Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

GAZETTE

2212 13th STREET NW CALGARY AB T2M 4P7

Friday, February 15, 2019

12 (noon) – 2:00 PM

VALENTINE’S DAY LUNCHEON

Tickets are $10.00

Available at reception

* Chili * Salad * Buns * Dessert * Tea * Red Punch *

Stay after lunch for a book signing event

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

A WORD FROM YOUR PRESIDENT

Wow! Its amazing how fast time goes by! We are already into February 2019. With quite a

few changes in 2018 I think that we are well into beginning this year with a lot of great

optimism. With exceptional staff on board and their unending hopefulness and confidence in

creating a great place for members to be involved and connected I feel that we have a great

year ahead of us. The staff’s good cheer and positive attitude is contagious and I am also

grateful to the membership for their kind and generous support during the changes we went

through. The Centre has definitely turned around and we all are committed to fulfilling our

mantra of “Inspiring Adults to Stay Active and Stay Involved”.

Speaking about happy! I would like to start off by thanking all the members who participated

in the Welcome Back Turkey Luncheon, we held on January 11. It was a wonderful well

attended event! Everyone enjoyed the great atmosphere and the food was outstanding. This

event was hosted collaboratively by the staff and the Board of Directors. The board will be

helping the staff host future events so the membership can have a chance to talk with the

directors directly. I would also like to say thank you to “A Splendid Affair” for catering this

event. Beat Schmassmann did a great turkey lunch for us with much positive feedback given

to us about his food.

The next event will be on February 15 and will be a Valentine’s Lunch. Please sign up at the

front reception desk as tickets sell out very fast. I look forward to seeing you all there!

I would like to thank Janyn Bertram and the Centre’s staff for all of their organizing of the

Robbie Burns Nicht held on January 25. Janyn Bertram and the Scottish Country Dance Club

host this event every year and every year it is sold out with all attendees enjoying themselves.

Thank you to all of you for helping create such a wonderful fun night with poems, singing,

dancing and great food. As well, a thank you goes out to Lloyd Northcott for MC’ing the event

– outstanding job!

I’m looking forward to the upcoming AGM, and although it might be a bit early to be talking

about it, I encourage you to mark it on your calendar to attend and have your voice heard.

The date of the AGM is March 22nd. Please sign up for this as I know there will be food

served. We will have several board members that have been interim board directors and I,

personally, want to thank them for their time and energy in ensuring that the Centre met its

mandate to provide programming and services for its members. As there are a number of

positions open on the board, I would like to ask anyone who is interested in being a director to

please contact myself or Jeannette in the office to get more information. As always, if you would like to

speak to me regarding any issues or concerns you have, please do not hesitate to contact me via the

office.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

From the Executive Director

Happy Valentines all! Wishing you all love from your loved ones!

I am going to start with addressing suggestions from the box and what we are

doing.

1. A request for hot meals once a month.

We going to do a lunch once a month until June. These are on the white

board in the lobby.

2. A request for more handicap parking.

The number of stalls is determined by the City of Calgary. Typically,

they give three handicap stalls and we currently have five, so we are

doing pretty well.

3. A request for beginner sewing classes. For this one, I need to know if

there is enough interest. If you are interested please let me know and

we will look for an instructor.

4. Revise format of the calendar in the newsletter.

This has been tried at many centers and is really a challenge because

there is so much to put in. What we will do instead is have a one-page

sheet with all activities and classes.

We also wanted the members to know how important volunteer hours are.

Volunteer hours are valued at $20.00/hr. These hours are critical to our

funding. I do a report annually in October and that report includes the

number of volunteers and their hours. Almost every grant I apply for asks

for these numbers, so they are of enormous value to our center. Please

ensure any hours you put in are given to us each year no matter if it’s

half an hour, fifteen minutes or ten hours. It all matters. With that said,

many thanks to all of you who give so generously of your time!

