Horizons2010Oct

by Tom Mann, cofounder of Mature Market Experts

New technologies have made ‘now’

the most exciting time to be an older adult in history. In previous issues of Horizons, I showed how this was evident even if you just focused on one very small slice of today’s technol-ogy — smart phones. I also explored the impressive advances

in customized drug development, and how robots may finally emerge from the pages of sci-ence fiction and become impor-tant fixtures in our homes.

But the new technologies which increase the power and versatility of computers — and the astounding advances in our understanding of the human brain — are even more

amazing.Scientists have recently created an

organic transistor that mimics a brain synapse. This organic transistor exhib-its the main behavior of a biological

orizonsENLIGHTEN t ENRICH t ENGAGE Issue Ten

Demanding Conductor Leads Symphony To Superb PerformancesHeritage Residents Get ‘Behind The Scenes’ Look At RSO’s Andrew Constantine In Action

The exquisite musical verses of Wagner’s “Tannhauser” Overture

surge through the concert hall, as the Reading Symphony Orchestra (RSO) glides through the overture’s somber and bracing musical passages. But sud-denly Conductor Andrew Constan-tine brings the music to a halt: there is something not quite right about the timing. The string section takes note, and soon the passage begins again.

A jarring gaffe? Hardly; for this is merely a dress rehearsal, and an exam-ple of why the conductor’s demanding leadership has enabled the orchestra to become so widely renown for its masterful performances.

“The Reading Orchestra is really heavy in strings,” notes Heritage resi-dent and classical music aficionado Cliff Keys. “The conductor is pretty strict with them, and would often stop them. They would frequently be mark-ing their bowing. They are really good.”

Cliff and a number of other Heri-tage resi-dents recently took a ‘peek

behind the curtain’ when they partici-pated in RSO’s Music in the Making program, which lets patrons watch the orchestra’s dress rehearsals.

“Before the rehearsal, two trom-bone players talked about the bass trombone and the regular trombone, and how the trombone works,” notes Cliff. This introductory discussion is a standard part of the Music in the Mak-ing program, and patrons are encour-aged to ask questions.

“The audience gets the full experi-ence of a dress rehearsal,” explains Joseph Tackett, RSO’s executive director. “It’s sort of a concert, but also a great way of seeing the creative process in action. It’s really a wonder-ful experience.A Loyal Fan Base

“Our conductor is a true perfection-ist,” Joseph continues. “It’s one reason we sound so good. But part of the story is also that, because the commu-nity is so supportive, we’ve been able to bring in top artists.

“The Reading Symphony has a spe-cial place in a lot of musicians’ hearts. They really feed off the Reading Sym-phony audiences’ enthusiasm.”

The abounding natural beauty of central Pennsylvania is well

known. But Berks County has a hid-den asset: its rich theater community. The Genesius Theater, Reading Com-munity Players and Reading Civic Theater are all well established com-munity theater groups that entertain the community and help to train local actors.

If you want Broadway without trek-king to Manhattan, consider attending a show at the Sovereign Center for the Performing Arts. Heritage resident

Carol Lauer, a former New Yorker, recently attended a performance of Menopause: The Musical at the Sov-ereign. Carol thoroughly enjoyed the performance, saying “compared to Broadway, it is every bit as good.” The admission price is a lot lower too! She also recommends nearby Lancast-er’s two dinner theaters: Dutch Apple Dinner Theater and The Rainbow Din-ner Theater.Community Theaters

The Genesius Theater was estab-lished by Jane Simmon Miller in 1971

as a community group where youth could be included as part of the acting community. Their mission statement notes that “the best theater is an expe-rience of living and feeling, changing and growing, challenging and becom-ing,” and that the group is dedicated to presenting work that “enriches the cultural community for people of all

Region Hosts Variety Of Choices For People Who Love To Laugh & Cry In The Dark

Tech Advances Hold Promise For Increasing Lifespans & Mental Capacities

InsideAnother Way To Connect At The TavernCommunity’s hot spot goes high tech .................. 2

