Aging Well in the Gorge November 7th 2018

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A nice group has been gathering at the Center at 11:00 on Fridays to share thoughts about life from a sixty, seventy, eighty and even 90-year-old perspective. Called “Let’s Talk” the group has decided to keep meeting and you are welcome to join us. Next Friday the topic of our conversation will be what do we enjoy doing with our time. Traveling? Volunteering? Hobbies? Taking naps in the afternoon?
One topic we have already discussed is what we worry about. And what do you think the most common answer was? It was falling – which most everyone has experienced including myself. One take away from the discussion was the importance of paying attention – which isn’t easy for me. When I’m moving, I like to let my mind wonder which I find therapeutic and often helps me remember what I’ve forgotten. But that isn’t always a good idea if you want to remain vertical.
Paying attention can help you avoid those painful lessons learned, such as Lesson One: hold on the handrail when using the stairs, because the stairs is the last place you want to fall. Or Lesson Two: pick up your feet when walking to avoid the little stumble which can turn into a nasty fall and black and blue all over.
Whether you are driving, walking, climbing down the stairs – pay attention. It is your insurance plan to avoid any unnecessary unpleasantness. A vacation stay in the nearest hospital is not the ideal way to spend time away from home.
This year November 11th falls on a Sunday, so Veterans Day will be observed on Monday, November 12th. Consequently, on Monday the Center and Meals-on-Wheels will be closed, and the annual Veterans Parade will be held starting at 11:00. Also, if you haven’t checked it out already, Columbia Gorge Veterans Museum will be open on Monday from 10:00 – 3:00 PM.
And speaking of Veterans Day, I use to include an apostrophe in Veterans Day. But I’ve learned. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs website, the official spelling should NOT be possessive case with an apostrophe “because it is not a day that ‘belongs’ to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans.”
There is a wealth of information on the Internet – some amusing, some frightening; some informative and some brain numbing. But one gem I came across on the Next Avenue website was an article explaining the calming effects of – what do you think? Aromatherapy? Yoga? A nice soak in a hot tub? No. It’s therapy chickens! I never would have thought – maybe because I grew up in the city where the closest I came to farm animals was a yappy family dog. But apparently, if you are stressed out dealing with your latest ailment or your adult children telling you how to live, you should consider raising chickens.
And the Center can get your started. On display at the Center is a beautiful two-level Chicken Coop for which you can purchase a raffle ticket for $10 or three for $25. But here’s a better idea. Win the chicken coop for your adult children – so they can relax and stop bothering you!
The second-biggest charting artist of the late 1950s with thirty-eight top-40 hits, who hosted a variety television series from 1957 through 1960; and appeared in more than twelve Hollywood films was Pat Boone. (I received correct answers from Alice Mattox, Dale Roberts, Sherry Brent, Sandy Haechrel, Jess Birge, Bobetta Stewart, Carol Earl, Lana Tepfer and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Michael Carrico – living in the Columbia River GorgeUs.)
I’m going to stick with music, but a decade later – during the “British Invasion”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the band with the photogenic lead singer and a simple, non-threatening, and clean-cut image that in 1965 had four top-three hits including a recording of a British music hall song which the lead singer’s Irish grandfather use to sing. Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with a family picture of Mrs. Brown and her lovely daughter.
Well, it’s been another week wishing that as I grow older there would be at least one thing getting easier.  Until we meet again, keep moving even though at times it may seem like you’re going backwards.
“The soldier, above all others, prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.” General Douglas MacArthur

