As I get older there’s always new aches or pains: knee, stomach, neck, you name it. It’s no big deal. It is what it is and I carry on.

But occasionally I read about a common symptom that’s a sign of a serious illness – and I scare myself. Is that gas I’m having caused by too much Broccoli or Celiac Disease? Is that painful, burning sensation in my chest heartburn or a more serious heart problem? Is that stomach discomfort indigestion or early signs of stomach cancer?

I worry. And if the symptoms persist, I will finally see a doctor to diagnose the problem.

Last year I wrote about how to get the most out of a doctor’s visit: be honest; decide on three or four questions to ask; stick to the point; and share how you felt about the visit.

But recently I’ve learned that even though a doctor can find valuable information from a physical exam and medical tests, a clear understanding of your symptoms can point the doctor in the right direction.

So how should I describe my symptoms? Consider these suggestions from the National Institute on Aging. (www.nia.nih.gov/health.)

Be clear and concise; and as specific, detailed, and descriptive as possible when describing your symptoms.

Explain to or show your doctor the exact location where you are experiencing your symptoms instead of some general area.

Rate the severity of your symptoms on a scale of one to ten: one being almost no effect on you and ten being the worst possible case you can imagine. Be honest, and don’t minimize or exaggerate.”

Mention how long you’ve had your symptoms. When did they begin and how often do they occur? Have you experienced the symptoms before?

Explain what relieves or worsens your symptoms. Are they getting better or worse? Are they connected to specific activities, injuries, times of day, food, or beverages?

When you visit your doctor make sure you first describe only your symptoms and not what condition you think you have. With online medical websites such as MedlinePlus or WebMD, there are plenty of opportunities to research your symptoms and self-diagnose – which I avoid because I don’t want to know how bad it could be. I want to sleep at night!

Finally, keep a record of your symptoms. Remember, be as specific, detailed, and descriptive as possible, and don’t forget to take it to your medical appointment.

Worrying about your symptoms is not a sign of weakness. And being honest about what you are experiencing doesn’t mean you are complaining – well, maybe sometimes I am! So when you visit your doctor, be prepared to accurately describe your symptoms so you can receive the best diagnosis possible.

BRAIN TEASE: How do you make the number 7 even without addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division?

The name of the sportswear company that in 1957 modified the sign on the roof of its downtown Portland building to include a male deer leaping over an outline of the state of Oregon was White Stag. I received correct answers from Sam Bilyeu, Bruce Johnson, Donna Mollet, Rhonda Spies, Dave Lutgens, Lana Tepfer, Charlotte Arnold, Judy Kiser, Deborah Medina, Doug Nelson, Cindy Winfield, Keith Clymer, Kathy Bullack, and Charlotte Arnold this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

And last week because I was too busy eating my fish sticks, I missed Donna Mollet and Keith Clymer.

The irreverent World War II novel by Joseph Heller first published in 1961 follows the life of Captain John Yossarian, a U.S. Army Air Forces B-25 bombardier.  For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the title of this book that became a cult classic, especially among the Vietnam War generation, and the title has become a part of our modern vocabulary describing a “no-win” situation. Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788, or return your answer on the back of a poster for the film adaptation released in 1970.

Well, it’s been another week, doing what I can with what I got. Until we meet again, every day is a gift – although sometimes it’s hidden in the closet, wrapped in a crumpled month-old newspaper.

“Don’t hold a grudge. While you’re carrying a grudge the other guy’s out dancing.” Buddy Hackett

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Wednesdays with music on 2nd and 4th Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: ˙,,uǝʌǝ,, sǝɯoɔǝq ,,uǝʌǝs,, puɐ ,,S,, ǝɥʇ doɹp

There is a point when you learn to accept that you will not live forever no matter how well you eat, exercise, and do all the right things. We will all experience an end-of-life journey riding off into the sunset like the hero in a cowboy Western. The question is what kind of journey do you want that to be?

Facing this end-of-life journey is scary. We try to avoid it, and too often a person doesn’t receive the support so they can live as fulfilling a life as possible for the rest of their life. But hospice can provide that support.

Because hospice is often misunderstood, it is requested too late, missing out on months of supportive care they could have received including an interdisciplinary care team that comes to the person’s home and addresses the burdens they and their family face – all at little or no cost.

Anyone can request hospice services not just a physician: a family member, a friend, or the person. Hospice will contact the provider and determine if the person qualifies for hospice services. Generally, to be eligible a physician must predict a life expectancy of six months or less, but there is no limit to the length of time as long as the person continues to qualify for hospice.