The Doctor Is InPhysical therapy helps patients leap back into active lives ....... 3

Crossword Puzzle ................ 3

A Talented BunchResidents display their passion for being creative ..... 5

Sudoku .............. 6

Easing Sibling EnvyGrandparents can help families adjust to new arrivals .......... 6

SEE “SYMPHONY” ON P. 7

SEE “NEW AGING” ON P. 2

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RSO Music Director Andrew Constantine’s disciplined approach to conducting has helped to make the talented orchestra a widely-admired musical institution. (Photo courtesy of the RSO.)

October 2010HorizonsPage 2

Area Theaters Cater To Patrons Seeking More Drama In Their Livesages in Berks County.” In addition to more traditional plays, the Gen-esis features Readers Theater: short performances of eclectic material

“from the comedic to the classic to the dramatic to the absurd to the adventure.” Some of these performances cater to seniors. (See the box for upcoming

shows.)The community-

based Reading Com-munity Players are a non-profit, volunteer organization. Their goal is to encourage and nurture both local actors and writers, and to pro-vide affordable, cultur-ally-diverse work. In the true spirit of supporting talented youth, the Players offer a $250 scholarship for graduating seniors pur-suing a higher education degree in the arts.Happy Birthday

The Players will be celebrating an impres-sive milestone — their 90th year — with a per-formance of Toscani on Friday, November 12. The troupe’s quality perfor-mances draw large audi-ences despite scarce park-ing. To make attending a

performance hassle free, a courtesy shuttle service picks up patrons from the 13th & Green Elementary School for all performances.

The Reading Civic Theater has even a longer history than the Play-ers, starting out on October 17, 1894 as the Reading Opera Society. Through its many incarnations it has remained a strong source of entertainment and a showcase for local talent, living up to its motto of “Bringing the Best of Broadway to Berks.” The Reading Civic The-ater has been performing musicals since 1914. Large scale Broadway productions are presented on the

first weekends in May and Decem-ber at the Sovereign Center for the Performing Arts. Other shows are at 126 North 10th Street. This non-profit group currently boasts 275 adult and student members. Set pieces and property rentals are available from their large inventory.

With so many quality upcom-ing performances it could be hard to choose which ones to attend. Brighten the upcoming indoor months with a treat close to home (no worries about traveling far in inclement weather): attend a theater show to expand your world and support your neighbors’ creativity.

spiking synapse, and can lead to a new generation of neuro-inspired comput-ers, capable of responding in a manner similar to the nervous system … which in turn could lead us to logical computers.I Can Read Your Mind

Researchers at Intel are working on a “brain sens-ing” chip that could allow an individual to control a TV, computer or robot simply by thinking about it. Experts say that this tech-nology is 10-15 years away, but the San Francisco com-pany that designed a special headset, Emotiv, is already selling headsets to research-ers for $500. Based on the latest devel-opments in neuro-technology, the com-pany claims to have developed a helmet device that can detect thoughts, feel-ing and expression. The company envisions a future where machines can detect non-conscious communica-tion, including perception, intuition and expression. Emotiv is initially focusing on the electronic gaming industry. The prospects for this technology are amazing and could be coming soon.

In fact, pushed by the gaming community and potential profits, I think brain-computer interface (BCI) technology could be mainstream sooner than 10 years. Aside from the fun gamers will have, think of the advantages for those

with serious disabilities. Will we look funny wear-ing these devices? Perhaps, but we could easily move to implants.

Is this an overly aggres-sive prediction? Look how quickly smartphones have been adopted.

Did you know that there are 328 hip replacements a day in the US? Who could have predicted that adoption rate 10 years ago? My point is that if the technology empowers people, they’ll use it.

Now, combine some of the ‘intellectual’ technology with some of the ‘physical’ technology improvements, and you have an assisted

living din-ing room that looks very differ-ent. Imag-ine a world with no wheel chairs or walk-ers. Don’t believe me? Go to You-

Tube and type in “Honda Walking Device.” Housing developers, imagine the savings of not having to do universal design. Imagine the dignity of putting the physically disabled on a level playing field.

