knit, adult size caps for men andwomen are always welcome.

Call RSVP if you would like to be“On the Team”979.595.2800 x2026

Remembering Seniors During the Holidays give you the same total RMD.If you have an inherited IRA, you need to seek

professional tax advice because the distribution rules aredifferent.

When you are taking money out of your retirement planaccount (not to be confused with your IRA account), youmust calculate the RMD for each retirement plan separately.You cannot combine retirement plan RMDs nor can youcombine a retirement plan and an IRA in one RMD.

Tip: Take your RMD in one lump sum and have yourincome tax withheld from your distribution. Consult a CPAfor the amount of withholding that will keep you out oftrouble on your 2011 tax return.

The Bottom LineIf you remember one thing from this article, remember

that what you don’t know can cost you real money.

Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP®through her blog atwww.TexasDivorceFinance.com

Taxesfrom page 5

11

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

10

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

Call today to schedule your FREE consultation – 979.316.2951

PROVIDING BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE THERAPY & MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS FOR MEN & WOMEN FOR THAN 12 YEARS

422 TARROW STREET • COLLEGE STATION • www.nbhlifetimehealth.com

12CELE

BRAT

ING12 YEARS OF SERVICE

Decreased sex drive

Decreased energy levels

Loss of strength

Loss of endurance

Sexual performance issues

Work performance issues

Decreased quality of life

Changes in body composition

Increased recovery time

Decreased mental acuity

Have you noticed: (check all that apply)

Are you in need ofBioidentical (natural)Hormone Therapy?

12

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

Winners of the 2010 & 2011 Best of the Brazos and the Eagle’s 2011 Readers’ Choice for Best Active Adult Living

3801 East Crest Drive • Bryan, TX 77802 • www.watercrestbryan.com(near the corner of University Drive and Boonville Road)

Join Us for Our Veteran’s Week Celebration!

RSVP'S ARE REQUIRED: CALL 979-703-7088 TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT BY SUNDAY, NOV. 6TH

WATERCREST AT BRYAN

SALUTES OUR VETERANS

MONDAY, NOV. 7TH ALL ARMY VETERAN’S AND SPOUSESVETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM & BRUNCH FROM 9AM TO 10:30AM

TUESDAY, NOV. 8TH ALL NAVY & COAST GUARD VETERAN'S AND SPOUSESVETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM & BRUNCH FROM 9AM TO 10:30AM

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 9TH ALL AIR FORCE & NATIONAL GUARD VETERANS AND SPOUSESVETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM & BRUNCH FROM 9AM TO 10:30AM

THURSDAY, NOV. 10TH ON THE 236TH BIRTHDAY OF THE MARINE CORPALL MARINE VETERAN'S AND SPOUSES

VETERAN’S DAY PROGRAM & BRUNCH FROM 9AM TO 10:30AM

running or swimming will protect against infections. Anotherviable alternative is cycling. You don’t have to risk life and limbon the highway; an exercise cycle is fine if used vigorously.

Not yet tested is the possibility that exercise can reduceinfection-induced inflammatory responses in organs otherthan brain. One especially relevant organ in the elderly is thelung. Perhaps the most common infection in the elderly ispneumonia. About 4 million people in the U.S. get pneumoniaeach year, about a third of whom are 65 or older. A study ofelderly in Spain showed that the rate tripled from age 65 to85. Pneumonia is sthe econd most common nursing-homeacquired infection, and occurs at about double the rate in theelderly living at home.

I have two points to make about that: 1) there is aneffective vaccine against the most common bacterial cause ofpneumonia, and everybody should get it every five years, and2) aerobic exercise should be used to help prevent pneumonia,not as part of the treatment. Exercise during or soon afterpneumonia is dangerous, because the stress on the heart maybe fatal. So do your aerobic exercise when you are healthy.You will feel better, be stronger and less likely to fall, and willprotect both heart and brain and maybe your other organs too.

Tennis, anyone?Sources:Barrientos, R. M., et al. (2011). Little exercise, big effects: reversing

aging and infection-induced memory deficits, and underlying processes. J.Neuroscience, 31(32): 11578-11586;doi:10.1523/JNEUROSCI.2266-11

Marrie, T. J. 2011. Pneumonia in the elderly. Curr Opin Pulm Med. 1996;2(3):192-7

Ochoa-Gondar et al. (2008). The burden of community-acquiredpneumonia in the elderly: the Spanish EVAN-65 Study. BMC Public Health2008, 8:222doi:10.1186/1471-2458-8-222

Dr. Bill Klemm is a Professor of Neuroscience at Texas A&MUniversity. Visit his blog at ThankYouBrain.com for morememory tips.