Aging Well in the Gorge October 31st 2018

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Do you remember your family doctor stopping by the house with his black leather satchel checking in to see how you were doing? And in those days, you’d do whatever the doctor said. No questions asked.
Times have changed. Communication between you and your health care provider is no longer a one-way conversation. Now it is more a partnership, working as a team. And it should be. If your doctor doesn’t know what you are experiencing, how is she going to treat you successfully. And if you don’t understand the how’s, what’s, when’s  and why’s of your diagnosis and treatment, how are you going to stay motivated to follow your doctor’s orders. 
This is particularly true for older adults. We often are discussing with our doctor more difficult health conditions and treatments, affecting more facets of our lives. And what is said can be easily misunderstood. At a gerontology conference, I heard a health care professional say that after a doctor’s appointment most people only remember about half what they heard – and it’s wrong!
Here are a few tips provided by the National Institute on Aging to help you get the most out of your doctor’s visit.
1.) Be honest. Don’t just say what you want the doctor to hear – that you have been exercising even when you haven’t. Tell it like it is so she will have accurate information for her diagnosis and treatment.
2.) Decide which three or four questions you’ll ask and state them at the beginning of the appointment, so they aren’t overlooked.
3.) Stick to the point. I always enjoy the friendly small-town chats. But keep it short and get to the reason you are there by briefly stating your symptoms, when they started, how often they happen and if they are getting worse or better.
4.) Share your feelings about the visit. Tell your doctor if you feel rushed, worried, or uncomfortable. If you are confused, ask your doctor to clarify. If you are worried about your condition and would like to talk more, ask her for more time or schedule another appointment.
It’s important to stay informed – one reliable source for medical information is MedlinePlus produced by the U.S. Library of Medicine. And to ask questions. But don’t be shy. You need to be your own advocate or find someone who will be. And if your doctor keeps brushing off your questions and symptoms as simply you’re getting old, you might want to look for another doctor.
You can learn more by visiting the website www.nia.nih.gov/health. Or even better, on Wednesday November 7th at 11:00 at the Center, you can attend a presentation by Nicole Pashek ANP on “How to Talk to Your Medical Provider” where you can ask questions and share your doctor-patient experiences.
The name of the first network television western series broadcast on NBC starting in 1949 and starring William Boyd as a reserved and well-spoken hero dressed in black who traveled the west on his white horse Topper was Hopalong Cassidy. (I received correct answers from Carol Earl, Jess Birge, Alice Mattox, Harold and Lucile Stephens, Sharon Hull, Jerry Taylor, Diana Weston, Lana Tepfer and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket, Beverly McKinney.  And as usual, last week I missed Carol Earl and Mary Collins.)
Back in the day, the new technology was television and we all watched with anticipation shows on the “Big Three” networks: NBC, CBS and ABC. It was one of those national experiences we all had in common. And to some degree, you can say the same about popular music when we tapped our foot to the top 40 hits on our favorite AM radio station.
So for this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the second most popular recording artist of the late 1950s (behind Elvis) with thirty-eight top-40 hits including “Love Letters in the Sand”, “April Love”, “Ain’t that a Shame”, “Don’t Forbid Me”, and “I Almost Lost My Mind”; and at the  age of twenty-three, hosted a half-hour ABC variety television series from 1957 through 1960?  Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with one of the five issues of the DC comic book series in which this recording artist starred.
Well, it’s been another week living in the now because I can’t remember yesterday. Until we meet again, always do what you can – until you no longer can.
“I told the doctor I broke my leg in two places. He told me to quit going to those places.” Henny Youngman

Aging Well in the Gorge October 24th 2018

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You hadn’t finished the latest chapter in your life and now another chapter starts and you’re in a new living situation: a new town, new residential living facility, or living with one of your adult children. And it’s good: greater safety, less physical demands, fewer worries; but often it also means making new friends. And at our age it isn’t as easy as making friends on the playground. But it is possible. Here are four tips from Margaret Manning, author and founder of Sixtyandme.com. that might help.
Get to know yourself. To make new friends, you will need to be motivated and confident; and knowing what you want and who you are is often the first step. Learn to become your own best friend.
Chase passions not people. Take a class or volunteer in an area that interests you. At the Center, we offer many classes which are always looking for new faces. You will then have that common conversation starter – and who knows where it will lead.
Develop Your Physical and Emotional Resources. Start some simple exercises. Or try Pickleball. Make sure it’s something you enjoy. And emotionally, do activities that make you happier such as the ideas promoted by Gorge Happiness Month.
Invite people into your life. Now that you have a better idea of who you are, and are committed to pursuing your passions, it’s time to reach out and get to know other people. But if it doesn’t work out, not everything does, don’t take it personally!
Making new friends isn’t easy. Don’t compare yourself to those folks who seem to have been bred to make friends. It takes a belief in yourself, getting out and taking a few emotional risks – which often requires time and persistence. But it’s worth it.
Many people look forward to retirement – trading in the stress and worry of work for extra free time, neglected hobbies and grandchildren. But those retired years are not without their own challenges: money, health and loss. The theme for our next “Let’s Talk: Conversations about Things that Matter” on Friday, October 19th from 11:00 – 12:00 is “What do you have to worry about? You’re retired! Come and join the conversation.
We’re coming to the end of Gorge Happiness Month, and after this week you’re on your own. Until next October, keep practicing the Daily 3’s: Three Gratitudes, an Act of Kindness and a Moment of Silence.
25th – Say yes; 
26th– Have a conversation where you listen more than you talk; 
27th – Pick a good moment from yesterday and draw it;  
28th  – Let someone go in front of you in line; 
29th  – Come up with a new idea to do and then send it to Gorge Happiness at info@gorgehappiness.org; 
30th  – Go back and do one you have missed; and  
31st  – Give candy to a stranger.
The name of the gentleman gunfighter who worked as a mercenary gunfighter in the television series Have Gun Will Travel was Paladin played by Richard Boone – who according Diane Weston also starred as the bad guy in the John Wayne movie Big Jake.
(I also received correct answers from Cheri Brent, Herman Nueberger, Merle Gearhart, Jerry Taylor, Dale Roberts, Alice Mattox, Sandy Haechrel, Kim Birge, Jerry Betts, Lana Tepfer (who said you can still watch it on channel 2.2), Dale Roberts, Carol Staves, Kay Tenold, Carol Irwin, and Gary Van Orman who with his acting experience is this week’s winner of quilt raffle ticket. And as is my habit, last week I missed Rhonda Austin, Lucilee Stephens, Sandy Haechrel and Cheri Brent.)
Okay, I promise this is ABSOLUTELY the last western television series question for this year.  I was going to ask about one of Sandy Haechrel’s and my favorite Saturday morning westerns, Sky King. But I went back in the archives and found I had asked about Sky King just last March. So instead, hopefully you’ll remember the first network television western series when it aired on NBC in 1949.  For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this western series starring a reserved and well-spoken hero dressed in black who traveled the west on his white horse Topper and starred William Boyd? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with a bottle of nonalcoholic sarsaparilla.
Well, it’s been another week looking forward to each day’s new surprise.  Until we meet again, before you call the electrician, check the breaker box.
“If fate means you to lose, give him a good fight anyhow.” William McFee, writer

