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Welcome
Purposeful Pastimes
A Laugh For Life
What a Friend Means to Me
The Richness of Reading
Wisdom of an Elder Neighbour
Loneliness
The Best Things in Life Come For Free
Pet Power and Puppy Love
Knowledge at Your Fingertips
Music to Your Ears
Sports and What's In It For You
The Age of Driving
The Beauty of Age
What
Can We Be Thankful For?
Halloween
To Suffer a Loss
Catchy Christmas Crafts
What's So Good About Winter?
Christmas Greetings
V1-N1
July 1, 2002
Welcome…
to the first edition of Senior Scope. I would
like to invite everyone to read and enjoy what we have to
offer on a weekly basis.
My name
is Sharon D. Passas, and I'll keep you informed of the latest
hot topics each week in my column… Sassparilla's Savvy.
I am a
single mother of two daughters. My profession is licensed
Funeral Director and Embalmer, but my true passion is writing.
I feel that I have a lot to offer and share from my experiences
and outlook regarding the older generation.
I have
met and am friends with many seniors and I find you all to
be inspiring, unique individuals, all with a sense of wisdom
that can only come with age. I find that if I am looking for
an answer, regarding life in general, I only have to look
as far as my senior friendŐs heart. I respect the perspective
of these individuals because they likely have come across
similar bridges in their time.
I watch
what life has to offer the retired and what the retired has
to offer life and it truly amazes me.
See
you next week!
V1-N2
July 8, 2002
Purposeful
Pastimes
If
the purpose to life is to live life on purpose, then volunteering
can be an essential act in life that fulfils this journey.
There is a great sense of gratification and satisfaction that
can come from offering your services of your own free will.
I have
taken time to help out at a soup kitchen and the reward I
get from helping people less fortunate is the greatest gift
of all. I don't have to be doing something substantial, it
can be as little as talking with a lonely fellow or handing
out sandwiches to the hungry.
Seniors
often need to re-evaluate their lives once they have found
themselves in the situation of being widowed. It is a stage
of transition where one needs to reintegrate themselves into
society. Volunteering their time not only fills this lonely
void, but takes their energy and places it in the community.
They are helping themselves as well as helping someone else.
It is
better to give than receive, so the saying goes. The development
of friendships and the balance you add to your life can be
the rare and priceless jewel of your choice.
In Winnipeg,
there are numerous organizations and foundations you can offer
your time to. Hospices, hospitals and nursing homes are other
avenues always looking for volunteers. Sometimes there is
just a lonely person who wants someone to take the time and
talk.
Watch
for information in upcoming issues of Senior Scope on volunteering.
Happy
Volunteering!
V1-N3
July 15, 2002
A
Laugh for Life
Old
age spots, sun spots, grey hair, bigger underwear.
Constipation,
frustration, grandchildren and old age pensions.
Memory loss, hearing loss, bifocals and just darn at a loss.
These
are just some of the characteristics and joys of being a senior.
Amidst
all this bliss, I think you need to accept life all in good
humour.
There's
nothing we can do about it and you can't stop the process.
Like knots formed on the back of a beautiful threaded picture,
these are the ups and downs that give way to a wonderful life-movie
from the journey we make.
When I
am an elderly lady, I shall lie on the beach, go to court
cases (just to watch), learn to knit, ballroom dance, teach
my grandchildren to bake and travel to exotic countries.
Most of
all, I want to live life to the fullest with a smile on my
face and laughter in my pocket.
I will
welcome every day as if it were my last, because old age is
for the living.
Don't
worry, be happy!
V1-N4
July 29, 2002
What
a Friend Means to Me
Greetings
to all my friends.
I am slowly
meeting seniors and making myself known. I hope as time goes
by that we can consider one another friends. For so many people,
friendship is an integral part of their lives. In the last
several years I have been blessed with the opportunity to
have formed solid friendships with people my age, and also
seniors in the community. One fellow in particular, I will
keep close to my heart, as he sadly passed away, but left
me with the most precious gift.
He lived
his life with a constant positive outlook to everything he
did. His humility and kindness had me mesmerized. I learned
that silence is golden and that communication is the one aspect
we need in every relationship. This man has since left an
enormous impact on how I lead my life today. If my friend
were here today, I have no doubt he would be my mentor.
When you
think of it, some people have family as friends, and others
consider their friends family. The friendship I have with
my closest friends is built on a firm foundation of honesty,
trust and mutual respect. I am accepted for the person who
I am, and I donŐt need to change in their eyes. We can laugh,
and have fun, but I know that in difficult times my true friends
are the ones standing beside me, and I have felt their love
shine on me.
