When are you entering that stage of life called “old age”? It depends on who you ask. According to a 2017 study by U.S. Trust, American millennials (1981 to 1996) defined old as starting at age 59; Gen Xers (1965 to 1980) said old age begins at 65, while baby boomers (1946 to 1964) said that you’re not old until you reach 73.

Many of us don’t want to think about when old age begins. Old age is always ten years down the road, right? But at some point, we realize we are no longer the young men or women of our imaginations. My brother-in-law shared that after turning 70, he could no longer deny he was getting old! – although it has taken me a few years longer.

Although we may not want to believe we are old, there are unwanted signs reminding us old age has at least moved into the neighborhood. While sorting through boxes of old papers and pictures – a great activity during the dreary winter days – I found a poster describing some of those signs.

Here are my favorites describing when you know you are getting old. Maybe you can relate to some of them.

1) Everything hurts and what doesn’t hurt doesn’t work.

2) You think gay means “happy, lively, and vivacious”. (Remember the Gay Blade clothing stores?)

3) You know all the answers, but no one asks you the questions.

4) Your mind makes agreements your body can’t keep.

5) You feel like the morning after and you haven’t been anywhere.

6) Anything under a quarter isn’t worth bending over to pick up.

7) You stop to think and sometimes forget to start again.

8) A dripping faucet (or any running water!) causes an uncontrollable bladder urge.

9) You finally get to the top of the ladder, but it’s leaning against the wrong wall.

And finally, my observations discovered over the past fifteen years.

1) When you fly, TSA no longer considers you a high-security risk.

2) An elderly woman in Portland was reported hurt and she was 10 years younger than you are.

3) The first thing you read in the newspaper is the obituaries.

4) When someone asks for help moving furniture, they look right past you – which isn’t always a bad thing!

5) You wear a warm coat when it’s 55 degrees outside.

6) You turn to the classic rock station and it’s playing 80’s music. And finally,

7) You think twerking is a new fitness program.

Now that I’ve reached what most consider old age, I’ve found it’s no longer something to fear but to embrace – although, I admit, it’s often like hugging a porcupine. But if we’re fortunate, we’ll all get there. As Groucho Marx said, “Getting older is no problem. You just have to live long enough.”

Brain Tease:

These may be too easy, but I hope at least one will be challenging.

These words have had their vowels (AEIOU) removed; can you replace them to find the names of the animals? pnd. frrt, s ln, hdghg, chth, tdpl, ttr, plr br, lprd, grff

This comic strip created during the turbulent 60s and 70s that followed the lives of Mike, Mark, Zonker, B.D., and Joanie Caucus from when they attended Walden College to now as aging baby boomers was Doonesbury by Gary Trudeau. I received correct answers from Doug Nelson, Donna Mollet, Dave Lutgens, Pat Evenson-Brady, and Bruce Johnson, this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

Back in the days of the three major television networks, and social media was passing notes between friends, television news was respected and not just another form of entertainment. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what television newscaster ended his news program with the words “And that’s the way it is.”? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with a copy of the first episode of The Twentieth Century.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep up with the … well, just trying to keep up. Until we meet again, life is serious, but every day take time to step back and have a good laugh!

“The trouble with retirement is that you never get a day off.”  Abe Lemons

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: panda, ferret, sea lion, hedgehog, cheetah, tadpole, otter, polar bear, leopard, giraffe

Ah, sleep – that “golden chain that ties health and our bodies together” as Thomas Dekker once said.

But what if that chain is worn and your body is not getting a refreshing good night’s sleep: you’re having difficulty falling asleep; staying asleep; waking up too early; or feeling tired during the day?

If you are having trouble sleeping, here are a few tips from the National Institute on Aging for developing healthy bedtime habits so you can get the seven to nine hours that most of us need to stay healthy and alert.

• Follow a regular sleep schedule.
• Avoid napping in the late afternoon or evening. That means no later than 3:00 PM and no longer than 30 minutes.
• Develop a bedtime routine. A relaxing book? Soothing music? A warm bath?
• Don’t watch television or use your computer, cell phone, or tablet in the bedroom.
• Keep your bedroom at a comfortable temperature. Hopefully, both you and your partner agree on that temperature!
• Avoid eating large meals close to bedtime.
• And the obvious: stay away from caffeine late in the day.

There are also a couple of tricks to try if you’re having difficulty falling asleep.