Apple has recently filed a new patent for 3-D glasses. The obvious application is that the glasses will be used to watch 3-D movies and play more immersive video games. Less obvious is that the glasses may also be a boon to innovative educa-tors and physical therapists. How could this help? How many of you have tried an exercise DVD where the

instructor is teaching you a new move that you actually can’t execute because you are bent out of shape trying to see HOW to do it? Now, tie new technology’s ability to measure you movement

or progress with these pro-grams and you have fitness or therapy programs that progress as you progress.

One of the main reasons people give up on exercise and therapy programs?

Boredom! The program isn’t evolving and keeping their interest. We’re not that far away from the reality of exercise devices work-ing with you and guiding

Computer/Brain Interface May Help Keep Us Physically Fit

SEE “HIGH TECH” ON P. 7

Upcoming ShowsGenesius TheaterCarousel — “The Best Musical of the

20th Centur” (Time Magazine) — starts November 5. Call 610-371-8151 for info.

Reading Community PlayersEvil Dead, the Musical is a live theater

production which takes the elements of cult classic horror films and com-bines them to into a crazy theatrical experience. Recommended for mature audiences due to language and sexual references … oh, and the blood. Starts October 22. Call 610-375-9106 for info.

Sovereign Center for the Performing ArtsA Chorus Line: Tuesday, October 26,

2010 at 7:30 p.m.Grease: Thursday, December 9, 2010 at

7:30 p.m.Call (610) 898-7469 for info.

Coffee and warm maple syrup aromas waft through the air in the morning

as the friendly wait staff and busy chef briskly move about serving the Tavern’s early morning clientele. Glance around this beautiful restaurant which is located in The Heritage’s clubhouse, and you’re also likely to notice something else. In the corner of the restaurant by enormous windows is a gentleman sitting in an oversized leather chair basking in the sun as he surfs the internet with his new Apple IPad.

Make no mistake about it; many of the residents of The Heritage of Green Hills have immersed themselves in the World Wide Web. And they’re not alone. Accord-ing to Nielson, the number of people 65+ online has risen 55% over the last 5 years from 11.3 million active users in Novem-ber, 2004 to today’s 17.5 million. And that percentage is jumping exponentially every year. Did you know that the fastest growing group of Facebook users is the 50+ crowd?

“Just like the younger generation, com-puters are a huge part of our residents’ lives. They are checking emails, social networking, searching out news, weather,

and health care information. Basically, they’re using the technology the same way everyone else is,” explains The Heritage’s Director of Marketing and Sales, Chris Romick. Chris continues, “We’re recently installed wireless internet service in The Tavern because it’s what people expect. They expect internet access beyond what they have in their villa or apartment home. They want to be able to read the newspaper online while enjoying a cup of coffee in a social setting.”

So, what are The Heritage’s residents doing online? In reality, much the same as the rest of the general online population - checking emails, social networking, search-ing out news and weather.

Not comfortable with a computer yet? The Heritage also offers their residents computer classes for beginners. Well By Designer Director Cheryl Anderson adds, “There’s no reason to be left behind, our team makes learning fun and easy. Plus, we know that learning new things like how to use the computer and researching informa-tion online is good for your brain. In short, use it or lose it!”

Popular Heritage Tavern A Hot Spot For Socializing Or Getting Online

The San Francisco company, Emotiv, is already selling

headsets to researchers for

$500.

FROM “DRAMA” ON P. 1

Guest bartender Lindsay Hallman helped serve drinks to guests of the community’s recent hot air balloon rides.

FROM “NEW AGING” ON P. 1

Page 3 HorizonsOctober 2010

We all know that as we age our body needs more maintenance

in order to function well. Little by little the aches and pains increase and balance often diminishes. Physical therapy can help you recover from injuries, and prevent further ones by strengthening and improving balance. It can also eliminate or decrease the need for pain medications or surgery.