Most of us are afraid of dying; it’s not something we generally discuss around the kitchen table. But Hospice is not just about dying, it’s as much about living: living a life of discovery, love, and even joy to the end of this wonderful journey.

Two hospices serve the Columbia Gorge; Bristol Hospice (541-386-1942) and Providence Hospice (541-387-6449). Gorge End of Life Services also offers services that are an extra layer of support to medical and hospice services and are not replacing hospice. You can learn more about their services by going to their website https://gorgeendoflifeservices.com/.

On May 18^th Bristol Hospice invites the community to the Bristol Hospice Memorial and Kite Festival from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. near the Waterfront Events Site in Hood River. You will be treated to the awe-inspiring sight of colossal kites soaring high in the sky flown by professional kite flyers. It will be a day of joy for individuals looking to honor the memory of loved ones and a day of fun for families. Everyone is encouraged to bring their kites and picnic baskets to make the most of this memorable occasion.

For more information about the Bristol Hospice Memorial and Kite Festival, contact Bristol Hospice at 541-386-1942 or thomas.keolker@bristolhospice.com.

BRAIN TEASE: You get off easy this week. See how you do.

You live in a one story house made entirely of redwood. What color would the stairs be?

Besides myself, Judy Kiser, Dave Lutgens, Doug Nelson, Sam Bilyeu, Kathy Bullack, Lana Tepfer, and Rebecca Abrams remember every Friday being served some form of fish usually fish sticks; Mike McFarlane remembers Tuna Noodle Casserole; and Linda Frizzell remembers Hot Dogs. But the winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Kathy Bullack who also shared her most memorable lunch called a “flying saucer”: a slab of bologna with mashed potatoes on top, spinach or peas on the side, milk in a glass – and you could have a big chocolate chip cookie if you ate all your lunch! Ah, what the kids miss these days.

This lighted sign in downtown Portland was redesigned in 2010 to become the “Portland Oregon” sign. But for this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the sportswear company that in 1957 modified the sign on the roof of its downtown Portland building to include a male deer leaping over an outline of the state of Oregon? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a vintage white jacket – a must-wear if you wanted to be cool in high school in Portland during the 50s. At least that’s what I was told!

Well, it’s been another week, hoping for at least one good idea. Until we meet again, keep the sails up – you never know when the wind will blow.

“To get through the hardest journey we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep stepping.” Chinese Proverb

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Wednesdays with music on 2^nd and 4^th Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: . ǝsnoɥ ʎɹoʇs-ǝuo ɐ uᴉ ǝʌᴉl no⅄ ¿sɹᴉɐʇs ʇɐɥM

It’s May Day – a day we used to celebrate as children with folded paper May Day baskets filled with wildflowers, and a dance with colored ribbons around the maypole. But it is also the first day of Older Americans Month, celebrated since 1963, where communities across the country show their gratitude for the contributions of older adults.

This year’s theme is “Powered by Connection” which recognizes the profound impact of meaningful relationships and social connections. Often as we age, we find ourselves spending more time alone, leaving us more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation which can affect our health and well-being – and independence.

But for many of us, it is not easy to stay connected: mobility difficulties; loss of sight or hearing; loss of a spouse. But there are ways to stay connected even with the challenges we may face.

• Find an activity that you enjoy, restart an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new where you might meet people with similar interests.
• Schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors whether in person, through texts, email, social media, or virtual calls. Or write a letter. Does anyone handwrite letters anymore?
• Talk with people you trust and share your feelings.
• Introduce yourself to your neighbors.
• Find a faith-based organization where you can deepen your spirituality and engage with others in activities and events.
• Stay physically active by participating in an exercise class at your local senior or community center such as the popular Strong People class. But be warned, the classes are way too much fun!

There are also resources and programs at your local senior center and public library.

“Conversations for The Curious” at the Hood River Valley Adult Center from 10:30 – 12:00 on May 15^th – discussing how to keep your financial affairs in order. Then on June 12^th – how to have important and sometimes difficult conversations with family. For more information contact Claire Culbertson at claireculbertson@gmail.com.

Age Café at The Dalles Wasco County Library on May 6^th from 2:00 – 3:00 and May 20^th from 1:00 – 2:00. The Age Cafe offers an opportunity to engage in thoughtful small-group conversations on various topics relevant to older adults. Contact Roni Hyde at rhyde@gobhi.org or 541-705-4870.

“Let’s Talk” is a monthly session hosted by Noelle Savatta at the Pioneer Center Senior Center in White Salmon where you can find support or guidance about the challenges you may be facing in your life. For information about the next session call Noelle at 503-893-4669.