Aging Well in the Gorge October 17th 2018

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Medicare fraud and abuse is costly for our nation losing billions of dollars each year. But according to Oregon’s Senior Medicare Patrol, you can make a difference by protecting, detecting and reporting.
Protecting your personal information is the first and best line of defense in the fight against healthcare fraud and abuse. Treat your Medicare and Social Security numbers like a credit card number. Never give these numbers to a stranger, even when tempted by a friendly voice on the telephone who wants to help.  Remember, Medicare doesn’t call or visit to sell you anything.
Another suggestion is to use a calendar or create a personal health journal to record doctor visits, tests and procedures. It’s like keeping a diary when you were a youngster, but instead of recording loves lost and found, you are tracking your latest health ups and downs. Oh, how times have changed!
It is also important to save your Medicare Summary Notices and any Explanation of Benefits (If it wasn’t for my wife, I would probably toss them because I find them so difficult to understand). You should review them for any potential errors or fraud – and then compare them to your personal health care journal and prescription drug receipts to make sure they are correct. Look for charges for something you didn’t receive; billing for the same thing twice; or services that were not ordered by your doctor.
If you suspect any errors or fraud, or have questions, call your provider or plan first. Then if you are not satisfied with their response, report your concerns to your local Senior Medicare Patron (SMP) at 1-877-808-2468 or contact the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) of Oregon: 1-855-ORE-ADRC (673-2372) or www.ADRCofOregon.org.
You can learn more about Medicare Fraud at the Center’s next “Lectures for the Curious” on Wednesday, October 24th at 11:00. Sue Ann Arguelles, the local SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance) coordinator will be the speaker.
Are you at an age where you feel you are invisible: seldom noticed or valued? Or are you one who makes enough noise you can’t be ignored? For our next “Let’s Talk: Conversations about Things that Matter” on Friday, October 19th from 11:00 – 12:00 the theme will be “I’m Still Here! – Staying Visible”.
Wow, we have already entered the second half of Gorge Happiness Month. Here are a few more suggestions for things to do during this next week.
18th – Send a thank-you note; 
19th– Attend a new free class or event; 
20th – Bite the middle of a pencil for 3 minutes (your brain thinks you’re smiling – but everyone else will think your nuts!)); 
21st  – Make plans for something happy next weekend; 
22nd  – Go for a walk; 
23rd  – Smile at someone you don’t know; 
24th  – Walk or drive a different route.
The name of the western that was the most watched television show in 1962 and recounted the adventures of a group of settlers as they made their way from St. Joseph Missouri to California was Wagon Train. (I received correct answers from Betsy Ayers, Jess Birge, Louise Wooderson, Dale Roberts, Virginia McClain, Alice Mattox, Diana Weston, Lana Tepfer, Sharon Hull, Jerry Taylor, Jerry Betts and Ruth Radcliffe who told me if you have an antenna, you can watch Wagon Train every day at 4:00 on channel 2.2. But since there were so many entries Sharon Pevera, Sunny T and Carol Stace are this week’s winners of a quilt raffle ticket each.)