• Count slowly to 100 – and that doesn’t need to be sheep!
• Relax your body by imagining your toes are completely relaxed, then your feet, then your ankles, all the way up the rest of your body. You may drift off to sleep before getting to the top of your head.
• If 20 minutes after turning off the light, you’re still awake and not drowsy, get out of bed. And then when you feel sleepy, which is hopefully before the sun rises, go back to bed.

If you find it hard to get enough sleep, feel tired, and are unable to do your activities for more than two or three weeks, it may be time to see a doctor to determine if you have a sleep problem and what changes you can try.

In addition, you may be interested in participating in a study by UC Berkeley’s Golden Bear Sleep and Mood Research Clinic. They are currently recruiting adults aged 60+ who are experiencing sleep problems to take part in a no-cost and brief online sleep coaching study. The program includes three sessions of sleep coaching by video once a week for three weeks. The study doesn’t involve the use of any medication, and they won’t ask anyone who is currently taking sleep medications to stop taking them. They are currently enrolling new participants, so if you are interested, call (510) 575-9319 or email sleepandmemoryteamUCB@gmail.com

BRAIN TEASE: Two weeks ago, I shared a brain tease from a New York Times crossword puzzle: “What four-letter word has a bow that can never be tied?” Last week it was pointed out that it could be a rainbow – although it wouldn’t fit because it had more than four letters. But this week Gary VanOrman set me straight. He said a ship bow is tied by a hawser and anchored by a chain, so ship isn’t correct either.  But if you think WAY outside the box as Gary did, a four-letter word that has a bow that can never be tied is a BOWL. I can’t argue with that!

The name of the “Amazin” baseball team that won the 1969 World Series in their eighth year of existence and accomplished one of the greatest upsets in Series history was the Miracle New York Mets. I received correct answers from Anna Bolton, Jeanne Pesicka, Bruce Johnson, Doug Nelson, Jess Birge, Donna Mollet, Dave Lutgens, Rose Schulz, and Lee Kaseberg – this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

This actor was well known for his television roles as professional gambler Bret Maverick and private investigator Jim Rockford and also starred in more than fifty films. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this actor whose career spanned over six decades? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or send it with a picture of him with Lois his wife for fifty-eight years!

Well, it’s been another week, staying warm under the covers. Until we meet again, as Mel Brooks once said, “Life literally abounds in comedy if you just look around you.”

“Laugh and the whole world laughs with you, snore and you sleep alone.”  Anthony Burgess

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).

It’s that time of the year: falling leaves, cooler mornings, and football hysteria! But it’s also time for my annual reminder about Medicare’s Open Enrollment that continues through December 7^th.

Since each year the insurance companies can adjust their Medicare plans, the Open Enrollment period gives you an opportunity to decide if your Medicare plan is still the best option for you or if it’s time to switch to another plan – or even if your plan is still available: the Elixir Prescription Drug Plan will no longer be available in Oregon.

To help decide, first take time to review your plan’s “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC) which you should have received in September. It describes any changes to your current plan for next year. Then ask yourself the big three Medicare questions.

1.) Does my plan allow me to go to the providers I want, including my pharmacy?

2.) Are my prescription drugs covered?

3.) How much does the plan cost?

Good advice, but do you? If you don’t, you’re not alone. According to a study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, 57 percent of Medicare recipients didn’t review or compare their coverage options annually – probably because they find it frustrating, perplexing, and downright confusing!

This year take time to carefully review your plan and the changes; and if you’re satisfied with your current plan, you don’t need to do anything.

But if you aren’t satisfied with the changes, or if you’ve avoided the hassle of comparing plans over the past several years – there are now plans with a $0 premium – there are several ways you can compare plans in your county.

You can visit “www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan” and use the Medicare Plan Finder; study the Medicare & You handbook you received in the mail; call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) where help is available 24/7. In Oregon, you can also visit the Oregon Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) website.

If you’d rather talk to someone face-to-face, you can meet with a private insurance broker who specializes in Medicare, or you can schedule an appointment with a trained impartial SHIBA volunteer counselor who will help you navigate your way through the Medicare maze. To schedule an appointment with a SHIBA counselor in Oregon call 541-288-8341, in Goldendale 509-773-3757, in White Salmon 509-493-3068, and for the Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington in Stevenson call 509-427-3990.