Have you
given your friend a hug today? The words we fail to say, are
often the words we regret saying. A few of these are:
I love
you.
I
forgive you.
Will
you forgive me?
I
am sorry.
If
there is a situation you need to make right, let's not waste
another day!
V1-N5
August 5, 2002
The
Richness of Reading
"From
your parents you learn love and laughter and how to put one
foot before the other. But when books are opened you discover
you have wings."
~ Helen Hayes
This week
I would like to encourage all the lovely seniors out there,
if possible, to pick up a book and have a good read. This
is my favourite past-time and I am seldom found without a
book in hand or near by.
Reading
not only soothes the soul, it fine tunes the brain. We are
never too old to learn. As well, I find I can explore new
interests and learn to keep an open, broadened mind. I once
read that, 'all the answers to life can be found in a book.'
When I
am bored, I can pick up a book and lose myself in reading.
If I find an author I find appealing, I like to read all of
his/her other books listed. My dream one day is to have my
own library for my grandchildren. There is no greater gift
than a book. My two girls are both avid readers and I feel
this goes a long way, not only in school, but in life.
I am aware
of senior-friendly products that can be purchased for help
of easy reading. These are: Senior Book Holders, Letter Writing
Guide for Seniors (This is a template for writing letters),
Senior Steady Write Pen, Large Print Calendar - with bigger
spaces for writing.
If you
are aware of any other Senior Friendly Products that are advantageous
to seniors, please feel free to phone and leave us a message.
The information is invaluable and aids in Senior Independence.
Goodbye
for now!
V1-N6
August 12, 2002
Wisdom
of an Elder Neighbour
This summer
I have had the fortunate experience and opportunity to spend
time working on my yard, house and do all the little things
I've meant to do for eons and never got around to doing. My
neighbour is a 77 year old retired farmer. These last few
months my partner in crime has showed me the art of getting
your keys out of your locked garage without the help of a
locksmith. I've learned to caulk my kitchen and bathroom (with
his supervision of course), planted my first real garden,
with the help of a real farmer, and replaced boards on my
deck. Our next accomplishment will be to paint the deck and
lay pavers for a sidewalk. Our latest endeavour was building
an arbour to hang birdhouses.
I enjoy
Alfred's company. He is easy to talk to and wise, full of
wisdom since he's already been there and done that.
I never
thought owning a house could be so much fun. I have someone
to answer all my questions, even if it has to do with kids,
since he has 12 of his own. The greatest characteristic of
my fellow friend is his patience. Does this grow with age?
If it does, then I can't wait till I'm a senior! I was sitting
and daydreaming of my finished garden while he was waiting
for me to pass him the hammer. I said, "Sorry I was daydreaming".
His reply was, "That must have been some daydream."
This summer,
I have come to one conclusion, and it is this: I can't wait
until I am retired. If I can get all these tasks done in a
couple of months, imagine what is waiting for me in my senior
fun years. Look out life, Here I Come!
Lovin'
Life, Sassparilla
V1-N7
August 19, 2002
Loneliness
There
is a condition of the heart, and it is called "Loneliness".
A lonesome
person may describe a life living in isolation, desertion—a
feeling of being in solitary confinement. In today's society
there is a need to address this senior issue. We sometimes
fail to see this generation living without hope, in desperation
of companionship of any type.
The circumstances
may change as to how loneliness arrived, but the ultimate
result is without a deep-seated connection with other people
in our lives; human beings suffer greatly. Loneliness can
have a detrimental effect on us. As a widow, one may feel
as if they have lost a limb. Their self-image may change about
themselves, and they slowly stop their community activities.
For others, they may just be afraid to engage themselves in
the community for fear of rejection. Trust may have been destroyed
from past experiences and the risk is too great to appear
vulnerable and share openly. Still for others, it is safer
to hide indoors and live a life of soap operas, cards games,
or worse, develop destructive behaviours.
I think
people in general like visitors, a friend to talk to, or someone
to listen. If you are one of these seniors I am describing,
reach out and try and form one valued relationship. Your life
will grow right before your eyes.
Focus
your mind and attention on the path of sharing, loving, listening,
serving and before you know it loneliness is a thing of the
past. Senior Scope truly hopes for those who are less fortunate,
that we can fill that void in reading our weekly edition and
bring some joy into your heart.
Sassparilla
V1-N8
August 26, 2002
The
Best Things in Life Come For Free
This past
summer I have enjoyed nature on a daily basis. I live near
The Forks, so nightly I would take a walk near the water to
sit and enjoy the evening sunset. There is something about
sitting on the steps and watching the sun go down right before
your eyes. At that precise moment that the sun hits the water,
you can feel the tranquility and peace.