Since last week’s question was so popular, I’m going to take it up a notch and see if you can remember the lead character in this classic American Western television series that aired on CBS from 1957 through 1963. For this week’s “Remember When” question, in the half hour television series Have Gun Will Travel  (which I do remember watching) what was the name of the gentleman gunfighter who travels around the Old West working as a mercenary gunfighter for people who hire him to solve their problems? And for bonus points, who was the actor that played that character?

Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with a knight chess piece.
Well, it’s been another week trying to find the right word before I forget the sentence. Until we meet again, it is never too late to spread your wings and fly.
“Don’t be afraid. Because you’re going to be afraid. But remember when you become afraid, just don’t be afraid.” Joan Jett, musician (You got that?)

Aging Well in the Gorge October 10th 2018

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With the advent of the Internet and social media, newspapers are struggling to adapt – some more successfully than others. But this is not the first time.
When I grew up in Indianapolis, there were two daily newspapers – one delivered in the morning and the other in the afternoon. And as was the case in many large cities, one was considered conservative and the other liberal – well, as liberal as Indiana could be. It was the newspaper equivalent to FoxNews and CNN.
But with the increasing popularity of television’s evening news shows, the evening newspaper gradually lost circulation and eventually ceased operations.
Today there are even greater challenges. On October 17that 11:00, RaeLynn Ricarte and Mark Gibson, the Ying and the Yang of The Dalles Chronicle, will speak about the challenges and opportunities local papers face and answer your questions about how the Chronicle is learning to adapt.
Community based local newspapers will adapt and survive. Where else can you find local news vetted following high journalistic standards – and the obituaries!?
Have you experienced “The Talk” where your children sit you down and talk about what they think your future should be? But how about this for an idea. Before they have a chance, let’s reverse it and sit them down and have “The Talk” explaining what we expect from them as our all-to-caring adult children. In other words, telling them to “Stop bugging me and telling me what I should do!”
The joys and challenges of the parent and adult child relationship will be the focus of our next “Let’s Talk: Conversations about Things that Matter” on Friday, October 12th from 11:00 – 12:00.  
We all have our struggles and many times as we get older it feels like we have more than our fair share. But without struggle there isn’t growth. Wasn’t that what we were told when we were children? “If it doesn’t kill you, it will make you stronger.” But in the midst of our struggles and challenges, we can still find happiness.
As I have mentioned, October is Gorge Happiness month, encouraging everyone to incorporate in their daily routine the three habits that can make us happier and healthier: 3 Gratitudes, an Act of Kindness and a Moment of Silence.
And to prime the pump, a specific task is suggested for each day in October including the following for the next seven days: 

11th – Complete one small irritating task; 
12th – Leave a kind note in an unlikely place; 
13th – Take a nap (that’s any easy one!); 
14th – Reach out to someone you haven’t seen in a long time; 
15th – Stop and count the number of things you hear right now (with and without your hearing aids); 
16th – Do someone else’s chores; 
17th  – Listen to music.
If you didn’t follow the suggestion from last week to talk to someone at a Farmer’s Market, your last chance is this coming Saturday between 9:00 and 1:00. After the 13th the Farmer’s Market will be shutting down until next June.
The pitcher who cemented his place in baseball history in the 1965 World Series when he pitched two shutouts for the Los Angeles Dodgers to compliment his twenty-six wins during the regular season was not Don Drysdale or Don Larson but Sandy Koufax. (I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel, Sharon Hull, Jerry Betts and Lee Kaseberg this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)
TV westerns were popular in the 50’s and 60’s: Bonanza, Gunsmoke, and Rawhide for example. But I don’t remember watching this show back when it aired on NBC from 1957 through 1962 before it moved to the new ABC. For this week’s “Remember When” question what was the name of the most watched television show in 1962, starring Ward Bond and Robert Horton and recounted the adventures of a group of settlers as they made their way from St. Joseph Missouri across the Mid-Western plains and the Rocky Mountains to California? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with the 1960 episode directed by the legendary director John Ford.
Well it’s been another week trying to decide should I or shouldn’t I. Until we meet again as Anton Chekhov once pointed out “Any idiot can face a crisis. It’s the day to day living that wears you out”.
“A newspaper is the center of a community, it’s one of the tent poles of the community, and that’s not going to be replaced by Web sites and blogs.” Michael Connelly

