Aging Well in the Gorge September 22nd 2015

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 29^th 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 2^nd. 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 29^th 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.