As I
get older, it’s hard not think about death and dying: friends pass away and my
body, like my ’87 Ford pickup, continuosly reminds me it won’t last forever. But
talking about death and dying can be a healthy experience and contrary to what
many people think, it won’t kill you.
(On
September 30 at 7:00 PM at the library in The Dalles you can participate in the
one-time event: Talking about Dying - a ninety minute conversation with other
participants, sharing stories and thoughts on the subject of death and dying.
This program, facilitated by professionals, is a statewide initiative by Oregon
Humanities.)
But
obsessing about death is not healthy and can lead to suicidal thoughts and
suicide.
Suicide
is a particular concern for older adults because they may experience many of
the risk factors: isolation, physical ailments, lack of purpose. But
understanding suicide is for all ages. It can help you, as a parent,
grandparent or friend, to know the signs and how to respond.
Some
signs that a person is possibly considering suicide are a refusal to
participate in activities they once enjoyed; engaging in risky activities;
withdrawing from society. Or making statements such as “You won’t have to worry
about me much longer.” “I can’t take this any longer.” “I’m no good to anyone
anymore.”
With
something so personal, how you respond depends on the relationship you have
with the person. But if you feel comfortable discussing with them about how
they feel, here are some suggestions – if they are not in immediate danger. (If
you feel they are call 911 at once.)
Don’t
try to avoid the subject or minimize it by saying, “Oh, don’t talk like that.”
“Look on the bright side.” “Now don’t talk such foolishness.” “You’re doing
just fine.”
But show
interest and support. Be direct - talk openly and freely about suicide. Ask
questions that allow them to talk openly about their feelings such as “How are
you doing? Do you feel like talking about how you feel? How long have you felt this way? Are you
thinking about doing something to harm yourself? What are you planning to do? Be willing to
listen and be non-judgmental. Don’t debate or lecture on the value of life.
Suicide
is too important to deal with by yourself. Involve trusted friends or family
members or a professional with experience with emotional and mental health
issues. For additional guidance and support call the Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK
(8255) to talk with a professional.
You
can learn more about this important, but often ignored subject, by attending
the Center’s Tuesday Lecture on July 29th at 11:00 when Susan Gabay,
a local Suicide Prevention advocate, will be speaking.
It is
hard to believe that October is less than two weeks away – but then it seems
like the ‘60s were only yesterday. And to start the month off right, I want to
invite you to enjoy some delicious Baby Back ribs; music by my favorite
bluegrass band, Hardshell Harmony, plus a silent auction at the annual Baby
Back Rib Dinner on Friday, October 2nd. Food will be served at the
Center from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM and the cost is still an affordable $15. Thanks
to a generous sponsorship by The Springs at Mill Creek are proceeds will
support the Center and Meals-on-Wheels. You can purchase tickets at the Center,
Klindt’s or at the door.
For
Tuesday Night Music at the Center on September 29th the newly formed
local band Country Roads will be playing. The doors open at 6:00, music starts
at 7:00. All ages are welcome - whether you are new, old or in-between. And donations
are always appreciated.
I had
many responses to what I wasn’t supposed to wear after Labor Day. The answer is
“white” and in my case white buck shoes - which I can’t imagine ever wearing again
– before or after Labor Day. (The winner of a quilt raffle ticket is Joan Brace.)
For
this week’s “Remember When” question, who was the American author and
nutritionist who became the most recognized nutritionist in the 1960s and
1970’s as an early advocate for specific nutritional views such as unprocessed
food and vitamin supplementation even though she was heavily criticized by her
peers? Email your answers to mcseniorcenter@gmail.com,
leave a message at 541-296-4788 or mail it with a copy of Let's Eat Right to Keep Fit.
Well, it’s been another week, trying to keep the
train running and on time. Until we meet again, stay in touch with your family
and friends - and yourself.
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