It’s important to understand your Medicare options: Original Medicare, Advantage Plans, Medigap, and prescription drug plans, so you can make informed decisions – both for your health and your pocketbook.

Brain Tease from the website Brain Health and Puzzles.

To exercise your brain and help you with your creativity and imagination try visualization. With your eyes shut, visualize moving from room to room in your home while picturing every piece of furniture, and every step you take avoiding chairs and tables. But don’t trip!

Last week’s Brain Tease answer was ship, but as Kathy Bullock pointed out it could also have been rainbow.

The common name for this easy-to-remember melody that even non-piano players could play was chopsticks. I received correct answers from Kathy Bullock, Kim Birge, Dave Lutgens, Linda Frizzell, Maria Kollas, Keith and Marlene Clymer, Bruce Johnson, Lana Tepfer, who wondered why kids played it so LOUD, and Chuck Rice this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. And last week I missed Nancy Higgins.

The Baseball World Series starts Friday, and one of my fond memories was when my fifth-grade teacher allowed us to listen to the World Series during class. I can’t remember who played in that World Series, but there is one Series that sticks in the minds of most baseball fans.

For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the “Amazin” baseball team that won the 1969 World Series in their eighth year of existence and accomplished one of the greatest upsets in Series history? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or mail it with a Topps baseball card featuring Donn Clendenon – but you can keep the stick of gum!

Well, it’s been another week, dodging falling bricks. Until we meet again, keep your eyes on the sky and your feet on the ground.

“I must be getting absent-minded. Whenever I complain things aren’t what they used to be, I always forget to include myself.” George Burns

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).

Recently, I attended a Portland Thorns soccer game at Providence Park, and as usual, I purchased cheap seats near the last row in the top deck. As my wife and I climbed the steps to row S, to my horror, the handrail, my life support for climbing any steps, ended at row L!

It wasn’t too difficult climbing up because if needed, I could crawl up the steps like an infant in diapers. But trying to go down the steps among a crowd of soccer fans rushing for food during half-time was a different story.

Being unsure of my balance and fearing I would trip, I awkwardly climbed down the steps grasping my wife’s shoulder, ignoring my bruised male ego, because as our parents always told us, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

However, that experience reminded me of the importance of balance and how I need to start doing balance exercises to train my brain so I can stay vertical.

If you decide to start, here are three of the many balance exercises recommended by WebMD. And as with any exercise, don’t try to do too much at once, and if you experience any pain, talk with your doctor before continuing.

Single Leg Balance – repeat three times.

Step 1: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

Step 2: Extend your arms out to the sides and slowly lift your right knee off the floor.

Step 3: Straighten your leg out in front of you, hold that position for 30 seconds, and relax.

Tree Pose – repeat three times.

Step 1: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding one hand to your chest and the other on a chair. You can also rest both hands on your chest if you feel comfortable doing so.

Step 2: Now raise your right leg straight up, turning your foot inward as you do. Gently rest the sole of your right foot against the side of your left thigh.

Step 3: Hold this position for at least 30 seconds, or longer if you can.

Tightrope Walk – once a day.

Step 1: Pick a destination to walk toward.

Step 2: Like walking a tightrope, extend your arms out to the sides and start walking slowly, being careful to keep your feet on the line at all times.

Step 3: Walk from heel to toe, counting at least five seconds before each step.

There are also other options: Tai Chi, chair yoga, and the very popular Strong People classes. But you can also improvise. Try balancing on one leg while in line to pick up your prescriptions or while waiting for the restroom at a Thorns game (ignore the stares), or while brushing your teeth at home – although your teeth may never get clean!

Starting a routine of balance exercises can improve your well-being. Studies have found that older adults who began a regular balance exercise program improved their ability to move unassisted, reduce falls – and avoid humiliating situations at Providence Park.

Brain Tease: I found today’s brain teaser while doing a New York Times crossword puzzle. (I use the computer version with autocorrect, so don’t get the idea I’m smart!). “What four-letter word has a bow that can never be tied?”

In the movie Psycho, the name of the hotel where Jane Leigh’s character is gruesomely murdered in the terrifying shower scene is Bates Motel. I received correct answers from Ron Nelson, Bruce Johnson, who still gets chills listening to the music, Rebecca Abrams, Doug Nelson, Lana Tepfer who last week I forgot again!, Donna Mollett, Kim Birge, Dave Lutgens, Kathy Bullack, Julie Carter, Rhonda Spies, and this week’s winner of a free raffle ticket, Elaine Kirby.

