Author Archives: mcseniorcenter

Aging Well March 17th 2015

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We have all heard that Alzheimer’s is a debilitating brain disease. The brain cells progressively degenerate causing deterioration in thinking ability and memory; and also affecting behavior, mood and emotions, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Consequently, caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be both frustrating and exhausting.
At the Center on Wednesday March 25th from 1 to 4:30 PM the Oregon Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present, “Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers – Middle Stage”. You will hear caregivers and professionals discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, effective and comfortable care in the middle stage of Alzheimer’s. The class is free, but registration is required. To register, call 800-272-3900.
But what is the middle stage of Alzheimer’s? The middle stage is typically the longest stage and can last for many years. It follows the early stage when the person exhibits mild cognitive impairment and may still be able to function independently such as driving and participating in social activities. And it precedes the late stage Alzheimer’s when around the clock care is usually required.
During the middle stage, as the dementia progresses, the person with Alzheimer’s may find it difficult to express thoughts and perform routine tasks such as getting dressed. As a caregiver during this stage, you become a hands-on caregiver, and it is particularly important to get the support you need as a caregiver.
The “Living with Alzheimer’s” presentation on the 25th will provide valuable information on how to care for a loved one as well as yourself. For more information, you can also go to the Oregon Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association website at www.alz.org/oregon/.
Have you ever visited with your grandchildren or great-grandchildren and wondered why they say what they say? (Maybe even your adult children? But that is a whole different subject!) At the Center’s 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on March 24th, Lindsay Couch, SLP (Speech- Language Pathology) will talk about language and communication development in children including how children develop language skills, how they communicate with their parents and grandparents, and what milestones in communication should be reached at certain ages/stages. She has spoken to other groups in the area and they have found her presentations fascinating.
Are you ready for Medicare? Well, I imagine most of you, like myself, are already enrolled in Medicare. But for those of you who aren’t, you don’t have to wait until you are 65 to understand Medicare. You can get help now at a free community event presented by Oregon’s Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program (SHIBA) on Wednesday April 8th from 9:00 – 11:00 AM at the Columbia Gorge Community College in The Dalles. You will learn how to enroll in Medicare, important deadlines, avoiding penalties, working after you are eligible for Medicare, finding assistance with paying Medicare costs and much more. Call 541-506-6011 to register.
Now that the weather is warmer and the days are longer, more folks are enjoying the Center’s Tuesday Night Music and Dance. This coming Tuesday March 24ththe Simcoe Boys will be playing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are appreciated.
Nehemiah Brown will be performing at the Center once again on March 27th from 7:00 – 9:00. If you haven’t heard Nehemiah, you should. He sings the hits of the 50’s and 60’s in the style of Nat King Cole and Bobby Darin. And thanks to The Dalles Health and Rehabilitation Center who is sponsoring the event, the cost is still only $3.00 per person.
Okay, last week I may have given the answer away when I mentioned Phil Brady, but I wasn’t sure if anyone would remember Brady’s Market and its sign with the rotating grocery cart on top. I certainly was wrong. (The winner of five raffle tickets for the Necktie Quilt is Morris Melton.)
For this week’s “Remember When” question, here’s another local question about a popular landmark in The Dalles gleaned from my conversation with Jim Slusher and Phil Brady. But this time I’m only going to give one clue.  What comes to mind when I mention “doughnut” (and it’s not the Bakekitchen).  E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or send it with a round trip bus ticket to Richland, Washington.
Well, it’s been another week, laughing with friends – old and new. Until we meet again, don’t use your age as an excuse.

“Human beings, who are almost unique in having the ability to learn from the experience of others, are also remarkable for their apparent disinclination to do so.” Douglas Adams