After visiting your primary physi-cian about an injury or chronic pain, he or she may write a prescription for you to see a physical therapist. The prescription will indicate how many physical therapy sessions you can have. Don’t hesitate to ask your physician if you might benefit from physical therapy if he hasn’t sug-gested it.

Once you have that prescription in hand, what can you expect at the physical thera-pist’s office?The Basics Of Physical Therapy

The initial visit will include a review of your medical history and a physical evaluation that may include measuring strength, balance, flex-ibility, coordination, posture, heart rate and respiration, depending on your diagnosis or symptoms. The physical therapist (PT) may also observe your functional activities (such as getting up from the floor, or your gait) and body mechanics (the way you use and posi-tion your body to do activi-ties). Your first visit may be limited to an evaluation, or the physical therapy may start that day.

Often, treatment must first address any pain and swelling before work-ing on strength and becoming limber. High tech tools such as electric muscle stimulators and ultrasound can help decrease pain, while old fashioned massage can help loosen tight tissues and increase flexibility and alignment. Cold and ice also aid in relieving pain and swelling from arthritis and injuries, while heat can be beneficial in cases of osteoarthritis or immobility (but is generally not recommended for recent injuries until 48 hours have elapsed). If you need special equipment (custom footwear, crutches, etc.), your physical therapist can advise you how to obtain it.

Physical therapy can also address some very specific conditions. For example, vestibular reha-bilitation can be implemented to treat vertigo. Female urinary incontinence and pelvic pain can be eased with physical therapy exercises. Hydrotherapy, oxygen treatment, or electrical stimulation can be used for wound care. Decon-gestive lymphatic drainage (massage that aids in decreasing swelling caused by a malfunctioning lymphatic system) can encourage tissue fluid to drain.

Electrical stimulation may sound scary, but it is actually pleasant (just a slight tingle). Small

electrical pads are applied to the area to be treated and then electrical currents are adminis-tered at very low levels to help eliminate pain. Scientists are not certain why this works, but speculate that it either confuses pain signals to the brain, or encourages the body to make endor-phins (natural pain-killers). This technology can also be utilized to make muscles tense up and

contract, helping to maintain muscle tone or even re-teach muscles to contract. Patients with severe arthritis or who are recovering from a stroke or knee surgery often find this helpful.The Truth About Ultrasound

Physical therapists will also often use ultrasound. Studies show this high tech therapy has a mixed track record; not all patients benefit. Patients who do respond to this tech-

nique find that the high-pitched sound waves can decrease muscle spasms, relieve pain and inflam-mation, and encourage healing. It also relaxes and warms muscles prior to exercise. Ultrasound deep-heating techniques are more controversial, so investigate the benefits and risks with your PT before starting deep-heating therapy.

Some very low tech treat-ments are highly effective too, such as manual therapy (treat-ment performed with hands only). Massage, mobilization and manipula-tion can be employed to relax muscles, diminish pain, and promote pliancy. Mas-sage relaxes muscles, improves blood

flow, and lowers pain in the soft tissues. The use of deliberate movements to pull, push or twist bones and joints into position is called “mobili-zation.” Its goal is to loosen tight tissues around a joint and improve alignment and elasticity. “Manipulation” — an aggressive treatment with both pros and cons — employs quick, forceful movements to position the bones and joints.Learning Healthy Habits

Education is an essential ingredient in effec-tive, long-lasting physical therapy. So in addition to evaluating your functional activities and body mechanics, PTs will advise you on how to avoid injuries while performing your everyday tasks, and how to protect your joints from re-injury. They may also provide tips on how to make your home more user-friendly when dealing with vision, strength, or balance problems. From time to time the PT should check to make sure you are continuing to effectively implement these home strategies.

