When the time comes for a senior citizen to enter a retirement home, personal care home or long-term care facility, they
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FurEver Young Senior Animal Rescue gives peace of mind BY DANETTE DOOLEY
[email protected]
When the time comes for a senior citizen to enter a retirement home, personal care home or long-term care facility, they may face numerous challenges including what to do with their beloved pet. Thanks to a Newfoundland-based organization called FurEver Young Senior Animal Rescue, senior citizens can now rest easier knowing their dog or cat can be rehomed and well looked after. FurEver Young founder Kelsey Aboud works with a number of other volunteers to rescue, adopt and rehome dogs older than eight and cats older than 12. Aboud founded the non-profit organization after she stumbled upon a senior golden retriever named Daisy. The dog had been surrendered (due to a family illness) to another St. John’s-based animal rescue group called Heavenly Creatures. Heavenly Creatures posted on its website that it was looking for a foster home for Daisy. Kelsey stepped in to foster the dog. Daisy was in her care for about a week when Aboud gave the dog a permanent home. Aboud had no idea at the time that the Daisy would inspire her to follow her dream of making an impact on her community. (Aboud does that in other ways as well including her job as a police officer with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary). “I just thought about
for Bags fundraiser taking place from noon to 3 p.m. on April 28, at the St. John’s Retired Citizens Association Club on Bennett Avenue in St. John’s. The event accepts donations of bags, purses and wallets. Aboud’s future goal is to place senior cats with senior citizens on a foster basis. “The senior [citizen] could enjoy the company of a low maintenance cat and we would look after the financial side.” Aboud said it’s not unusual to get a call about a senior citizen going into a home and worrying about their pet. The situation is stressful for not only the senior citizen but also their family, she says. Now, thanks to this caring animal lover and a dog named Daisy, that burden can often be lifted. Aboud says Daisy made her realize her true passion in life. “When I adopted her Contributed she opened my eyes to Gloria Sheppard, team leader for Life Unlimited for Older Adults, based in Springdale. how important the need is for foster and adoption how senior pets could add until permanent homes can for senior pets... Daisy has be moving, or their famto people’s lives and I knew ily dynamics may have be found. helped me through a lot. there were senior pets out The organization also FurEver Young is not just an changed,” Aboud says. there that needed homes,” relies heavily on financial animal organization for me. Aboud’s organization she says. support from the commuIt’s so much deeper.” works closely with other Since FurEver Young was animal rescue groups in the nity to help with not only For further information founded in November 2014, province. supplies, but vet bills that visit www.fureveryoungresthe organization has placed the animals may accumu“Sometimes, the vetcue.org, or visit FurEver more than 100 senior dogs erinary clinics will contact late while in its care. Young - Senior Animal and cats in foster and adop- us if a pet is brought in for “It’s not very often that Rescue on Facebook and a senior [dog or cat] will euthanasia and they feel Instagram @furever_young_ tive homes. come to us without any the pet is still healthy and rescue. The organization The animals come from [medical] issues.” it could be a premature can also be contacted via all different types of situaExpenses incurred by euthanasia. They’ll contact e-mail at fureveryoungrestions — from owners passanimals that remain in fosus to see if we will assist
[email protected]. ing away, to owners going and if the owner signs over ter homes on a long-term into a retirement home or basis are covered by her the pet to the clinic, they seniors’ home. Danette Dooley enjoys catching organization, she says. will surrender it to us.” “There are other reatrout, making jam, growing vegetaFurEver Young held FurEver Young volunbles and scoring a seniors’ discount sons why someone may its second annual Barks at every opportunity. give up their dog, they may teers foster the animals
Canadian Deprescribing Network looking out for the health of seniors BY DANETTE DOOLEY
The Network is a comprised of health care leaders, clinicians, deciThe Canadian Deprescribing sion-makers, academic Network is sounding the researchers and patient alarm that some medicaadvocates who work tions seniors are taking may together to raise awareness be causing them more harm about medication safety and deprescribing. than good. Deprescribing means According to the reducing or stopping mediNetwork, more than one in three Canadian seniors cations that may not be use at least one potentially beneficial or that may be inappropriate medication, causing harm. which can lead to falls, The Network notes on fractures, hospitalizations its website that two-thirds and death. of people over age 65 are
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taking five different drugs or more per day. Twenty-seven per cent of people in that age category are taking ten different drugs or more per day, while 40 per cent of people over the age of 85 are taking ten different medications per day. The more drugs taken, the higher the risk of drug interactions. The Network’s aim is to see a 50 per cent reduction in the use of inappropriate medications for people 65 and older, by 2020.
In working towards this goal, the Network is providing a wide range of tools and resources to the public, community organizations, health care professionals and policy makers. “Our goal is to get information to seniors on specific meds and the risks they may have. Then they can decide what is more important for them,” says the Network’s assistant director Camille Gagnon. See CANADIAN, page 2
Contributed
Canadian Deprescribing Network assistant director, Camille Gagnon.
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Permits for impaired mobility parking can be obtained through Motor Vehicle Registration.
Just ask make from your home will be considered as income that could go towards your care. Unfortunately, there is a lot of CONTRIBUTED misinformation about this topic in the community and someThese are real questions asked by times people rush to give their home ownership to someone seniors (and those who support them) on SeniorsNL’s information else without having the right information. This could turn out line. to be the wrong choice in some cases — for instance, if your Q. My wife’s health is failing, health improved and you decided and we are starting to think you wanted to try living at home about going into a personal again. Personal Care Homes can care home. We own our home, be used as a short-term place to but don’t have much savings. stay, depending on your health We really want to leave our and the supports you need to go home for our granddaughter. back home. Is the government going to Don’t be afraid to call your take our home to help pay for regional health authority to find our care? out more about the financial A. The short answer is no. You can retain your home and enough piece of applying for support to live in a personal care home or funds to maintain it for three in a long-term care facility. If you months. After the three months, you will need to find another way need help connecting to your nearest community supports maintain your home — such as having someone live in it and pay office for more information about for its upkeep or by renting it out. this, please call us at SeniorsNL at 1-800-563-5566. However, any rental income you
Senior Living Senior Living is published 10 times per year by The Telegram, Western Star and NL Community Newspapers.