Aging Well March 10th 2015

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In the United States, we are living longer than ever with the average lifespan in 2013 of 79.8 years according to the World Health Organization. In large measure, this is the result of medical advancements in reducing the number of deaths due to heart disease and stroke.
The idea of lifespan came up this last weekend when my wife and I spent time with my son who was in Oregon for the weekend. During his visit, we had aso I can enjoy those extra bonus years.f study which is the biology of aging or trying  fascinating discussion about his field of graduate study: the biology of aging. He talked about genomes, DNA and RNA, telomeres and proteins (I wish I had remembered more from my high school biology classes!). In those discussions, he mentioned the difference between lifespan – how long you live, and healthspan – the period of your life during which you are generally healthy.
Lifespan I am familiar with since it is one of the most common indicators of health. But when I think about it, an increase in lifespan can’t be the whole picture. Without an increase in healthspan, it could just mean more years with illness and disability. For example, with the rising life expectancy there is a growing number of dementia cases which some researchers are projecting an increase of threefold by 2050. As we add more years to our lives, don’t we still want to enjoy the life in our years?
Even with all the life extending medical advancements, there is a growing awareness that life expectancy may not be the best indicator of overall health. Consequently, I expect there will be a greater focus on research that will address what is most important: the ability to maintain our health as we age, so we can stay active, engaged and able to really enjoy the bonus years.
But as of now, there is no quick fix to healthy aging – no magic fountain of youth. A long and healthy life comes down to making sensible lifestyle choices: exercising, eating well and staying connected with others. And a little bit of good luck.
Now that the Center has sold all twenty tickets for Guys and Dolls, the next show is I Love Lucy On Stage which is a brand-new, feel-good stage show adapted from the beloved television hit of the 50’s. Thirteen seats are still available for the 2:00 Saturday matinee on April 11th at the Keller Auditorium in Portland. The cost is $75 including transportation. Drop by the Center to purchase your tickets.
If you are staying home on St. Patrick’s Day you are missing some great music. The annual “St. Pat’s at St. Pete’s” concert at St. Peter’s Landmark starts at 7 p.m.  Cascade Children’s Choir and instrumentalists will join the Cascade Singers choir, ensemble, and “Almost-All-Irish-Almost All-Brass Band” for Irish favorites and sing-alongs.  Admission is a free-will offering to benefit St. Peter’s Landmark. 
And as I have mentioned before, the Center is having their St. Patrick’s Day Supper and Concert featuring the local Irish band “Barley Draught”. The Irish Potato Supper starts at 5:30 and Barley Draught will be performing from 7:00 till 10:00. Clock Tower Ales will be providing the Guinness Draught, so it is an over 21 event. The cost is $12 for both supper and concert and $7 for concert only.
I heard from a lot of folks that it was “Howdy Doody time” – the answer to last week’s “Remember When” question. (The winner of five raffle tickets for the Necktie Quilt is Ed Anghilante.)
This week I’m going back to local history for all the old and not-so-old timers. At the MCMC Health Foundation’s Compassion Awards event, my wife and I had the pleasure of sitting with Jim Slusher, the director of the Mid-Columbia Community Action Program (this year’s winner of the Community Service Organization Award), and Phil Brady. When they started talking about some of the old landmarks in The Dalles back in their days far, far away, my ears perked up. For those of you who were around back then, what was the name of the grocery store, located on the corner where The Dalles Chronicle building sits today, and known for its sign with a rotating grocery cart on top?  E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or send it with a twenty pound bag of groceries.
Well, it’s been another week, looking for the next right answer – or at least something close. Until we meet again, keep your chin up and your nose clean.