Older adults are a vital part of our society and it’s important that we stay connected with others to maintain our health and well-being, while also giving our time and effort to help keep our communities strong and vibrant.

BRAIN TEASE:

What are the next two numbers in this sequence? 7, 14, 17, 21, 27, 28, 35, 37, ?, ?

The 1968 song sung by Jeannie C. Riley that tells the story of Mrs. Johnson barging into a PTA meeting and revealing a long list of the members’ private indiscretions was Harper Valley PTA. I received correct answers from Sam Bilyeu, Donna Mollet, Rebecca Abrams, Kathy Bullack, Judy Kiser, Marny Weting, Jim Tindall, Lana Tepfer, Carolyn Bondurant, Rhonda Spies, Jay Waterbury, David and Sharrie Ray, Doug Nelson, Kim Birge, Keith and Marlene Clymer, Craig Terry and David Liberty – this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. And last week my mind must have been playing in the clouds because I missed both Judy Kiser and Lana Tepfer.

In grade school during the 50s, I remember every Friday for lunch a particular food was served. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what food was it? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it stuck to a vintage lunch tray with instant mashed potatoes, peas, a cookie, and a carton of milk.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to make the best of every day – or at least get close. Until we meet again, make sure to take care of your future self.

“Life is trying things to see if they work.” Ray Bradbury

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Wednesdays with music on 2^nd and 4^th Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: (The answer is again upside down. See if you can decipher it.)

.7 ʎq ǝןqısıʌıp ǝɹɐ ɹo 7 ʇıƃıp ǝɥʇ uıɐʇuoɔ ɹǝɥʇıǝ ʇɐɥʇ sɹǝqɯnu ǝɥʇ ǝɹɐ ʎǝɥʇ .74 ,24

How often do you hear of new products or research findings that will help you live longer? Take this pill or that, eat less fat and more fiber, hit the gym, and lift those weights.

But many folks ignore it all because they believe when their time is up, there ain’t nothing you can do about it. So why change old habits? “Que Sera, Sera. Whatever will be, will be”.

But in many ways the focus on living longer is not really the point. More importantly, the reason you should consider eating better, moving and stretching more, and exploring new possibilities is to enjoy the years you have left – no matter how many there are. Or to paraphrase “It’s not to add years to your life, but to enjoy the life in your years”.

These latter years are not a mere holding pattern – riding an antique Piper Cub going nowhere as it circles for its last and final landing. But a time to play with the grandchildren, write your life story, learn to use a smartphone, or even meet a new love and dance the night away. So consider what you can do to stay as healthy and active as possible to enjoy “the life in your years”.

This coming weekend is the 43^rd Annual Northwest Cherry Festival in downtown The Dalles. It includes the parade starting at 10:00, Car Show, Open Air Market, Food Court, Carnival, and Entertainment. But most importantly it includes the Cherry Festival Breakfast at the Mid-Columbia Senior Center. Why? Besides enjoying a tasty breakfast and supporting the senior center, it will be when the raffle drawing will be held for a quilt made by the Mid-Columbia Senior Center Quilters. All the “Remember When” winners will be entered and hopefully one of them will win. It has happened before!

And speaking of the Mid-Columbia Senior Center, the AARP Smart Driver Course, which is open to all Oregon drivers, will be held at the center on April 25^th and April 26^th from 8:35 to 12:15. The cost is $20 for AARP members and $25 for non-members. You still have time to sign up so call 541-296-4788.

Observation for the week:

“As you get older; you’ve probably noticed that you tend to forget things. You’ll be talking with somebody at a party, and you’ll know that you know this person, but no matter how hard you try, you can’t remember his or her name. This can be very embarrassing, especially if he or she turns out to be your spouse.” Dave Barry

Brain Tease: Instead of an actual tease, this week I’m including these number exercises that will help improve your concentration and mental endurance. Guaranteed!

1. Recite all the numbers between 1 and 100 that contain the digit 7. (7, 17, 27…)
2. Count down from 200 by 4s. (200, 196, 192…)
3. Recite the numbers counting up by 4s and by 5s (4-5, 8-10, 12-15…)
4. Start with 2 and start doubling it in your head. See how far you can get. (2, 4, 8, 16, 32…)

The American who defeated Russian Boris Spassky in the World Chess Championship match in 1972 that was publicized as a Cold War confrontation between the US and USSR was Bobby Fischer. I received correct answers from Donna Mollet, Rebecca Abrams, Kathy Bullack, Rose Schulz, Dan Crisp, Eva Summers, Tina Castanares, Dave Lutgens, and Maria Kollas this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. And last week I missed Ron Nelson and Craig Terry.