Jeannette

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

HOURS OF OPERATION Office

Regular: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Reception Desk

Monday to Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Boutique & Next-to-New Shop

Monday to Thursday 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM

Kitchen

Coffee/Tea Available Monday to Friday 9:00AM to 3:00PM

Lunch Available Monday to Thursday

10:00 AM to 12:30 PM

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Full/Associate Memberships

$30.00/year Membership year September 1 to

August 31 Current Board of Directors: President – Penny Chase Vice President – Bill Taylor Past President – Linda Earl Secretary – Doreen Herdman Finance - Marlene Monilaws Directors: Muyideen Elegbede John Myles Patricia Pitsel Wendy Rodger Advisors: Bev Cumming Patricia Dosdall Staff: Executive Director – Jeannette Provo Executive Assistant – Judy Dufort Coord. of Volunteers - Angela McIntyre T&C Coordinator – Debbie Nay T&C Assistant – Shauna Sheppard Bookkeeper: Laurie Townsend

The Way In (formerly Calgary Family Services) – Carya

Older Adult Services Coordinators:

Suja Thomas and Annette Sackmann have relocated to the

Bowness Office (403) 286-1811

MEET OUR TEAM

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

CENTER SERVICES

Commissioner for Oaths Jeannette Provo, Executive Director for Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre is a Commissioner for Oaths. Jeannette can be seen for these services by appointment only. Please call 403 289-4780 extension 223 to make an appointment.

Did you know you can rent any of the classrooms, the Studio or the Social Room? Well then, make an appointment with our Executive Director Jeannette Provo. Jeannette will be happy to help you with your arrangements and to answer all your questions. Please call Jeannette at 403 289-4780 extension 223.

BARBER – MEMBERS ONLY 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month

February 5 and 19 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Mcphail Harding Lawyer (Members only by appointment) Thursday February 14th and 28th

9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Check the Mcphail Harding website for interesting blog posts

www.mcphailharding.com

PODIATRIST Members only

March 8th 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM

No appointments after 12:30 PM

HARP HEARING CARE (AUDIOLOGIST)

Most Thursdays (during T&C) 12:30PM to 2:30 PMNo

appointment necessary

Good Food Box $25/20lbs $30/30 lbs $35/40lbs

Order Deadline: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 Delivery: Thursday, February 14, 2019

Phone: 403 289-4780

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

*******PLEASE LET US KNOW IN ADVANCE ABOUT ANY FOOD ALLERGIES ***** February 15 Valentine’s Lunch

Tickets are $10.00 February 25 Movie Afternoon 1PM to 3 PM (Jeannette gets the best goodies) Sign up for the movie afternoon *pay$3.00 for your goodies March 15 St. Patty’s Lunch at 12:00 PM Confederation Theatre Society Tickets are $10.00 March 22 AGM - remember to sign up at reception April 12 Volunteer Appreciation Event 12:00 (noon) – 3:00 PM

Murder Mystery Lunch with Confederation Theatre MUST SIGN UP!!! NO CHARGE!!! April 15 Movie Afternoon 1 PM to 3 PM (Jeannette gets the best goodies) Sign up for the movie afternoon and pay $3.00 for your goodies April 29 Fashion Show at 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM and lunch at 12:30 PM $5.00 May 10 Mothers’ Day Lunch at 12:15 PM $10.00 June 14 Fathers’ Day Lunch at 12:15 PM $10.00 October 7 Games Day Afternoon

COMING ATTRACTIONS

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

FASHION SHOW

APRIL 29, 2019

TICKETS $5.00

AVAILABLE AT RECEPTION

LUNCH AT 12:30

CONFEDERATION PARK 55+ ACTIVITY CENTRE

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

2212 13TH STREET NW

Confederation Park is seeking Senior Models for their

Fashion Show April 29th,2019

Do you want to grace the runway of our Fashion Show?

Have you always wanted to be a model? Don’t sign with an

agency, don’t become a freelance model … come and model

for us – Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre – Fashion

Show April 29th, 2019.

Responsibilities:

Work with the team on the set

Model garments

Have fun

Attributes:

Confident

Reliable

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Laugh out loud

If this position appeals to you please contact Judy Dufort,

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre 403 289-4780.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Afternoon Fitness at Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre

Are you interested? Want to stay energized in the afternoon? Do

you feel sluggish when the clock rolls around to 1:00 PM or 2:00

PM?

And did you know that working out later in the day could increase

your physical capacity, aerobic capacity, and strength output by

between 8% to 30%?

https://www.quickanddirtytips.com/health-fitness/exercise/should-you-exercise-in-the-morning-afternoon-or-

evening?page=2

Exercise helps when it comes to circadian rhythms, your body’s

internal clock. When your circadian clock is disrupted, we have an

increased risk for type 2 diabetes, obesity, memory loss, mood

disorders and a number of other serious health problems.

Did you know that exercise may help fix our broken clocks?

https://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2013/04/05/afternoon-exercise.aspx

So how about fitness in the afternoon?