Aging Well in the Gorge October 3rd 2018

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There are many excellent facilities and services supporting older adults in the Gorge: assisted living facilities, retirement communities, in-home care and both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services.
One of the inpatient rehabilitation services is mPower: a 6-bed accredited inpatient rehabilitation program located within Mid-Columbia Medical Center. They offer comprehensive rehabilitation services for persons who have sustained a variety of illnesses and injuries; and are proud to report that 93% of their participants return home at discharge, and 96% of their participants would recommend mPower Rehabilitation to friends or family.
But they know the best treatment is prevention. For the Center’s “Lectures for the Curious” on Wednesday, October 10th at 11:00, Brandon Johnson from MCMC’s mPower will present “Reducing Fall Risks in your Home”. A common myth is that falling is normal as you get older. But it isn’t, and Brandon will explain steps (no pun intended) you can take to prevent falls. Just because you have fallen and have been able to get up without injury, doesn’t mean that will always be the case.
I am always amazed by what I learn from other “mature” folks about how to navigate this journey called life. “Let’s Talk: Conversations about Things that Matter” is a safe place where issues we all face can be discussed. For the next “Let’s Talk” on Friday, October 5th at 11:00, the focus will be “Independent, Safe or None of the Above – finding the Balance”.
Spending time with new and old friends with good food and good music makes for a very good day. Meals-on-Wheels offers meals at the Center Monday through Friday; and every Thursday you can enjoy the music of Tom Graff and his friends starting at 11:00. I know, you can always go to McDonalds or KFC for a bite to eat. But where can you enjoy a nutritious meal for a suggested donation of $4 (if you are fortunate to be 60 or over) while listening to some fine music without a cover charge?
And this Friday, October 5th, Nehemiah Brown will be singing from 11:30 – 1:30 and its free – although we hope you do buy dinner. Nehemiah’s known for his buttery smooth voice, singing pop, country and gospel standards from the 50’s and 60’s. And once again his performance is sponsored by our friends at The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center.  
October is Gorge Happiness Month – “31 days of celebrating the three daily habits to make us happier and healthier”: 3 Gratitudes, an Act of Kindness and a Moment of Silence.
For these days in October try the following: 
4th – Pick up Trash; 
5th– Learn a new joke; 
6th – Talk to someone at a Farmer’s Market, 
7th– Pick a person or a goal to focus on this week; 
8th – List your strengths; 
9th – Include someone new; 
10th – Tell someone what you like about them.
The television series that ran on CBS from 1965 to 1969 and told the story of two Secret Service agents James West and Artemus Gordon whose mission was to protect President Grant and the United States was the Wild, Wild West.
(I received correct answers from Jerry Taylor, Sharon Hull and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket Ruth Radcliffe which I hope is everyone. Because the previous week, I was once again a day late and a dollar short missing the correct answers from Lana Tepfer and Sharon Hull who both will also receive one free quilt raffle ticket each.)
With the regular baseball season over and the playoffs starting, it is time for a question for all the baseball fans in the peanut gallery.
For this week’s “Remember When” question, what pitcher cemented his place in baseball history in the 1965 World Series when he pitched two shutouts for the Los Angeles Dodgers to compliment his twenty-six wins during the regular season?  Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with pictures of the Cy Young awards he won in 1963, 1965 and 1966.
Well it’s been another week trying to keep the sticky notes stuck in my memory. Until we meet again, you can’t turn back the hands of time, but you can make sure the clock is wound.
“You win a few, you lose a few. Some get rained out. But you got to dress for all of them.” Satchel Paige who at the age of 59 pitched three innings of one hit baseball for the American League Kansas City Athletics.