Q. I recently started walking with a cane. How can I get a permit to park in the blue disabled spots? A. In order to park in the “blue spots” you need an Impaired Mobility Parking Permit. To get one of these permits call Motor Vehicle Registration (part of ServiceNL) at 1-877-636-6867 and ask that they mail you an application. Your doctor will need to sign the application to confirm that you need one of these permits. They are free of charge, but permits have to be renewed every five years.
It is delivered monthly in The Telegram, Western Star and NL Community Newspapers and is available for pick up at your local Newspaper office. Sales Manager: Gerry Carew
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Do you have a question that you would like answered in this column? If so, send it to SeniorsNL by email at
[email protected] or by mail to 243 Topsail Road, Suite 110, St. John’s, NL A1E 0G5. Or feel free to call us with a question about a seniors’ issue, service, or concern on our toll-free information line at 1-800-563-5599. Also follow us on Facebook and Twitter and visit our website at SeniorsNL.ca
Canadian Deprescribing Network looking out for the health of seniors CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
Apart from the side-effects of the drugs, Gagnon says, just managing so many medications can be a challenge for the patient. One of the challenges for physicians, she says, is that as people age, the number of chronic conditions they have increases. “If you have a patient with three, four or five conditions, how do all of the medications interact with each other in a patient... especially those who are geriatric.” Gagnon says that it is important that every member of the patient’s health care team is aware of what medications the patient is taking. To give a patient the same dosage of a medication at age 85 as you would give a much younger patient may not be in the senior’s best interests “We need to start low [dosage] and go slow,” she says, and adds that while taking too many
prescription medications may be risky, cutting out or cutting back on medications should never be done without consultation with a physician. When talking about deprescribing, Gagnon says, patients and their families should realize that the issues of medications is their responsibility. The patient should feel comfortable in asking their physician, pharmacist or other health provider about both the benefits and risks of taking the medication. “Medications save lives. They help prevent disease. But the risk can’t be forgotten... [The Network] is working with the different provinces to bring the agenda of medication appropriateness forward.” For more information on the Network, visit www.deprescribingnetwork.ca. Danette Dooley enjoys catching trout, making jam, growing vegetables and scoring a seniors’ discount at every opportunity.
Potentially inappropriate medications for seniors: • Antipsychotics for dementia and insomnia • First-generation antihistamines • Long-acting diabetes medications (sulfonylureas) • Opioids for chronic non-cancer pain • Proton-pump inhibitors for more 12 weeks
Harmful effects of these medications: • Drug interactions • Falls and fractures • Memory problems • Hospitalizations and death
Source: Canadian Deprescribing Network Annual Report 2017
Five questions to ask your doctor, nurse, pharmacist or other health professional about your medications: • • • •
Have any medications been added, stopper or changed and why? What medications do I need to keep taking and why? How do I take my medications and for how long? How will I know if my medications are working and what side effects do I watch for? • Do I need any tests and when do I book my next visit? Source: Canadian Deprescribing Network website with credit to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices Canada
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Touch triggers the release of cortisol, which helps people to better control their stress hormones.
Reclaiming the social power of ‘care-full’ touch BY ALEX HANDYSIDE CPCA
[email protected]
“We have demonized touch to a level at which it sparks off hysterical responses, it sparks off legislative processes and this lack of touch is not good for mental health.” So says neuroscience professor Francis McGlone, a leader in affective touch, from my alma mater, Liverpool John Moores University. “It’s time to recover the social power of touch,” says McGlone — and I agree. Touch is the first sense we humans develop, but what was so instinctive to us as children has as adults come to feel out of bounds, even bordering on illegal. We humans love touch, but we have replaced people with products that feel good: pillows, velvet, face creams, even saucepan handles! We hear about sexual abuse or harassment in the workplace, so it’s hardly surprising that touching no longer feels right or safe. We think twice now about hugging a colleague in a way that we didn’t a couple of years ago — we wonder if it is going to be misinterpreted or make somebody feel bad, so we don’t do it. There
is a hyper-vigilance of boundaries that makes it tricky to find the right approach, the right level. We question ourselves, and then we err on the side of “don’t.” “Don’t” is all around us: doctors are being advised not to comfort or hug patients in case they provoke legal action. Foster parents and daycare staff report they are frightened to hug children in their care. The U.S. Girl Guides upset parents last year when they told girls not to hug relatives. In the U.K., it was reported that half a million elderly people go at least five days every week without anyone touching them. Teachers hesitate to touch pupils for fear it may be misinterpreted. McGlone says he has even heard of teachers asking students to stick on their own band-aids! Touch is not a single sense: different nerve endings recognize itch, vibration, pain, pressure and texture. And there is one, called c tactile afferents, whose sole job is to recognize a gentle stroking touch. Did you know the optimum speed for a human caress is three centimetres to five centimetres per second? “We are destined to cuddle and stroke each other at predetermined
velocities,” says McGlone. At the right speed, we are sub-consciously encouraged to keep on touching. Researchers from University College London revealed last year that slow, gentle stroking — even by a stranger — reduced feelings of social exclusion, which may eventually lead to a cure for loneliness. Stroking the skin slows down our heart rate and our blood pressure. It triggers the release of cortisol, which helps people to better control their stress hormones; oxytocin, the body’s pleasure chemical; and serotonin, the body’s natural anti-depressant. That’s largely why massages are so pleasant and relaxing. It also improves our immune system and enables deeper sleep. So, where will our loss of touch lead us? It is known that loneliness can be fatal because it puts people into a defensive state where levels of cortisol are raised. Seniors especially, having had negative experiences, may anticipate their next connection with people will also be negative. An additional challenge for the elderly is that touch sensation declines with age. Humans have their strongest touch sensation at around 20, after which it declines by one per cent per year.
By age 70, our touch sensation has halved. Children too suffer. Some experts have suggested that the rise in child and teen aggression is due to a lack of touch. As yet, there is no scientific data to connect declining touch to the rise of mobile technology or social media, but such a connection is being investigated. How can we build more touch into our lives? Anna Fortes Mayer has run the Cuddle Workshop in the U.K. for almost a decade. She recommends that hugs be shared, not granted. I confess, “Would you like to share a hug?” sounds far more welcoming than, “Do you want a hug?” or “Can I give you a hug?” With some thought, a gentle touch of the shoulder or upper arm can be neither threatening nor demeaning. The cure for loneliness will not come from a hug, but perhaps careful — and “care-full” — touch could help bring it a step closer. Guess what your homework is tonight? Alex Handyside is a Certified Professional Consultant on Aging. In the past he flew helicopters, managed a number of charities, and owned an award-winning homecare agency. Now retired, he writes and volunteers.
