The Mayonnaise Jar
When things in your life seem almost too much to handle,
When 24 hours in a day is not enough;
remember the mayonnaise jar and 2 cups of coffee.
A professor stood before his philosophy class
and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly,
he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar
and start to fill it with golf balls.
He then asked the students if the jar was full.
They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured
it into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.
He then asked the students again
if the jar was full. They agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand
and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else
He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded
With an unanimous 'yes.'
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table
and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively
filling the empty space between the sand.
The students laughed.
'Now,' said the professor, as the laughter subsided,
'I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life.
The golf balls are the important things - God, family,
children, health, friends, and favorite passions
Things that if everything else was lost
and only they remained, your life would still be full.
The pebbles are the things that matter like your job, house, and car..
The sand is everything else --
The small stuff.
'If you put the sand into the jar first,' he continued,
'there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life.
If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff,
You will never have room for the things that are
important to you.
So...
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness.
Play with your children.
Take time to get medical checkups.
Take your loved ones out to dinner.
There will always be time
to clean the house and fix the dripping tap.
'Take care of the golf balls first --
The things that really matter.
Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.'
One of the students raised her hand
and inquired what the coffee represented.
The professor smiled.
'I'm glad you asked'.
It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem,
there's always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend.'
Please share this with other "Golf Balls"
The Fabulous Fifties and Beyond is part of the cable TV program and syndicated newspaper column of the same name. Our mantra is "Use It Or Lose It", urging those in the 50's and beyond age group to do something with the life they have remaining. Write a book, travel, volunteer...do something. We are looking for stories of individuals and groups that are "using it". Shows streaming at http://tv.westkentucky.kctcs.edu/videoclips/50s/
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Monday, September 06, 2010
Anti-Aging For Dummies
Anti-Aging For Dummies
Want to live a long and healthy life while successfully preventing the appearance of aging on your skin? Before embarking on an anti-aging regimen, treatment of products, you must first be able to properly manage your expectations.
First of all, aging is a natural process and an obsession against aging isn't healthy. However, it is quite important and beneficial to try to maintain health and promote longevity by staying generally healthy. Health maintains youthfulness and it ensures that you won't grow old or show signs of it before it is absolutely time.
Next, you must understand that anti-aging management needs to be handled through several lifestyle enhancements and aging problems can't be solved miraculously by a pill or panacea. Health and well being is achieved only through the existence of balance among three components needed in your life and these are: mental health; physical health; and emotional health.
Healthy body
The physical health aspect is achieved with constant proper nutrition and regular exercise. Keeping the body healthy and functioning healthily ensures that its processes aren't disrupted. Disruption in bodily functions caused by poor health and the predisposition to illnesses causes damage in cell tissues and this accumulated damage is what we call aging.
Healthy mind
When we age we lose irreplaceable brain cells. In fact, in old age, damages to the brain begin to manifest itself in the form of dementia. While is a natural fact of life that we will indeed lose brain cells along the way, there are certain stimuli and factors that speed up the loss of brain cells and affect our mental faculties. Aside from keeping an open mind and trying to continue to learn as we grow older, proper nutrition and physical exercise are essential to maintaining the brain's health.
Healthy feelings
Our emotions are actually a result of the chemical reactions in our body. Certain chemicals and hormones are triggered depending on the stimuli we experience, These chemicals and hormones then send signals to the brain and our cognitive functions then in turn dictate our emotions. This is why it is important to combine mental and physical health.
A good balance between the two ensures a healthy well being. If we are unable to control our emotions we may succumb to stress. which in turn has the power to alter our overall health. Stress takes a toll on our body and makes us act irrationally.
It is important that we remain active. Write a book, paint a picture, make a piece of pottery, volunteer at your local hospital, do something.
"Remember Use It or Lose It"
Want to live a long and healthy life while successfully preventing the appearance of aging on your skin? Before embarking on an anti-aging regimen, treatment of products, you must first be able to properly manage your expectations.
First of all, aging is a natural process and an obsession against aging isn't healthy. However, it is quite important and beneficial to try to maintain health and promote longevity by staying generally healthy. Health maintains youthfulness and it ensures that you won't grow old or show signs of it before it is absolutely time.
Next, you must understand that anti-aging management needs to be handled through several lifestyle enhancements and aging problems can't be solved miraculously by a pill or panacea. Health and well being is achieved only through the existence of balance among three components needed in your life and these are: mental health; physical health; and emotional health.
Healthy body
The physical health aspect is achieved with constant proper nutrition and regular exercise. Keeping the body healthy and functioning healthily ensures that its processes aren't disrupted. Disruption in bodily functions caused by poor health and the predisposition to illnesses causes damage in cell tissues and this accumulated damage is what we call aging.
Healthy mind
When we age we lose irreplaceable brain cells. In fact, in old age, damages to the brain begin to manifest itself in the form of dementia. While is a natural fact of life that we will indeed lose brain cells along the way, there are certain stimuli and factors that speed up the loss of brain cells and affect our mental faculties. Aside from keeping an open mind and trying to continue to learn as we grow older, proper nutrition and physical exercise are essential to maintaining the brain's health.
Healthy feelings
Our emotions are actually a result of the chemical reactions in our body. Certain chemicals and hormones are triggered depending on the stimuli we experience, These chemicals and hormones then send signals to the brain and our cognitive functions then in turn dictate our emotions. This is why it is important to combine mental and physical health.
A good balance between the two ensures a healthy well being. If we are unable to control our emotions we may succumb to stress. which in turn has the power to alter our overall health. Stress takes a toll on our body and makes us act irrationally.
It is important that we remain active. Write a book, paint a picture, make a piece of pottery, volunteer at your local hospital, do something.
"Remember Use It or Lose It"
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Aging That You Can't Control
Aging That You Can't Control
Although aging skin is a natural part of life, when it will start and how it will progress will largely depend on two factors— one that you have no control of and one that will depend solely on you.
Like everything else in the world, aging is a function of the genes and the natural flow of life. It is basically biological in nature and though there are some factors that can hasten or slow down the process, there is little that you can do to stop it.
There are hereditary factors that are already pre-determined. And though these aren't necessarily signs of growing old but rather hereditary characteristics that are naturally part of yourself, these may still make you appear much older. There are aspects in your skin that are already there, waiting for triggers in the environment and the time that passes. This is because we basically inherit from our parents the method or way by which we grow old. There are some people who age well while there are others who don't and appear far older than their chronological ages.
Often, these hereditary manifestations of age can be seen in the tiny lines at the edge of the eyes or the wrinkles surrounding it. This is the reason why there are some people who have these so-called laugh lines even when they are younger.
Deep creases along the sides of the nose and the mouth are other hereditary lines that people develop when they grow old. Another worthy of mentioning are the number of lines that we get on the forehead or the furrows along the browline.
Drooping eyelids are also very common even in people who are young. There are just some people who have downward slants to their eyes. And though this isn't necessarily a sign of aging, it is something that will make the face appear older than its actual age.
Some people also have loose skin along their jaw line. And though this isn't actually sagging skin, having this excess skin can appear like the whole face is melting down and sagging.