MemoryMedicfrom page 2

concentration, change in appetite, changein energy levels, depression/mood changes,bloating, and gas/flatulence.

There are many causes and treatmentoptions for constipation. Simple changes inyour diet, improving hydration, improvingexercise habits, and decreasing stress maygive you relief. However, constipation mayalso be due to structural abnormalities suchas tumors, changes in the shape of the colon,disorders such as fissures/ hemorrhoids,episiotomy, or tears after delivering a baby.Additionally, specific diseases or conditions,such as stroke, dehydration, or irritablebowel syndrome can cause constipation.In addition, there are many differentmedications that can cause constipation,including: antacids, antidepressants,narcotics, blood pressure meds, NSAIDs,antihistamines, and laxative abuse. Inaddition to structural abnormalities,medications, and diseases, lifestyle habitssuch as poor diet, lack of exercise, change inroutine/sleep patterns, or ignoring the urgeto defecate can also play a role in the onsetof constipation. Because of the wide rangeof causes of constipation, it is important toconsult a health care professional who fullyunderstands your medical history, includingpregnancy and delivery history so you canreceive the most appropriate care.

If your constipation is due to amusculoskeletal problem, then consultinga physical therapist trained in pelvic floormuscle rehabilitation may be a smart choice.Trained physical therapists use specialized

equipment and tools such as biofeedback,a very effective retraining technique thatmay help you learn to better coordinate themuscles you use to have a bowel movement.

Regaining normal bowel habits can oftenbe accomplished through the re-educationof normal pelvic floor muscle activity suchas strengthening exercises if your musclesare underactive (weak) or down-training ifyour muscles are overactive. The healthyfunction of the pelvic floor muscles willresult in a stronger urge to defecate, thusincreasing frequency of defecation. Aspecially-trained physical therapist can helpyou restore muscle coordination betweenresting, contraction, and with bearing downthrough several different methods. Theycan educate you in proper toileting posture,appropriate muscle contractions, and properbreathing to avoid straining. They can trainyou in performing abdominal massage andcoordination of abdominal muscles withpelvic floor muscles to help stimulate yourbowels. A physical therapist trained in thisarea can also set up an aerobic conditioningprogram to improve bowel mechanics.

Whether you have been struggling withconstipation for a few months or severalyears, a specially-trained physical therapistmay be able to help. You have a choice inthe management of your health and thereare other options besides medication andsurgery. Know your options and take chargeof your health.

Leon Bradway, PT MS OMPT Directorof the Sports, Back, & Pain ManagementClinic. Bvphysicaltherapy.com

Bradwayfrom page 6

13

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

12

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

CALENDAROngoing

Line Dancing - Ready for agreat workout? Join other senioradults every Tuesday for LineDancing at Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock PrairieRd from 1:30-2:30pm. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgrs@cstx.gov.

Sit & Fit - Looking for a funway to exercise in the comfort ofa chair? Join other senior adultsat Southwood Community Centerevery Tuesday and Thursday, noon- 12:45pm. The Center is locatedat 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Dominoes - Meet your friendsevery Thursday to play 42 atSouthwood Community Centerlocated at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd.from 9:30 - 11:30 am. ContactSouthwood Community Center at979-764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, Senior

Services at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Join other senioradults every Friday from 9 am -noonat Southwood Community Centerlocated at 1520 Rock Prairie Roadfor a fun day of bridge. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Better Choices, Better Health(a diabetes class) - The classmeets on Mondays from 1 -3 pmat the Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock PrairieRd. Contact the College StationParks and Recreation Department,Senior Services at 979-764-6371or mrodgers@cstx.gov. No cost toregister.

November 7Computer Tips Class - Learn

how to update, organize and managedocuments and applications onyour computer. The class meets onMonday and Wednesday from 10:45am -12:15pm at the SouthwoodCommunity Center located at 1520Rock Prairie Rd. Cost is $45.Registration necessary prior to class.To register call the College StationParks and Recreation Department at764-3486 or on-line atparksweb.cstx.gov.