Next, you will begin an exercise routine specifically targeted on the areas you need to improve. While you are working toward your goals, the PT or the physical therapist assistant (PTA) will be carefully assessing your progress to be sure you are executing the exercises cor-rectly to maximize their efficacy and avoid fur-

High tech tools such as electric muscle stimulators and

ultrasound can help decrease pain, while old fashioned massage can

help loosen tight tissues.

Physical Therapy Helps Restore Our

Ability To Live Actively

Dr. Roland Newman II, D.O.

SEE “THERAPY” ON P.

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Mohicans28 Sage31 Rubbish: Brit.33 Wood sorrel34 Revolutions per

minute (abbr.)35 Small flock36 Luzon people

37 Father of Jehoshepaht

38 Pointed arch39 And other: abbr. (2

words) (Lat.)40 Caribbean volcano42 Cuff44 New sugarcane

shoot46 Female vampire50 Pub fare52 End55 Aid to Dependent

Children (abbr.)56 Victim of Cain57 Frog genus58 Council for Econ.

Advisors (abbr.)59 Indicating, in a way

(suf.)60 Greenland town61 Possessed

DOWN1 Birthplace of

Beethoven2 Samoan port3 Phil. island4 Barking deer5 Caliph6 Win7 US dam8 Extend9 Mack10 Ambassador (abbr.)11 Public Broadcasting

Service (abbr.)19 Wish undone21 Fr. artist23 Alcoholic drink24 Roof edge26 Things done27 Hall (Ger.)28 Swathe29 ___ dixit

30 Grig (2 words)32 Grope35 Cavity (suf.)39 Environmental

Protection Agency (abbr.)

41 Ahead43 Muslim deity45 Monster47 Speed-of-sound

number48 Fancy49 Academy (abbr.)50 Sheep’s cry51 Abate53 Graine54 Sayings (suf.)

Answers on page 7

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

October 2010Page 4 Horizons

October EventsHere are some highlights of

activities residents enjoyed (or will be enjoying) in October. For more information, contact us at 484-269-5143.

ON CAMPUSMonday in the Art Studio:

Mondays at 1 p.m.October 4: Holiday Crafts. FreeOctober 11: ArtOctober 18: Cutwork picture

design. $5October 25: Dried flowers with

Gene. $5

Phillies Games in Tavern: $1 hot dogs and $2 domestic beers: Friday October 1, Saturday Octo-ber 2, Sunday October 3.

Tuesday, October 5Heritage Literary Dinner

Club: Sarah’s Keylive Kitteridge, Elizabeth Strout. Dinner at 5 p.m., discussion at 6 p.m.Wednesday, October 6

Alvernia Sr. College Breakfast: Daria LaTorre, Associate Dean of Outreach at Alvernia introduces us to their Sr. College. 8:30 a.m.

Comedy with Linda: Steve Allen’s 75th Birthday Celebration. 8:30 a.m.Friday, October 8

Bizarre Bazaar: Big and small treasures from your Heritage neighbors downsizing. Hot dogs for breakfast. 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.Tuesday, October 12

Health Series: Awareness of

Creative minds Dolores Olsen, Rodney Focht, Mary Ann Focht, Pat Lang, Barbara Willar, and Addie Bauman gather around the table to chat about the show’s many impressive pieces.

Dick Walter’s passion for painting is just one of his many creative talents

Joanne Just and Cheryl Anderson admire a beautiful work by Millie Ruttenberg.

David Lumb’s deft watercolors attracted many approving looks.

October 2010 Horizons Page 5

October EventsHere are some highlights of

activities residents enjoyed (or will be enjoying) in October. For more information, contact us at 484-269-5143.

ON CAMPUSMonday in the Art Studio:

Mondays at 1 p.m.October 4: Holiday Crafts. FreeOctober 11: ArtOctober 18: Cutwork picture

design. $5October 25: Dried flowers with

Gene. $5

Phillies Games in Tavern: $1 hot dogs and $2 domestic beers: Friday October 1, Saturday Octo-ber 2, Sunday October 3.