Random Age-Friendly: CREST, one of Clarenville’s 150 faces As seen in March 29, 2018.
on
CONTRIBUTED
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The Clarenville Canada 150 Committee recently recognized the Random Age-Friendly Communities Organization, in particular CREST (Clarenville Region Extended Seniors’ Transportation), for the service the organization provides to residents of our community and the region. While a grant from government helped to get this service off the ground, it would never have been possible without
the strong commitment of the incredible network of volunteers that keep everything organized and running smoothly. More than 80 volunteers have given freely of their time and talents as drivers, assistants and in the booking office for over 40,000 hours during the past three and one-half years. Their work ensures our seniors and mobility challenged individuals have access to affordable and reliable transportation for outings such as medical, banking and hair appointments, social activities, grocery shopping, or visiting family and friends. The Age-Friendly Newfoundland and Labrador Transportation Project is an initiative of the
provincial Long-Term Care and Community Support Services Strategy that began in 2013. Five successful groups received funding to create and implement age-friendly transportation models in their communities. Selected recipients included the Canadian Red Cross Society, Metrobus, Town of Clarenville, Town of Springdale, and Bay St. George South Area Development Association. What makes Clarenville’s transportation model stand out from the rest is that CREST is run solely by volunteers and it’s the only one of its kind in the province. During the presentation, Clarenville Canada 150
committee member Lee Wiseman stated, “Clarenville is a wonderful community with many unique assets and this service that your network of volunteers provides is one of those unique strengths that makes Clarenville an even more inclusive and supportive community. “To the Random Age-Friendly Communities organization for their leadership in getting this program off the ground and keeping it going, and to the team of volunteers that keeps it running so smoothly—thank you. “For all you do for our community and beyond, we would like to recognize you as one of the Canada 150 Faces of Clarenville.”
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Yes My Dear... BY HAROLD WALTERS
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“Yes My Dear” (Archetype Print Ltd.) is not hot off the press. The book is 15 years old. I happened upon it because it was time to filter Missus’s wine. We stopped at The Inside Scoop in New Harbour and while Missus made a beeline for brewing supplies, I idly spun the book rack spindle and spied “Yes My Dear … the Life and Times of Joan Morrissey — Newfoundland’s First Lady of Song.” I tucked it among the packages of filters and wine-making paraphernalia Missus placed on the counter, knowing she’d love to buy me a book. In her dedication, the book’s author — Joan Morrissey’s daughter, Debbie Morrissey Stafford — says, “This book is dedicated to my mother’s grandchildren. They never knew their grandmother.” Place a bookmark here while I speak of synchronicity. Maybe it isn’t so much true synchronicity as an example of the spooky nature of internet browsers tracking every move you make. Nevertheless, I’d visited Mr. Google’s house, keyed in Joan Morrissey, and tapped “Go.” Two images appeared broadside offering YouTube videos — Joan Morrissey and Joan Baez. Because Joan Baez was an old friend of mine — kinda — I open her video first. It was her acceptance speech at the 2017 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. At the time, Joan was 76 years old. Addressing the audience, she opened with words to this effect — “Some of you are too young to know who I am … sure, my granddaughter had no clue who I was.” See where I’m going, b’ys?
Joan Baez’s induction and Joan Morrissey’s story are both means of grandchildren not only getting to know of their grandmothers’ fame but also of appreciating their grandmothers’ lasting renown. Anyway… It’s been 40 years since Joan Morrissey’s suicide. If the world had been different, if attitudes towards mental illness and depression had been less stigmatizing, Joan Morrissey — surely as a grande dame — might still be alive. Joan Morrissey’s death was tragic, but tragedy is not the focus of this book. Mostly the book is a compilation of memories. Debbie Morrissey Stafford asked her siblings, her extended family, Joan’s friends and professional associates to share their memories. Using those memories the author has produced a book that sings her mother’s praises — as a mother, as a songstress, as an all-round entertainer. Shame on me, I didn’t fully appreciate Joan Morrissey’s place in Newfoundland’s entertainment history. Oh, sure, I’d heard her on the radio singing “The Mobile Goat” and “The CN Bus,” and seen her in a number of television shows. But I had no idea of the impact she made on the local — and to some degree — the national, entertainment
industry. I deserve a smack. Joan Morrissey’s energy was awesome — awesome meaning likely to inspire admiration, not awesome as an expletive attributive, a word that contributes nothing to meaning but suggests the strength of feeling of the speaker. Expletive attributive! Yes, for frig sake, b’ys, you know I looked that up. Joan had a house full of youngsters that she
Contributed
Yes my Dear…the life and times of Joan Morrissey — Newfoundland’s First Lady of Song (Archetype Print Ltd.).