“Life is simpler when you plough around the stump.” Cowboy wisdom

Aging Well March 3rd 2015

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Technology is constantly changing and as most of us would agree – much too fast. But the upside is that the technology will become more intuitive and responsive. And with the boomer bubble moving through the snake, businesses are taking notice. There will be an increasing focus on hi-tech products for older adults that offer enhanced safety and convenience, while also allowing greater independence.
Some of the new technologies include wireless bone conduction headphones, Bluetooth speech enhancement devices, new technology enabled in-home care systems, and fashionable wrist watches that provide medication reminders, count your steps, can be activated in an emergency, and can wash the dishes. (Okay maybe not that last one – at least not yet.) And who knows, we may live long enough to see driverless cars.
But enough of this staring in the crystal ball. How do I get my email to work or download the pictures of my grandkids? Or how do I get started with my new iPad or laptop that my children gave me – because they read how much better my life will be with one.
If you have any “techie” questions, you can just drop in any Wednesday morning at 9:00, or at 1:00 on the first Wednesdays (March 4th) if you have iPad or iPhone, and I will attempt to answer your questions. I can often help or at least give you some direction before you ask for professional help.
Now that Guys and Dolls is sold out, the next show is I Love Lucy On Stage which isa brand-new hit stage show adapted from the beloved television hit of the 50’s. The Center has purchased 20 tickets for the 2:00 Saturday matinee on April 11that the Keller Auditorium in Portland and the cost is $75 including transportation. Just drop by the Center to purchase your tickets.
Debra Jones has lined up an exciting list of creative arts classes at the Center beginning next Tuesday, March 10th from 1:00 to 2:30. There is limited room and the classes fill up quickly, so you should call the Center and reserve your spot ASAP. Because of the grant from the Wasco County Cultural Trust, we can keep the cost low – only $2.00 per class plus all the materials are provided. This allows you to get your toes wet without having to take a full bath. The lineup for the spring classes are: March 10th – Pastels; March 24th – Cup & Saucer; April 14 – Herb Garden; April 28 – Wooden Serving Trays; May 12 – Mosaics; May 26 – Collages. Call the Center at 541-296-4788 if you have any questions.
The topic for the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on March 10th is “Livable Communities – What does a community that supports all ages look like.”
For the Center’s Tuesday Night Music on March 10th, Martin and Friends will be playing for your dancing and listening enjoyment. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are appreciated.
It was January 11, 1959 on the Ed Sullivan Show when America watched Ed Sullivan interview Fidel Castro just days after the Cuban Revolution. (The winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast on April 25th is Alex Currie.)
Starting this week, the winner of the “Remember When” question will win five raffle tickets for the Necktie Quilt that was machine pieced and quilted by Francie Yuhas. You can see the quilt at the Center or on the Center’s website at www.midcolumbiaseniorcenter.com. Tickets are $1.00 a piece or seven for $5.00. The raffle drawing will be held on Monday, April 27th.
This week’s “Remember When” question is about a children’s program telecast on NBC from 1947 through 1960. At the start of each show, Buffalo Bob would come out and ask “Say kids, what time is it? What would the children in the “Peanut Gallery” say in response? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or send it with one of Clarabell’s seltzer bottles.
Well, it’s been another week, living in the “now” because I can’t remember what happened yesterday. Until we meet again, as I am often told, if you ever find yourself in a hole, the first thing to do is to put down the shovel.

“It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character, and judgment; and in these qualities old age is usually not only not poorer, but is even richer.”  Cicero

Aging Well February 24th 2015

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There are 760,000 Oregonians suffering from arthritis, and you may be one of them. With arthritis you may find it difficult to keep moving, but there is a program developed by the Arthritis Foundation named Walk With Ease that has been proven effective in increasing balance, reducing pain, improving mental health, flexibility and overall physical health. If you can be on your feet for 10 minutes without increased pain, you will want to join the Walk With Ease program where you will learn how to develop a walking plan, stay motivated, manage your pain and learn to exercise safely.
Lauren Kraemer, the Family and Community Health agent for OSU/Wasco County Extension, will soon be starting a Walk With Ease class. You can learn more about this program at the Center’s 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on March 3rd. Or you can call OSU/Wasco County Extension at 541-296-5494 for more information.  
If you happen to be a regular Fred Meyer customer, you probably have a Rewards Card that gives you cash back and discounts. An easy way to support your favorite non-profit, (and I don’t know one that couldn’t use more financial help), is to link your Rewards Card with the nonprofit. The process is pretty simple. First, go online to https://www.fredmeyer.com/communityrewards. At the top right of the page you will be asked to “Sign In” or if you don’t have an account, click on “Register”. After completing the questions to create your account, search for the nonprofit you want to support.
You can only choose one non-profit and as you can imagine there are plenty in The Dalles and Mid-Columbia area to choose from. Also when searching for a Mid-Columbia non-profit find their location. For some reason the Tri-Cities in Washington think they are the Mid-Columbia. By connecting your rewards card to your favorite non-profit, you will make sure it receives a share of the $2.6 million Fred Meyer donates each year.
Meals-on-Wheels has a loyal cadre of volunteer driver’s that deliver meals to individuals who have difficulty preparing a healthy hot meal. But they do need more drivers. It takes only about an hour with 10 – 15 deliveries. You do have to go through a background check. If you would like to be a MOW driver, stop by their office at the Center or call them at 541-298-8333.
Looking ahead to March, there are several concerts scheduled for the Center besides the regular Tuesday Night Music and Dance. On St. Patrick’s Day, Tuesday March 17th, there will be a baked potato supper and concert with Barley Draught playing the best Irish music this side of the Mississippi. Admission for the concert is only $7.00, and $12 if want to enjoy both the baked supper and concert. Supper starts at 5:30 and the concert is from 7:00 to 10:00.
Nehemiah Brown will be back for his first performance of the year on Friday March 27thfrom 7:00 – 9:00 PM. He will be performing the standards from the 50’s and 60’s and the cost will be $3.00 per person. Besides being an entertainer, Nehemiah is also a minister and gospel singer. He will be performing with the Brothers in Christ at the Great Gospel Concert at Calvary Baptist Church on Saturday March 28th from 2:00 – 3:30.
For the Center’s Tuesday Night Music and Dance, it is already time to head back to the top of line-up with Andre, Tom and Joe playing their crowd pleasing brand of country and honky-tonk music on March 3rd. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are appreciated.
The name of the disturbed owner-manager of the hotel in Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 thriller, Psycho, was Norman Bates. (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Betty Richmond.)
This week’s “Remember When” question is from 1959 when entertainment and international politics intersected on the television screen. Shown on January 11, 1959 on this popular Sunday night variety show, just days after Fulgentia Batista fled Cuba and Fidel Castro had assumed control, was a six minute video clip of the show’s host interviewing Castro – calling Castro and his soldiers “Revolutionary Youngsters.” What was the name of the television show? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or send it with Topo Gigio and a block of cheese.
Well, it’s been another week, welcoming another sign of spring – sugar ants appearing on the kitchen counter. Until we meet again, don’t forget to spend time reflecting on what really matters.