Do you remember when there were whitewall tires? If you do, you might just remember this car modification that was first commercially produced in 1932 but faded in popularity in the 1970s. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name for pieces of bodywork, first described as “pants”, that were attached to the fender that covered the upper portions of the wheels of a vehicle? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or drop it off at my house with a blue 1952 Nash Rambler.

Well, it’s been another week trying to stay focused. Until we meet again, it’s been said without money we’d all be rich.

“It’s possible to own too much. A man with one watch knows what time it is; a man with two watches is never quite sure.” Lee Segall

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office

(509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Do you and your partner ever fight over little or big disagreements? Or do you use the avoidance style of handling conflicts my wife and I use?

In her article “Is There a Right Way to Fight with Your Partner?” on the website Next Avenue, Randi Mazzella interviews couples therapist Dr. Julie Gottman who with her husband wrote the book “Fight Right: How Successful Couples Turn Conflict Into Connection”

What they’ve learned from their fifty years of research with over three thousand couples, is that fighting isn’t necessarily bad for a relationship and if done right, fighting can lead to greater intimacy and connection.

Gottman offers several suggestions for how to fight right, so you can express your feelings safely without judgment and your partner will understand what is troubling you and you can get what you need.

First, avoid these four communication styles when communicating with a partner: stonewalling, criticism, contempt, and defensiveness. For example, instead of being critical, try something positive. Rather than saying “Why can’t you ever load the dishwasher?” try “It would help me if you could load the dishwasher tonight.”

Second, couples should employ a “5 to 1” ratio when discussing an issue: five positive interactions to each negative. Positive interactions can be a smile, a nod, or an affectionate touch, while negative interactions include saying something critical, a frown, or ignoring what a partner says.

Third, it’s not about winning; it’s about understanding one another. “Arguments should be productive and enriching, not hurtful,” says Gottman.

Fourth, learn to communicate better. Not just by being an “active listener”: letting your partner speak and repeating what they have said to prove you heard them. Active listening often fails because it doesn’t include the importance of how the speakers express themselves.” And using “I” sentences doesn’t always work either. Gottman explains that if you say, “I feel angry when you don’t bring in the groceries,” your partner may just hear the negativity. Using ‘I’ in a positive way, such as, “I’d appreciate if you brought in the groceries”, is a more effective way of getting your point across.

Fifth, know how to apologize. Now this could be a whole other column. But to apologize to end the fight without really being sorry, or apologizing without genuinely knowing why your partner was upset won’t help.

I don’t think any of us can or even should live like the fictional characters Carol and Mike Brady of “The Brady Bunch.” Because if done right, which may take time, fighting can lead to a more intimate and stronger relationship.

Now I just have to look for something to fight about tonight!

I learned at least one person was interested in the Pathfinder 2 study because he called and found that the phone number I wrote last week was incorrect. I meant to write 541-399-9059. Thank you to whoever that masked man was who found my error.

Brain Tease: This is a quote where I’ve reversed the text.

neurG araS – .tnatropmi tub ,krow drah si selbram ruoy lla gnivah fo ecnaraeppa eht pu gnipeeK

The name of the first satellite launched on October 4^th, 1957, by the Soviet Union was Sputnik. I received correct answers from Jay Waterbury, Kathy Bullack, Lana Tepfer, Tina Castanares, Marny Wetting, Rhonda Spies, Dave Lutgens, Eva Summers, Rebecca Abrams, Linda Frizzell, Bruce Johnson, and Glenna Mahurin, this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

I don’t know if chess was ever your game, but in 1972 the world was focused on a chess match between Russia and the United States. For this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the American who defeated Russian Boris Spassky in the World Chess Championship match that generated so much interest it was broadcast on prime-time TV. Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a copy of his book My 60 Memorable Games.

Well, it’s been another week, enjoying life as I’m passing through. Until we meet again, as a very close friend recently told me, “I don’t like to fight. I just like to win!”

“If you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, crawl, but by all means keep moving.” Martin Luther King

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: “Keeping up the appearance of having all your marbles is hard work, but important.” ― Sara Gruen

As we grow older we continue to gain knowledge from our growing life experiences, and wisdom from our many past lessons.

And yet there is one personal trait I feel has taken a hit: my confidence.

I’m not sure why. Maybe because in conversations with friends or at a meeting, I’m afraid I won’t remember an important event, or I didn’t hear a key point. I can still put two and two together to get four, but did I hear two and two – or was it two and three, and then my response wouldn’t make any sense? So, I keep quiet, except with my wife who reminds me of how foolish I can sound – which doesn’t help my confidence!