Aging Well in the Gorge September 26th 2018

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We all want to be happy, don’t we? We tell our children and grandchildren to follow their passion and be happy – until they decide to major in English literature and we ask WHY?
To help us in our pursuit of happiness, One Community Health has designated October as Gorge Happiness Month to promote healthier communities.
Because happiness shouldn’t just be a goal in our lives because – well, it makes us happy. It also makes us healthier. It has been shown that happier people have better overall health and live longer than their less happy peers.
A means to that end is to practice “The Daily 3”: three habits that foster happiness – Three Gratitudes, Acts of Kindness and Moments of Silence.
Three Gratitudes: Find time each day to list three things for which you are thankful. These may be as simple as “I didn’t have to get up in the middle of the night!”, or your church family who helps you when needed.
Acts of Kindness: It can be as simple as opening a door for a stranger or saying thank you to a cashier. Or you can be more involved and find a new volunteer opportunity such as driving for Meals-on-Wheels once a week.
Moments of Silence: Sit silently for just five minutes per day. (But you have to stay awake. Your midday nap doesn’t count!) Turn off all your electronic devices and feed the animals so they won’t bother you. Now just sit and observe the thoughts in your head, the sounds you hear around you or other sensations that come and go.
Besides “The Daily 3”, during Gorge Happiness Month there are daily suggestions of a good deed to try which I will start mentioning this week. See if you can accomplish all 31.
Monday (1st) Compliment a Stranger
Tuesday (2nd) Get someone to do “The Daily 3” happiness habits
Wednesday (3rd) Introduce two people
If you are interested in learning more about Gorge Happiness Month, you can visit www.gorgehappiness.org.
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“Across the Political Divide” is a facilitated conversation scheduled during Gorge Happiness Month to look at the differences among various political perspectives, how to value them and gain a better understanding so we can live together as friends. It is hosted by the Wasco County GOP but is 100% non-partisan; and all political persuasions are encouraged to attend. It will be held on Monday, October 1st from 6:30 – 8:00 PM at The Dalles/Wasco County Library
And now a couple events at the Center you might be interested in.
“Let’s Talk: Conversations about Things that Matter” on Friday, October 5th at 11:00
The topic will be “Independent, Safe or None of the Above”. How do we find the balance between staying as independent as possible and being safe – before someone decides for us?
“Lectures for the Curious” on Wednesday, October 3rd at 11:00. Wasco County Clerk Lisa Gambee and her Chief Deputy, David McGaughey will be discussing the election process and how they work to ensure the elections are fair and accurate. And remember, Tuesday, October 16th is the last day to register; and on Wednesday, October 17th ballots will be mailed and will have to be returned by election day, November 6th.
The American politician from Minnesota who sought the 1968 Democratic presidential nomination challenging Lyndon B. Johnson on an anti-Vietnam War platform was Eugene McCarthy. (I received correct answers from Minnesotan Sandy Haechrel, Jeanne Pesicka and Tom Early who is Eugene McCarthy’s second cousin, but more importantly is this week’s winner of a free quilt raffle ticket.)

During one of those casual breakfast table conversations with my wife, this science fiction western television series popped up out of the blue. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the television series that ran on CBS for four seasons from 1965 to 1969 and told the story of two Secret Service agents: the fearless and handsome James West, and Artemus Gordon: a brilliant gadgeteer and master of disguise, whose mission was to protect President Grant and the United States from dangerous threats? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer with a replica of the Wanderer, a luxury train equipped with everything from a stable car to a laboratory.
Well it’s been another week trying to remember the days long ago when I use to be “cool”. Until we meet again, make your future as big as your past.

“That’s the difference between me and the rest of the world! Happiness isn’t good enough for me! I demand euphoria!” Calvin and Hobbes