Please let us know and call our office 403 289-4780.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Wanted: "Perfectly Imperfect" Male Voices! A common misconception is that the Perfectly Imperfects are a “choir.” For that reason, when I began teaching this class, I intentionally used the word “chorus.” Instead of using sheet music, we create our own arrangements of songs that are set within a story. This creative process takes several sessions working together as a group to build a “show.” We are just beginning a new adventure and would like to include more male voices. I work with the gifts and skills of the people who are registered in the class from where they are at and I welcome people where they are at - all skill levels. Some of our members sing, some dance, some act and some are happy to blend in the background with others who don’t feel called to do more than support by singing. Some of our members go away for a few weeks, return and catch up. All are welcome, and, if I see a certain talent lurking, I might invite you to give it a try. For instance, because I have several people in the chorus who are also taking ukulele, I would like to explore how we could support them to work together to present a song. Although we have only had a few male members, those who do come are invaluable with what they contribute and would like to invite more to join the fun. All this is to say that if you are male, have ever had even an inkling that you might like to sing, please come on a trial basis to experience the music, the beginning of the process and the wonderfully supportive and welcoming people in our "Perfectly Imperfects” Chorus to see if it might be a fit for you. The class is Monday from 11:00 to 12:30 in the social room. We hope to see you there! Alison Demeter Director of the Perfectly Imperfect Chorus

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Four ways to stay active this winter

Older adults in Canada are more likely than any other age group to live a sedentary lifestyle, and winter weather can make it even harder to stay active. With less daylight, it can be harder to feel motivated to get moving. Snow and slush can also make it difficult and potentially dangerous to walk outside as slips and falls may occur more frequently. The good news is, there are many activities that can be done in the home or at a recreation centre or gym.

Try Nordic walking Nordic walking uses poles like those used in cross-country skiing. This style of walking may provide a better total body workout than regular walking because it incorporates the arms and upper body. While being perceived as less challenging, Nordic walking can lead to a greater increase in cardiac fitness and to burning more calories.

Walk to the beat at an indoor track or on a treadmill Don’t let the winter weather keep you from doing the things you love. As an alternative to walking outdoors, consider walking on an indoor track, or on a treadmill. Lace up your shoes and turn on the tunes! Research shows that walking to a steady beat or music helps improve walking speed, stride length, walk rhythm and symmetry. How fast should you be able to walk? Older adults should be able to manage most day-to-day activities with a walking speed of about one metre per second. That’s roughly one kilometre every 16 minutes.

Dive in to aquatic exercise Visit the pool at your local ‘Y’ or sports/recreation centre for a low impact workout that’s gentle on joints, bones and muscles. Research evidence suggests that moderate to high intensity aquatic exercise is at least as effective as land-based exercise for improving strength, endurance, flexibility and physical function.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Using virtual reality gaming to break a sweat Virtual reality computer-based technology, such as Nintendo Wii, lets people interact with on-screen activities and objects that simulate the real world. “Exergames” have the added benefit of encouraging physical activity in people of all ages and are accessible, enjoyable and safe. Using a Wii system at home can help develop better balance and may give many older adults more confidence to be active, which may result in a higher quality of life.

https://www.mcmasteroptimalaging.org/hitting-the-headlines/detail/hitting-the-

headlines/2019/01/15/four-ways-to-stay-active-this-winter

A Taste of Drama ………… with P. Gail Whiteford

5 Reasons you should join a drama class

1. Learn to communicate more effectively

2. Become MORE CONFIDENT!!!!

3. Relieve stress through creative expression

4. Act out ridiculous things

5. Make new friends

If this interests you, please continue to read …

This class explores all that goes into creating a piece of drama.

Staring with Movement, then following up with Voice, Improvisation,

Character Development, Lighting, Sound, Creating a Scene and finally

either Readers’ Theatre of Swords and Shakespeare, class

participants will learn all that goes into creating drama and theatre.

This is a participation class with no expectation of performance, but

rather development.

If you are interested please contact the office 403 289-4780 or

sign up at reception.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

BRAIN TEASER

In what way are the start and end of each of these six times

identical?