You may feel the same way: less confident in public, or while driving after dark, walking an uneven trail, learning a new technology.

But sometimes when your confidence is low, it is often best to put yourself out there; take a risk by trying something new. Learn to play a musical instrument, join that Tai Chi class you always wondered about, or meet that cute boy or girl at your favorite gathering spot. (Sorry. I forgot we’re not in high school!)

And the key? Take small steps – and be persistent.

Then most importantly, celebrate your successes.

There will be setbacks: a poor choice of words, a forgotten appointment, an avoidable fall but focus on what you can do: your gifts and talents, so you don’t miss any of life’s opportunities.

That’s what I keep telling myself!

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the world but too often cancer goes undetected until it is in an advanced stage. The 5-year overall survival rate is 4x higher when cancer is diagnosed early before it has spread.

Today only 5 types of cancer have recommended screening tests to detect cancer early:  breast, colorectal, lung (for those at risk), cervical, and prostate; while 70% of new cancer cases and cancer-related deaths are due to cancers with no recommended screening.

But the PATHFINDER 2 Study is aiming to change that. This national clinical trial will check how well an early test called Galleri® developed by GRAIL detects more than 50 cancers with a simple blood test. The clinical trial will help determine if it will eventually be approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Adventist Health Columbia Gorge and the OHSU Knight Cancer Institute are participating in the PATHFINDER 2 Study and are looking for individuals to join the study. To be eligible you must be 60 – 79 years old and have had no cancer diagnosis or treatment in the last 3 years. And I’ve heard they are particularly looking for men for the study.

To participate call 541-399-9095 or email Gorgepathfinder@ohsu.edu to schedule an appointment to complete a brief medical history and provide a blood sample. There will be a brief annual follow-up once a year for 3 years by phone or online. Last year, I participated in the study and found it easy and confidential.

Worrying about having cancer can feel overwhelming. Knowing there is a screening test for over 50 cancers could help you feel more in control of your health. You can help make that possible by participating in the PATHFINDER 2 Study.

Brain Tease: For me, this was a “groaner” when I saw the answer.

“Who’s bigger: Mr. Bigger, Mrs. Bigger, or their baby?”

The name of the center who led UCLA to three consecutive national championship games and in 1971 publicly changed his name after converting to Islam was Lew Alcindor (Kareem Abdul-Jabbar). I received correct answers from Sam Bilyeu, Mike McFarlane, Kathy Bullack, Dennis Morgan, Jess Birge, Lana Tepfer, Dave Lutgens, Doug Nelson, Tina Castanares, Dan Crisp, Mike Nichols, Deborah Medina, Keith Clymer, Bruce Johnson, Donna Mollet, Carol Earl, Nancy Higgins, Ken Jernstedt, and Blaine Evinger this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

Today there are approximately 9,500 active satellites in various earth orbits and small satellites (661 pounds or less – about the weight of an average vending machine) comprise 94% of all satellite launches.

For this week’s “Remember When” question what was the name of the first artificial Earth satellite (184 pounds and 23 inches in diameter) launched on October 4^th, 1957, by the Soviet Union and triggered the Space Race? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a 1/24 scale model of the Explorer 1 – the first satellite launched by the United States when it was sent into space on January 31, 1958.

Well, it’s been another week, wondering what’s on the other side of the page. Until we meet again, sometimes stubbornness is just another name for being determined – and then sometimes it’s not.

Answer: The baby since he’s a little Bigger

Humor is an indispensable tool of life and is particularly beneficial as we age. It can help mourners heal, defuse tensions, open friendships, and help us cope with challenging situations by acknowledging the incongruities and absurdities of life and reminding us that we are all in this together.

There are many types of humor from slapstick to ironic. However, some research has distinguished these four different styles.

1.) Affiliative humor that promotes social bonding through jokes, amusing remarks, and not taking oneself too seriously:

2.) Self-enhancing humor that enables people to cope with adverse circumstances by perceiving the brighter side of life and being able to laugh at yourself.

3.) Self-defeating humor. Putting yourself down in an aggressive or “poor me” fashion which can be psychologically unhealthy.

4.) Aggressive humor that mocks, ridicules, and disparages others. This involves put-downs or insults targeted toward individuals.

While humor is very individualistic, age can influence what we find amusing. Research has found older adults compared to younger adults enjoy humor more – although may laugh less, and do not enjoy aggressive types of humor as much.

The following five jokes represent the four different styles of humor. See which ones you enjoy – or not!