Aging Well in the Gorge September 19th 2018

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Falls can be more than an inconvenience when you could just pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move on. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries. And according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) one out of three adults aged 65 or older falls each year, adding up to a cost of $30 billion in 2010. 
But most falls are preventable, and there are steps you can take to prevent falls including this list of actions suggested by NIHSeniorHealth. I shortened the descriptions, but you can learn more by going to http://nihseniorhealth.gov/ and search for fall prevention.
1. Make an appointment with your doctor and be prepared to answer the following questions. What medications are you taking? Have you fallen before? Do you feel any dizziness, joint pain, numbness or shortness of breath when you walk? 
2. Keep moving. Try activities that improve your strength, balance, coordination and flexibility such as walking, water workouts, or the Yoga, Strong Women or Tai Chi classes at the Center. And there are exercises where you don’t even have to leave the house such as a) standing on one foot, b) walking heel to toe, c) balance walk, d) back leg raises, and e) side leg raises. 
3. Wear sensible shoes. High heels (Does anyone wear high heels anymore?), floppy slippers and shoes with slick soles can make you slip, stumble and fall. And so can walking in your stocking feet. 
4. Remove home hazards: boxes, electrical cords and phone cords from walkways. Move coffee tables, magazine racks and plant stands from high-traffic areas; and remove loose rugs in your home. Use nonslip mats in your bathtub or shower.
5. Light up your living space. Keep your home brightly lit and place a lamp within reach of your bed for middle-of-the-night needs. Consider trading traditional switches for glow-in-the-dark or illuminated switches. Turn on the lights before going up or down stairs.
6. Use assistive devices. A cane or walker can help keep you steady, so you can get around without falling. In addition, install hand rails for BOTH sides of stairways, add grab bars for the shower or tub, or install a sturdy plastic seat for the shower or tub. 
These are all relatively simple steps you can take to prevent falls and maintain your independence while avoiding the fine young doctors in the emergency room.
The Center is starting an eight-week series called “Lectures for the Curious” on Wednesday, September 26th at 11:00. Billy O’Keefe will be the first presenter discussing the fascinating topic of Astronomy and the Cosmos. Billy who has taught Astronomy classes will be bringing his solar telescope as well as demonstrating how to use apps such as SkyView on your tablet to enhance your understanding of the night skies.
Also on the 26th, Kerry Cobb, Executive Director at the Columbia Center for the Arts, will be back at the Center at 1:00 with a colorful and entertaining 60-minute presentation exploring the nature of seeing through art. Using art as a platform, you’ll discover ways to sharpen your awareness and be more observant of your environment, and learn ways to interact more enjoyably with art.
The eight protesters who were arrested and tried for conspiracy and inciting to riot during the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago were called the “Chicago Eight”. (I didn’t receive any responses for this week’s question, but from last week I missed Sharon Hull who remembered it was “Around the World in 80 Days” and wins one free quilt raffle ticket.)
One last political question before we are inundated with all the political noise before November 6th. For this week’s “Remember When” question who was the American politician, poet, and long-time Congressman from Minnesota who served in the United States House of Representatives from 1949 to 1959 and the United States Senate from 1959 to 1971 and sought the 1968 Democratic presidential nomination challenging incumbent Lyndon B. Johnson on an anti-Vietnam War platform? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send your answer written on the back of a “Get Clean for Gene” T-shirt.
Well it’s been another week sitting at my desk trying to stay awake in the afternoon. Until we meet again, the goal isn’t to look younger but to be able to continue doing what you enjoy.
“You know you’re getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.” Bob Hope

Aging Well in the Gorge September 12th 2018

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Did you know that 1 in 5 Medicare beneficiaries describes Medicare as confusing (I’m surprised it isn’t higher!); most adults can’t identify what Medicare Parts A, B, C and D cover; 70% of baby boomers say they have a fair or poor understanding of Medicare; and a surprising 62% of those eligible have never shopped for Medicare coverage to fit their needs.
In response, National Medicare Education Week was established from September 15 through the 21st (one month before the start of Medicare Open Enrollment which runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7) dedicated to helping people better understand Medicare.
Locally, you can learn more about Medicare by attending the free Medicare 101 workshop on September 20th from 1:00 – 3:00 PM in Room 102, Building 3 on The Dalles Campus of CGCC. To register, you are encouraged to call 503-947-7302 or email shiba.oregon@oregon.gov. But walk-ins are welcome as space allows.
Donna Delikat, an advocate for SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance), will be the presenter. The workshop is offered by SHIBA: a federally funded, nationwide program designed to help beneficiaries of Medicare navigate their way through the complicated and often frustrating Medicare system.
By attending the workshop, you will learn when and how to enroll; what Medicare does and does not cover, the differences between Medicare and Medicaid and between Medicare supplement insurance and Medicare Advantage plans; how to choose the type of coverage that works best for you; and much more.
It is important to remember Medicare health and drug plans make changes each year – such as cost, coverage, and what providers and pharmacies are in their networks. And Medicare’s open enrollment period is your chance each year to change your Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage to best meet your needs.
But how do you know if you should change plans?
Soon you will be receiving information from your current Medicare plans such as the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). Review these statements carefully to make sure your plans will still meet your needs for next year. If you’re satisfied, you don’t need to do anything. But if you aren’t happy with the changes to your current plan, you can compare plans by going online to Medicare.gov. If you feel more comfortable talking to someone face-to-face, in a few weeks you can call the Center to schedule an appointment with a trained SHIBA volunteer.
Most importantly, take this time to understand your Medicare options so you can make informed decisions – both for your health and your pocket book.
You don’t always want to be worrying about every possible disaster: earthquake, fire, train derailment, but when one does occur, you want to be prepared. To learn more about preparing for various emergencies join NW Natural and local experts at Get Ready – The Dalles on Saturday, September 15th from 10:00 – 1:00 at the Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue. And to make it even more fun, there will be prizes and free lunches.
Here’s a tip I just learned from Tonya Brumley, community affairs manager for this area of NW Natural. To create a record of your possessions in your home, spend a few moments and videotape every room. It could provide fond memories for you children – and one day your insurance agent might really appreciate it.    
In the epic adventure comedy movie based on the classic novel by Jules Verne, the Englishman Phileas Fogg in 1872 bets that he can circle the globe in 80 days. (I received one correct answer from Bob Earls who wins a quilt raffle ticket; and for the week before, Jo Smith also receives a free quilt raffle ticket for her correct answer.)
During the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago, eight protesters including Abbie Hoffman and Jerry Rubin, were arrested and tried for conspiracy and inciting to riot because of their role in anti-Vietnam War protests during the convention. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the popular name given to these protestors? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a black robe once worn by Judge Julius Hoffman.
Well it’s been another week making lemonade out of lemons – which are always nearby. Until we meet again, here is some simple advice from Oswald Avery, “Whenever you fall, pick something up.”
“To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring.” George Santayana
Menu for The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels dinners served at noon in Betty’s Diner at the Center.