When learning to play the piano, there was one tune every beginning piano student learned to play. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the common name for this easy-to-remember melody that even non-piano players could play? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or mail it with the

famous keyboard-dance scene from the movie Big (1988).

Well, it has been another week, looking for the best in people even when they’re showing their worst. Until we meet again, it’s the little things that make life worth living.

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” Albert Einstein

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: Ship

If you ask anyone what they want, you’ll probably hear, “I just want to be happy.” No wonder. It’s been ingrained in us from the fairy tales where the prince and princess live “happily ever after” to “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” in our Declaration of Independence.

To help live a happier and healthier life, for the last seven years October has been celebrated as Gorge Happiness Month – reminding us to practice the “Daily Three”.

Do you remember them?

1.) Gratitudes: Find time each day to list three things for which you are thankful. It could be a good night’s sleep, an absorbing book, or a visit from one of your grandchildren.

2.) Acts of kindness: It can be as simple as picking up a piece of trash, delivering meals, or telling a good joke – or a really bad one. (Why can’t you trust stairs? They’re always up to something.)

3.) Moments of Silence: I find this the hardest. Sit silently for just five minutes every day. Turn off the TV or radio which are often our familiar and constant companions, and just sit still and observe your thoughts and everything around you. 

Happiness is a desirable state of mind, something we all strive for, but should happiness be our ultimate goal? 

That is the question Peter Nathan asks in his article “Is being happy the goal in life?” on the professional social media platform Linkedin.

Besides happiness, Nathan identifies other life goals influenced by your own perspective and life experiences.

Meaning and purpose: focusing on contributing to something greater than yourself. 

Altruism and service: dedicating yourself to helping others and making a positive impact.

Personal growth and development: continual self-improvement by acquiring new skills and challenging yourself.

Balance and harmony: seeking a well-rounded and satisfying life by achieving a sense of balance and harmony across different aspects of your life.

And I might add, taking care of your mind and body – which can be a full-time job!

We don’t always live happily ever after. Life is hard, full of potholes and detours. And although happiness may not be your ultimate goal, whatever it is – whether a life of purpose or just getting out of bed every morning, following the Daily Three will help you be happier and healthier in your life journey.

Brain Tease: Find the missing number in the sequence; 1, 3, 5, 7, 11, ?, 17, 19

The name of the bi-weekly, general-interest magazine that emphasized photos more than articles; and was published from 1937 to 1971 with subscriptions second to only Life magazine was Look magazine. I received correct answers from Nancy Higgins, Steve Woolpert, Dave Lutgens, Marny Weting, Donna Mollett, Keith Clymer, Doug Nelson, Rhonda Spies, Deloris Schrader, Rebecca Abrams, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket Bruce Johnson who sent in a picture of Stanley Kubick when he was the youngest photographer in Look magazine’s history at just seventeen years old.  

This reminds me: I have some disappointing news. In September, the Mid-Columbia Senior Center held a Block Party celebrating Senior Center Month. During the event, the quilt raffle drawing was held, and of the more than 50 “Remember When” winners that were entered, no one won! But I promise I’ll keep trying! 

Alfred Hitchcock, the “Master of Suspense”, produced and directed over fifty films including many classics: Northwest by Northwest, Rear Window, and Vertigo. But probably his most memorable film was Psycho – which I’ve never seen because the movie trailer was too frightening!

For this week’s “Remember When” question, in the movie Psycho what was the name of the hotel where Jane Leigh’s character stops for a night and is gruesomely murdered in the terrifying shower scene? E-mail your answer to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or mail it with the recording of the composition of screeching violins, violas, and cellos titled “The Murder”.

Well, it has been another week, looking for a verb in a city of nouns. Until we meet again, keep the flags flying. 

“When I went to school they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy’. They told me I didn’t understand the assignment and I told them they didn’t understand life.” John Lennon

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: 13 because all the numbers in the sequence are prime numbers.

Last week I wrote about how to avoid scams and fraud, and since we can’t go back to the simpler days of snake-oil salesmen, I thought I’d follow up with a more detailed list of tips from The National Cybersecurity Alliance. You probably already know many of them, but there may be some you’ve forgotten or even some you’ve never thought of. So here goes.