managed to look after, along with working full-time as a career entertainer. All that, of course, while quietly struggling with depression caused partly — well, truly, who knows what causes depression — by chronic heart problems. Here’s my favourite vignette from the book: At the time, Joan lived in Long Pond, scrubbing the family laundry in the pond’s own muddy water … life was hectic. Daughter Bev says, “I was young and was always running off so when mom went inside the house she would attach or tie me to tree.” B’ys, lodge right and wrong on the shelf for a minute — can you picture the carloads of social workers converging on Long Pond today in a similar situation? I laughed out loud at the conclusion of Bev’s fond memory: “My sisters even now reminisce and joke about how mom would hang a pork chop around my neck so the dogs would play with me.” Here’s an odd bit of trivia. Joan (Learning) Morrissey was born Jan. 27, 1933 but her birth was not registered with Vital Statistics until March 10, 2003. Figure that one out. Think about this. At 77, Joan Baez has recently released a new album — “Whistle Down the Wind.” If the world were different … who knows, eh b’ys? Thank you for reading. Harold Walters lives Happily Ever After in Dunville, in the only Canadian province with its own time zone. How cool is that? Reach him at
[email protected]
Enjoying the senior perks Today at the pharmacy, the cashier asked me if I qualified for the discount. “Discount?” I asked blankly. “Yes, the senior’s discount, 20 per cent off if you are over 60,” she explained. My eyes lit up. “Yes, I do,” I answered. “Thanks for asking!” I must say, these cashiers get the award for diplomacy. Can you imagine if they asked “Are you over 60?” to a customer who might only be 55? Or even worse, “Are you a senior?” Yes, these cashiers have it down pat. Personally, I am in love with my senior’s discount and I am usually the first to remind the cashier that I qualify. Geez, I wouldn’t even walk into Value Village unless it was a Tuesday for my 30 per cent off for
seniors and I only shop at Bulk Barn on Wednesdays. I don’t bother keeping track of when each of the pharmacies offers their senior’s discounts, so I am usually pleasantly surprised. Today I saved $1.20! I would have bought more if I had been on the ball. When I turned 55, I joked that my husband could take me out to the Big Stop for my birthday dinner, where they have a special section on their menu with “just right” smaller portions for guests who are 55 and older. What’s not to like? Make no mistake; there are so many advantages to getting older. The shopping discounts, the lower admission prices for the theatres, the stylish grey hair, our Canada Pension Plan, free basic banking, rebates and lower gym memberships, to name a few. Some seniors even get to retire! Then there is the OAS (Old Age
Security). I’ve already received my warning notice that I’ll be eligible next year, with an automatic enrollment no less. They make life so easy for us seniors. We don’t even have to apply. Oh, we do have our senior moments, but who doesn’t? Are there really people out there who actually remember why they walked into a room in the first place? I haven’t really slowed down yet. I’m still working, still active, still healthy and still thriving, yet I still qualify for my senior’s discounts.
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Healthy women developing dementia risk low: study BY DR. COLIN MACLEOD
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Cognitive decline associated with dementia affects 1.1 million Canadians directly or indirectly. Recent research has illustrated a few lifestyle factors which increase a person’s risk of developing dementia including heavy alcohol use and smoking. New research has now been published on the effect of a person’s physical fitness level on their likelihood of developing dementia. This study was published this March in the journal Neurology and examined the physical fitness of middle aged women and their risk of developing dementia later in life. This study enrolled 191 Swedish women with an average age of 50 years old. The physical fitness of the women was measured at the beginning of the study with a bicycle exercise test to measure peak cardiovascular capacity. The results of the fitness test were used to categorize the women into three groups: high fitness, medium fitness or low fitness, based on their peak cardiovascular capacity. These 191 women were followed by the researchers for 44 years and the incidence of developing dementia was tracked. Although this study was small, the results were quite remarkable. Over the 44 years of the study, 44 women developed dementia. Five percent of the highly physically fit women developed dementia, while 25 per cent of the women
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Small study resulted in remarkable findings showing the more active women are the less likely they are to develop dementia.
with medium physical fitness developed dementia and 32 per cent of the women with low physical fitness developed dementia. The women with the highest level of fitness were 88 per cent less likely to develop dementia compared to the moderately fit women and even less likely compared to the least fit women. While the results of this study may seem alarming, we should remember that it is a small sample of women (191). With that said, this study makes an association between high physical fitness and
a significantly reduced risk of developing dementia later in life. We should consider long-term maintenance of cognitive health as yet another reason to strive to stay active and maintain a good level of physical fitness. “These findings are exciting because it’s possible that improving people’s cardiovascular fitness in middle age could delay or even prevent them from developing dementia,” said the study’s lead author Helena Hörder, PhD, of the University of Gothenburg in Gothenburg, Sweden. “However,
this study does not show cause and effect between cardiovascular fitness and dementia, it only shows an association. More research is needed to see if improved fitness could have a positive effect on the risk of dementia and also to look at when during a lifetime a high fitness level is most important.” If you are interested in learning more about how optimizing physical fitness can improve your health, and help to prevent major chronic disease, contact your naturopathic doctor.
Exercise is medicine…and it works! BY LAURA LUNDQUIST
the course of at least several days. For example, walking for 30 minutes on five days of the week or doing 50 minutes each If there was a medication that could reduce your risk of develop- of cycling, swimming and walking Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, ing per week would meet this recommendation. osteoporosis, dementia and cerIntensity: how hard does it have tain cancers would you take it? to be? What if the side effects of that To achieve the health benefits same medication improved your mood, helped manage your blood from your aerobic exercise, the intensity should be moderate to pressure and control your body weight? Unfortunately, no pill has vigorous. In moderate intensity been developed that is this power- exercise, you will be able to carry ful. Fortunately, we don’t need one on a conversation but not sing a song. You should be breathing a — exercise is medicine and it is little harder and starting to sweat. that powerful. In vigorous activity, you will not be Just like any medication, the able to say more than a few words dosage of exercise you “take” is at a time and should be sweating important. In exercise prescripmore heavily. tion, the “FITT” principle is used Type: which activity is best? to breakdown the dosage: freThe answer to this question quency, intensity, type and time. is much more individual. Most The FITT suggestions described importantly, the best aerobic below are taken from the Canadian Guidelines produced by activity for you is the one you the Canadian Society for Exercise enjoy the most, feels best to your body and you are likely to conPhysiology (CSEP). Frequency and time: how much tinue. Examples of moderate exercise include: walking, cycling, garis enough? Two-and-a-half hours per week dening, yardwork or housework. Vigorous exercise is achieved with is the recommended volume of aerobic exercise for adults 18 years activities like swimming, jogging and exercise classes or groups. and older (including those over In addition to aerobic exercise, the age of 65). To maximize its benefits, this can be broken down resistance training twice per week provides benefits in strength and into portions of 10 minutes or bone density building. Strength more and should be done across
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Two-and-a-half hours per week is the recommended volume of aerobic exercise for adults 18 years and older.
training can be done with weights, resistance bands, your own body weight or through the nature of your activity ( for example, pushing a wheelbarrow). The only CSEP recommendation specific to those aged 65 years and older is to consider including exercises that improve balance to reduce the risk of falling. These are, of course, general recommendations. If you are considering changing your routine, be
sure to consult your physician first to ensure there is nothing that makes these recommendations inappropriate for you. Once you have the medical go-ahead, consider connecting with a certified trainer or physiotherapist for help developing the safest and most effective exercise plan for you. Laura Lundquist is a physiotherapist based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. For more information, visit www.zoomershealth.ca.