“A pair of cows were talking in the field. One says, “Have you heard about the mad cow disease that’s going around?” “Yeah,” the other cow says. “Makes me glad I’m a penguin.”

“My psychiatrist told me I’m going crazy. I said, ‘If you don’t mind, I’d like a second opinion.’ he said, ‘All right. You’re ugly, too.’” Rodney Dangerfield

“Laughter and tears are both responses to frustration and exhaustion. I myself prefer to laugh, since there is less cleaning up to do afterward.” Kurt Vonnegut

“I’m not saying there should be a capital punishment for stupidity, but why don’t we just take the warning labels off of everything and let the problem solve itself?” Ricky Gervais

“Ole and Lena were at the drive-in movie. Ole says, ‘Say Lena, you wanna get in the back seat?’ Lena says, ‘Naw, Ole, I’d just as soon stay up here with you.”

So take time to enjoy a good laugh with a friend, read an amusing story, or watch your favorite comedy. As Elbert Hubbard once said, “Do not take life too seriously. You will never get out of it alive.”

Brain Tease. Tell me if I’ve shared this before. “If 3 tigers catch 3 sheep in 3 minutes. How long does it take for 100 tigers to catch 100 sheep?”

The name of the television series created by Rod Serling in which characters find themselves dealing with often disturbing or unusual events was The Twilight Zone. I received correct answers from Rhonda Spies, Stephen Woolpert, Kathy Bullack, Linda Frizzell, Judy Kiser, Donna Mollet, Sandy Haechrel, Lana Tepfer, Carol Earl, Pat Evenson-Brady, Kim Birge, Tina Castanares, Dan Crisp, Nancy Higgins, Rose Schulz, Keith and Marlene Clymer, Bruce Johnson, Doug Nelson, and April Taylor this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. Last week I missed Bruce Johnson. And thank you to everyone who sent in their most memorable Twilight Zone episode.

Since it is March Madness, I have to include a basketball question for the sports fans in the audience. When I was attending Purdue University during the 1968–69 school year, the UCLA Bruins men’s basketball team beat Purdue to win an unprecedented third consecutive NCAA National Basketball Championship. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the center who led UCLA to three consecutive national championship games and in 1971 publicly changed his name after converting to Islam? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a picture of UCLA head coach John Wooden – the Wizard of Westwood – who coached the UCLA basketball team from 1948 through 1975.

Well, it has been another week, thinking of when I should get out the sunscreen. Until we meet again, as they used to say in the old west, “Poor is having to sell the horse to buy the saddle.”

“Never have children, only grandchildren.” Gore Vidal

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: For 100 tigers to catch 100 sheep, it would still take the same amount of time because each tiger is catching one sheep in 3 minutes. Therefore, it would take 3 minutes for 100 tigers to catch 100 sheep.

You’ve been doing all the right things: exercising, reading, getting a good night’s sleep, eating well, staying socially active, and managing your stress, and yet you feel your memory is slipping. Is it typical age-related brain change or is it that number one fear: dementia?

To provide some guidance, I have listed the ten early signs of dementia published by the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) which also includes examples of typical age-related changes.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life: forgetting events, repeating yourself, or relying on more aids to help you remember (like sticky notes or reminders).

Typical? Sometimes forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems: having trouble paying bills or cooking recipes you have used for years.

Typical? Making occasional errors when managing finances or household bills.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or at leisure: having problems with cooking, driving places, using a cell phone, or shopping.

Typical? Occasionally needing help to use microwave settings or to record a TV show.

4. Confusion with time or place: having trouble understanding an event that is happening later or losing track of dates.

Typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations: having more difficulty with balance or judging distance, tripping over things at home, or spilling or dropping things more often.

Typical? Vision changes related to cataracts.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing: having trouble following or joining a conversation or struggling to find a word you are looking for (saying “that thing on my wrist that tells time” instead of “watch”).

Typical? Sometimes having trouble finding the right word.

7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps to find something: placing car keys in the washer or dryer.

Typical? Misplacing things from time to time and retracing steps to find them.

8. Decreased or poor judgment: not managing money well, paying less attention to hygiene, or having trouble taking care of a pet.

Typical? Making a bad decision or mistake occasionally, like neglecting to change the oil in the car.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities: not wanting to go to church or other activities as you usually do, not being able to follow football games or keep up with what’s happening.

Typical? Sometimes feeling uninterested in family or social obligations.

10. Changes in mood and personality: getting easily upset in common situations or being fearful or suspicious.

Typical? Developing specific ways of doing things and becoming irritable when a routine is disrupted.