“One of the advantages of being disorganized is that one is always having surprising discoveries.” A.A. Milne

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Many of you may agree with Fran Lebowitz who said, “Very few people possess true artistic ability. It is therefore both unseemly and unproductive to irritate the situation by making an effort. If you have a burning, restless urge to write or paint, simply eat something sweet and the feeling will pass.”

Granted most of us may not have true artistic ability, but if you don’t follow that “burning, restless” urge, you will miss the pleasure, and satisfaction and sense of discovery of creating something new whether it is a drawing, a piece of glass art, or just a doodle. It may not be great, or even good. But that is really not the purpose. It is the process of letting yourself go in the act of creating. And if you get a few kudos or ribbons at the county fair, that is just the cherry on top.

To get your creative juices flowing, there are several opportunities coming around the mountain. The Dalles Art Center is offering Clay Play! taught by Yvonne Pepin-Wakefield from 6:00 – 8:00 PM on every Tuesday in March and first three Tuesdays in April. The class is an individually structured open studio ceramics class over the course of 8 weeks for anyone curious about clay or who want to expand their ceramic skills in a supportive and light-hearted environment. The cost is $80 per student which covers attendance for 4 of the 8 available classes – which you can choose at your own convenience. And if you want to attend more than the four, which you are encouraged to do, there is an additional fee of $20 per class.  You can also purchase a 25 lb. bag of low-fire clay for $15 which can be shared. You can register now by contacting The Dalles Art Center at 541.296.4759 or by email at thedallesart@gmail.com

Also the Center’s Creative Arts Program supported by the Wasco County Cultural Trust is taking shape for this year. The first of the ten Tuesday classes will start on March 10th plus there will be several special events throughout the year: Glass Art Classes with Stephanie, Joy Kloman’s Drawing Classes in May, and “An Evening with Darryl Lloyd” national award winning photographer. It is all exciting stuff and I will provide more information closer to the events.

The twenty tickets for the 2:00 performance of Guys and Dolls on Saturday, March 14th are going fast. If you are interested you should purchase your tickets soon. And once again, Sherman County Transit will be providing the transportation, so our friends in Sherman County who want to attend can pick up the bus closer to home.

Since last week I forgot which week it was and announced the wrong band playing tonight (It is the Simcoe Boys), I shouldn’t even try to tell you who is playing next Tuesday on the 24th. And starting this month, the Center will be rotating bands on the fourth Tuesdays to add some variety to our regular music line-up. Let’s see how long I can keep it all straight. But what I do know, well at least I think I know, is that the Elderly Brothers will be playing on the 24th for your dancing and listening enjoyment. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, and everyone is welcome. And thanks to everyone who attend the dances for your donations. The bands appreciate the support and it helps keep the lights on at the Center.
The name of the medication that was advertised on television in the 1960’s using the hit song “No Matter What Shape Your Stomach’s In” was Alka-Seltzer. (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Sandy Haechrel.)
Alfred Hitchcock was known as the “Master of Suspense” directing more than fifty movies spanning six decades. For this week’s “Remember When” question, in his 1960 American psychological thriller-horror film (which I am still too scared to watch), what was the name of the disturbed owner-manager of the hotel? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a brand new shower curtain.
Well, it’s been another week, complaining about the sun in my eyes – now that the sun has finally appeared. Until we meet again, as I heard at the Center, “Don’t pray for better days, but for these to last.”
 “I always knew looking back on the tears would make me laugh, but I never knew looking back on the laughs would make me cry.” Unknown

Aging Well February 10th 2015

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Do you still receive unsolicited calls from telemarketers trying to sell you something you don’t want or need: security systems, satellite television or a new remedy for your diabetes? They are often scams but can also be calls from telemarketers representing Fortune 500 companies. But there are steps you can take to limit them.