In addition to this, there are also "old signs" in areas like the legs that we can inherit from our parents such as the development of cellulite and varicose veins, which can make people look older. The same can be said of baldness especially for men and the development of white hair early in life.
All in all, just take what you have and enjoy life to its fullest.
"Remember use it or lose it."
Although aging skin is a natural part of life, when it will start and how it will progress will largely depend on two factors— one that you have no control of and one that will depend solely on you.
Like everything else in the world, aging is a function of the genes and the natural flow of life. It is basically biological in nature and though there are some factors that can hasten or slow down the process, there is little that you can do to stop it.
There are hereditary factors that are already pre-determined. And though these aren't necessarily signs of growing old but rather hereditary characteristics that are naturally part of yourself, these may still make you appear much older. There are aspects in your skin that are already there, waiting for triggers in the environment and the time that passes. This is because we basically inherit from our parents the method or way by which we grow old. There are some people who age well while there are others who don't and appear far older than their chronological ages.
Often, these hereditary manifestations of age can be seen in the tiny lines at the edge of the eyes or the wrinkles surrounding it. This is the reason why there are some people who have these so-called laugh lines even when they are younger.
Deep creases along the sides of the nose and the mouth are other hereditary lines that people develop when they grow old. Another worthy of mentioning are the number of lines that we get on the forehead or the furrows along the browline.
Drooping eyelids are also very common even in people who are young. There are just some people who have downward slants to their eyes. And though this isn't necessarily a sign of aging, it is something that will make the face appear older than its actual age.
Some people also have loose skin along their jaw line. And though this isn't actually sagging skin, having this excess skin can appear like the whole face is melting down and sagging.
In addition to this, there are also "old signs" in areas like the legs that we can inherit from our parents such as the development of cellulite and varicose veins, which can make people look older. The same can be said of baldness especially for men and the development of white hair early in life.
All in all, just take what you have and enjoy life to its fullest.
"Remember use it or lose it."
Monday, August 23, 2010
Anti-Aging: Good Nutrition And A Healthy Brain
Anti-Aging: Good Nutrition And A Healthy Brain
The industry for anti-aging products, services and treatments continue to grow as more and more people continue to depend and demand them with the desire for the elusive fountain of youth. Instead of looking outward though, people should realize the importance of looking within to be able to successfully win the anti-aging battle.
The idea of "looking within" is more than just a philosophical argument. Going beyond cosmetic treatments as a sound anti-aging strategy is quite reliable and grounded on science. It is true that beauty is skin deep because it is our skin or our outward appearance that announces the fact that we are no longer youthful. Beneath the skin tissues are processes and bodily functions that need to be maintained in order to preserve youthfulness. The body is maintained and kept functioning with efficiency and effectiveness through the proper uninterrupted body systems and functions.
The key to keeping the body healthy in order to continue to be able to power these important body functions is proper nutrition.
We simply can't expect to fill our bodies with junk and expect it to run at optimum levels. If you have difficulty understanding this concept, you might want to use the analogy of a car. A car runs on gasoline. If you put other types of fuel in it like diesel and kerosene, the car won't work and the engine may be damaged. Now there are different types of gasoline that you can use for your car. To get the most out of your car's performance you have to understand the octane rating of your engine and use the appropriate type of gasoline.
Just like a car, the body needs the proper types of food as fuel, which can be achieved by maintaining a proper and healthy diet. Combined with just the right amounts of exercise, our bodies can metabolize our diet properly and our bodies are supplied with the proper fuel that it needs.
Aside from keeping us physically fit, exercise is also an excellent way to keep our brains healthy. Exercise promotes a healthy supply of oxygen to the brain. You see, beyond cosmetics, proper nutrition and a healthy brain are keys to truly winning the anti-aging battle.
More and more people experience dementia and other forms of brain degradation as they get older and keeping the brain healthy through proper nutrition and exercise helps stave off this phenomenon.
The industry for anti-aging products, services and treatments continue to grow as more and more people continue to depend and demand them with the desire for the elusive fountain of youth. Instead of looking outward though, people should realize the importance of looking within to be able to successfully win the anti-aging battle.
The idea of "looking within" is more than just a philosophical argument. Going beyond cosmetic treatments as a sound anti-aging strategy is quite reliable and grounded on science. It is true that beauty is skin deep because it is our skin or our outward appearance that announces the fact that we are no longer youthful. Beneath the skin tissues are processes and bodily functions that need to be maintained in order to preserve youthfulness. The body is maintained and kept functioning with efficiency and effectiveness through the proper uninterrupted body systems and functions.
The key to keeping the body healthy in order to continue to be able to power these important body functions is proper nutrition.
We simply can't expect to fill our bodies with junk and expect it to run at optimum levels. If you have difficulty understanding this concept, you might want to use the analogy of a car. A car runs on gasoline. If you put other types of fuel in it like diesel and kerosene, the car won't work and the engine may be damaged. Now there are different types of gasoline that you can use for your car. To get the most out of your car's performance you have to understand the octane rating of your engine and use the appropriate type of gasoline.
Just like a car, the body needs the proper types of food as fuel, which can be achieved by maintaining a proper and healthy diet. Combined with just the right amounts of exercise, our bodies can metabolize our diet properly and our bodies are supplied with the proper fuel that it needs.
Aside from keeping us physically fit, exercise is also an excellent way to keep our brains healthy. Exercise promotes a healthy supply of oxygen to the brain. You see, beyond cosmetics, proper nutrition and a healthy brain are keys to truly winning the anti-aging battle.
More and more people experience dementia and other forms of brain degradation as they get older and keeping the brain healthy through proper nutrition and exercise helps stave off this phenomenon.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Aging In Your Own Terms
Aging In Your Own Terms
Everybody will grow old. The years will pile up in our lives and from 20s, we will reach our 30s, then our 40s and then our 50s. It is a natural process as inevitable as life and death. Though it is something that will eventually happen this doesn't mean that it will happen anytime soon. Although we can’t stop it from happening, we can certainly determine how we age and when we age.
This is the reason why there are people who in their 80s are still in their prime, able to work incessantly and still have sharp minds, sometimes even sharper than those who are in their 50s or 60s. However, there are also those in their 80s that are very forgetful and inactive. They find it hard to move let alone play sports or work.
This is a testament that people themselves determine how they age. And though the genes have something to do with it, it doesn't necessarily determine the whole forecast. In a study conducted by the John and Catherine MacArthur Foundation, it seems that the genes only make up a small part of a person’s aging process. The rest is dependent on the person.
Below are some of the things that you can do in order to age well.
1. Be active
One common mistake people make is that they often associate old age with rusty bones and inactivity. This shouldn't be the case. The more active a person is, the better he will age because activity and exercise will build muscles and strengthen the bones. Remember the theory of use and disuse. The more we don’t use a part of the body, the more it will disintegrate into nothing.
2. Practice your mind
One trick to avoid having Alzheimer’s disease or being forgetful in general is to engage in mental activities. Answer a crossword puzzle. Read the newspaper everyday. Keep yourself up to date with the latest news in the country. Debate with your children or even with your grandchildren. Use your mind.