In this
generation few people stop to smell the roses and recognize
that the best things life has to offer comes without a price.
There is nothing like a good hot cup of tea, receiving a gift
from a child, watching a thunderstorm, which is followed by
a beautiful rainbow, or a chance to laugh with all your heart.
One weekend
we all went camping, and the best memory was sitting around
the campfire with the sun shining through the trees: great
music playing, and enjoying my family's company. My daughter
and I rose at 6:00 a.m. just to see the sunrise on the lake.
It was the most peaceful feeling, sitting on the beach in
the breeze with not a soul for miles.
I guess
I am just a nature girl at heart. I love these cool brisk
mornings, and I like nothing better than to walk with the
sound of rustling leaves beneath my feet. I could go on and
on, but the point I wish to make is, "Life is right before
your eyes. You just need to reach out and grab it." Before
we know it, we'll be knee deep in snow again, rubbing our
hands together and opting for the hot water bottle instead
of the fan.
Seize
the moment!
V1-N9
September 2, 2002
Pet
Power and Puppy Love
Hello
everyone!
I don't
have to go into great deal of the healing power that a pet
can provide. It's not only "unconditional love",
but nature's best source of love. One furry little animal
can provide companionship, affection, security and protection
(if it is a dog). Having a pet is a great way to keep active
and promote good health and exercise. It is a known fact that
pets are wonderful stress busters. When I am upset and teary-eyed,
I can reach for my hamster Marmalade and immediately, my stress
and anxiety is relieved. Nursing homes have programs called
Pet Therapy. Pets are brought into the nursing home to visit
patients, to be loved, held, kissed and generally supply the
elderly with acceptance. This always brings a smile to their
faces and a lift to their spirits.
 For
those of you interested in reading, Dr. Marty Becker has a
book called, "Chicken Soup for the Cat and Dog Lover's
Soul."
The latest
in dog innovation: Portable Water Pouch… a foldable water
bowl for those long rides. Arthritis Massage Oil - specifically
for dogs suffering from joint pain.
I'd like
to end off by saying, dogs and cats are not the only pets
to consider when making the pet choice. Birds can bring enjoyment,
as well as fish, a rabbit, and yes! Even, my favourite, a
hamster. I have included a photo of my Marmalade for all my
avid readers.
Love
a Pet Today!
V1-N10
September 9, 2002
Knowledge
At Your Fingertips
I've been
doing some research and have found there is plenty of opportunity
for seniors to become Computer Literate. Why? Do you ask?
What's in it for me? I think you are never too old to learn.
Computers,
lessons, email, internet, are a great way to achieve a sense
of empowerment. Physically you may not be able to attempt
the challenges of yesteryear, but mentally you can have a
whole lease on life. You can travel to any country via the
internet. Learn to cook exotic foods, with looking up any
recipe, or download your favourite songs. The possibilities
are endless. The knowledge is at your fingertips, all you
need to do is pull up a chair and type away.
Several
organizations offer computer courses. These courses are informative
and are a great way to make friends and share in your new-found
freedom. One of many courses available is: Introduction to
the Internet. St. Boniface Arts & Technology Centre offer
a course for seniors called Cyber Seniors I - Introduction
to Computers for Seniors, Cyber Seniors II - SeniorŐs Computer
Course - The Next Step, and Internet for Seniors. These are
a positive start to the world of computers.
Surfing
the internet, I found that internet lessons can be found by
just going on the web and looking under seniors and computers.
This course says "B.Y.O. Coffee & Computer." I thought
that was cute.
I hope
I have offered quality information in making your choice to
join the club of internet, email and surfing the web.
Cyberly
Yours
V1-N11
September 16, 2002
Music
to Your Ears
This week
we are concentrating on music and the benefits that can be
reaped from tunes. There are so many styles, and categories
to choose from, but the end result is "Music makes you
feel young again." Memories can never change and that
old record, or CD you choose to play can capture your heart
in a heartbeat.
The older
generation may be in tune with jazz, vintage, swing, spiritual
or just a sing-a-long. Whatever your preference, music brings
a smile to one's face, puts harmony in the air, and brings
a sense of serenity.
My research
concludes that some of the favourites are: Somewhere My Love,
Moonlight Serenade, Goodnight Irene, and Are You Lonesome
Tonight?
I was
told by one vibrant senior, that even people in wheelchairs
can dance to the beat of a good tune. Young and old can even
share common interests when it comes to music. What better
way to form a bond with your grandchildren, than to put on
the walkman and bop to their music?
Until
next time… Happy Listening!