First, register with the National Do Not Call Registry by calling toll-free 1-888-382-1222 from the phone number you wish to register, or go online at donocall.gov. (For online registration you will need an email address.) You may want to register your cell phone, but is shouldn’t be necessary because it is illegal in most cases for telemarketers to call a cell phone.
Once you have registered your phone number, it is permanent – unless you have lost your mind and want to take your name off the registry. Or if you forgot to pay your last two phone bills and were disconnected, in which case you will need to register again.
Unfortunately, the law does not prohibit calls from charities, political organizations, telephone surveyors and companies with which you’ve done business in the last 18 months. But for those telemarketers not covered by the Do Not Call regulations, you can ask them to put you on their own internal Do Not Call list, and by law they have to honor your request. Record the date you make the request so if there are future violations, you’ll be able to file an FTC complaint.
Telemarketers have up to 31 days to update their lists, so it could take that long for calls to cease. After that, you can file a complaint about unwanted calls at the Do Not Call website or phone number.
Through enforcement actions, the Federal Trade Commission is working to reduce the number of illegal telemarketing calls and holding telemarketers and businesses accountable. Just recently, a federal judge in Illinois ruled that the satellite TV company Dish Network is liable for making 57,606,609 illegal telemarketing calls.
It was nice to see everyone at the Civic for GoRed for Women’s Heart Health. And if the event nudged you towards being more active, the Center offers several affordable movement and exercise classes: from the gentle and contemplative Tai Chi to the high energy Zumba Gold with Seniorcise, yoga and Strong Women in-between. You can drop in any class at any time to see if the class works for you. But you will have to wait until March 2nd for Corliss Marsh’s Tai Chi class to return.
For all of you who did not make it to Saturday Night Bingo you missed a delicious meal prepared by Cherry Heights Living – the Center’s neighbors to the north. Thanks to managers Blll and Nelda, and cooks Barry and Sandy for helping make a wonderful evening of fun and good food.
AARP Tax Aide, a free service for low and moderate income tax payers, is off to a fast start with a packed downstairs at the Center on Friday and Saturday. The hours for the program are from 2:00 – 6:00 on Fridays and 9:00 – 1:00 on Saturdays through April 11th. And a reminder, it is first come first serve. If you are not in a rush you might want to wait until March when the action slows down and you won’t have to wait as long.  
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 10th, the crowd pleasing Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00, music starts at 7:00, all ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The name of the boy with the pointed cowlick in the “Our Gang” and “Little Rascals” comedies was Alfalfa. (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Kim Birge.)
The television commercials for this product were some of most popular in the 60’s and 70’s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was name of the medication that was advertised on television using the 1966 hit song “No Matter What Shape Your Stomach’s In”? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with “a spicy meat ball-a”.
Well, it’s been another week, wondering what the winter would have been like if all the rain had been snow. Until we meet again, it’s your attitude not your age that counts.

“Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, be strong and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.” ― John Mayer

Aging Well February 3rd 2015

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I have always forgotten things. (Fred MacMurray in the Absent Minded Professor was one of my role models.) And I can still remember the sinking feeling when I had forgotten my appointment for a haircut or to pick up the kids after school. I would kick myself in the pants, but I never thought more about it. But now when I forget something, I start imagining every set of lost keys or forgotten name is one more sign that my memory is riding that downhill slide to total oblivion. I don’t know if you have the same experience, but I find it a little bit scary. And it doesn’t’ help that my mother died from Alzheimer’s. (But there is one good sign. I do remember how to spell Alzheimer’s!)

Normal forgetfulness such as absentmindedness, forgetting names or those tip-of-the-tongue moments are common at any age and are not serious memory problems. A more serious concern is dementia; a set of symptoms including impairment in memory, reasoning, judgment, language and other thinking skills.