1.) Know the red flags. If anyone contacts you and insists on payment by wire transfer or gift card, it’s a scam. Venmo and Zelle apps are reliable and safe ways to transfer money.

2.) Verify to Clarify. Be suspicious of emails, text messages, or phone calls that create a sense of urgency. Just last week a reader wrote that he had received a phone call from a person claiming to be his grandson who had been injured in an accident. After asking a few questions to verify, the caller hung up.

3.) When in doubt, throw it out. Be wary of clicking on links or downloading anything that comes from a stranger or that you were not expecting.

4.) Keep a clean machine. Keep all software on devices updated. To help, you can configure your device to automatically install updates when available. Besides providing new features, updates also install the latest security updates.

5.) Lock your devices. Always require a passcode to unlock your phone or tablet.

6.) Make a long, unique password. Length is more important than complexity. Create a password at least 12 characters long related to something you’ll remember. How about IL0vetheBeachB0ys! ? (If you use the Google browser, you can check the security settings to see if any of your passwords are compromised and should be changed immediately.)

7.) Own your online presence. Immediately configure the privacy and security settings on any new accounts, downloaded apps, or new devices.

8.) Share with care. Be cautious about how much personal information you provide on social networking sites. And here’s an interesting tip: just because a website asks you for your address or mother’s maiden name, it doesn’t mean you have to answer honestly. So, my mother can be a Rockefeller!

9.) People online aren’t always who they say they are. I’ve received emails from friends that just didn’t seem like something they would send. Instead of responding, I would send a separate email asking if they were trying to contact me.

10.) I don’t think I need to mention online dating – or should I?

Going online or even answering the phone is like driving down I-84. It is risky, but by taking the proper precautions, you can arrive at your destination safely.

BRAIN TEASE: Here is one for the gamblers in the audience. If I flip a coin twenty-five times and each time it comes up heads, would you bet the next coin flip is tails?

The name of the first commercially viable easy-to-use instant camera released in 1972 and invented by American scientist Edwin Land is the Polaroid Land Camera.  I received correct answers from Nancy Higgins, Rhonda Spies, Bruce Johnson, Dave Lutgens, Donna Mollet, Lana Tepfer, Doug Nelson, Jess Birge, Rose Schulz, and this week’s winners Keith and Marlene Clymer, who may still have one in their garage or attic!

For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of the bi-weekly, general-interest magazine that emphasized photos more than articles; and was published from 1937 to 1971 – peaking in 1969 with 7.75 million subscriptions, second to only Life magazine? E-mail your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, call 541-296-4788, or mail it with a limited-edition photo taken by film director Stanley Kubrick when he was a staff photographer for this magazine.

Well, it has been another week, trying to remember to roll up the windows because I’d forgotten it can rain in The Dalles! Until we meet again, keep the tunes humming, the stories coming and the body moving.

“Worry is like a rockin’ horse. It’s something to do that don’t get you nowhere.” Old West 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) – Mondays and Wednesdays; 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); Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: Most people would say yes. But no matter how many times you get consecutive heads in a coin toss, the next coin has a 50/50 probability of being either heads or tails! This is called the Gambler’s Fallacy which is based on a belief that if a random act happens more frequently than usual, it will become less frequent in the future.

Have you ever lost money to a scam and were so embarrassed you didn’t tell anyone or even report it because you felt really stupid?

Well, you weren’t stupid. You were the victim of a sophisticated cybercrime and what you may have been feeling is called “fraud shame” – where people feel it is their fault for being the victim of a cybercrime, even though the real person responsible is the criminal perpetrating it.

As a society, we have a strong tendency to blame the victim of scams and fraud; focusing on something the victim didn’t know or didn’t do rather than focusing on the criminal and the crime. According to an AARP report on victim shaming, the vast majority of Americans (85%) think that fraud can happen to anyone, and yet a majority (53%) also believe that fraud victims are culpable and blameworthy.

But victims don’t intend to send many to criminals. As Kathy Stokes, Director of Fraud Prevention Programs for AARP points out, “They were trying to help a beloved grandchild get out of trouble, or trying to build generational wealth.”

Fraud shame affects us all. Besides adding insult to injury, fraud shame can cause victims not to report that they were the victim of a crime. Crimes go unreported, criminal activity is not addressed, and we are more at risk.

Although there is the perception older adults are more gullible, scams affect everyone regardless of their age, education, or technological proficiency – but differently.