9:57 8:23

1:32 11:25

9:13 2:48

Jewelry Sale

February 15, 2019

-in the lobby-

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Mary McDonald Daniel Walsh

Claudette Haggar Judy Weldon

Roxanne Formos Barbara Allinson

Maureen Walsh Cam Petrie

Sophie Lee Lloyd Northcott

Ian McLeod Carol Johnson

Patricia Johnson Pierrette Lavallee-Hoch

Dave Arnold Mary Jane Birch

Lorraine Girodat Vernice Franklin

Sandra Hayes-Gardiner Anne Witzaney

Adrianus DeJong Anneke DeJong

Jerry Shaw Angus Norman

Margaret Viner Neil Cockrill

Melba Lewis Dave Edgar

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Studies have shown that participating in an event like T&C

has positive benefits for your emotional, mental and physical

well-being. Stay active and stay involved.

We continue to Remember, Acknowledge and Thank, Jean

Turnbull… “The Mother of Confederation Park” She left us with

wonderful memories along with a generous donation to Our T&C

program and Our Centre.

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF OUR T&C PROGRAM

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Old Time Gliders

THANK YOU

for their continued support, generosity, and donations to our

T&C Program

Thank you to all of our Entertainers

Harphearing.ca Phone: 403 457-2979 2 locations to serve you Willow Park Village – 400 10816 Macleod Tr SW Kingsland Plaza – 7726 Elbow Dr SW

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE

Calgary North Senior Care Inc. 404 – 5723 10st NE Calgary, AB T2E 8W7 Office: 403-910-5860

COVENANT LIVING

Evanston Summit Phone: 587-538-7511

150 Evanspark Manor NW

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

February 2019 Entertainment

February 7th - The Confederates

February 14th - Greg Rumpel

February 21st - Timeless Jazz

February 28 - Sox & Sax

(February Birthday Celebration)

We would like to thank all of our wonderful volunteers, we count on you week

after week and you never let us down. Thanks a million!!

Thank you all for your donations to the Tea & Conversation program your support is greatly appreciated and

needed.

We hope you enjoy your time at Tea & Conversation as much as we enjoy having you.

May your troubles be less

may your blessings be more

and may nothing but happiness

come through your door.

With love from Deb & Shauna

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

2018 T&C Memories

Fun @ T&C 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Technology Helps Reduce Senior Depression, Keeps Families Connected

Here's an interesting study: Spending time online reduces depression by 20 percent for senior citizens. In addition to the quality of life benefits, reducing the cases of depression through widespread Internet use among older Canadians could trim the nation's health care bill.

"Maintaining relationships with friends and family at a time in life when mobility becomes increasingly limited is challenging for the elderly," says Phoenix Center visiting scholar and study co-author Dr. Sherry G. Ford, an associate professor of Communications Studies at University of Montevallo in Alabama. "Increased Internet access and use by senior citizens enables them to connect with sources of social support when face-to-face interaction becomes more difficult."

Technology also is a great way to keep the generations connected. If getting your family together is not feasible because of schedules or health issues, why not develop a plan to make regular contact with your family using technology. If you need more training in some of these computer issues, perhaps you would like to take a class at a local high school or community college.

Then set up a regular schedule of emailing messages to your family. Services like Skype are available to families to hear and see one another, even from a distance. Affordable web cams could be a gift idea so that you can watch your grandchildren or great-grandchildren playing a song on the piano or showing off their latest school project.

While the Internet could lift your spirits and help keep you in touch with family and friends living elsewhere, companions and friends who visit you in person are vital for that personal touch.

That's why you might want to consider a companion. Home Instead Senior Care® hires seniors, many of whom are older adults, to be companions and home helpers for other seniors. Efforts are made to match CAREGiversSM with those of similar interests to seniors. What's more, Home Instead CAREGivers are screened, trained, bonded and insured.

www.caregiverstress.com

Home Instead Senior Care ®

Calgary North Senior Care Inc

404-5723 10st NE

Calgary, Alberta T2E 8W7

Office: 403-910-5860 (answered 24/7)

Email: chelsea.jani@homeinstead.com

Visit our website: https://www.homeinstead.com/3041

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

New Year – New Beginnings

Resolutions to try: 1. Take a Hearing test. Untreated hearing loss can lead to depression and even cognitive

decline. 2. Consistently Wear Your Hearing Aids. Resolve to keep them in even on challenging days.

Your brain needs time to re-learn and process the new sounds you are hearing. 3. Tell People about your Hearing Loss. Tell your friends and family your challenges, share your

story with your groups or on social media accounts. Allow your loved ones to support you. Try to tell one new person each month.