According to the Mayo Clinic website, some early signs of dementia may include: asking the same questions repeatedly, forgetting common words when speaking, mixing words up – saying “bed” instead of “table”, taking longer to complete familiar tasks, misplacing items in inappropriate places – putting a wallet in a kitchen drawer, getting lost while walking or driving around a familiar neighborhood, or undergoing sudden changes in mood or behavior for no apparent reason.

If you find this is happening to you or if you know someone who is exhibiting these signs, a doctor should be consulted. There are many other causes for memory lapses that can be treated and they should be ruled out first: severe stress, depression, a vitamin B12 deficiency, insufficient sleep, some prescription drugs and infections.

In the meantime, for us who experience normal forgetfulness, there are ways to help keep our minds sharp. Stay engaged with friends and family, volunteer, reduce your stress, keep your mind active, get lots of rest, exercise and eat well.

You can learn more about dementia and memory loss at the Center’s next 11:00 Tuesday lecture on February 10th. Colleen Ballinger, from Hospice of the Gorge, will discuss in more detail the differences between normal forgetfulness and dementia, what some of the treatable causes of memory loss are, and how caregivers can cope.

The Planetree Resource Center always offers an excellent series of free spring lectures on health related topics that are open to the public. This year there are three that may be of particular interest to older adults: “Living with Chronic Pain and the Tools for Management” on February 17th, “This Aging Body” on March 3rd, and “Could You Repeat That? Hearing Loss and Prevention” on March 10th. The lectures are held at Water’s Edge from 7pm to 8:30pm. For more information or to register call 541-296-8444 or visit the MCMC website.

Donzella Schlager and I will be attending the GoRed for Women’s Heart Health event at the Civic this Friday from 11:00 – 2:00 to share information about the activities at the Center. So after your massage and bowl of soup, stop by and say hello.

On Saturday March 14th the Center will be taking a bus load of twenty folks to Portland to see the matinee performance of “Guys and Dolls”. Tickets are $75 including transportation, and can be purchase at the Center. 
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 10th, Martin and Friends will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The name of the translucent pink styling gel with a unique smell and gelatinous consistency was Dippity-Do.  (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Carol Parker.)
From 1922 to 1944, producer Hal Roach created a series of 221 short comedy films about a group of poor neighborhood children called “Our Gang” which he later repackage in the 1950’s as “The Little Rascals”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the boy in the series known for his trademark pointed cowlick? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a picture of Darla – his romantic interest.
Well, it’s been another week, trying figure out what I’ll do when I grow up. Until we meet again, as John Barrymore once said, “Happiness often sneaks in through a door you didn’t know you left open.”