3. Have a purpose
Another secret to aging well is to have a purpose in life even when you are old. Find something to do with your time whether it is a hobby that you have done in the past or a new hobby that you have been wanting to try for years.
Everybody will grow old. The years will pile up in our lives and from 20s, we will reach our 30s, then our 40s and then our 50s. It is a natural process as inevitable as life and death. Though it is something that will eventually happen this doesn't mean that it will happen anytime soon. Although we can’t stop it from happening, we can certainly determine how we age and when we age.
This is the reason why there are people who in their 80s are still in their prime, able to work incessantly and still have sharp minds, sometimes even sharper than those who are in their 50s or 60s. However, there are also those in their 80s that are very forgetful and inactive. They find it hard to move let alone play sports or work.
This is a testament that people themselves determine how they age. And though the genes have something to do with it, it doesn't necessarily determine the whole forecast. In a study conducted by the John and Catherine MacArthur Foundation, it seems that the genes only make up a small part of a person’s aging process. The rest is dependent on the person.
Below are some of the things that you can do in order to age well.
1. Be active
One common mistake people make is that they often associate old age with rusty bones and inactivity. This shouldn't be the case. The more active a person is, the better he will age because activity and exercise will build muscles and strengthen the bones. Remember the theory of use and disuse. The more we don’t use a part of the body, the more it will disintegrate into nothing.
2. Practice your mind
One trick to avoid having Alzheimer’s disease or being forgetful in general is to engage in mental activities. Answer a crossword puzzle. Read the newspaper everyday. Keep yourself up to date with the latest news in the country. Debate with your children or even with your grandchildren. Use your mind.
3. Have a purpose
Another secret to aging well is to have a purpose in life even when you are old. Find something to do with your time whether it is a hobby that you have done in the past or a new hobby that you have been wanting to try for years.
Friday, August 13, 2010
Just for laughs….
You Know You Live in 2010 When
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven’t played solitaire with real card in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. The reason for not staying in touch with family and friends is that they don’t have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn’t have the first 20 or 30 or 60 years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around and go get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go online before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting you head sideways to smile.
12. You’re reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly who you are going to send this message to.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that wasn’t a #9 on this list.
AND NOW YOU ARE LAUGHING AT YOURSELF!!!!
1. You accidentally enter your password on the microwave.
2. You haven’t played solitaire with real card in years.
3. You have a list of 15 phone numbers to reach your family of 3.
4. You e-mail the person who works at the desk next to you.
5. The reason for not staying in touch with family and friends is that they don’t have e-mail addresses.
6. You pull up in your driveway and use your cell phone to see if anyone is home to help you carry in the groceries.
7. Every commercial on television has a web site at the bottom of the screen.
8. Leaving the house without your cell phone, which you didn’t have the first 20 or 30 or 60 years of your life, is now a cause for panic and you turn around and go get it.
10. You get up in the morning and go online before getting your coffee.
11. You start tilting you head sideways to smile.
12. You’re reading this and nodding and laughing.
13. Even worse, you know exactly who you are going to send this message to.
14. You are too busy to notice there was no #9 on this list.
15. You actually scrolled back up to check that wasn’t a #9 on this list.
AND NOW YOU ARE LAUGHING AT YOURSELF!!!!
Monday, August 09, 2010
Aging Across The Ages
Aging Across The Ages
Different people age in different ways. This is perhaps because aging, although a natural occurrence, is a function of genetics and environment.
The genes play a role in terms of the skin that we are endowed with. People whose parents look youthful will most likely have young-looking skin compared to people whose parents already look mature. Race is also a factor as in Asian people who generally have better skin compared to their Caucasian counterparts.
But skin condition as you age isn't just the result of the genes. The way we take care of our skin says a lot about the future condition of our skin. People whose lifestyle habits include smoking and drinking will have more chances of developing wrinkles and lines than those who live cleanly. People whose stress levels are high may also age faster than people who know how to relax. The same goes with people who often have stern and serious expressions.
Our diet is also a factor in aging. People who eat right and have balanced meals will have nourished and supple skin compared to those who don’t. The same can be said of people who drink lots of water. Fruits and veggies are actually pretty important in keeping the skin healthy and young.
But what do you do if aging settles in at a certain age?
Here are some of the dilemmas that people in different age ranges encounter.
20s
People in their 20s will have more sun exposure. This is because of their habits to sunbathe and to tan themselves.
Solution: Get into the program of using sun blocks to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Those with SPF 30 and above are recommended.
Acne and inflammations are prevalent
Solution: These should be treated immediately to prevent scarring and discoloration of the skin.
Hair loss in men may start at this time.
Solution: Have your pattern alopecia treated immediately as treatment is best done at this stage of life.
30s
Skin may start to age.
Solution: Sun blocks are essential to your skin life. Eat a diet that is rich in anti-oxidants like Vitamin C, E, Selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids. Also, have it checked by a dermatologist especially if you have contact allergies.
40s.
Aging is already apparent.
Solution: have frequent skin exams to make sure that your skin stays healthy. If a sore on the skin is slow to heal, consult with your doctor.
Imperfections in the skin like benign keratoses and sun spots will often appear.
Solution: It is good to have them removed.
Different people age in different ways. This is perhaps because aging, although a natural occurrence, is a function of genetics and environment.
The genes play a role in terms of the skin that we are endowed with. People whose parents look youthful will most likely have young-looking skin compared to people whose parents already look mature. Race is also a factor as in Asian people who generally have better skin compared to their Caucasian counterparts.
But skin condition as you age isn't just the result of the genes. The way we take care of our skin says a lot about the future condition of our skin. People whose lifestyle habits include smoking and drinking will have more chances of developing wrinkles and lines than those who live cleanly. People whose stress levels are high may also age faster than people who know how to relax. The same goes with people who often have stern and serious expressions.
Our diet is also a factor in aging. People who eat right and have balanced meals will have nourished and supple skin compared to those who don’t. The same can be said of people who drink lots of water. Fruits and veggies are actually pretty important in keeping the skin healthy and young.
But what do you do if aging settles in at a certain age?
Here are some of the dilemmas that people in different age ranges encounter.
20s
People in their 20s will have more sun exposure. This is because of their habits to sunbathe and to tan themselves.
Solution: Get into the program of using sun blocks to protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Those with SPF 30 and above are recommended.
Acne and inflammations are prevalent
Solution: These should be treated immediately to prevent scarring and discoloration of the skin.
Hair loss in men may start at this time.
Solution: Have your pattern alopecia treated immediately as treatment is best done at this stage of life.
30s
Skin may start to age.
Solution: Sun blocks are essential to your skin life. Eat a diet that is rich in anti-oxidants like Vitamin C, E, Selenium and Omega-3 fatty acids. Also, have it checked by a dermatologist especially if you have contact allergies.
40s.
Aging is already apparent.
Solution: have frequent skin exams to make sure that your skin stays healthy. If a sore on the skin is slow to heal, consult with your doctor.
Imperfections in the skin like benign keratoses and sun spots will often appear.