4. Explore new technologies and assistive listening devices to help you communicate more effectively.

5. Take a speechreading class. This can be fun as well as helping your communication skills. 6. Advocate for yourself. Mention your hearing loss at restaurants and when making reservations

and utilize caption readers at the movies or at public events. 7. Wear hearing protection. Make a point of using earplugs and ear muffs when using machinery

and at sports events. 8. Meet other people with hearing loss. Connect through our peer mentoring program to

exchange stories and challenges with those that have lived experience with hearing loss.

Connect with others – support is available.

Learning to successfully manage your hearing loss can be a challenging journey. Sometimes all it takes is some friendly support from someone who understands what you’re going through and is happy to walk beside you through your own journey.

Looking back at our 2018 year, we are very excited about our program. Eight mentors connected with mentees for support on issues surrounding life with hearing loss. Goals were reached, strategies and communication skills were learned and friendships were made. In our group sessions, we were able to connect with fifteen individuals to share experiences, strategies and learned skills.

Our new 3-month sessions will start mid-January, choose either one-to-one mentor/mentee sessions or on-site group mentoring. We will meet bi-weekly at your club or facility with real strategies and tips for everyday living with hearing loss.

Volunteer as a mentor and pay it forward, enjoy the gift of empowering others.

Contact Sharron Nixon, Peer Mentoring Coordinator by email sharron@deafandhearalberta.ca or call

403-284-6209.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Medication study for seniors underway BY GILLIAN SLADE ON JANUARY 17, 2019.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com@MHNGillianSlade

A province-wide study to determine whether the cost of prescription medication for seniors’ results in an increase in heart attacks, strokes and other chronic health issues, is now in progress.

The goal was to enrol at least 4,500 participants in the University of Calgary’s “Access” study, and that has been exceeded.

“We recruited 4764 participants into the study,” said a spokesperson for the Access trial at the University of Calgary. “We finished recruiting on Oct. 4, 2018.”

The study will take place over three years, until March 31, 2021, the spokesperson said.

The study participants had to be more than 65 years old, resident in Alberta, and have an annual household income of less than $50,000. They also had to have experienced either a heart attack, a stroke, chronic kidney disease or heart failure in the past and had two of the following: Diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and/or smoke more than half a pack of cigarettes a day.

About half the participants in the study will receive their medication free of charge and the rest will receive a personalized education program.

Researchers will be assessing the outcomes of people randomly assigned to different intervention groups within the study.

It is already known that about 40 per cent of people with chronic health issues take their prescription medication all the time as directed. Where some health conditions do not have bothersome symptoms all the time, some patients may find it difficult to understand the importance of taking preventative medications as prescribed.

A lack of money is another reason some may decide not to take the medicines as directed. Even though insurance covers a percentage of the cost of medicines the amount of the co-payment can be a significant burden for some.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Go raibh maith agat, mòran taing

Thank you very much

Janyn Bertam, the Scottish Counry Dance Club

and all the wonderful volunteers

Gie it laldy

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Five hopefuls brought their animals to the country fair. Can you figure out whose

animal won which prize, and what kind of animal it was?

JACK

1ST

2ND

3RD

4TH

J

A

C

K

TIZZY

SPOT

GUFFY

PONG

NORBERT

B

O

B

NED

FLO

MAVIS

BOB

JACK

2

N

D

3

R

D

4

T

H

N

E

D

F

L

O

M

A

V

I

S

P

I

G

G

O

A

T

C

A

L

F

C

H

I

C

K

E

N

S

H

E

E

P

1

S

T

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Here are your clues:

1. Flo’s chicken was beaten by only one other animal.

2. Spot the pig was not last, but he did not win.

3. 3. Jack’s calf came in 5th – one place behind Bob’s Guffy.

4. The owner of Norbert the sheep is not a woman.

5. Tizzy placed better than Pong.

SUDUKO

Courtesy of: https://www.puzzles.ca/sudoku/

2 4 8

5 2 9 6

7 6

7 4 3 8

7 1 4

3 6 2

4 8 6

4 1 5 7

6 2 3

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Sudoku solution

NUTURE CIRCLES

Nurture Circles bring women of all ages together in sacred space for nurturing, growth,

support and sharing in compassionate, collaborative Live gatherings. This is our

chance to be nurtured, seen and heard. To Be who we are without judgement. To

become stronger and more powerful as we share our knowledge and wisdom with one

another.