Tuesday, October 5Heritage Literary Dinner

Club: Sarah’s Keylive Kitteridge, Elizabeth Strout. Dinner at 5 p.m., discussion at 6 p.m.Wednesday, October 6

Alvernia Sr. College Breakfast: Daria LaTorre, Associate Dean of Outreach at Alvernia introduces us to their Sr. College. 8:30 a.m.

Comedy with Linda: Steve Allen’s 75th Birthday Celebration. 8:30 a.m.Friday, October 8

Bizarre Bazaar: Big and small treasures from your Heritage neighbors downsizing. Hot dogs for breakfast. 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.Tuesday, October 12

Health Series: Awareness of

Community ResourcesThursday, October 21

Waddell & Reed Presentation: “Keeping Track” Staying organized with a financial plan. 2 p.m.Friday, October 22

Employee Appreciation Day Resident Potluck: Bring your favorite dish for a day of fun with the Heritage Staff. Resident servers, art, contests, silly games, and more. RSVP @ 5144 with your food donation 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Wednesday, October 27

The CatWorks: Visit the stray, homeless, abandoned kittens. Play with them, hold them, love them and learn about this great rescue team. 1 p.m.Friday, October 29

2nd Annual Halloween BashHappy Hour & Dancing in

Tavern: 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. $5Ghostly Buffet in Brandywine:

6 p.m.

ONGOING ON CAMPUSMondays: Wii Games 1 p.m.Tuesdays: Bowling 11:30 a.m.,

Bridge 1 p.m., Tap Dancing 2 p.m.

Wednesdays: LCR Dice 7 p.m.Thursdays: Bowling 11:30 a.m.Saturdays: Bridge 1 p.m., Movies

7 p.m.Sundays: Bridge 1 p.m., Movies

7 p.m.

OFF CAMPUSSaturday, October 2

Music In The Making: Reading Civic Orchestra invites us behind the scenes to meet a performer and watch their rehearsal of “German Heritage”. Music by Wagner, Schumann & Brahms. 12:30 p.m.Sunday, October 3

Fall Dollhouse & Miniature Show: Craftsmen offering miniatures for collectors at all levels of hobby from beginner to advanced. 9 a.m.Sunday, October 3

The Calm Before The Storm: Experience everyday life just before the Civil War. 1 p.m.Monday, October 4

Screening of Documentary: “The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers”. 5 p.m.Saturday, October 9

Hay Creek Apple Festival: Enjoy apple foods, cider, desserts and more. 10 a.m.

Gospel Sing-Along: Musical groups, food, fun, and great fellowship. 2 p.m.Sunday, October 10

Stoudtburg Village Craft Fair: A festive atmosphere with artisans on cobblestone streets in a quaint village. 12:30 p.m.Wdensday, October 13

Martin & Company: Martin Guitar Museum is a centre for

reflection, bringing together music history, culture and craftsmanship. $3, 9 a.m.Friday, October 15

Quilts From the Heart of Berks: Over 200 quilts on display, vendors, small gifts, sewing articles, craft supplies, and a café for lunch. NoonSaturday, October 16

Clara Driscoll and the Tiffany Girls: Learn of the women who labored anonymously creating the Tiffany masterpieces. $15, 1:30 p.m.Wednesday, October 20

Longwood Gardens Tour: Enjoy spectacular tree houses, flowers, fountains, demonstration with fall flare and autumn colors. $14, 9 a.m.Friday, October 22

Lollapalooza: Exeter Community Library presents dinner and music by The Groovemasters. Help keep the library doors open. 6:30 p.m.Sunday, October 24

Birds of Prey: Naturalist Rich Bonnet gives a close up look at the nesting habits of Ravens, Hawks and high tree nesters. 1:30 p.m.Wednesday, October 27

Hollywood Casino: Explore the machines, table games and many restaurants. 10 a.m.Saturday, October 30

King Frost Parade: Largest fall parade on the East Coast. 5:30 p.m.