Solution: It is good to have them removed.
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Fabulous Fifties and Beyond TV Show
The latest Fabulous Fifties and Beyond TV show is now ready for viewing.http://tv.westkentucky.kctcs.edu/videoclips/50s/17138_legends/video.htm
Guest Al Knusten talks about the work of RSVP and the upcoming Legends Show.
Guest Al Knusten talks about the work of RSVP and the upcoming Legends Show.
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
A Wholesome Life for Anti-Aging
A Wholesome Life for Anti-Aging
The proverbial “Fountain of Youth” is an illusion because aging is a natural process. There are many ways to be exposed to aging very rapidly. Tangible physical manifestations and inclinations come along with it as we increase in years.
The modern day human is luckier to go along with the latest innovations of how to control or slow down the aging process. With all the means created to build a make-believe world of the forever youthful looking face and overall appearance, surgical means such as liposuctions, facelifts, stretching, or other cosmetic surgeries and external cosmetic applications have been raising levels of sales on the market today.
Bone surgeries to straighten and recapturing curved bone lines have been prominently patronized by a number of people, not only in terms of curing ailments; but for restoration of lost posture.
If you dig further, what’s the big fuss to deter the aging process artificially, one in proper fame of senses will raise an eyebrow. Women especially are more concerned with this malady. It’s so feared because women’s biological make-up and metabolism is more critically at stake than her brother, the male species. Females are less endowed to reach out to flawless access to that youth fountain before she reaches the age of 60. At this age, she develops wrinkles, and impaired overall appearance seemingly obvious in particular parts of the body, if she had failed to afford all the artificial ingredients to preserve that lost youthful pleasing appearance.
Simple analysis, tact and basic common sense are all that's needed to cope with youthful looks. Anti-aging solutions are as simple as living a down to earth life of cleanliness, devoid of vices that brings the human body radicals that poison the internals of God’s image in us. When our body was created, it was not meant to be repaired thru artificial means, but to let it be as wholesome, and untainted through out the days it’ll live in this world.
Natural Ways and Means to Combat Aging
Avoid the sun’s (ultra violet rays) exposure. It induces the skin to deep wrinkles above anything else.
Simplest exercise of walking some of amount of 30 minutes daily, divided at random during the day.
Maintain a lifestyle that helps uplift your spiritual, mental, physical well-being.
Observe and implement properly the “food Pyramid” chart.
Maintain a wholesome life, free from stresses, clean internal feelings, and external (physical).
Good posture is of the essence, so you won’t look elderly in a curved body.
Always do a good massage of your scalp to avoid early graying hairs.
Keep updated with present innovations in technology to feel youthful. Feelings of contentment on being abridged and coping with time, and accomplishments takes a lot of anti-aging effects.
The formula for happiness is a fact, if you are always happy, you won't grow old as fast.
Save money for the “rainy days.” Lacking the means finances steals peace of mind and contentment, complicates the mind, and makes you depressed and insecure.
Debts make a stressful life, avoid them.
Get good sleep above all.
Have a positive outlook in life. Stay away from people with negative attitudes.
The proverbial “Fountain of Youth” is an illusion because aging is a natural process. There are many ways to be exposed to aging very rapidly. Tangible physical manifestations and inclinations come along with it as we increase in years.
The modern day human is luckier to go along with the latest innovations of how to control or slow down the aging process. With all the means created to build a make-believe world of the forever youthful looking face and overall appearance, surgical means such as liposuctions, facelifts, stretching, or other cosmetic surgeries and external cosmetic applications have been raising levels of sales on the market today.
Bone surgeries to straighten and recapturing curved bone lines have been prominently patronized by a number of people, not only in terms of curing ailments; but for restoration of lost posture.
If you dig further, what’s the big fuss to deter the aging process artificially, one in proper fame of senses will raise an eyebrow. Women especially are more concerned with this malady. It’s so feared because women’s biological make-up and metabolism is more critically at stake than her brother, the male species. Females are less endowed to reach out to flawless access to that youth fountain before she reaches the age of 60. At this age, she develops wrinkles, and impaired overall appearance seemingly obvious in particular parts of the body, if she had failed to afford all the artificial ingredients to preserve that lost youthful pleasing appearance.
Simple analysis, tact and basic common sense are all that's needed to cope with youthful looks. Anti-aging solutions are as simple as living a down to earth life of cleanliness, devoid of vices that brings the human body radicals that poison the internals of God’s image in us. When our body was created, it was not meant to be repaired thru artificial means, but to let it be as wholesome, and untainted through out the days it’ll live in this world.
Natural Ways and Means to Combat Aging
Avoid the sun’s (ultra violet rays) exposure. It induces the skin to deep wrinkles above anything else.
Simplest exercise of walking some of amount of 30 minutes daily, divided at random during the day.
Maintain a lifestyle that helps uplift your spiritual, mental, physical well-being.
Observe and implement properly the “food Pyramid” chart.
Maintain a wholesome life, free from stresses, clean internal feelings, and external (physical).
Good posture is of the essence, so you won’t look elderly in a curved body.
Always do a good massage of your scalp to avoid early graying hairs.
Keep updated with present innovations in technology to feel youthful. Feelings of contentment on being abridged and coping with time, and accomplishments takes a lot of anti-aging effects.
The formula for happiness is a fact, if you are always happy, you won't grow old as fast.
Save money for the “rainy days.” Lacking the means finances steals peace of mind and contentment, complicates the mind, and makes you depressed and insecure.
Debts make a stressful life, avoid them.
Get good sleep above all.
Have a positive outlook in life. Stay away from people with negative attitudes.
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Activities Promoting Healthy Aging
Activities Promoting Healthy Aging
Lack of activities can prevent you from living healthy. When you do not enjoy activities, you may feel fatigue or find it difficult to sleep at night. When you awake in the morning, you may feel tired until you finally fall asleep. As we, age our body change and we have to make changes to accommodate our lives.
Having a good night sleep makes the mind think more clearly. A good night sleep also boosts your energy while controlling your weight. You can also make decisions with less stress. Sleeping well at night makes our immune system stronger to keep us healthier. Researchers have proved that a good nights sleep is necessary for our health. Researchers have found that lack of sleep reduces the growth hormones in our bodies, since it changes muscles to fat. Sleep overall is most important, yet it stands behind activities. To improve your health, try walking each day.
Walking will help to loosen our muscles, reduces stress and depression along with anxiety. By reliving these things, it will help us to sleep for a longer and deeper period. So, when we wake up in the morning we feel happier and more rested.
When you exercise, you get a good night sleep, which promotes metabolism. Without the right amount of sleep, our bodies crave energy. Our body will release insulin or glucose into the bloodstream, which slows down metabolism. This action causes the body to gain weight, rather than control weight.
When a person feels exhausted, they will feel weak and repressed from enjoying activities. This leads to additional problems. Sleeping right balances out our bodies giving us, more energy leading to more activities that will satisfy our sleep needs.