If you experience any of these warning signs, you should consult your primary care provider. What you are experiencing could be symptoms of a treatable condition: Vitamin B-12 deficiency; medications, hypothyroidism, anxiety, or depression.

If you are diagnosed with dementia, an early diagnosis gives you a chance to seek treatment that can slow the disease – and to plan how to face the challenges ahead and live your life to the fullest.

Brain Tease: This Rebus puzzle should be easier than last week’s tease!

What common phrase does the following represent?

TTTHHHEEE IMMMAAAAGGGGIIIINNNAAATTTIIIOOONNN

The comedian who made popular the national catchphrases “The devil made me do it” and “What you see is what you get” was Flip Wilson. I received correct answers from Donna Mollet, Tina Castanares, Judy Kiser, Doug Nelson, Kathy Bullack, Lana Tepfer, Carol Earl, Jess Birge, Eva Summer, Stephen Woolpert, Dan Crisp, Keith Clymer, Rhonda Spies, Ron Nelson, and Sharon Mounsey this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

I was recently reminded of this television series regarded as one of the greatest of all time. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the television series created by Rod Serling that ran from 1959 to 1964 in which characters find themselves dealing with often disturbing or unusual events? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a memory from your favorite episode.

Well, it has been another week, trying to decide if it’s time to reboot. Until we meet again, as a friend told me recently, “All days are good; some are just better than others”.

“To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.” Bertrand Russell

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answers: A Stretch of the Imagination.

Doesn’t it feel like every day you hear of another way to improve your health? It’s hard to know what to believe: drinking lemon juice and water in the morning? taking vitamin C to help blunt cold symptoms? intestinal cleansing?

But research has shown there are ways such as the “Big Six” lifestyle behaviors I mentioned last week. (Do you remember them?)

Well, you can add one more to the list. In her online article “One of the Best Things We Can Do for Ourselves as We Age”, Stacey Lastoe describes the benefits of reading and how reading can lead to a longer and happier life.

She sites Dr. John Y. Lee, assistant chief clinical officer at Executive Mental Health, who lists the many benefits of reading that researchers have found: lowers our anxiety and helps with relaxation, (although I would avoid Stephen King!); develops deeper empathy for others and helps us experience and process our own feelings; increases our knowledge of other cultures leading to a deeper connection to others. And as you might guess, a growing body of scientific research points to reading as a way to improve cognitive health and to help ward off the onset of dementia.

So, find a good book whether it is a John Grisham novel or a trip through the universe with Stephen Hawking, and, if you haven’t already, start the habit of finding a good time to read at least 15 minutes a day. Or better yet, get together with friends and enjoy a good book together – with a bottle of wine? You’ll find if reading doesn’t lead to a longer, happier life, at least you’ll find life more enjoyable.

I promised I would give the answers to last week’s TRUTH OR MYTH questions. You can find more in-depth answers to the Truth or Myth exercise on the Dana Foundation website at https://dana.org/resources/truth-or-myth-flash-cards-b-w/.

Human brains have shrunk over the last 20,000 years. TRUTH

Populations became less aggressive, and increased social networks which both are associated with smaller brains.

The brain is good at multitasking. MYTH

The brain cannot attend to two or more attention-rich stimuli at the exact same time. Instead, the brain quickly switches back and forth between tasks.

All human brains start as female in the womb. TRUTH

It’s complicated!

The brain is the fattiest organ in the body. TRUTH

Overall, the brain is 75-80% water. The other 20-25% of the brain is solid tissue and is a minimum of 60% fat.

You are either left or right brain dominant. MYTH

Many talents like language processing, spatial ability, and logic, require the integrated teamwork of both the left and right brain.

Some people can taste shapes and colors. TRUTH

The phenomenon, known as synesthesia, may be due to different areas in the brain being more neurologically connected.

Brain Tease: I can’t imagine anyone correctly answering this one (without cheating!), but if you do, I’ll buy you a cup of coffee!

“What is unusual about the following words: revive, banana, grammar, voodoo, assess, potato, dresser, uneven?”

The name of Blondie’s inept and bumbling husband is Dagwood. I received correct answers from Sam Bilyeu, Stephen Woolpert, Ron Nelson, Doug Nelson, Mike McFarlane, Lana Tepfer, Judy Kiser, Dave Lutgens, Donna Mollet, Rose Schulz, Tina Castanares, Linda Frizzell, Keith Clymer, Jay Waterbury, and Kathy Bullack this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

I remember first seeing this comedian in the 60s on The Tonight Show when he was one of Johnny Carson’s favorite guests. For this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the comedian best known for his variety show from 1970 to 1974, and made popular the national catchphrases “The devil made me do it” and “What you see is what you get”? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a picture of Geraldine and her boyfriend “Killer”.