Aging Well in the Gorge September 5th 2018

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I keep telling myself there is a reason I keep mixing up my days and weeks. Right now, I’m writing this column a week ahead of the day its delivered to your mailbox. And the column will be discussing events occurring during that following week. I have to think two weeks ahead and for a guy who usually plans from day to day, that’s not easy. My fear is one day during my annual Medicare Wellness check, I’m going to pause too long when asked what day it is and be whisked away to take some cognitive assessment for you know what! – and fail!!
But you might be in the same boat. (Of course, if you’re retired who cares what day it is. Every day is the weekend!). One of the keys to keeping all your oars in the water is challenging yourself mentally every day – which doesn’t mean taking your high school algebra class again.
For your enjoyment and maybe a little mental frustration, here is a brain teaser whose aim is to stimulate the connections or associations between words stored in the temporal lobes of your brain. The temporal lobes are one of the four main lobes or regions of the cerebral cortex and play an important role in organizing sensory input, auditory perception, language and speech production, as well as memory association and formation. (Don’t you feel smarter already!)
Words that are often heard together (such as salt and pepper) or words that share some meaning (such as nurse and doctor) are connected or associated in the brain. Once you hear one, the other is often activated.
In this brain teaser, you will see pairs of words, and your goal is to find a third word that is connected or associated with both words. For example, the first pair is PIANO and LOCK. The answer is KEY. The word KEY is connected with both the word piano and the word lock: there are KEYS on a piano and you use a KEY to lock doors.
Ready to stimulate connections in your temporal lobes? Enjoy! (Solutions are below.)
1. LOCK — PIANO; 2. SHIP — CARD; 3. TREE — CAR; 4. SCHOOL — EYE; 5. PILLOW — COURT; 6. RIVER — MONEY; 7. BED — PAPER; 8. ARMY — WATER; 9. TENNIS — NOISE; 10. EGYPTIAN — MOTHER; 11. SMOKER — PLUMBER
If you want to stimulate your mind by enjoying more brain teasers; or by watching videos about the brain and brain health, join us for the Brain Fitness Club returning on Monday, September 17th starting at 1:00.
And right before at noon, “Lunch with TED” meets where we eat lunch while watching and discussing several of the latest TED Talks. TED Talks are short talks (18 minutes or less) on various topics from science to business to global issues produced by TED – a nonprofit devoted to “spreading ideas worth sharing”. Everyone is invited to either one or both classes.
The arranger and conductor for many of Frank Sinatra’s hits; and who made a comeback in the 80’s arranging three albums for Linda Ronstadt is Nelson Riddle. But since I am writing this early before I leave for my trip back east to visit my brother, I will mention everyone who responded next week.)
This epic adventure comedy movie was based on the classic novel by Jules Verne and won five Academy Awards including Best Picture in 1956. For this week’s “Remember When” question, in this movie that takes place in 1872, the Englishman Phileas Fogg bets that he can circle the globe in how many days? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a DVD of the 2004 digitally restored version of the original movie.
Well it’s been another week trying to remember from one room to room. Until we meet again, it’s about that time to start changing from shorts to sweaters.  
“I never really look for anything. What God throws my way comes. I wake up in the morning and whichever way God turns my feet, I go.” Pearl Bailey