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Liv ing
MAY 2018
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Lesley Crewe spends a fair bit of time observing human nature in parking lots.
Parking lot observations the big people of the world think they’re special and keep moving. Please know these are general observations. Parking lots are amazing places. If Then we have the teeny-tiny aliens ever landed, I’d direct them car owners who park close to the to the nearest one to learn about top of the parking spot, who trick humanity in a hurry. I specialize in parking lot behav- other desperate drivers into thinking they have a great parking space iour, since Hubby is a “best deal” shopper. He’ll go to seven separate which they go to turn into, only to be sadly mistaken. You can actually stores to complete his grocery see the swear words forming on the list. Naturally, I am the complete driver’s mouth as they zoom away opposite and think he’s foolish, so in frustration. I usually don’t venture out of the People who use up two parking car when he pops into yet another spaces or park in disabled spots retail outlet. without a tag are at the bottom of Hence, I spend a lot of time observing my fellow citizens as they the food chain. You also see young families with negotiate in and around several hundred cars, unpredictable people kids in tow. They must first remove the huge Cadillac stroller from the and weapons of puny destruction trunk and fiddle with it. Dad is (a.k.a. shopping carts). always in the middle of getting it First, you have the vehicle ready when Mom comes over and pecking order. People who drive impatiently interrupts. The thing big trucks think they can park obediently springs open and stands anywhere, and usually do, right waiting for her next command. in front of the store doors. Resist Then the struggle is on to get two the urge to glare at them because kids out of the back seat with their you don’t know who’s sitting that high up behind the tinted window. puffy snowsuits on. Inevitably, the older child doesn’t want his hat or Just accept it as inevitable that
mitts on and darts away, causing both parents to have a collective heart attack. We then have Mom bend over and stick her finger in her child’s face to warn them to never do that again. Dad usually picks up the crying kid who is now howling into his shoulder. Perhaps the most frustrating scenario for drivers trying to manoeuvre through crowded lanes is the shopper who is oblivious to everyone around them. These are the people who walk in the centre of the lane at a snail’s pace, while four and then five cars lineup behind them. The ones we get really mad at are the middle-aged types who not only walk slowly, but zigzag across the lane several times before making it to the front door of Walmart. You think you’re going to get to pass them, but no. They head you off like a meandering bison on the Canadian Prairies. It’s quite easy to identify the state of people’s marriages just by seeing how they unload their bags. If a man does nothing but jump in the car, leaving a woman to empty the cart, deal with the kids and put
the cart back in the stall, he gives off a jerk-ish aroma. A man who pushes the cart, unpacks the cart into the trunk of the car and holds the door open for his wife is swoonworthy. (Please note that Hubby is in this category.) I especially love the elderly men who are left in the driver seats of their cars to wait for their wives. These women know they’ll get things done a lot faster without their better-halves. Besides, these guys have to babysit the ‘kid’ — a small, white, yappy dog who sits happily in Dad’s lap while they wait for the woman of the house. But I’d really like to applaud the ladies out there who are smart enough to press the panic button on their key fobs, so they can find their cars in an instant instead of spending an hour trying to remember where they parked. Lesley Crewe is an Atlantic Canadian writer. These are the meandering musings of a bored housewife, whose ungrateful kids left her alone with a retired husband and two fat cats who couldn’t care less. Her ninth book Mary, Mary is in bookstores now.
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Senior
MAY 2018
Liv ing
7
Easy ways to reduce your risk of getting sick while travelling CONTRIBUTED
at home, but travellers who are busy seeing the sights or attendTravel and tourism is big business. ing seminars may forget to stay According to research from the hydrated throughout the day. That World Travel & Tourism Council can increase one’s susceptibility to illness, as fluids carry nutrients in conjunction with Oxford to the cells and flush bacteria Economics, the travel and tourfrom the bladder. Older travelism industry outpaced the global economy for the sixth consecutive ers should be especially vigilant year, in 2016. With so many people about staying hydrated while travelling, it can be easy for illness travelling, as the Harvard Medical to spread. Travelers concerned School notes that older men and about their vulnerability to colds women do not sense thirst as or other ailments may be unable much as they did when they were to avoid cramped airline cabins or younger. crowded restaurants, but there are ways for travellers and vacationContinue exercising Even vacationers whose primary ers to reduce their risk of getting goal when travelling is to relax sick while on the road. and unwind may want to squeeze in a little physical activity during Stay hydrated their travels. The U.S. National People may remember to drink Library of Medicine notes that water when sitting at their desks physical activity can flush bacteria in the office or lounging around
out of the lungs and airways, potentially reducing one’s chances of getting a cold, the flu or another illness. In addition, exercise causes changes in antibodies and white blood cells that could help the immune systems of physically active people detect illnesses earlier than the immune systems of sedentary men and women. Purchase hand sanitizer One of the easiest ways to get sick while traveling is to come into contact with germs. Travellers tend to be out and about instead of locked inside hotel rooms, so their exposure to germs is likely greater while travelling than it is at home. Airport security agents may discard hand sanitizer at security checkpoints, so it may be unwise for travelers to bring sanitizer with them on their trips.
Instead, travellers can purchase some at their destinations, carrying it with them and routinely applying it to combat germs. Get sufficient sleep Travelling alters routines, and some travelers may find themselves getting inadequate sleep on the road. Studies have indicated that sleep helps sustain a fully functioning immune system and that chronic sleep loss can impair the immune system. When travelling, men and women should make a concerted effort to get adequate sleep each night. Traveling can be a jolt to the body and make it more vulnerable to illness. But no matter how often a person travels, he or she can take steps to protect their bodies getting sick while on the road.
How travelling after turning 50 can be great CONTRIBUTED
or places offer the best deals.
Many people face turning 50 with a little trepidation. They may miss the things they did during their youth and might feel like the hands of time are moving much too quickly. But instead of looking at aging as growing older, men and women can embrace turning 50 and the growing freedom that typically accompanies reaching this milestone. Increased opportunities to travel is one aspect of reaching 50 that excites many men and women. AARP, the leading non-profit organization for aging adults, says that of the people with AARP memberships, nearly two-thirds take advantage of travel discounts and other benefits in a typical year. The following are some such travel perks.