November 15AARP Driver Safety Program

- All licensed drivers 50 and olderare welcome! The class meets onWednesday, November 15 from10 am - 3 pm at the SouthwoodCommunity Center located at1520 Rock Prairie Rd. To register,contact the College Station Parksand Recreation Department, SeniorServices at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov. Pay at the door,$12 for AARP members and $14 fornon-members.

November 16Exploring History Lunch

Lecture with Jim Singleton - TheCollege Station Historic PreservationCommittee and the College StationParks and Recreation Departmentpresent: “ Unique Brazos ValleyArchitecture” with Jim Singleton.Luncheon held at the College StationConference Center located at 1300George Bush Dr. Lunch is servedat 11:30 am with a reservation.Cost is $5 and payable at the door.Speaker begins at noon. Please call979-764-6351 or e-mail kkelbly@cstx.gov to make your reservation byNovember 11.

November 17Movie and Popcorn - Enjoy a

free movie and popcorn starting at1 p.m. at Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock Prairie

Rd. Contact Southwood CommunityCenter at 764-6351 College StationParks and Recreation Department,Senior Services at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

November 28Senior Advisory committee

meeting - The Senior AdvisoryCommittee meets on the last

Monday of each month at 10 amat Southwood Community Center,1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Visitorsare welcome to attend. For moreinformation contact College StationParks & Recreation Department,Senior Services at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

14

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

2410 Memorial Drive, Bryan | www.seniorlifestyle.com

Call todayto schedule a tour!979.774.1298

• Large 1&2 Bedroom Apartments

with Full Kitchen

• Walk-in Closets

• Dynamic Social & Cultural Programs

• Three Full Meals Served Daily

• Pet Friendly

People may not know his name, but manyfolks traveling around Waldenbrooke Estatesare quite familiar with Don “Coach” Lewis.He’s been brightening people’s days since hemoved to Waldenbrooke in 2010, from hisspot out in front of the community where hesmiles and waves at passing cars.Coach suffered a debilitating stroke in 1992at the age of 49. The stroke left him partiallyparalyzed and with a severe case of aphasia.

The doctors didn’t give Coach a strongprognosis. “They all but said he was going todie, that he’d live maybe four or five years,and this is back in 1992”, his son Kevin said.In spite of that prognosis, Coach is livingan independent life at WaldenbrookeEstates in his own apartment where heentertains visiting family and friends. Healso stays socially active with all the eventsand activities Waldenbrooke hosts, and stillmakes time to play catch with the staff.Coach is a Korean War Veteran, where hewas a Weapons Specialist and drove for ageneral. Korea was where he met, fell in loveand married his wife Barbara. Coach was aSports Information Director for the LeanderSchool District and the kids lives he touchedare still with those kids today. He wouldmake suggestions to help them improve inwhatever sport they were in. He always hada positive effect on everyone he came incontact with. Coach is still being a positiveinfluence every day by spreading cheer tothose driving by Waldenbrooke on their way

to and from work.When Barbara passed away in 2001, thepeople of the neighborhood in Leanderasked the family to keep Coach therebecause of the positive effect he had oneveryone with his waving. Unfortunately,he had to move to another communityin Austin, where he took up his wavingroutine with the same effect.“We started getting notes,” Kevin said.“People would pull into the retirementhome and leave notes for the man in thewheelchair who waves. Kids would draw himpictures and there was this one lady whowas going through a difficult time, and shesaid his presence gave her something tolook forward to and gave her a reason tobe happy.”When Kevin decided it was time tomove Coach closer to family, they choseWaldenbrooke Estates, and all of themcouldn’t be happier with that choice. Hisfriendly nature was a perfect fit for theWaldenbrooke atmosphere even thoughhe can only speak a handful of words andphrases, Coach has had no problems makingfriends and has become quite popular.In fact, he was even named King of the

WaldenbrookeSenior Prom.If you see Coach, give him a honkor a wave as you pass. If you or a lovedone is considering senior living, say hi tohim in person and see what WaldenbrookeEstates Independent Senior LivingCommunity has to offer you and your family.

INDEPENDENTRET IREMENT L IV ING

AT I TS BEST.

People may not know his name, but many People may not know his name, but many

Th e doctors didn’t give Coach a strong prognosis. “Th ey all but said he was going to

Living Life

MONEY MATTERSNumbers to Carry At Homeor Abroad

Just because you have allnecessary numbers ensconcedin our cell phone doesn’t meanyou’re worry free.