At each Nurture Circle, we have a guest who facilitates an interactive activity for the

group (such as laughter yoga, or face reflexology), and our loving anchor, our Nia

Teacher Woman Who Dances with Light (aka Tina Thrussell) holds sacred space for

you and leads a dance (or two) of celebration and healing.

Tues, Feb 5 Release stress, Relax and Declutter your mind, body and spirit. Shannon Gordon will teach us easy-to-use relaxation techniques you can use anytime, anywhere. Bring your yoga mat, pillow and blanket to enhance your experience.

Wed, Feb 13 Enhance your Feminine Presence! Learn easy, fun, yet surprisingly

effectively ways to step into your feminine power with female empowerment

coach Bonnie Earl.

Donations welcomed to honor the facilitators’ time. Questions?

Call Tina at 403-860-7311

2 3 9 5 6 4 7 1 8

5 1 4 8 3 7 2 9 6

7 6 8 1 2 9 4 3 5

1 7 6 2 4 5 3 8 9

8 2 3 9 7 1 6 5 4

4 9 5 3 8 6 1 2 7

9 5 7 4 1 2 8 6 3

3 4 1 6 5 8 9 7 2

6 8 2 7 9 3 5 4 1

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Following up on Jason Lewis’ article 7 Easy Ways Seniors Can

Improve Their Lives

Here are the links for your additional reference:

• seven more ways - https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/7-ways-to-keep-your-memory-sharp-at-any-age

• recommends - https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/health-tips-older-adults

• best diet choices - https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2015/01/21/best-diets-for-seniors

• this article - https://www.huffpost.com/entry/meditation-benefits_n_5842870

• isolation - https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/10-17-14-facts-about-senior-isolation/

• list of the best places - http://www.howtobemoresocial.net/best-places-for-seniors-to-socialize/

• Aging in place - https://www.homeadvisor.com/r/aging-in-place-house-plans/ • A Little Help - https://www.alittlehelp.org/

Jason Strongwell.org jlewis@strongwell.org

Confounding Logic:

Each block is equal to the sum of the two number beneath it. Can you

find all the missing numbers?

9

13155

54

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

the

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

How Aging Affects Our Feet - What Changes with Age? Henry David Thoreau once wrote, “An early-morning walk is a blessing for the whole day.” From sunup to sundown, we rely on our feet constantly to get us wherever we need to go. They are undoubtedly the unsung heroes of the human body, but over time, age related changes – not to mention normal wear and tear – can take their toll. And for some older adults, being able to walk at all is a blessing in and of itself. So, what exactly changes with our feet as we get older? To start with, there’s a decrease in collagen production which causes the natural cushioning of the feet to diminish. Without this padding, the feet lose their ability to absorb shocks, often leading to severe soreness and pain when walking. Blood circulation can also begin to slow as we age, especially for those dealing with diabetes, vein disease, or other conditions. Proper circulation is crucial in keeping the human body healthy, and when the feet don’t get the blood supply they need, several problems can arise – severe swelling being chief among them. Arthritis, particularly in the big toe or top of the foot, can lead to stiffness, dull aches, and decreased range of motion. While all of these changes are certainly common, seniors should not assume that foot pain is to be simply tolerated. Seniors can take steps to care for their feet, reduce their risk of the aforementioned problems, and maintain their independence. With these tips, seniors can embrace Thoreau’s words and enjoy all that the day has to offer. Foot Care Tips for Seniors Invest in proper footwear that conforms to the foot (not the other way around). Comfort is certainly key, but flexibility is also important. It’s highly recommended that seniors buy shoes that have a half-inch gap between the tip and the longest toe. Take regular walks, paying particular attention to proper posture (head erect, back straight, and arms swinging). Have feet checked frequently by a podiatrist, especially if diagnosed with diabetes.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