In 2021, older adults were about five times more likely to report losing money on tech support scams than younger adults; and twice as likely to report losing money on a prize, sweepstakes, or lottery scam. But not surprisingly, younger adults were over four times more likely to report a loss on an investment scam such as bogus cryptocurrency investment schemes than older adults; and five times more likely to lose money on job scams.

So what can we do to fight fraud shame? A couple suggestions.

First, if someone close to you tells you they are the victim of fraud, don’t blame them! Instead, provide support, and help them reach out to the authorities to report the crime.

Second, explain to them how to stay safe online: knowing the different types of cybercrimes such as phishing; using a long, unique password; installing the latest software updates; and using two-step authorization. The National Cybersecurity Alliance at https://staysafeonline.org/resources/ is an excellent source to find tools to stay safe online.

It’s becoming harder to identify scams. (Is my computer really being attacked by a virus? Do I need to call the phone number flashing on my screen? HELP!)  And it’s not going to get any easier with artificial intelligence! But if fewer folks felt ashamed and reported crimes; and more folks knew how to identify and avoid cybercrimes, the Internet would be more secure and safer for all of us.

BRAIN TEASE: An orchestra of 120 players takes 40 minutes to play Beethoven’s 9th symphony. How long would it take 60 players to play the symphony?

The name of the game show where four panelists must determine guests’ occupations by asking only “yes” or “no” questions was What’s My Line. I received correct answers from Elaine Kirby, Carol Earl, Jess Birge, Dave Lutgens, Marny Weting, Donna Mollet, Keith Clymer, Doug Nelson, Pat Evenson-Brady, Rhonda Spies, Diana Weston, Nancy Higgins, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket Lana Tepfer whom I forgot the last two weeks! So Lana would have some company, I also missed Bruce Johnson.

I remember this camera when it first came out because you could develop a picture in less than 60 seconds! For this week’s “Remember When Question”, what was the name of the first commercially viable easy-to-use instant camera released in 1972 and invented by American scientist Edwin Land? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788, or drop it off with the SX-70 model.

Well, it’s been another week, pondering all of life’s intangibles. Until we meet again, you know it’s autumn when the alarm goes off and it’s still dark!

“Experience is a wonderful thing. It enables you to recognize a mistake when you make it again.”  Franklin Jones

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; 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); Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: Eighty minutes is the most common answer, but is still wrong. A song is forty minutes no matter how many people are playing it.

How many times have you heard, “You aren’t going to see me at a Senior Center. They are just for “ol”d people!” Maybe you even have thought that. Sadly, they are missing out on all that senior centers have to offer.

There are over 10,000 senior centers across the country responding to the diverse needs and interests in their communities and serving as community focal points for older adults. To encourage more people to visit their local center and celebrate their contributions, September has been proclaimed National Senior Center Month.

So, this month if you haven’t already, take the time to visit your local center and discover what it has to offer. Every senior center is different, but you’ll always find opportunities to make new friends; and enjoy a healthy meal for just a donation – if you’re 60 or older. (Another advantage of getting older!)

You may also find exercise classes: Strong People, Tai Chi, or chair Yoga (same benefits of yoga but I don’t have to struggle to get up off the floor!); live music, and new learning opportunities: Medicare counseling, AARP Smart Driver classes, Senior Planet technology classes, health presentations, and book clubs.

But if you don’t find something you like, start a class! There may be others who like to play your favorite card game (anyone know how to play Euchre?). Or start an art class, a walking club, or share your travel adventures. Many activities at senior centers were started by someone like you.

Senior Centers support healthy aging by providing opportunities for older adults from the frail to the most active to explore new experiences, connect with others, and volunteer. Research has shown that senior center participants have higher levels of health, social interaction, and overall life satisfaction compared to their peers who do not participate in a senior center.

Senior Centers are not just for “old” people. Instead, think of them as a social club, recreational center, learning hub, and cafeteria all offered in one place – and where you’ll find folks who are active, fun-loving, and role models for living gracefully.

If you are a grandparent raising grandchildren, you are particularly encouraged to attend the next “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” class which offers caregivers the strategies and tools to better take care of themselves when taking care of others.

The six-week class will be offered virtually on Thursdays, September 28th through November 2^nd from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. The class is free thanks to the support of the Providence Children’s Health Foundation and their generous donors. To register call 971-415-5349 or email swindells@providence.org

Brain Tease.