More discretionary time Even if retirement is a ways down the road, older adults may have accrued more vacation time than their younger colleagues. That time can be translated into longer or more frequent trips. Age-based memberships Reaching age 50 or 60 may entitle people to join groups that negotiate deals for their members. For example, the minimum membership age for AARP is 50, meaning travelers who join AARP can enjoy discounts roughly five years before they’re eligible for senior discounts offered by other organizations.
Travel during off seasons When not constrained by school schedules, men and women over 50 Age can mean discounts can travel during times of the year The minimum age to qualify for when prices are most affordable. senior discounts varies among This means savings and smaller companies and for different prodcrowds. This flexibility also can ucts and services, so it’s up to translate into airline discounts, as travelers to see what is available men and women over 50 with no to them. Not all companies advertime constraints can choose to be tise their senior discounts. Read reviews in travel forums or on travel standby passengers in exchange for discounted or free tickets. websites to find out which brands
Did you know? The next time symptoms of a cold appear could be well worth it to reach for elderberry syrup, lozenges or supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, elderberry, or elder, has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. Elderberry can be applied to the skin to relieve wounds, and it also is effective when taken orally to treat respiratory illnesses like cold and flu. Some evidence suggests that elderberry
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When not constrained by school schedules, men and women over 50 can travel during times of the year when prices are most affordable.
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may help reduce swelling in the mucus membranes and sinuses to help relieve nasal congestion. WebMD says elderberry may help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation to relieve pain throughout the body. Some people also rely on elderberry for allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and as a laxative. Even though elderberry is an all-natural alternative to medicine, its use should be discussed with a doctor to ensure no contraindications.
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Which renovations are worth an investment? CONTRIBUTED The cost of remodeling a home is easier to stomach when homeowners can expect to recoup a sizable percentage of the costs of the renovation. While basing renovations on their potential impact on resale value may be unwise, return on investment is something homeowners must consider when mulling renovation projects. Many homeowners wonder which renovations will resonate most strongly with potential buyers when a home is put up for sale. According to Remodeling magazine, homeowners are less likely to recoup their investment in a major kitchen or bathroom remodel than they would with basic home maintenance, such as new siding. That’s because buyers are most interested in how the bones of the house — or those elements that keep the house protected and can be costly to fix — were maintained. Each year Remodeling magazine issues its Cost vs. Value Report, which highlights the projects that offer the most return on investment. In 2016, the number one project was the installation of fiberglass attic insulation, which could produce 116.9 per cent recouped cost and a resale value of $1,482. Rounding out the top-five projects in this report were: manufactured stone veneer for the exterior, a standard new garage door, a steel entry door and an upscale garage door. Projects with the least return on investment tended to be more expensive undertakings that offered returns of roughly 57 per cent. Such projects included bathroom additions, upscale bathroom additions, upscale master
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The potential impact of renovations on resale value for your home varies depending on the type of over-haul you decide to tackle.
suite additions, upscale bathroom remodels and deck additions. For those considering more expensive renovations, keep these figures in mind, courtesy of Forbes. • A major remodel of a 200-square-foot kitchen can cost around $113,000, with homeowners recouping 60 per cent. • Replacing 1,250-square feet of siding with new fibre siding can cost $13,000, but homeowners can expect to recoup 80 per cent of that cost at resale. • Replacing 10 existing doublehung windows with vinyl low-e
glass windows is valued at $14,000 and the return can be between 68 and 73 per cent. There are even renovations that seem like good ideas but can actually hurt the resale value of a home. MSN Money lists these projects as money-wasters for those who want to sell soon. • Lavish lighting fixtures can look dated in a few years when trends change. • Wallpaper or textured walls can be notoriously hard to change and buyers know that. • Kitschy renovations, such as 1950s diner tiles, may appeal to
only a select number of people. Neutral renovations are better if resale is the goal. • Many real estate experts warn against converting a bedroom into anything other than a bedroom — even for the purposes of a home office. Such conversions can immediately devalue the property. The same can be said about combining two small bedrooms into one larger space. Homeowners should investigate potential renovations before committing the time and money to something that may offer little value at resale.
Senior Smarts:
Retirement interpretations BY SCOTT BRIGLEY
[email protected]
Retirement is actually a modern day concept. It was believed to have started in western society countries beginning in the early 1900s and replacing the traditional work mode: a person worked until they were no longer able to carry out the task. How things have changed! If retirement is the promisedland, then I`ve discovered I need a new real estate agent. Yes, there are 10 letters in the word “retirement,” but it turns out they can now be replaced by four — “work.” Before leaving my job, it was
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MAY 2018
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New tax rates offer competition for Canadian business.
How U.S. tax reform could affect Canadian business tax BY JAMIE SMITH
[email protected]
law plan: • The new laws will impose a single corporate tax rate of 21 per cent in the U.S., this is a significant reduction from the former highest corporate rate of 35 per cent. • Supporters of the new laws claim that the cuts will reduce incidences of U.S. corporations moving to lower tax jurisdictions, in order to incur tax breaks on their profits. • The new laws allow for full expensing of short-lived capital investments. • The law decrees a return of overseas profits at a rate of 15.5 per cent for cash and equivalents and 8 per cent for reinvested earnings.
On Dec. 22, 2017, President Donald Trump signed the “Tax Cuts and Job Acts,” putting a total tax overhaul plan into law. The purpose of the new law plan is to boost the American economy by giving corporations tax breaks for staying in the country and subsequently cutting down on U.S. businesses moving to more appealing tax jurisdictions. Acting on one of his most impactful campaign promises, these new laws will permanently cut corporate tax rates and encourage new investment in American business. As one of Canada’s biggest corporate competitors and closest trading partner, the U.S. tax reform could have significant impact on How Canadian business could be affected: businesses in Canada. • The biggest impact on Canada will be the new American Key points of the new U.S. tax
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corporate tax rate. These new tax rates offer serious competition for Canadian businesses. Low corporate tax and free trade have offered Canada key advantages in the past over the U.S. for business. The recent U.S. tax reform has leveled the playing field. • Many Canadian businesses that derive significant profits from the U.S. no longer have a better tax deal and with free trade in jeopardy, the U.S. could offer a more profitable and efficient business environment. • The new laws surrounding expensing could also be a cause for concern. The ability to expense investments in machinery and equipment immediately may be a powerful attraction for new corporate investment that would have otherwise gone elsewhere. • On a more positive note, historically U.S. economic success
spills into Canada. While the current state of trade may cause some doubt, if businesses are prepared and adapt to what is coming, there is potential for new opportunities that could positively benefit Canadian business. While it is too soon to know the exact affect that the U.S. tax reform will have on Canada, it is safe to assume that they will be far-reaching and profound. Canada’s economy is intimately intertwined with the U.S. and it is reasonable to expect that there will be an economic reaction to the new regulations. Jamie Smith is a Wealth Advisor and partner with Riche Investments based in St. John’s, NL. The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute financial, accounting and legal or tax advice. Copyright x 2018 AdvisorNet Communications Inc. All rights reserved.