Wash feet thoroughly with soap and water, especially between the toes. It’s also imperative that they are dried thoroughly to help prevent fungal infections. Use lotion after washing/drying to reduce the risk of the skin becoming dry and cracked. Avoid walking while barefoot, to help avoid cuts and scrapes. Ensure proper toenail maintenance by cutting across the nail and avoiding trimming the corners. Promote proper circulation by stretching daily, keeping the feet propped up, and wiggling toes after sitting for long periods of time. For any acute foot pain, apply the RICE treatment: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Seniors should get off their feet, put ice on the injury for 20 minutes every hour, wrap it with a bandage, and keep the foot above the knee. How Comfort Keepers® Can Help It’s easy to take our feet for granted, but there’s no denying that they play an essential role in maintaining our overall independence. At Comfort Keepers®, our goal is to help seniors and other adults live happier, healthier lives and enjoy the things that give them joy. Our caregivers can help clients care for their feet by reinforcing the best practices listed above. And if walking is difficult, we can provide mobility assistance as well as transportation to and from places around town. For more information about how we can elevate the human spirit for senior clients, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. References Prevention. “7 Weird Things That Happen To Your Feet As You Get Older,” by Cindy Kuzma. Web. 2018. Emory Healthcare. “Advancing Your Health Blog: Foot Care for Seniors: 10 Important Tips.” Web. 2017. Philips Lifeline. “The Importance of Foot Care for Senior Citizens.” Web. 2014. Family Foot & Ankle Center. “Senior Foot Care Tips” by Dr. Cynthia Miller. Web. 2018. Healing Feet. “5 Changes That Happen to the Feet With Age” by Jenn F. Web. 2015. About Comfort Keepers Calgary – We are Accredited with Exemplary Standing by Accreditation Canada. Since 2003, we at Comfort Keepers Calgary ( http://calgary.comfortkeepers.ca ) have been providing personal care and companionship for our seniors, and others, in Calgary and surrounding area. Interactive Caregiving is at the very heart of our services, keeping our clients physically, mentally, emotionally and socially involved, making a difference in their well-being and improving quality of life. Our personalized services are available in private homes, retirement and assisted living residences, long term care facilities, and hospitals. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with companionship, personal care, homemaking, and more. Courtesy of Comfort Keepers Calgary 403-228-0072 (Office)

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

BOOK REVIEW BY: TYLER JONES

REFERENCE ASSISTANT AT CALGARY PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Dark Winter, by David Mark

David Mark is a former journalist who specialized in

crime reporting, which is probably why his novels have

been acclaimed for their sense of realism. The Dark

Winter is the first in his series featuring the pensive, brooding

detective sergeant Aector McAvoy, and fans of police procedurals

are sure to find this story gripping.

As Christmas approaches in Hull, a number of gruesome

murders has the city in the grip of fear. The police make an arrest,

but DS McAvoy is not convinced they have the right man. With a

pregnant wife and young son at home, and with the rest of the

police satisfied that the case has been solved, there is every

reason for McAvoy to let it go...but he can’t. Before long he

uncovers a pattern to the killings that had been overlooked, and it

appears there is a very dangerous and sick killer still on the loose.

Praised for its atmospheric descriptions of the depressed

industrial city of Hull, The Dark Winter is intricately plotted and

perfectly paced. McAvoy is a great character; a large, imposing

man who is uncomfortable with physical confrontation and who has

natural instincts that usually lead him in the right direction. He is a

recent transfer to the Hull force, and there is a cloud of mystery

around his past with rumors of involvement with bringing down a

dirty superior. His new supervisor, Trish Pharaoh, is another great

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

character with skills in recognizing the talents of others, and she

soon draws McAvoy further into the case. There are numerous well

executed plot twists, and the writing is atmospheric yet firm. This is

certainly one of the best crime series currently being written.

CONFEDERATION PARK 55+ ACTIVITY CENTRE BOOK CLUB REVIEW January's book choice was, "North of Normal: A Memoir of My Wilderness Childhood, My Unusual Family and How I survived Both" by Cea Sunrise Person. This was the true life account of a young girl's life growing up in Northern Alberta and British Columbia mainly in tents and tipis with her extremely dysfunctional family comprising of her maternal grandparents, Papa Dick and Grandma Jeanne, mother Michelle and an assortment of aunts, a mentally ill uncle and various hangers on. This book had it all: survival, child abuse, incest, addiction, rape, divorce, mental illness and abandonment. While there was a disclaimer that this was the recollection of a young child and that many of the events and the locations of their various "homes" were based on events told to her by other people, several members had difficulty with what they felt were vast discrepancies in both location and in the detailed dialogue and events laid out in the book. Cea did manage to rise above it all when she became a successful model at the age of thirteen but that lifestyle brought along its own set of problems. Since then, she has married and settled down with her husband and three children and written a follow-up book. As usual, the differences of opinion led to a great discussion which was far more interesting than had we all been in agreement. Next month's meeting will be held on February 5th at 12:30pm in the Boardroom when we will be discussing Will Ferguson's latest book, "Shoe on the Roof".