What happens if its batterygoes dead? Or if you’re in somenook, niche, cranny or dead zonewhere you have to resort to aland line for help? Or you loseyour phone?

A vital number to writedown and carry with you is thetoll-free telephone number foryour credit card help line. Thedomestic number is usuallydifferent from the one youneed when traveling in othercountries.

You might also carry thephone numbers of familymembers so you don’t have torely on memory should haveto call in a crisis. Or if you’reincapacitated and someone elsehas to call for you.

If you’re traveling, you needyour airline’s toll-free numberalong with the phone numbersfor your hotel or host, travel-insurance issuer, and rental-carcompany. It wouldn’t hurt tohave your bank’s telephonenumber with you at all times.

Crooks Aim at Aging BrainDespite warnings, seniors still

seem to fall for schemes.While there’s good reason

for this, according to an AARPreport, it’s no excuse for oldstersto get scammed out of theirsavings.

There seems to be more than“just getting old” responsible forthe fact that they account forone-third of reported scams andfrauds.

Researchers probingmore deeply into the threemain reasons given for thisvulnerability – memory loss,loneliness, and more trustingcharacter – have revealed mindshifts caused by aging thatmakes the aged more proneto becoming victims of thesevultures.

Among their findings is thefact that con men have learnedthat an aging mind’s ability tograsp details like contract termsbegins to slip after 2 p.m. That’swhy these crooks call late in theafternoon or early evening.

Accompanying memory lossthat comes as the aging brainslows down its ability to processinformation is the tendency tobelieve anything, even a blatant

lie, if it’s repeated often enough.So statements like “you

have to act now” and “this is allit will cost you” salted liberallythroughout the conversationtend to become fact in thevictim’s mind.

Loneliness or a feeling ofdiminished self-worth prodsseniors to prove to their familyand friends that they can stillmake decisions on their own,and they become easy prey forthe polished promises of thesethieves, researchers report.

Studies also show that, whileold folks are not as gullible aswidely believed and tend tobe able to detect dishonestdeliveries and demonstrations,it’s their devotion to God andcountry that often does them in.A crook comes a-calling claimingto be with a church charity orveterans group, for example, andwalks away with their money.

Fine Free Advice“Free” usually has a catch to

it but the U.S General ServicesAdministration’s ConsumerAction Handbook is one ofthe few products or servicesavailable with no strings — orfees — attached.

Simply go to

ConsumerAction.gov online andyou’ll be given the option toorder your own copy of the 175-page 2011 edition.

Information in it ranges fromlists of consumer-protectionbureaus to federal agencies, to

corporate contacts, to advice onhow to protect your privacy andidentity to tips on how to buy anarray of products and services.

Mature Life Features

15

50plusNovem

ber2011

TheEagle

•theeagle.com

CALENDAROngoing

Line Dancing - Ready for agreat workout? Join other senioradults every Tuesday for LineDancing at Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock PrairieRd from 1:30-2:30pm. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgrs@cstx.gov.

Sit & Fit - Looking for a funway to exercise in the comfort ofa chair? Join other senior adultsat Southwood Community Centerevery Tuesday and Thursday, noon- 12:45pm. The Center is locatedat 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Dominoes - Meet your friendsevery Thursday to play 42 atSouthwood Community Centerlocated at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd.from 9:30 - 11:30 am. ContactSouthwood Community Center at979-764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, Senior

Services at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Join other senioradults every Friday from 9 am -noonat Southwood Community Centerlocated at 1520 Rock Prairie Roadfor a fun day of bridge. ContactSouthwood Community Centerat 764-6351 for more informationor College Station Parks andRecreation Department, SeniorServices at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

Better Choices, Better Health(a diabetes class) - The classmeets on Mondays from 1 -3 pmat the Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock PrairieRd. Contact the College StationParks and Recreation Department,Senior Services at 979-764-6371or mrodgers@cstx.gov. No cost toregister.

November 7Computer Tips Class - Learn

how to update, organize and managedocuments and applications onyour computer. The class meets onMonday and Wednesday from 10:45am -12:15pm at the SouthwoodCommunity Center located at 1520Rock Prairie Rd. Cost is $45.Registration necessary prior to class.To register call the College StationParks and Recreation Department at764-3486 or on-line atparksweb.cstx.gov.

