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Sorry to learn that one of our members, Bill Anthony of Buxton, passed away in May. He was the one who spearheaded our efforts in establishing the website www.ppsgm.org. In addition, he also frequently met with our Portland Regional Support Group. Also, Board Member Nancy Stambach is recovering following a very bad fall, which required a long period of healing and physical therapy. Planning ahead and making life changes – We are all experiencing the typical signs of aging, but for many of us, our condition is exacerbated by our growing problems with PPS. Knowing what changes to make in our lifestyle and living arrangements is important. For instance, if you live alone or are alone for long periods, have you considered acquiring a Lifeline System or Pager that you always keep with you, so that you can contact someone if you need help? Have you considered raising the height of your bed or adding a pulley system, so that you merely step down or into your chair, rather than straining to push yourself up? When was the last time you had an evaluation to see if something needs to be changed/added to braces, canes, walkers, chairs, etc? Can your living area be modified easily to make it easier to get around, such as by removing rugs, widening doorways, lowering everyday items to within easier reach? Do you have a living will? Finally, is it time to consider a move to a safer or more accessible place, especially if you are now living alone? Your local senior agency or disability group can help you (such as Senior Spectrum or Alpha One). There are many alternatives, including senior apartment buildings which often offer assisted living or residential care; retirement communities which may offer meals and transportation; assisted living facilities which may also assist in bathing and housekeeping; and residential care facilities which are similar and may include more nursing options – all of which give you some level of continuing independence. It’s suggested that you assess your own individual needs, visit places in the area where you want to live, and talk both with others that live there and with others that are familiar with the places you visit. Go Nuts If you are not allergic to nuts, consider increasing them in your diet, both as nutritional snacks and in your meals. Nuts are a good source of protein and antioxidants that may guard against senility; and many contain monounsaturated oil that may lower “bad” cholesterol. Try adding a handful of walnuts to your oatmeal or other breakfast cereal. Both sweet quick breads and yeast breads are great with a variety of nuts added –try starting with about ½ cup per loaf and increase amount as desired. Finely chopped nuts mixed with your favorite herbs and spices are great with chicken or salmon fillets. Combine chopped nuts to light cream cheese; consider adding chopped black olives and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or chopped dates, and use as a sandwich filling or on crackers. Here are a couple of recipes that you may want to try: |
Bits’n Pieces
news you can use
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Summer 2006 |
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