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

SATURDAY NIGHT DANCES

February 9, 2019

Badlanders

February 23, 2019

Reflections

Doors open at 6:30pm

Dance starts at 7:30pm

Lunch served at 9:30pm

TICKETS $12/PERSON (INCLUDES A LIGHT SNACK)

Door prizes 50/50draw

Members & Invited Guests are Welcome!!

yycseniors.com 2212 13 Street NW, Calgary Call 403.289.4780 for more information

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

CLUB & DROP-IN NEWS

Quick Glance

Book Club 1stTuesday monthly

Starts Jan 8, 2019 (Sept to June) 12:30 – 2:30

Bridge Drop-In Wednesdays 1:30 – 3:30 (novice)

Fridays 12:30 – 3:30 Starts Jan 9, 2019

Continues in summer

Photo Club 2nd & 4th Fridays monthly

October to May 1:00 – 3:00 Starts Jan 11, 2019

Cribbage Tuesdays 9:30 – 11:30

Starts Jan 8, 2019

Floor Curling Wednesdays 12:30 – 2:30

Starts Jan 9, 2019

Old Time Gliders Wednesday evenings 7:00 – 9:00

Volunteer Quilters Tuesdays 9:30-1:30

Starts Jan8, 2019

Scrapbooking Mondays 1:00-3:30 Starts Jan 7, 2019

Sharing Handicrafts Tuesdays 1:00-3:00 Starts Jan 8, 2019

Saturday Dance News Upcoming Dances: Feb 9 – Badlanders Feb 23 - Reflections Doors open at 6:30 pm with dancing starting at 7:30 pm, tickets $12/person (membership not required) includes live music and a light lunch. Come out and enjoy an evening of social dancing, socializing and live music.

Chorus – Tuesdays 12:30pm-3:00pm The Confederation Park 55+ Seniors Chorus. Tuesday afternoons at the Confederation Park Centre. With performances at seniors' facilities twice a year. You just need to come with the joy of singing. Registration is on January 08 at 12:30. For more information contact 403-289-4780.

Pickleball – Mondays and Fridays 1:00pm-3:00pm Pickleball resemble tennis, players use paddles to hit a perforated ball over a net. It is lots of fun. Come out and try Mondays and Fridays.

Whist – Mondays 1:00pm-3:00pm Join the Ladies and Gentlemen of Whist for this entertaining card game, pair up, tally your scores and number of tricks won.

Wood Carving Thursdays 9:30pm-11:30pm Do you have a wood project you would like to work on? Come and share your ideas. Get suggestions and tips on techniques.

Writers Club – Wednesday 1:00pm-2:00pm Want a new perspective? Want to keep writing? Want to be a better writer? Make a commitment, your stories will thank you.

Snooker – Monday – Friday 9am-4pm; Tuesday – 9am-12pm Ladies only Did you know one game of pool involves at least 2 hours of walking? Increase your concentration, grow a sharper mind - play pool.

Two Important Notices

Just to keep everyone in the loop with regards to the club fees. The Board of Directors passed a motion on

January 23rd as follows: Club fees are to be $20.00 per person per term regardless of how many clubs are

attended, effective immediately.

The second notice is with regards to class registrations. All registrations must be completed one week prior to

the class starting. There will be no exceptions to this policy. The reason being is that we have to pay

instructors and if there are not enough people enrolled the class will be cancelled. This allows us to give the

instructor proper notice.

If you have any concerns you may speak with Jeannette.

Confederation Park 55+ Activity Centre February 2019

FEBRUARY EVENTS – NEW FORMAT NEXT MONTH!!

T&C - GREG RUMPEL

DAVE SWEET

DELIVER

T&C

9 am to 12 noon

MOIVE AFTERNOON

LAWYER

SOX AND SAX

25 26 27 28

9 am to 12 noon TIMELESS JAZZ REFLECTIONS

BARBER T&C DANCE

18 19 20 21 22 23

AUTHOR

GOOD FOOD BOX

LUNCHLAWYER

VALENTINE'S

11 12 13 14 15 16

ORDER

GOOD FOOD BOX

THE CONFEDERATES BADLANDERS

BARBER T&C DANCE

4 5 6 7 8 9

1 2

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Hi Everyone!! This is a friendly reminder to sign-up for classes one week in advance. When 3

or 4 participants show up having not signed up and try to take the final remaining spot, they

saw online it quickly makes for a very full class and takes away from the participants who took

the time one week before to sign-up and pay in advance for the class. Thank you!!!