What to avoid:
To rest proper and feel active you must reduce your intake of caffeine, nicotine, harmful chemicals, such as over-the-counter meds that keep you awake, alcohol and so on. The chemicals and substances will keep you awake. Try to avoid drinking anything after 8 p.m. in the evening. Nicotine should be avoid if possible, yet if you must smoke try to avoid smoking after 8 p.m.
Start a walking program in the morning to help wake you up, while boosting your energy. You will feel better since the joints will feel flexible enough to move freely. In addition, walking will help you burn fat and calories. You’ll notice a big change in how you feel the rest of the day. Start out walking at a slow steady pace for as far as your comfortable. Each day pick up the pace a bit and walk further. Just remember when walking that you want to work up to a steady brisk walk to make you sweat but not out of breath. Take a short walk before and after meals to calm your nerves, and burn calories too, it will give you energy, relieve that stress from the long day and help you sleep.
If you start a walking program for yourself, it is a lot more fun if you have someone to go with you. Talk to that neighbor you don’t know and maybe they’ll walk with you. Just think about it; you’ll be acquainted with someone new, talk about new things will relieve stress and get in you exercise as well. This might help that neighbor too who maybe hasn’t seen or talked to anyone in a couple of days and than they can sleep better at night.
After walking that brisk walk your doing be sure to cool down. When walking at a vigorous pace your heart rate will go up and it needs to be back to normal. Just walk a bit slow and relaxing until you’ve cooled down.
If you can’t go to sleep at night instead of getting up and turning on the TV try pacing around the house. Do some stretching and shake your arms and legs. Even walking around the house can relax you especially when everyone else is in bed and you can relax more.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Five Simple Ways To Prevent Aging
Five Simple Ways To Prevent Aging
People don’t always have to apply creams, go to the gym or undergo surgery to look young. This is because everything we need is right in front of us and all we have to do is make the most of it. Here are a few simple ways to prevent aging.
1. Studies show that exercise allows you to stay fit and strong. But did you know that sweating allows the body to exfoliate bacteria hidden in the pores? This is the reason you should bring a towel to the gym or while jogging so it can be wiped off.
2. The human body just like the planet earth is composed mainly of water. Every time we exert energy, this element is used and has to be replaced. This is the reason that doctors advise us to drink at least 8 glasses a day. Of course, there is nothing wrong with drinking more than the required volume especially after an exercise.
3. Exercise isn't enough to control anti-aging if nothing is done to improve the diet. When kids grow up, most of the food should be high in carbohydrates. Adults should substitute that with those that are high in proteins. You can do research on the web or read books about this to know which ones should be part of the lifestyle change.
4. We have always heard health experts say that people should get at least 8 hours of sleep but despite this advice, there are those who rest for only 4 to 6 everyday. One way to increase this is by reducing the time watching late night television or partying till the early morning so the body will be ready for the challenges of the following day.
5. Stress contributes to aging and the best way to control it is by being organized. You can jot things down on note pads instead of remembering important details in the head. Studies have shown that doing this aids in memory retention and lets the subconscious work on ideas that will just pop up in the morning.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
The Elder Care Survival Guide book review
The Elder Care Survival Guide
, by Martin Sabel is must reading when you are faced with the task of taking care an aging parent or parents . The sub-title "Your Essential Guide to Surviving the Emotional, Financial, Health, and Family Challenges of Caring for Aging Parents, says it all. This book thoroughly and comprehensively covers each of the topics listed in the sub-title.Martin's chapter titles include:
- Do Your Parents Really Reed Your Help?
- Two Unspoken Rules of Caregiving
- How To Turn Resistance Into Cooperation
- Find The Right Help Fast!
- Four Ways To Minimize Family Conflict
- How To Create Instant Help: The Three List Method
- The Secret Weapon of Successful Family Caregivers
- Money Pressures and How to Deal With Them
- What Long Term Care Really Cost: How To Afford It
- Smart Ways To Tap Home Equity
- But I Thought Medicare Paid For That!
- Six Rules For Avoiding Caregiver Burnout
- Moving Forward With Confidence
The Resource Directory, alone is worth the price of the book. Sabel has put together one of the most through list I have ever seen. On the list he covers everything for the goverment agencies to the private and non-profit agencies.
During this time of economic turmoil a book like "The Elder Care Survival Guide"
, by Martin Sabel is one that is needed to put us on the right road of care giving and keep us there.I hardily endorse and recommend this book.
You can get this book
The Elder Care Survival Guide Do it now.Jim Pollard
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Will You Live Too Long?
It seems like not a week goes by without hearing or reading about the impending baby boomer explosion. Much of the media attention is devoted to questioning the boomer's ability to retire at a reasonable age with a comfortable lifestyle.
Another often discussed subject relates to Medicare and the enormous strain that will occur as the boomer crowd reaches 65 years of age. This is when those who are eligible are automatically enrolled in Medicare.
As important as these issues are, they wane when compared with the problems inherent with long term care. Without proper planning, baby boomers are in jeopardy of depleting their hard earned assets.
The most reliable data regarding population longevity is found with life insurance companies. Indeed, the underwriting of life insurance policies is based on the principle of accurately identifying when various groups of individuals will die.
As a population, we are living longer. In fact, the highest rate of increased longevity belongs to those over the age of 85. Unfortunately, the increase in age is coupled with an increase in mental and medical conditions that require long term care.
Many seniors today believe their long term care costs will be absorbed by Medicare. This is simply not true! Medicare is designed primarily to help someone recover from an illness. Most people who require long term care have chronic conditions which severely limit their ability to recover.
To rely on Medicare to pay for the cost of long term care is foolish. The only government assistance available to pay this cost is found in the Medicaid program, which is federally granted and state administered.
But Medicaid is only for the destitute. It is a welfare plan intended for those who simply cannot pay the cost of receiving custodial supervision by themselves.
For years, the strict rules associated with administering Medicaid have been manipulated by clever individuals and their professional advisors. Many people who have the ability to pay for care were creating special arrangements to make it appear they were destitute when, in fact, they were not.
This so-called Medicaid Planning simply increased the enormous strain already imposed on the welfare system. Recently, Congress took steps to help alleviate this.
On February 8, 2006, President George W. Bush signed into law the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005. This multi-tasked bill closed one of the biggest loopholes in Medicaid Planning and reinforced the fact that Medicaid is for the destitute.
This should serve as a warning to the baby boomers who mistakenly believe their long term care costs will be subsidized by the government. They need to provide for themselves through the purchase of a long term care policy issued by a highly rated insurance company.
The costs associated with long term care are increasing faster than the costs of providing a college education. In some states, it costs over $300 per day to provide long term care. A properly purchased policy can offset much of this expense.
No one is immune to this problem, but it is apparent that the largest exposure exists with the baby boomers. Without adequate planning millions of additional families will be faced with financial ruin.
Their assets will be wasted in order to pay for the cost of having lived too long in an environment of custodial care. The question becomes: "Which asset will you liquidate first?" if you don't have adequate protection?
Jim and Jeanetta Pollard
http://tv.westkentucky.kctcs.edu/videoclips/50s/
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
PEOPLE OVER 35 SHOULD BE DEAD AND HERE'S WHY
According to today’s regulations and bureaucrats, those of us who were kids in the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s probably shouldn’t have survived.