V1-N12
September 23, 2002
Sports
and What's In It For You
Oh the
beauty of sports! Whether it's golf, swimming, walking, boating,
fishing, etc., you feel alive with participaction. Some more
adventuresome sports, such as cross country skiing or hiking,
are exercises that raise your heartbeat, and in the long run
strengthen that heart muscle. Activity is a sure way to improve
blood circulation and promote good mental and physical health.
My favourite
sport is walking. Walking briskly just 20 minutes is enough
for one day. It not only tones the muscles, but I'm in the
sunshine or rain, breathing in the cool crisp air. In summer,
I can smell the flowers, check out all the neighbours' gardens
and still get my exercise. Of course, if following my queue
on walking, always wear proper shoes with comfort and a good
support. "Let those feet breathe". Seek medical
attention if you are short of breath and feeling dizzy.
If all
else fails and you're not in the sporty mood, take the dog
for a walk… a little faster than usual.
Get
In Motion!
V1-N13
September 30, 2002
The
Age of Driving
My all-time
favourite car would have to be the Model T Ford. It was produced
by the Ford Motor Company of Detroit Michigan. The years range
from 1909-1927. It went by a few nicknames such as Tin Lizzy
and Flivver.
 The
colour of the Model T Ford was black. It was built as a coupe,
a roadster and a touring car. I vaguely remember an old car
in the back of my grandparents yard and Baba confirms it was
a Model T Ford. She says it was my grandfather's first car
that he owned at the age of 37 years.
Though
times have changed and the appearance of cars has radically
changed, driving safety has not. If anything, it has become
more intense in saving lives.
As seniors
approach those years where change comes into effect, you may
notice slower reflexes, and your night vision may also deteriorate.
Medications can also play a key role in determining whether
you are safe driving. Always read the labels attached to medications
to know their side effects.
Other
factors worth looking into as to whether you are at risk of
driving are some serious diseases. These include Alzheimer's
disease and Parkinson's disease. Vision problems and stroke
can also increase the risks.
If you
are at all concerned please contact your doctor for further
advice.
"Safety
Saves Lives"
V1-N14
October 7, 2002
The
Beauty of Age
The Beauty
of Age October is Seniors and Elders Month. A senior is defined
as follows, "…of relatively old age, long experience,
an aged person." This definition fails to mention the
many contributory aspects a senior may possess. Qualities
such as wisdom, knowledge and discernment.
Seniors
Month does not focus only on the healthy and active whom are
able to lead independent and productive lives well into their
later years. It is for all who are distinguished in age. We
as caregivers, supporters and the general public, must be
passionately committed to serving our seniors. Respecting
their needs, their values, and their feelings signifies their
importance in our communities. Many of today's seniors have
the gift of wisdom through their experiences in this changing
world.
We owe
it to this grand generation to recognize the care and attention
they truly deserve. Lastly, it is important for us not to
perceive seniors as burdens but to perceive each individual
with a uniqueness that is a contribution to our society.
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"We
are too many, too diverse, too complicated and too new
to assume that any description will cover any but a
few of us… We are different from each other in
the same way we were different all our lives."
~
Yhetta Gold,
Gerontology Consultant
and a past President
of the National Advisory Council on Aging
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V1-N15
October 14, 2002
What
Can We Be Thankful For?
Thanksgiving
is a widely celebrated holiday with its traditional turkey,
stuffing, cranberry sauce, potatoes, and the all-famous pumpkin
pie. We all can celebrate another successful harvest with
the excuse to gather with family and friends. For some it's
just another holiday… a day off work to relax.
I like
to think of Thanksgiving as a way to give thanks for getting
through another phase in life, healthy, happy and in great
spirits. I look forward to a new season of falling leaves,
bright vivid colours, and the odd frosty morning to breathe
in the crisp fresh air. Everywhere you go you see orange,
yellow, rustic brown, and red.
If it's
not outside, it's in the malls, or just another family decorating
their home in the "Thanksgiving Style". All this
nostalgia brings me back to my youth where I grew up in the
country with wood stoves, canning and freezing for the winter.
One of my favourite memories is going on nature hikes for
miles and eating Baba's pumpkin pie and simply raking leaves.
I guess I'm just a country girl at heart. Thanksgiving is
the time of year to start to prepare for the pumpkin carving,
trick or treaters, and even the occasional snowfall.
If you
are not one for the big family gatherings but you still want
to engage in the spirit of Thanksgiving, you can always enjoy
a turkey dinner at one of the leading restaurants that offer
this for the public. They always offer a range of desserts
to choose from that will tempt your palate.
Enjoy
the festivities!