Well, it has been another week standing still while trying to decide which way to go. Until we meet again, I always enjoy the extra hour in the fall, but I wish I didn’t have to give it back in the Spring.

“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” George Bernard Shaw. Submitted by Rose Schulz

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answers: Take the first letter of each word and place it at the end. It will spell the same word backward.

I worry when I can’t think of a word that is not even on the tip of my tongue, but hiding somewhere down in my throat. But then I remember: when I was younger and forgot a word, I used a common crutch: words such as thingamajig or whatchamacallit.

So, I’ve decided to revert to my younger days; instead of struggling to find the forgotten word, I’ll use one of those substitute words – although it could lead to a conversation like this.

“Dear, I can’t find my thingamajig. I just used it yesterday. I looked for it inside the doodad in the living room. Maybe I put it upstairs next to that whatchamacallit I was using. Could it be in your, uh, … Oh, never mind. I found it under the doohicky on my desk.”

Okay, I hope I don’t get to that point!

Even though many of us will experience some memory loss, most of us will continue to have strong memories as we age. To keep our memories strong and brains healthy, follow these “Big Six” lifestyle behaviors.

1. Regular exercise (walk 150 minutes a week); 2. Healthy eating (Mediterranean-style diet); 3. Good night’s sleep (seven to nine hours a night); 4. Managing stress (meditation or reading a book!); 5. Staying socially engaged (join an exercise group); 6. Mental stimulation.

To help stimulate your brain, here are three simple, but also challenging, mental exercises you can do by yourself, anytime, and anywhere.

1.) Think of a list of items such as the months in the year and without paper and pencil alphabetize them by their first letter.

2.) Make a list of anything that comes to mind such as a to-do list and memorize it. An hour or so later, see how many items you can recall. You may often do this already when you leave your shopping list on the kitchen table!

3.) “Backward Digit Span”. When you hear or read a four-digit number, repeat it – but backward. Try increasing the number of digits and see how many digits you can repeat.

Now that you know ways to keep your brain healthy, let’s see how much your brain knows about itself! Try to answer these six “Truth of Myth” brain questions from the Dana Foundation – but you’ll have to wait until next week for the answers.

Truth or Myth:

1. The brain is good at multitasking.
2. Human brains have shrunk over the last 20,000 years.
3. All human brains start off as female in the womb.
4. The brain is the fattiest organ in the body.
5. You are either left or right brain dominant. This will determine whether you are more creative or more logical.
6. Some people can taste shapes and colors.

Brain Tease: This is a brain tease I’ve heard before and yet I still couldn’t solve it.

“There is three errers in this sentence. Can you find them?”

The name of the 1961 film starring Fred MacMurray as Professor Ned Brainard, who accidentally invents a substance that gains energy when it strikes a hard surface and names it “Flubber” is The Absent Minded Professor.  I received correct answers from Nancy Higgins, Jay Waterbury, Judy Kiser, Donna Mollet, Kathy Bullack, Rebecca Abrams, Lana Tepfer, Dave Lutgens, Kim Birge, Deborah Medina, Doug Nelson, Keith and Marlene Clymer, Rose Schulz, Eva Summers, and Dan Crisp this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

Blondie is one of the longest-running American comic strips, published in newspapers since September 8, 1930, and led to the long-running series of twenty Blondie films from 1938 to 1950. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of Blondie’s inept and bumbling husband who had frequent run-ins with his boss Mr. Dithers? Email your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or mail it with a tall, multilayered sandwich made with a variety of meats, cheeses, and condiments named after this comic character.

Well, it’s been another week, wondering when spring is finally going to show its face. Until we meet again, in anger, as in chewing, it is best to keep your mouth shut.

“There will come a time when you believe everything is finished. That will be the beginning.” Louis L’Amour

Nutritious home-delivered and in-person meals are available at noon Monday through Friday unless otherwise noted.

Seniors of Mosier Valley (541-980-1157) – Mondays and Wednesdays; Mt. Hood Townhall (541-308-5997) – Tuesdays; Hood River Valley Adult Center (541-386-2060); Sherman County Senior and Community Center (541-565-3191); The Dalles Meals-on-Wheels (541-298-8333).

For meal sites in Washington, call Klickitat County Senior Services: Goldendale office (509-773-3757) or the White Salmon office (509-493-3068), and in Skamania County call Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answers: 1. Errors is spelled incorrectly. 2. Is should be Are. 3. There are only two errors.