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Solutions on page 11 CLUES ACROSS 1. In bed 5. Project portfolio management 8. __ Bator: Mongolian capital 12. Roamed 14. Notre Dame legend Parseghian 15. Nothing (Spanish) 16. Not level 18. Self-contained aircraft unit 19.Baseball broadcaster Caray 20. __ Tomei, actress 21. “The Raven” writer 22. Bathrooms 23. Skilled inventors 26. Forcefully silence 30. Remove 31. The arrival of daylight 32. Split lentils 33. “Walking Dead” actress 34. A lazy person 39. Doctors’ group 42. Crooks 44. Fragrant essential oil 46. Conjured 47. One who predicts 49. Scarlett’s home 50. Television network
51. Something comparable to another 56. What a thespian does 57. Word element meaning life 58. Italian island 59. “King of Queens” actress Remini 60. Jogged 61. Norse gods 62. Lazily 63. Midway between northeast and east 64. Hindu queen
CLUES DOWN 1. Top Rank boxing promoter 2. __ fide (Latin) 3. At all times 4. Hindu female deity 5. Tufts of hairs on plant seeds 6. Edited 7. Portuguese archipelago 8. Your parents’ brothers 9. Pakistani city 10. Farewell 11. Short sleep sessions 13. Remove salt
17. Drug officers 24. One and only 25. The Golden State 26. Fabric baby carrier (abbr.) 27. Quid pro __ 28. New England research university 29. Baseball pitcher’s stat 35. Western India island 36. __ Angeles 37. Midway between east and southeast 38. British singer Stewart 40. Suggesting the horror of death and decay 41. Riding horse 42. Where wrestlers work 43. Regions 44. Of a main artery 45. Not classy 47. Competed against 48. Biscuit-like cake 49. Large ankle bones 52. Computer company 53. “Friends” actress Kudrow 54. “Chocolat” actress Lena 55. Brain folds
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An attitude of radical gratitude BY CHRISTINE FAOUR
[email protected]
I think most people would agree that showing gratitude is a good thing. When someone does something for us, we automatically say “thank you,” but it often doesn’t come from the heart and the recipient feels it. It’s just an automatic response. Sometimes it’s a good thing to show gratitude rather than to say it. How about being thankful for everything people do for us? I’m talking about radical gratitude here. Radical gratitude is very powerful and it will change your life. Think about all the people whose jobs make our lives easier: the cashier at the grocery store, the garbage collector, the guy who services your car, the bank teller and I’m sure you can name many more. I have a friend who passes out Christmas gifts to the garbage collector in her neighbourhood as well as the UPS delivery guy and the mail person. She does this just to say thank you. Imagine how this little gesture puts a smile on their faces and makes them feel appreciated. That’s radical gratitude. Today we have lost the habit of sending thank-you notes in the mail. Years ago, it was commonplace and expected, but nowadays sending a card in the mail is another form of radical gratitude. A few years ago, I was at a conference when the speaker asked the question: “How many of you have ever received a thank-you letter?” Many people raised their hands and some of them said that they had kept their letters in a drawer for a time. But one man stood up and said that he had saved a thank-you letter for 40 years. The speaker asked him where he had kept that letter for all those years. The man reached into his pocket, took out his wallet and carefully extracted the letter. Can
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Today we have lost the habit of sending thank you notes in the mail.
you see how important it is? That’s extreme radical gratitude. When I turned 50, my children had a little celebration for me. They did many things to show me their love, including a cake, a song, a few presentations and a gigantic bougainvillea, one of my favourite plants. Afterward, I wrote each of them a little thank-you note to show my pleasure and gratefulness to them. They kept those notes for a long time. And sometimes we might take for granted the waiters in the restaurants we frequent on a regular basis. When I lived in Montreal, over a two-year period, every Wednesday my husband and I went for supper at the same restaurant. We sat at the same table every Wednesday. I ordered the same beverage: regular coffee with one and a half creams and a glass of water, no ice. I ordered the same menu item every Wednesday and to top it off, we had the same waiter every Wednesday for two years.
After awhile, Sebastien didn’t anyone in need of some radical take my order; he just brought what gratitude today? he knew I wanted. In addition to that, he paid special attention to A native of Newfoundland, Christine Faour my little quirks, like not putting grows lavender on her hobby farm. After a eggplant on my salad and giving me lifetime spent teaching, she now spends her extra olives because he knew that’s time knitting, quilting, making things from how I liked it. I always expressed lavender and writing about her take on life my gratefulness by saying “thank at anourishedlife.ca. She has one book, Eat you” and leaving a nice tip, and he Where You Are, a memoir in recipes. christinealways said “thank you” in return.