V1-N17
October 28, 2002
Halloween
Once again,
we have entered into another year of ghosts, ghouls, goblins
and other scary make-believe characters all in the name of
fun. Did you know Halloween and its customs and roots were
formed by the Druids (members of a priestly order among the
Celts of Gaul and the British Isles), and the Irish immigrants
in the 1800's.
It was
believed in medieval times that the souls of the departed
were thought to return on the eve of All SaintŐs Day - Halloween.
The Druids would create bonfires and offer sacrifices. The
people robed themselves in costumes in order to disguise themselves
from the spirits. Hence, the origin of all the fun and games
of parading in fancy garb for Halloween.
Happy
Halloween and Safe Treating
V1-N20
November 18, 2002
To
Suffer a Loss
One of
the greatest heartaches can be the loss of a loved one. This
does not have to be only through death alone. It may be from
a loss of a friend, loss of a pet, or due to a loss of a limb
or breast.
The pain
I believe is all the same, the heart-wrenching pain that you
feel, that you think may never go away. You may even feel
as if you are walking around in a daze or a fog.
The people
who are on the outside looking in, who are your support system,
are sometimes at a loss as to how to deal with your feelings.
As a woman working in Funeral Service, and also having had
the experience of loss, I am able to lend some guidance where
it may be essential:
•
Just being there for the grieving person is support.
•
Silence is often gratefully accepted, or just holding their
hand.
•
Let your friend express emotion as needed.
•
Laugh, and cry with them and share memories.
•
Don't ignore the person if you feel uncomfortable in expressing
sympathy.
•
Tell them you're sorry, and give them a hug.
•
Acknowledgement of the death in conversation often helps.
•
Don't say, "It was for the best," or, "I know
how you feel."
These
are just a few things I see every day being shown to loved
ones in their time of need, as well, things I felt were sometimes
unappreciated. With love and support of family and friends,
and the passage of time, things do get better.
V1-N22
December 2, 2002
Catchy
Christmas Crafts
The Christmas
fever is once again in the air, and I am once again trying
to come up with meaningful gifts that are affordable on a
limited budget for my loved ones . I spent one day browsing
through the many different craft stores that Winnipeg has
to offer.
I was
amazed that they had a multitude of crafts to choose from,
that a science degree wasn't necessary in order to complete.
I decided
upon a large cane basket and filled it with cinnamon aromatic
pinecones. Then I stopped at the local supermarket where I
purchased fresh smelling cinnamon sticks. I added them to
my basket and completed it with pink and red potpourri and
dried rose buds and petals. For a fraction of the price I
would pay in the store, I now have a beautiful aromatic Christmas
basket to bless my kitchen.
My second
creation, I purchased an inexpensive pine wreath. Craft stores
have numerous Christmas-like baubles to choose from, as well
as Christmas ribbon to tie at the bottom. In just a short
time I had created my own Christmas Wreath Family Heirloom
that I plan to pass on to my girls when they are older.
If you
are looking for a personal, meaningful, unique gift that is
from the heart, you don't have to go far. Visit your local
craft store, and join the group of crafters that are able
to make Christmas come alive.
I still
haven't found the right gift to make for my friends, as I
seem compelled to add to my collection of Christmas Memorabilia.
Happy
Crafting!
V1-N24
December 16, 2002
What's
So Good About Winter?
Over the
years I have often asked myself, "What's So Good About
Winter?" Last Friday night I had the opportunity to answer
my own question. My parents had taken my girls for the weekend
and I planned to take full advantage of my time.
I did
my nightly ritual of lighting all my candles. Then I turned
on my outside Christmas lights, turned on my window decoration
light, and opened my blinds to watch the streetlights. Then
I turned on my Christmas light village, made myself a cup
of tea, curled up with a blanket, and talked on the telephone
to my friend for an hour and a half.
It was
absolute magic. As I talked, I watched the snow glisten in
the moonlight, and a wave of winter magic came over me. I
didn't care if it was umpteen degrees below outside. I hadn't
been this relaxed in eons. I reflected on my month ahead,
my future, and my life so far. I discovered that winter wasn't
so bad after all. It gave me time to sit and observe what
a beautiful season it can be if you let it.
Maybe
it was the candles or the lights, or maybe it was just me
being nostalgic. Who knows? I know that I just had the most
amazing Friday night I've had in a long time and I did it
all alone. Winter and me!
V1-N25
December 23, 2002
Merry
Christmas Greetings!
I
would like to extend my warmest wishes to all our avid readers
of Senior Scope. A happy, joyous and healthy Yuletide full
of Good Cheer to you all! I have enjoyed writing Sassparilla's
column and I look forward to seeing everyone in the New Year!
PEACE,
LOVE, JOY AND A GLASS OF EGGNOG!
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