When I was looking in the mirror, I tried to read the artists printed on my new Motown t-shirt. It wasn’t easy! See how well you can do reading the mirror images of these seven Motown artists.

ƨɘɿobommoƆ ,ƨɒllɘbnɒV ɘʜƚ bnɒ ɒʜƚɿɒM ,ɘviᖷ noƨʞɔɒႱ ,ƨnoiƚɒƚqmɘT ,ɿɘbnoW ɘivɘƚƧ ,ƨɘmɘɿquƧ ,ƨqoT ɿuoᖷ

L.S./M.F.T. (Lucky Strikes Means Fine Tobacco) was found on a package of Lucky Strike cigarettes.  I received correct answers from Sandy Haechrel, Diana Weston, Doug Nelson, Marny Weting, Dave Lutgens, Keith and Marlene Clymer, Pat Kelly, Ken Jernstedt, Donna Mollet, Anna Bolton, Kim Birge, Rhonda Spies, and Steve Nybroten who’s this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.

There were many classic game shows in the 50s and 60s including I’ve Got a Secret (1952 – 1967) hosted by Garry Moore and Groucho Marx’s You Bet Your Life (1950–1961). For this week’s “Remember When Question”, what was the name of the game show where four panelists must determine guests’ occupations by asking only “yes” or “no” questions – and where the question “Is it bigger than a bread box?” was first used by Steve Allen? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788, or drop it off with a picture of the moderator John Daly and the most frequent panelists: Dorothy Kilgallen, Arlene Francis, Bennett Cerf, and Hal Block.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to remember where I left off. Until we meet again, as Dick Van Dyke sang in Bye Bye Birdie, “Put on a happy face.”

“That’s the way I look at things – if you focus on the worst-case scenario and it happens, you’ve lived it twice. It sounds like Pollyanna-ish tripe but I’m telling you – it works for me.”   Michael J. Fox

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; 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); Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: The answers are in the mirror.

Are you ever frustrated that after reading an article, you try to explain it and you can’t remember what you read?  Or you get halfway through a novel and suddenly you realize you have read it before!

Many of us use our leisure time to read whether it is an article in this newspaper, on the Internet, or that bestseller you just borrowed from the library. And with so much information at our fingertips, it’s even more important to remember what you read even if you aren’t studying for a history class final – thank goodness!

To better comprehend and remember, here is a quick summary of “Eight Tips To Remember What You Read” by Dr. Bill Klemm, professor of Neuroscience at Texas A&M University. (You can read the entire article on the SharpBrains website.)

1) Know Your Purpose

Ask yourself, “Why am I reading this?” Continuously checking how the purpose is being fulfilled helps you stay on task and focus on the more relevant parts of the material.

2) Skim First

Skimming first can help you identify what is important to focus on in your reading. But it shouldn’t be your default mode of reading – as I keep telling myself.

3) Get the Mechanics Right

You may remember from your English classes that you shouldn’t read word by word but focus on several words at a time which can increase your speed and comprehension.

4) Be Judicious in Highlighting and Note Taking

Okay, I’m reading a book; highlighting all the important points, and then realize I’ve highlighted the entire page!

Try to highlight the few key points to act as your reminder cues. And don’t get so focused on highlighting that you don’t pay enough attention to what you’re reading.

5) Think in Pictures

I’ve previously written about how creating a picture can help you remember objects – particularly when your doctor gives you the three-word memory test! So when reading, identify the keywords and think of the associated mental images.

6) Rehearse As You Go Along

Read in short segments – a few paragraphs to a few pages – all the while thinking about and paraphrasing the meaning of what you are reading. Rehearse what you are memorizing by reconstructing the mental pictures.

7) Operate Within Your Attention Span

Paying attention is central to memorization. If you can’t concentrate, reading is a waste of time. Most of us have short attention spans – and mine is getting shorter all the time – so try not to read dense material for more than ten or fifteen minutes at a time. After each session, quiz yourself on what you just read.

8) Rehearse Soon After Reading Is Finished

When you finish reading, rehearse what you learned right away. Avoid distractions and multitasking. Again, ask yourself questions about the content of what you read and how it satisfies your purpose for reading.

Follow these eight steps if you want to better remember what you read. And for me, it’s simply to remember what I read fifteen minutes ago!