[email protected] However, one day I arrived with a little gift for him and a note saying, “Thank you for the great service Crossword solution you’ve given us for the past two years.” He was speechless. Eyes brimming with tears, he told us that in all the years he had worked at that restaurant, this was the first time he had received a gift of appreciation for good service. It wasn’t a big thing and it didn’t take a lot of effort on my part, but it made a difference to Sebastien. He felt appreciated and it showed. I believe that having a heart of gratitude comes from a spirit of thankfulness. Can you think of
Hobbies for different personality types CONTRIBUTED
also can call their local libraries or schools to ask about reading programs for children. Volunteer to Hobbies can provide a welcome read to youngsters, helping the next respite from the hustle and bustle generation discover the wonders of of everyday life. Finding the right reading. hobby requires the consideration The Executive of a host of factors, including one’s Men and women who have experiown personality. The following are some common personality types enced great success in the world of and the hobbies they might find business can pursue a host of lowrewarding. stress opportunities with a goal of The Athlete sharing their experiences with the Athletes can pursue a host of next generation of business leaders. potential hobbies or activities that Teaching a course at a local college will foster their love of sports. Men or university is one such avenue, and women who still have a hop in and executives can even offer to their step can sign up to compete in work with high school students adult sports leagues. Depending on interested in pursuing careers in the sport, leagues might be availbusiness. Teaching and mentoring might be less traditional hobbies able to adults of various ages and than crocheting or woodworkskill levels, and some may even be more focused on fun than competi- ing, but they still provide a way tion. For athletes who can no longer for adults to pursue their passions lace up their cleats, coaching youth away from the constraints of the sports or volunteering to coach at a office. nearby school provides a chance to The Traveller Men and women who love to travel stay involved even if competing is no longer possible. can begin writing travel blogs where they share stories of their The Reader Book lovers also can channel their domestic and international travels. Use the blog to offer an insider’s passions for the written word into a rewarding hobby. While reading insight into certain cities, offering might not seem like the most social advice on obscure eateries or activiactivity, readers who want to use ties that might be off most tourists’ their love of books to grow their radars. Include photos with each social networks can start a book blog post to attract more readers. club. People of all ages and backWhen looking for a new hobby, adults may find that activities that grounds love to read, so starting suit their personalities tend to be a book club can be a great way to the most rewarding. meet an array of people. Readers
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According to estimates from the United Nations, across the globe there are 101.8 men for every 100 women. However, in several areas of the world, particularly former Soviet republics, female populations significantly outnumber male populations. In fact, many former Soviet republics have been predominantly female since at least the Second World War. By contrast, the United States has 100 women for every 98.3 men. According to the World Atlas, Latvia, Lithuania,
Curacao, Ukraine, Armenia, Russian Federation, Belarus, Estonia and El Salvador are countries in which there are considerably more females than males. In Latvia, there were 84.8 males for every 100 females in 2015. Conversely, the United Arab Emirates, which has only a 26.7 percent female population, boasts a very low number of women compared to its male population. Many of the professions in this region are male-dominated, accounting for the higher influx of male immigrants.
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Janome M50 QDC 50 Built-in stitches • 3 One-Step buttonholes • Drop-in, Easy set bobbin • Manual thread tension control • Built-in, One-hand ™ needle threader • Snap-on presser feet • Auto declutch bobbin winder • Backlit LCD screen • Full metal frame and heavy duty needle bar • Foot pressure adjustment • Extra-high presser foot lift • SFS+ feed system, 7 piece feed dog • Drop feed • Start/stop, for push button sewing • Needle up/down (down default setting) • Speed control slider • Max. zig zag width: 7 mm • 6 Standard accessory feet and pin cushion • Hard cover and instructional DVD • Extension table (adjustable)
• 22 stitches • One-step buttonhole • Built in needle threader • Utility, stretch and decorative stitches • Adjustable stitch width & length controls • Max. stitch width 5 mm • Max. stitch length 5 mm • 1/4 inch seam foot • Walking foot • Twin spool pins • Front-loading bobbin system • Strong Metal frame construction • Hard Dust Cover
Hilary Scott is a Certified Grief Recovery Specialist® and a Certified Loss and Grief
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Janome SUV 1122
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no comparing loss. This is why it is so very difficult for our friends and loved ones to understand and to be truly able to support us in our loss. They try so very hard, but they may have expectations about a timeline of when you should be moving on and keeping busy, not really knowing that the best thing to do is hold space. To be there when you need to talk and share. To invite you out and to be a part of things if you are able. One of the most harmful of all of the effects of grief is social isolation. If you are experiencing grief over a loss or losses, you do not want to be a burden to your friends and loved ones. You do not want to be perceived as the downer. You put a positive spin on your life, you overuse “I’m fine” and you minimize your pain in order to be included and not upset others. The toll this takes, not being heard and acknowledged, cannot be underestimated. It does not matter how long it has been since your loss. There will be times-holidays, anniversaries, the change of seasons, whatever it may be, that the grief and loss is just as fresh. If you know someone who has suffered a loss, remember them at these times and do not assume that someone else has it covered. Call, reach out, be there in person. Show that you care and remember and honour the enormously challenging time they are having. Be it a fresh loss, or a long time ago, your kindness by remembering will be so appreciated and it will come back to you in untold ways.
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Spring and summer are times when we engage in social activities, but this can be hard for those still experiencing grief.
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“There is no right way to grieve. But there is one wrong way: trying not to grieve. Never give in to pressure to hide or shame your pain. Your loss belongs to you” — Tim Lawrence Last month’s column touched on the idea of secondary losses after your primary loss. This is such a large subject and worth looking into a little bit more. We have just passed Easter. Another big family holiday which can be rife with all kinds of pain for those experiencing loss. Even if your family is intact, people who have children who are now grown can have feelings of grief around missing the traditions they enjoyed when their children were small. If you are going through financial hardship, you are longing to provide more for family and yourself. If you are trying to navigate through divorce or breakup, this is a very distressing time. If you have been through the death of a loved one, you are missing their presence deeply. The empty chair is spotlighted and traditions, if carried on, have a very bittersweet quality. We are coming into a new season, and spring is the season of renewal and rebirth. It brings with it much longer days and warmer weather. This change can be hard on people who are used to the comfort of being home and cozy with nothing much expected of them as they hibernate during the colder months and take needed time for healing. Spring and summer is a time to be out and social and doing things. This, to most of us, is a welcome change. To one who is grieving, it is another assumption and hurdle to navigate. Another season coming without their loved one or their life being in the place they hope for. Grieving is exhausting. It comes with physical symptoms of overwhelming fatigue, confusion, concentration difficulties, sleep and appetite changes, aches and pains, anxiety attacks and so many more. These symptoms can last far longer than anyone expects, causing you to be very stressed about your health which then can compromise your immune system, and round it goes. We are taken by surprise at all the different faces and facets of grief. It really is something you do not understand until you experience it for yourself. Of course everyone grieves differently, and on different timelines and intensities than someone else. There is
