Aging Well in the Gorge August 22nd 2017

Did you survive the eclipse? My wife and I were going to drive to her folks in Dallas, Oregon and return on Monday, but we came to our senses and decided to stay put. For one thing, I didn’t want to test how long I could last between bathroom breaks while stuck in traffic. But if you missed seeing this total eclipse, you’ll have to wait till August 12, 2045 for the next bicoastal eclipse.

When I was a child, I was afraid of what might go bump in the night, and I would hide under the covers, hold my breath, and not move a single muscle.

But it’s not the “goulies and ghosties and long-leggedy beasties” I’m afraid of now. It’s me I’m worried about going bump in the night: stumbling over a bookcase, tripping over the cat, or missing the door knob I usually grab. And the fear is real. During this year, I’ve known two folks who have fallen during the night and they both broke their hips.

One reason we are more at risk of falling during the night is we get up more often. Well, at least I do. My bladder isn’t as elastic as it once was, and those night trips to the bathroom have become a regular routine.

But there are precautions you can take. You can install nightlights in your bedroom, and safety frames or grab bars around the toilet. If you use a cane or walker, place it next to your bed - and use it. If you often get up for a drink, (and I’m talking about water, otherwise that is a different kind of problem), put a water bottle next to your bed.  If you wear slippers, make sure they are non-slip. Make sure your furniture is stable and strong enough to support your weight, and check your medications (especially new prescriptions) for any side effects that may cause dizziness or restlessness.  And it’s always a good idea to “fall proof” your house such as making sure the pathways to the bathroom or kitchen are free from clutter.

These suggestions will help make sure during the night, when you may still be half asleep and in a hurry to get to the bathroom, you aren’t the “bump in the night”.

The Center is hosting the Cascadia Mobile Legal Clinic on September 12 and 13 from 11 to 2 pm. The clinic is staffed by attorneys from Martin & Richards, LLP and the legal services they offer include wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, landlord/tenant, probate estates, elder abuse, and civil disputes. You will receive a free 30-minute consultation, and then if any additional legal services are needed, they will be free for eligible clients or on a sliding fee scale based on income. To ensure a appointment call 503-444-3449, but walk-ins are also welcome. You can find more information at their website www.cascadialawyers.com.

The NU-2-U Shop is doing “gangbuster” business ever since the store reopened in its new expanded space. You’ll find nice, gently used clothes (every week new items are added), shoes, jewelry, puzzles, and a variety of miscellaneous knick-knacks. Donations are appreciated, but because the Center has limited space for storing and processing donations, at this time we are only accepting good used clothing. You can drop off used clothing downstairs during our regular business hours from 9:00 – 5:00.

The name of the humor magazine first published in 1952 that satirized all aspects of cultural life was Mad Magazine. (I received correct answers from Jim Ayres, Sandy Haechrel and Ed Anghilante - this week’s winner of a quilt raffle ticket.)

The Marvel Comics brand debuted in November of 1961 with the first super hero team created by editor Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby. The team of Mister Fantastic, Invisible Women, Human Torch and the Thing gained superpowers after exposure to cosmic rays during a scientific mission to outer space. For this week’s “Remember When” question, what was the name of this super hero team? Email your answers to www.mcseniorcenter@gmail.com, leave a message at 541-296-4788 or send it with the last known location of Dr. Doom.

Well, it’s been another week, trying to put together the pieces in the puzzle of life. Until we meet again, try to keep an open mind but don’t let your brains fall out.

“It's not easy taking my problems one at a time when they refuse to get in line.” Ashleigh Brilliant