Brain Tease: You should be getting good at these lateral thinking patterns. See how you do on this one.

“Four men were fishing. The boat tipped, and every man fell into the water. Not a single man got wet. How is this possible?”

Before he went solo, Smokey Robinson sang with a group of teenage friends who recorded for Motown as the Miracles. I received correct answers from Marny Weting, Rhonda Spies, Dave Lutgens, Rose Schulz, Donna Mollett, Keith Clymer, Kim Birge, and this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket: Rebecca Abrams. And I’ve missed Diana Weston from way back, Donna Mollett from last week, and probably someone else this week.

In 1944, the message L.S./M.F.T. was introduced on the packages of a brand of cigarettes. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of that brand? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788, or drop it off with an episode from the 1959 season of the Jack Benny Show.

Well, it’s been another week, moving faster but getting nowhere fast. Until we meet again, you can be an inspiration to others without even knowing it.

“Sharing tales of those we’ve lost is how we keep from really losing them.” Mitch Albom

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; 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); Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answer: They were married so there was not a single man to get wet.

One of my favorite songs from the ’60s was the little-known “No Regrets” written and recorded by Tom Rush. It’s about a broken relationship he had no regrets about even though it was painful.

Many feel a life well lived is one where there are no regrets about the decisions you’ve made or the words you’ve said or left unsaid.

But we all experience regret, don’t we? Some regrets may be minor such as missing a Smokey Robinson concert to something as painful as not having visited a friend I had promised to see before she passed away.

In her New York Times article, “Regret Is Painful. Here’s How to Harness It”, Jancee Dunn shares insights from her conversation with Daniel Pink, author of “The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward.”

Daniel Pink found that regret, a negative emotion you feel when you wish you had done something differently, falls into four main themes: failing to reach out to others; lapses in moral judgment; incremental choices that result in big consequences — like smoking or working too much; and holding back when we should have been bolder.

Those regrets can hurt but as Pink points out they are also a source of insight and growth. By thinking about our regrets, we “can clarify what we value most in life.” How can we make that happen? When dealing with regret Pink suggests we look inward, outward, and forward.

When looking inward, realize when we make mistakes, we often treat ourselves more harshly than we would treat anybody else. Instead of punishing yourself, try to look inward and talk to yourself the way you would a loved one: kind, generous, and forgiving.

When looking outward, Pink suggests confiding in someone you trust or forming a circle of friends where you can share your regrets. This can take away the hurt by realizing that everyone has regrets and you aren’t the only one.

Then look forward by asking yourself what lessons can I draw from this regret? And how can I apply them to my life going forward? Start with determining if you can still do something about it such as by being less judgmental, spending more time with close friends, or speaking up about something you feel strongly about.

In those cases when you can’t go back and you’re burdened with regret about an action you did or did not take, reframe your regret by at “least-ing” it – switching your thinking from “if only” to “at least.” For example, I can tell myself I may have missed seeing Smokey Robinson perform, but at least I can download his songs – and I saved the $150 for concert tickets!

There will always be times when we wish we could start over. But although regret can be painful, we can use it by looking inward, outward, and forward to appreciate what is important in our lives.

BRAIN TEASE: These may be too easy, but I’ll let you find out.

1.)   A man shaves several times a day but still has a beard. Who is he?

2.)   What disappears as soon as you say its name?

3.)   What can you hold in your left hand, but never in your right?

The band known for smashing guitars and writing the first rock opera Tommy was The Who. I received correct answers from Marny Weting, Rebecca Abrams, Dave Lutgens, Rose Schulz, Steven Woolpert, Keith Clymer, Pat Evenson-Brady, and Jess Birge this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket. From the weeks before I missed Jean Harmon, Steven Woolpert, and Rose Schulz.

I mentioned Smokey Robinson, an early songwriter and singer for Motown Records who is still recording and performing at the age of 83! But before he went solo, he sang with a group of teenage friends who recorded many top hits including “The Tears of a Clown”. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this group? Email your answer to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788, or drop it off with a picture of Hitsville U.S.A.

Well, it’s been another week, and glad to be back in the Gorge. Until we meet again, too often I find out I don’t know what I always thought I knew.

“People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.” Winnie-the-Pooh

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; 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); Skamania County Senior Services (509-427-3990).

Answers: 1.) A barber; 2.) Silence; 3.) Your right hand