“God gave us memory so that we might have roses in December.” James M. Barrie

Aging Well January 27th 2015

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When you think of older adults and seniors what picture comes to mind? A single woman living on Social Security? A retired couple traveling to Arizona for the winters? A wife taking care of her invalid husband? Or maybe someone more glamorous. Sophia Loren, Morgan Freeman or Betty White?
Adults sixty and older are a diverse lot and hard to categorize. There are the usual attempts such as by age: the G.I Generation, born from around 1901 through 1924; the Silent Generation born from the mid-1920s to the early 1940s; and the Baby Boomers, born from 1943 up to the early 1960s; or by income level: affluent, middle income and those living only on Social Security.
But societal conditions have changed. Life expectancy has increased more than 30 years since 1900, working conditions have improved with higher wages and better pensions, and medical advancements have maintained the health of older adults – all providing more opportunities for older adults to blossom in their later years.
Today businesses are beginning to see the value of marketing to older adults, and are recognizing the diversity by identifying different subgroups. Some of these identified subgroups, based on values, consumer behaviors, health status and attitudes, are the Prosperous Empty Nesters, The Elders, Retirement Communities, Senior Sun Seekers, the Social Security Set, and Old Geezers. (Actually I made up that last group, and I know who you are!)
This diversity creates a challenge for any organization or business wanting to reach and engage the older adult population. An example of an attempt to address this challenge is the weekly newspaper I picked up in Salem, whose publisher may be familiar to many folks around here: David Thouvenal, once the publisher of the upstart “Weekly Reminder”. He now publishes the “Northwest Boomer and Senior News” which acknowledges the diversity of older adults by including two subgroups of older adults in the name of the newspaper.
It is also a challenge the Center is working to meet – providing opportunities and supports for the wide range of interest and needs of such a diverse older population – from the Prosperous Empty Nesters to the Old Geezers.
A quick heads-up so you can put it on your calendar. The annual Original Courthouse Regional History Forum Series for 2015, begins on February 7th at 1:30 p.m. in the upstairs courtroom of the 1859 courthouse at 410 West 2nd Place, This year’s forums will cover Japanese Families in the Mosier Area Prior to 1942 on February 7; General George Wright, Defender of the Civil War Pacific Coast on February 14; Time and Change on Mount Adams on February 21; and Delivering the Mail:  Wasco County Post Offices on February 28. .
For the 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on February 3rd, I will be discussing a fascinating topic that I haven’t determined yet. Come and be surprised.
And have I mentioned that on Saturday February 7th, Saturday Night Bingo will return to its regular starting time of 6:00 PM with a free dinner graciously prepared by Cherry Heights Living and served at 5:00 PM for the first 65 bingo players? I did?  Oh, never mind.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on February 3rd, the crowd pleasing Andre, K.C. and Tom will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated.
The fictional character that was a reformed jewel thief and safe cracker; and appeared in short stories, B-movies, and on radio and television was Boston Blackie ; (And the winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Renee Briggs who mentioned that you can still watch old Boston Blackiemovies on the local getTV station.)
Diana Weston emailed me a collection of pictures of consumer items most anyone under 50 would not recognize: from a McGuffey’s Spelling Book to the inserts made for 45 records.  One of those pictures gave me the idea for this week’s “Remember When” question.
What was the name of translucent pink styling gel with a unique smell and gelatinous consistency that was advertised on television in the 1960s?  E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a bag of Wil-Hold Large Brush Plastic Rollers.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to remember what the score is. Until we meet again, attitude can make the difference between a good day and a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

“There are exactly as many special occasions in life as we choose to celebrate.” ~Robert Brault

Aging Well January 20th 2015

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
When I start writing this column, I usually have a particular topic in mind, in this case the diversity among older adults. But sometimes my thoughts just don’t come together – they need more time to incubate. So until they hatch (hopefully by next week), I have time to share several events taking place at the Center: cards, tax help, communicating with your doctor and a FREE dinner.
As you know the Center offers many activities. And even though I would like to say every activity is full with a waiting list, I can’t. Which is fortunate, because there is still room for you. For example, if you like to play cards, the Center offers three different games. There is pinochle every Thursday from 1:00 – 3:00 and every Friday evening from 6:00 – 8:30. On the third Tuesday of every month from 1:00- 3:00, there is Bunco – a fun, and easy-to-learn dice game of chance. And then on Friday afternoons from 1:00 – 3:00, you can learn to play Mahjong, a game which originated in China that is played with tiles instead of cards and reminds me of rummy. (But not to be confused with the Mahjong computer game that matches tiles.) Come join the fun. Your place at the table is waiting for you.
Now that you are starting to receive your tax information in the mail, you may be wondering when the AARP Tax Aide program begins. This year it will start on Friday, February 6th, and will be offered at the Center every Friday from 2:00 – 6:00 and every Saturday from 9:00 – 1:00 until April 11th. Make sure you bring the necessary documentation including: government issued identification, last year’s tax return; Social Security card; records of any income; and records of your eligible expenses if you are going to itemize your deductions. In February it is pretty busy, but it usually slows down in March. The Tax Aide Program is available to all low to moderate income taxpayers and particularly those over 60 and is sponsored by the Mid-Columbia Community Action Program.
The 11:00 Tuesday Lecture on January 27th will follow up on last week’s column about the importance of communicating with your health care provider. Linda Stahl from the Planetree Health Resource Center will discuss what you can do to ensure clear and accurate communication between you and your doctor so you receive the best healthcare possible. Linda will also discuss this year’s Go Red for Women’s Heart Health Expo on Friday, February 6th from 11:00 to 2:00 at the Civic Auditorium. (And if you register on line for the Heart Expo at the MCMC website, you can download a free copy of the Heart Healthy Recipe eBook.)
Because of the shorter days and uncertain weather during December and January, Saturday Night Bingo has been starting at 4:00 PM – two hours earlier than normal. But now that the darkest days of December and January have almost past, and there is a reduced chance of winter storms  (I hope!), on February 7th Saturday Night Bingo will return to its regular starting time of 6:00 PM. And that night at 5:00, you can enjoy a FREE dinner catered by our neighbors Cherry Heights Living – to give you a taste of what it would be like to live where someone else will do the cooking for you.
For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on January 27th, the Highline Express will be performing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome and donations are always appreciated
Sergeant Preston of the Yukon, with his faithful dog Yukon King, is the answer to last week’s “Remember When” question. (The winner of a free Cherry Festival Breakfast is Don McAllister.)
I’m thinking this week’s “Remember When” question is going to be a tough one – it’s not one I would have remembered. What is the name of the fictional character that appeared in short stories, silent films, on radio, in 1940’s B-movies, and on television in the 50’s; and was a former jewel thief and safe cracker who was suspected whenever a daring crime was committed, but always managed to clear himself with the help of his sidekick Runt? Did you get all that? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with a Boston Crème pie.
Well, it’s been another week, enjoying the sun – when I can find it. Until we meet again, don’t take your foot off the pedal or your eye off the road.