Our baby cribs were covered with lead-based paint.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets….and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets.
We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle.
Horrors!
We ate cup cakes, bread and butter, and drank soda pop with sugar in it, but we were never overweight because we were always outside playing.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, drinking from one bottle, and no one actually died from this.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Play stations, Nintendo 64, X-Boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, video tape movies, surround sound, personal cell phones, personal computers, or Internet chat rooms.
Unthinkable!
We had friends! We went outside and found them.
We played dodge ball, and sometimes, the ball would really hurt.
We fell out of trees, got cut and broke bones and teeth, and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
They were accidents. No one was to blame but us. Remember accidents?
We had fights and punched each other and got black and blue and learned to get over it.
We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and ate worms, and although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes, nor did the worms live inside us forever.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend’s home and knocked on the door, or rang the bell or just walked in and talked to them.
Little league had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn’t had to learn to deal with disappointment.
Some students weren’t as smart as others, so they failed a grade and were held back to repeat the same grade.
Horrors!
Tests were not adjusted for any reason.
Our actions were our own. Consequences were expected. The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke a law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law.
Imagine that!
When we disobeyed the teacher or sassed her, we were sent to the office for a paddling – not a beating- a paddling. If our parents found out about this, chances are we would get an additional paddling. Parents demanded that we obey and show respect for our teachers.
This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers and problem solvers and inventors, ever.
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned how to deal with it all!
Perhaps you are one of us. If so, congratulations!
Anonymous – taken from the Internet
Revised and submitted by Jim and Jeanetta Pollard
9312 St. Rt. 131
Hickory, Ky. 42051
270-851-7699 or sleigh phone 270-493-0281
santa1@bellsouth.net
Our baby cribs were covered with lead-based paint.
We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, doors or cabinets….and when we rode our bikes, we had no helmets.
We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle.
Horrors!
We ate cup cakes, bread and butter, and drank soda pop with sugar in it, but we were never overweight because we were always outside playing.
We shared one soft drink with four friends, drinking from one bottle, and no one actually died from this.
We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride down the hill, only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem.
We did not have Play stations, Nintendo 64, X-Boxes, no video games at all, no 99 channels on cable, video tape movies, surround sound, personal cell phones, personal computers, or Internet chat rooms.
Unthinkable!
We had friends! We went outside and found them.
We played dodge ball, and sometimes, the ball would really hurt.
We fell out of trees, got cut and broke bones and teeth, and there were no lawsuits from these accidents.
They were accidents. No one was to blame but us. Remember accidents?
We had fights and punched each other and got black and blue and learned to get over it.
We made up games with sticks and tennis balls and ate worms, and although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes, nor did the worms live inside us forever.
We rode bikes or walked to a friend’s home and knocked on the door, or rang the bell or just walked in and talked to them.
Little league had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn’t had to learn to deal with disappointment.
Some students weren’t as smart as others, so they failed a grade and were held back to repeat the same grade.
Horrors!
Tests were not adjusted for any reason.
Our actions were our own. Consequences were expected. The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke a law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law.
Imagine that!
When we disobeyed the teacher or sassed her, we were sent to the office for a paddling – not a beating- a paddling. If our parents found out about this, chances are we would get an additional paddling. Parents demanded that we obey and show respect for our teachers.
This generation has produced some of the best risk-takers and problem solvers and inventors, ever.
The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas.
We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned how to deal with it all!
Perhaps you are one of us. If so, congratulations!
Anonymous – taken from the Internet
Revised and submitted by Jim and Jeanetta Pollard
9312 St. Rt. 131
Hickory, Ky. 42051
270-851-7699 or sleigh phone 270-493-0281
santa1@bellsouth.net
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
The Cab Ride
The following story was taken from the Internet. The author is unknown. This is such a powerful story that we feel everyone would benefit from it.
Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window. Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute and then drive away.
But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.
So I walked to the door and knocked. “Just a minute,” answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being drug across the floor.
After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80’s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940’s movie.
By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware. “Would you carry my bag out to the car?” she asked. I took the suitcase to the cab and then returned to assist the woman.
She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness.
“It’s nothing,” I told her. “I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated.”
“Oh, you’re such a good boy,” she said.
When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, “Could you drive through downtown?”
“It’s not the shortest way,” I answered quickly.
“Oh, I don’t mind,” she said. “I’m in no hurry. I’m on my way to a hospice.”
I looked in the rearview mirror. Her eyes were glistening. “I don’t have any family left,” she continued. “The doctor says I don’t have very long.”
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. “What route would you like me to take?” I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.
Sometimes she’d ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.
As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, “I’m tired. Let’s go now.”
We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.
Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.
I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair. “How much do I owe you?” she asked, reaching into her purse.
“Nothing,” I said.
“You have to make a living,” she answered.
“There are other passengers,” I responded.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly. “You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,” she said. “Thank you.”
I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.
I didn’t pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in thought. For the rest of the day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?
On a quick review, I don’t think that I have done anything more important in my life. We’re conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.
PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID, - BUT – THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU TREATED THEM.
Submitted by Jim and Jeanetta Pollard
9312 St. Rt. 131
Hickory, Ky. 42051
270-851-7699 or cell # 270-493-0281
santa1@bellsouth.net
The following story was taken from the Internet. The author is unknown. This is such a powerful story that we feel everyone would benefit from it.
Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a living. When I arrived at 2:30 a.m., the building was dark except for a single light in a ground floor window. Under these circumstances, many drivers would just honk once or twice, wait a minute and then drive away.
But I had seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only means of transportation. Unless a situation smelled of danger, I always went to the door. This passenger might be someone who needs my assistance, I reasoned to myself.
So I walked to the door and knocked. “Just a minute,” answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being drug across the floor.
After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 80’s stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940’s movie.
By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets. There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware. “Would you carry my bag out to the car?” she asked. I took the suitcase to the cab and then returned to assist the woman.
She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept thanking me for my kindness.
“It’s nothing,” I told her. “I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated.”
“Oh, you’re such a good boy,” she said.
When we got in the cab, she gave me an address, then asked, “Could you drive through downtown?”
“It’s not the shortest way,” I answered quickly.
“Oh, I don’t mind,” she said. “I’m in no hurry. I’m on my way to a hospice.”
I looked in the rearview mirror. Her eyes were glistening. “I don’t have any family left,” she continued. “The doctor says I don’t have very long.”
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter. “What route would you like me to take?” I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.
Sometimes she’d ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.
As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, “I’m tired. Let’s go now.”
We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.
Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.
I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair. “How much do I owe you?” she asked, reaching into her purse.
“Nothing,” I said.
“You have to make a living,” she answered.
“There are other passengers,” I responded.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly. “You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,” she said. “Thank you.”
I squeezed her hand, then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.
I didn’t pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly, lost in thought. For the rest of the day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?
On a quick review, I don’t think that I have done anything more important in my life. We’re conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments. But great moments often catch us unaware – beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.
PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID, - BUT – THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU TREATED THEM.
Submitted by Jim and Jeanetta Pollard
9312 St. Rt. 131
Hickory, Ky. 42051
270-851-7699 or cell # 270-493-0281
santa1@bellsouth.net
Saturday, June 02, 2007
TV Show Fabulous Fifties now streamed on internet!
GREAT NEWS!
Thanks to WKCTC upgrading their equipment our TV show The Fabulous Fifties and Beyond is now on the internet. You can view and download the weekly shows at http://tv.westkentucky.kctcs.edu/videoclips/50s/
The following is a list of the current shows.
Will Graham Celebration - July 2, 2007, September 14-16 at Paducah's Expo Center is the site for the Four Rivers Will Graham Celebration. (View Show) (Download)
Caring People Services - June 25, 2007, This program discusses the different type of services now available to the elderly in the Western Kentucky area. (View Show) (Download)
The Season of Our Lives - June 18, 2007, Relive the adventures of retired Missionaries Norman and Patty Wallace.(View Show) (Download)
Judy Askew, Author - June 11, 2007, Judy Askew's humorous writings will keep you smiling. (View Show) (Download)
Western Baptist Heart Center - June 4, 2007, Heart Problems discussed and the grand opening of the Baptist Heart Center are the topics. (View Show) (Download)
Family Caregiving - May 29, 2007, Jim & Jeanetta discuss family caregiving with Nancy Harper.(View Show) (Download)
Disaster Preparedness - May 22, 2007, Jim & Jeanetta discuss disaster preparedness with Tina Massengill.(View Show) (Download)
Do you have a love affair with chocolate? If you do I encourage you to look at "The Healthy Chocolate" website http://mxi.myvoffice.com/successranchmarketing/
If you would like more information please contact me at 270-851-7699 or 270-493-0281 or email Santa@srmkg.com
Until next time remember "use it or lose it!
"The Real Santa" Jim Pollard
Thanks to WKCTC upgrading their equipment our TV show The Fabulous Fifties and Beyond is now on the internet. You can view and download the weekly shows at http://tv.westkentucky.kctcs.edu/videoclips/50s/
The following is a list of the current shows.
Will Graham Celebration - July 2, 2007, September 14-16 at Paducah's Expo Center is the site for the Four Rivers Will Graham Celebration. (View Show) (Download)
Caring People Services - June 25, 2007, This program discusses the different type of services now available to the elderly in the Western Kentucky area. (View Show) (Download)
The Season of Our Lives - June 18, 2007, Relive the adventures of retired Missionaries Norman and Patty Wallace.(View Show) (Download)
Judy Askew, Author - June 11, 2007, Judy Askew's humorous writings will keep you smiling. (View Show) (Download)
Western Baptist Heart Center - June 4, 2007, Heart Problems discussed and the grand opening of the Baptist Heart Center are the topics. (View Show) (Download)
Family Caregiving - May 29, 2007, Jim & Jeanetta discuss family caregiving with Nancy Harper.(View Show) (Download)
Disaster Preparedness - May 22, 2007, Jim & Jeanetta discuss disaster preparedness with Tina Massengill.(View Show) (Download)
Do you have a love affair with chocolate? If you do I encourage you to look at "The Healthy Chocolate" website http://mxi.myvoffice.com/successranchmarketing/
If you would like more information please contact me at 270-851-7699 or 270-493-0281 or email Santa@srmkg.com
Until next time remember "use it or lose it!
"The Real Santa" Jim Pollard
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Early Retirement: What You Should Know
For many reasons, more and more people are opting to retire at an early age. The growing trend for the retirement is based on the fact that people are enticed to retire early than continue working and wait until they reach their retirement age of 65.
In fact, most of the surveys conducted in the United States asserted that 60% of the respondents would love to retire at an early age.
In reality, there are many benefits that people can derive when they retire early. However, there are also many consequences that result from early retirement. What they do not know is that early retirement has the potential of bringing more problems than reaping in benefits and advantages.
Here is a list of some of the reasons why retiring early can be a pretty risky activity.
1. Not in accordance with the regulations of Social Security
When people will retire at an early age, there is a great possibility that they cannot immediately obtain their Social Security benefits. This is because according to the rules and regulations of Social Security, anyone who is born after 1938 will have to wait longer than their retirement age of 65 before they can get their benefits.
Hence, early retirement may only contribute to a negative upshot if the older people’s finances where not managed properly and the only thing they expect to help them are the Social Security benefits they can get.
2. If people who took early retirement get sick, they cannot acquire some Medicare benefits.
This is because the age when people can get their Medicare benefits is when they already turn 65. Hence, if they are hospitalized and they have already filed for their early retirement, they have to obtain the necessary amount of money in order to cover the expenses in the hospital without Medicare.
3. Penalty charges apply to those who retired early and had withdrawn their IRAs early.
For people who would like to retire at an early age and wish to obtain their IRAs, they have to face a hefty 10% penalty charge.
Moreover, experts contend that the nest egg of people who wish to retire early is only 80% of what they should be getting when they retire at the age of 65.
The bottom line is that early retirement is, indeed, a personal choice and preference of an individual but one must consider the factors that may affect their life in the end.
Jim Pollard
http://www.thefabulousfifties.net
In fact, most of the surveys conducted in the United States asserted that 60% of the respondents would love to retire at an early age.
In reality, there are many benefits that people can derive when they retire early. However, there are also many consequences that result from early retirement. What they do not know is that early retirement has the potential of bringing more problems than reaping in benefits and advantages.
Here is a list of some of the reasons why retiring early can be a pretty risky activity.
1. Not in accordance with the regulations of Social Security
When people will retire at an early age, there is a great possibility that they cannot immediately obtain their Social Security benefits. This is because according to the rules and regulations of Social Security, anyone who is born after 1938 will have to wait longer than their retirement age of 65 before they can get their benefits.
Hence, early retirement may only contribute to a negative upshot if the older people’s finances where not managed properly and the only thing they expect to help them are the Social Security benefits they can get.
2. If people who took early retirement get sick, they cannot acquire some Medicare benefits.
This is because the age when people can get their Medicare benefits is when they already turn 65. Hence, if they are hospitalized and they have already filed for their early retirement, they have to obtain the necessary amount of money in order to cover the expenses in the hospital without Medicare.
3. Penalty charges apply to those who retired early and had withdrawn their IRAs early.
For people who would like to retire at an early age and wish to obtain their IRAs, they have to face a hefty 10% penalty charge.
Moreover, experts contend that the nest egg of people who wish to retire early is only 80% of what they should be getting when they retire at the age of 65.
The bottom line is that early retirement is, indeed, a personal choice and preference of an individual but one must consider the factors that may affect their life in the end.
Jim Pollard
http://www.thefabulousfifties.net
Saturday, March 17, 2007
A Guide to Secure your Retirement
There are several meanings that people might put to the term "retiring comfortably". You might plan on hopping around the globe, or obtaining a dream 'castle' in a faraway land, or lazing around in a tropical destination.
Despite these romantic scenarios, you still have to listen to your practical side. See if you can afford the standard of living that you want in your leisure years.