OFF CAMPUS SERIESAlvernia College Lunch

Bunch: Lunch & Discussion Club on Campus for Seniors, Mondays 11:15 a.m.October 4: “Life Along the

Amazon”October 11: Fishery Restoration

in YellowstoneOctober 18: History & Beliefs of

the Mennonite CommunityOctober 25: Jane Austen’s Books

Flying Off the Shelves

2010 Literary Festival: “Deepening Our Roots” at Alvernia.October 11: Author of Biggest

Brother, 6 p.m.October 14: Tim Stark’s

Memoirs, 6 p.m.October 16: Researching Your

Roots, 12:30 p.m.October 19: Leadership in

Rabbit, Run, NoonOctober 20: SJ Hart’s Lies In

Silence, 6 p.m.October 21: Arts & Poetry

Fusion, 2:30 p.m.October 26: Dr. Laurence

Mazzeno, 10:30 a.m.October 27: Harry Humes,

Poetry, 12:30 p.m.October 28: Dr. Donna Yarri,

Theology, 10:30 a.m.

Lois Beam and Jeanine Walter share some observations about the show’s truly remarkable miniatures with Heritage Fitness Specialist Lindsay Hallman.

Carol Lauer’s version of the Reading Pagoda will be incorporated into the community’s train

garden.

October 2010HorizonsPage 6

Just can’t wait to get your hands on that new baby? There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a cuddle or two, but a bigger job awaits: help-ing the older grandchildren make the leap to big brother or big sister.

The days and weeks after the birth or adoption of a new baby are some of the hardest of an older child’s life. Their routine—some-thing even a whirling dervish of a toddler craves—has been turned on its head. And that, says upstate New York child psychologist Amy Dworetsky, is where grandparents can make all the difference.

“Kids crave structure,” she says. “They crave continuity.”

Grandparents, who aren’t sleep deprived thanks to the new addi-tion and who aren’t spending days in the hospital, then days diaper-ing, feeding and burping, have the time to keep a child’s routine going. Whether the oldest grandchildren are camping out at Grandma and Grandpa’s house for a few days or you’re flying in to lend a hand, this is a time for bonding with the grandchildren you already know.

“When my younger son, John, was born, Nick had my mother to himself,” Dworetsky recalls. “Where everything in his life was different—he even had to

move into a new room—he didn’t have to share her. She was the one thing that didn’t change.”

A grandparent’s role is simple: be there. Make dinner. Read a bed-time story. Find out what they’re interested in, and indulge them in a trip to the museum to see their favorite dinosaurs or buy an extra ice cream cone on the way home.

“As the grandparent, you can enjoy the fun of the older child as well as the fun of the new baby,” says Marian Edelman Borden, parenting expert and author of The Baffled Parent’s Guide to Sibling Rivalry (McGraw-Hill, 2003).

When Borden’s mother-in-law died, Borden’s son penned a memo-rial that spoke volumes about the way a grandparent can make their mark on a child.

“He wrote, ‘She made each one of us feel like they were

the favorite,’” Borden recalls.

It’s easy to love a newborn baby with their sweet

smells and their cuddly nature.

What grandparents have to remember is how to spread that love around. It wouldn’t hurt to show a rare bit of favoritism toward the older grandkids just for the time being.

When people ooh and ahh over Dworetsky’s younger child, the grandmother, Harriet Podbielski, is quick to remind them that 6-year-old Nick has plenty of praiseworthy attributes.

“I throw my two cents in for him,” Podbielski says with a grin. “I say ‘Nick hit a home run today at T-ball’ or ‘Nick got a gold star today at school.’

“He looks up at me and just smiles.”

Even though mom’s lap has

disappeared in recent months, grandchildren have learned yours is always open—and now they need to know it’s here to stay.

“It grounds a child,” Podbiel-ski says, “and helps them realize they’re part of this long line of wonderful people.”Good Read-Alouds For New SiblingsDarcy and Gran Don’t Like Babies,

by Jane CutlerWhen You Visit Grandma and

Grandpa, by Anne BowenIris and Walter and Baby Rose, by

Elissa Haden GuestAuthor note: Jeanne Sager is

a regular contributor to parent-ing publications including Babble.com; Brain,Child magazine; and HybridMom magazine. She and her husband and their daughter live in upstate New York. Her blog is Inside Out.