“I’ve reached the age where my train of thought often leaves the station without me.” Anonymous

Aging Well January 13th 2015

Aging Well in the Gorge No Comments
Do you remember when a visit to the doctor was for an easily diagnosed and treated ailment: measles, ear aches, sore throats; not for complex health issues such as broken hips, knee replacements, urinary infections, feinting spells or heart problems? Life is so much more exciting these days! 
But as we make our regular visits to our health care providers, it is important to communicate effectively with them. Research shows the better you communicate with your doctor, the better the health outcomes – which is your health. A critical factor in good communication is asking questions. A simple question can help you feel better, let you take better care of yourself, or even save your life. But there are many reasons you may not feel comfortable asking questions of your doctor: you don’t want to waste their time, they know more than you do, or you don’t want to give the impression you are second guessing them. 
 But don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your health care provider actually wants you to. It is in their best interest as well as yours that you understand what you can do to take ownership of your own health. The first step is to prepare a list of questions and identify the three most important ones, so you won’t forget what you really want to ask. 
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s website (www,ahrq.gov/) has a section on patient involvement that provides tips and tools to help improve communication with your health care provider including questions you may want to ask before, during and after your appointment. The following questions are suggested to get you started. 
 What is the test for? How many times have you done this procedure? When will I get the results? Why do I need this treatment? Are there any alternatives? What are the possible complications? Which hospital is best for my needs? How do you spell the name of that drug? Are there any side effects? Will this medicine interact with medicines that I’m already taking? 
 And after you ask the questions make sure understand the answers. Sometimes it is difficult to explain complex medical conditions in layman’s terms, but don’t just nod your head and give that look of understanding, when you really don’t have a clue. (That’s why I bring along my wife. She’ll ask the questions if I don’t.) 
 Be proactive and take responsibility for your own health. Maintaining your health is a partnership between you and your doctor. And it is critical to ask questions, because “Questions are the Answers” to your good health. 
 We will miss Dennis Davis, but the AARP Smart Driver class will continue with Dick Frost taking Dennis’ place teaching the class. And when you complete the class, you can still receive an auto insurance discount. The cost is $20 and $15 for AARP members, and the next class is on January 19th and 20th from 8:45 until noon each day. There is still room and you can sign up by calling the Center at 541-296-4788.
 As several folks figured out, last week’s two missing consonants were t and l. This week, I’m giving you a break, but I won’t guarantee there aren’t any missing letters. But if there are, they are not intended – just one of my mistakes I didn’t catch. 
 For the Tuesday Night Music and Dance at the Center on January 20th, the popular Simcoe Boys will be playing. Doors open at 6:00 and the music starts at 7:00. All ages are welcome – because the music is too good to keep anyone away. And donations are always appreciated.  
Clint Eastwood was the actor who played Rowdy Yates in the TV western series Rawhide before finding international fame in Italy where he starred as the “Man with No Name” in three “spaghetti” westerns from 1964 through 1966 (And the winner of a Saturday breakfast in April is Sam Bilyue.)
 This week’s “Remember When” question is about a 1950’s television series. What was the name of the outdoor action television show that was broadcast on television from 1955 through 1958 but first aired on radio in 1938 as The Challenge of the Yukon? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788 or drop it off with an autographed picture of “Yukon King”. 
 Well, it’s been another week, watching the days get longer and the nights get shorter. Until we meet again, don’t let your fears rule your day – or go bump in the night 
 “Every day begins with an act of courage and hope: getting out of bed.” Mason Cooley