Whether you want to live abroad or stay in the country during retirement, you would not want to worry about finances, so it is better to plan ahead.
Secure your finances.
Studies show that most pensions do not make up the difference between what you actually need and what Social Security provides. The key is to build a solid financial plan.
You need about 70% of your income before retirement to live up to the lifestyle that you now have.
Sure, your living expenses might be lowered during your leisure years. But other things that you need to spend on will definitely increase.
Another factor to consider is inflation. Have you ever heard of prices of commodities going down?
In spite of a basically steady economy, costs are sure to rise as you grow older so you need to foresee if you will be able to afford steep prices when you only have your monthly pension to rely on.
Think "Social Security" equals "Retirement Security".
By law, a person is eligible to receive benefits once he turns 62 years old. Age, eligibility, marital status and the amount that you have contributed trough the number of years that you worked will determine exactly how much pension you will receive.
If you decide not to take advantage of the benefits by the time you turn 62, then you will definitely have more once you start withdrawing money from the system.
Check if your pension plans can keep up with growing costs.
When considering your financial situation upon retirement, check on automatic COLA's, also known as cost of living adjustments. These help your pension payments keep up with inflation. See if your pension plans have them, as most plans do not.
Consider your health care options.
Medicare coverage does not always satisfy your health care needs and expenses so you better look into it twice, especially when retiring. One way to do so is by making sure that your employer pays a sufficient amount to supplement Medicare.
By looking into all of the above factors, you will surely be secured upon retirement and once you have all the practical considerations out of the way, you will get to enjoy retirement to the fullest.
Jim Pollard
http://www.TheFabulousFifties.net
http://www.santasBookstore.com
Despite these romantic scenarios, you still have to listen to your practical side. See if you can afford the standard of living that you want in your leisure years.
Whether you want to live abroad or stay in the country during retirement, you would not want to worry about finances, so it is better to plan ahead.
Secure your finances.
Studies show that most pensions do not make up the difference between what you actually need and what Social Security provides. The key is to build a solid financial plan.
You need about 70% of your income before retirement to live up to the lifestyle that you now have.
Sure, your living expenses might be lowered during your leisure years. But other things that you need to spend on will definitely increase.
Another factor to consider is inflation. Have you ever heard of prices of commodities going down?
In spite of a basically steady economy, costs are sure to rise as you grow older so you need to foresee if you will be able to afford steep prices when you only have your monthly pension to rely on.
Think "Social Security" equals "Retirement Security".
By law, a person is eligible to receive benefits once he turns 62 years old. Age, eligibility, marital status and the amount that you have contributed trough the number of years that you worked will determine exactly how much pension you will receive.
If you decide not to take advantage of the benefits by the time you turn 62, then you will definitely have more once you start withdrawing money from the system.
Check if your pension plans can keep up with growing costs.
When considering your financial situation upon retirement, check on automatic COLA's, also known as cost of living adjustments. These help your pension payments keep up with inflation. See if your pension plans have them, as most plans do not.
Consider your health care options.
Medicare coverage does not always satisfy your health care needs and expenses so you better look into it twice, especially when retiring. One way to do so is by making sure that your employer pays a sufficient amount to supplement Medicare.
By looking into all of the above factors, you will surely be secured upon retirement and once you have all the practical considerations out of the way, you will get to enjoy retirement to the fullest.
Jim Pollard
http://www.TheFabulousFifties.net
http://www.santasBookstore.com
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Retirement At It's Best - How To Get Ready
7 Ways to Boost Your Retirement Income
Retirement contributes almost 1/3 of a person's life. It is for this reason that retirement should be given preparation and planning. Many Americans forget to save or just ignore their retirement. It’s very easy when you are young to think you have time to consider retirement later. However, the years roll by quickly and you can find yourself approaching middle age with no plan in place.
You need to start now and think of better ways to prepare for that time. It doesn’t mean that money will also retire once a person has retired. Here are some ways on how you can boost your retirement income:
1. Start saving now. It is never too late to start saving even for a little amount of money. When you save money, make it as untouchable as possible. Allocate your cash on your savings starting today and you will be surprised by the amount of money you will have by the time you retire if you start now.
2. Make a review of your finances and revise your budget. Reviewing your expenses will help you analyze where you spend your money the most. This will help you to cut your expenses and eliminate the things that you do not really need. This also teaches you on how to choose your priorities and weigh the things that really matter in your lifestyle. If golf is something that you can live without, why not allocate the money you spend on golf in your savings?
3. Review your insurance terms. Increasing your deductibles will help you cut your premiums to 20%. Do not count on Social Security or your pension plan.
4. You may want to make a quarterly payment on your taxes instead of being automatically deducted from your retirement distributions. You can also seek the help of a tax advisor regarding this issue.
5. Consider where you take your distributions. You may want withdraw funds from your Social Security first, then your taxable investments like the IRA. The main purpose here is that you should be able to cover your monthly expenses, lessen your tax fees and save as much money as possible.
6. Research investments that are intended for retirement. There are establishments that offer an investment while in retirement. You may want to get involved with with-profit bonds, stock market bonds, individual savings account, distribution bonds, and venture capital trusts.
7. Make use of your company plans. If your current company offers retirement services and then consider contributing the maximum amount. This will help you take advantage of pre-tax contributions.
Retirement contributes almost 1/3 of a person's life. It is for this reason that retirement should be given preparation and planning. Many Americans forget to save or just ignore their retirement. It’s very easy when you are young to think you have time to consider retirement later. However, the years roll by quickly and you can find yourself approaching middle age with no plan in place.
You need to start now and think of better ways to prepare for that time. It doesn’t mean that money will also retire once a person has retired. Here are some ways on how you can boost your retirement income:
1. Start saving now. It is never too late to start saving even for a little amount of money. When you save money, make it as untouchable as possible. Allocate your cash on your savings starting today and you will be surprised by the amount of money you will have by the time you retire if you start now.
2. Make a review of your finances and revise your budget. Reviewing your expenses will help you analyze where you spend your money the most. This will help you to cut your expenses and eliminate the things that you do not really need. This also teaches you on how to choose your priorities and weigh the things that really matter in your lifestyle. If golf is something that you can live without, why not allocate the money you spend on golf in your savings?
3. Review your insurance terms. Increasing your deductibles will help you cut your premiums to 20%. Do not count on Social Security or your pension plan.
4. You may want to make a quarterly payment on your taxes instead of being automatically deducted from your retirement distributions. You can also seek the help of a tax advisor regarding this issue.
5. Consider where you take your distributions. You may want withdraw funds from your Social Security first, then your taxable investments like the IRA. The main purpose here is that you should be able to cover your monthly expenses, lessen your tax fees and save as much money as possible.
6. Research investments that are intended for retirement. There are establishments that offer an investment while in retirement. You may want to get involved with with-profit bonds, stock market bonds, individual savings account, distribution bonds, and venture capital trusts.
7. Make use of your company plans. If your current company offers retirement services and then consider contributing the maximum amount. This will help you take advantage of pre-tax contributions.
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