November 15AARP Driver Safety Program

- All licensed drivers 50 and olderare welcome! The class meets onWednesday, November 15 from10 am - 3 pm at the SouthwoodCommunity Center located at1520 Rock Prairie Rd. To register,contact the College Station Parksand Recreation Department, SeniorServices at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov. Pay at the door,$12 for AARP members and $14 fornon-members.

November 16Exploring History Lunch

Lecture with Jim Singleton - TheCollege Station Historic PreservationCommittee and the College StationParks and Recreation Departmentpresent: “ Unique Brazos ValleyArchitecture” with Jim Singleton.Luncheon held at the College StationConference Center located at 1300George Bush Dr. Lunch is servedat 11:30 am with a reservation.Cost is $5 and payable at the door.Speaker begins at noon. Please call979-764-6351 or e-mail kkelbly@cstx.gov to make your reservation byNovember 11.

November 17Movie and Popcorn - Enjoy a

free movie and popcorn starting at1 p.m. at Southwood CommunityCenter located at 1520 Rock Prairie

Rd. Contact Southwood CommunityCenter at 764-6351 College StationParks and Recreation Department,Senior Services at 764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

November 28Senior Advisory committee

meeting - The Senior AdvisoryCommittee meets on the last

Monday of each month at 10 amat Southwood Community Center,1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Visitorsare welcome to attend. For moreinformation contact College StationParks & Recreation Department,Senior Services at 979-764-6371 ormrodgers@cstx.gov.

14

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

encouragementencouragementencouragementencouragementencouragementComfort

Dr. Robert Leisten, DPM • Dr. Amy Haase, DPM • Podiatrists - Foot Specialists

979-696-4080 or 979-774-3668 (FOOT)Visit our website at: www.diagnosticfootspecialists.com

Located inThe Physicians Centre • 3201 University Dr. East, #100 • BryanBLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD PROVIDER FOR A&M EMPLOYEES • Medicare Accepted • Member Alliance PPO

Covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid ♦ Board certified foot specialist ♦ No hospitalization requiredTreatment of bunions, heel pain, corns, calluses and all foot problems ♦ Call for free brochure on your foot problems at no obligation

ARE PAINFUL FEET AFFECTING YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE?

FOOT

HEALTH

TIPS

INGROWNTOENAILNEW TREATMENT FOR HEEL PAIN& OTHER SOFT TISSUE INJURIES OF

THE FOOT NOW AVAILABLE

HAMMERTOEIngrown toenails

cause painfrom toenailpressing into

skin aggravatedby shoe gear. They are causedby the thickening or increasedcurvature of toenail. They canbe progressivelymore painfulwith possible infection.Theycan be cured permanentlywithaminor office procedure.

Hammertoes area contracture ofthe toe causedby an inherited

muscle imbalance or too short ofshoes. Painful corns formwhenthese toes rub against the tops ofshoes. These can be corrected byan officeprocedure in less than onehour.

An innovative treatment for soft tissueinjuries of the foot, using the patients ownblood.This procedure offers a safer, less

expensive andmore effective alternative toinvasive foot surgeries. This promising treatment

will revolutionize the treatment of stubborn softtissue injuries. There are various applications for this in

the foot including planter fasciitis, shin splints, tendonitis,ankle sprains andAchilles tendonitis. This treatment isextremely safewithminimal risk, can be done in ouroffice resulting in faster healing and recovery.

• Fix bunionswithout havingto be in a cast or boot fortwomonths.•We are the 1st in Bryan thatperforms this procedure.• As seen onTV’sTHEDOCTORS

BUNIONASK US ABOUTOUR NEW

‘MINI TIGHTROPE’

PROCEDURE

16

TheEag

le•th

eeag

le.com

Nov

embe

r20

1150

plus

You take care of your family. Now take care ofyourself. Begin with our Motherhood Package,with special pricing on microdermabrasion,tummy-tuck and breast augmentation services.

Led by Neal Hoganson, MD—a board certified plastic surgeonwith 16 years of experience and a member of the American Societyof Plastic Surgeons—our medical team is ready to help refresh yourlook and your outlook in a soothing spa environment.

Start today by calling 979-691-3295.

Look your best. Feel your best. Live your best.

LOVELOOK.AGAIN.

YOuWAYTHE

Mention this ad toreceive complimentarymicrodermabrasionwhen you book selectsurgical services.