This article originally appeared in the April 2009 issue of GRAND Magazine. Reprinted with permis-sion of GRAND Media, LLC, copy-right © 2010. All rights reserved.

ther injury. (A practicing PT must a have masters or doctoral degree in the field and pass national and state licensing exams. PTAs must complete a 2-year associate’s degree, and are commonly state licensed, certified, or registered.) Any time you are out of breath or experience soreness or swelling, be sure to alert the professional.

This constant monitoring of your progress will insure that it is safe. Usually, you will also be taught exercises you can do at home, along with correct body mechanics and how to use

any special equipment you may need. You most probably will be introducing new exercises into your daily routine, but you may also be adjust-ing what you currently do to maximize its health benefits. Activities that will be encouraged in your new regimen include stretching (an impor-tant component of physical therapy because it reduces joint stress), lifting weights, aerobics, and core stability exercises (to strengthen trunk muscles and hips).Studies Establish PT’s Benefits

In The New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Thomas M. Gill reported that physical therapy can help seniors fend off certain disabilities that are common among older adults. He and his colleagues evaluated subjects who completed both seven-month and twelve-month physical therapy programs designed to improve muscle strength, balance and move-ment. The researchers found this group had less disability than peers who only received a health educa-tion program over the same time periods.

Similarly, The American Physi-cal Therapy Association reports that physical therapy for balance impairments can reduce the risk of falling in the elderly, preventing serious injuries. It may seem coun-terintuitive, but maintaing physical activity as you age helps to prevent

falls. Staying inactive lessens your ability to keep your balance, proper body alignment, and confidence in mobility.

Evaluation, education, pain relief and exercise are all part of the physical therapy package. Now that you know what to expect, don’t hesitate to utilize this highly effective, medication-free tool that can sometimes help avoid costly surgeries and prevent injuries. Frank Peppe, PT at St. Joseph’s Rehab at The Heritage of Green Hills, succinctly summarizes this philosophy, “We hope to restore function, and reduce pain.”

If your retirement com-munity offers on-site care, be sure to take advantage of all the gains you can achieve. And enjoy the perks of being the healthi-est you possible!

Dr. Newman and his associates at Green Hills Family Medicine hold regular hours at The Heritage’s on-site medical center.

Sources cited and for further information:http://www.webmd.comhttp://careerplanning.about.com/od/

occupations/p/phys_therapist.htmBureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department

of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Physical Therapists, online at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos080.htm

http://www.geriatricspt.org/members/sig-bf-abstracts.cfm?#a9

American Physical Therapy Association (APTA)http://preventdisease.com/news/articles/physi-

cal_therapy_elderly_staves_disability.shtml

Studies Establish Physical Therapy’s Ability To Make A Lasting Impact

GRANDparents Corner

Sibling BoostersWhen the new baby comes, there’s a

unique role for grandparentsby Jeanne Sager

FROM “THERAPY” ON P. 3

Constant monitoring of your progress will insure that it is safe.

Answers on page 7

Page 7October 2010 Horizons

RSO Earns Rave Reviews For Its Schumann, Wagner PerformancesCliff appreciates how fortunate the region

is to have such a top notch local ensemble. He grew up in West Chester, but his decades-long service as an Army paratrooper — including an extended stint with the 101st Screaming Eagles — took him far from home. A year ago, he moved to The Heritage from California to be close to his daughter, who lives nearby.

“At an early age, my parents taught me to appreciate classical music,” Cliff explains. “I started playing the violin when I was five years old.”

He continued to study the violin for nearly two decades, and even served as concert master of his college’s symphony. Though he hasn’t played the instru-ment in many years, his enthusiasm for classical music remains strong. Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, and Schubert rank among his favorites.Staying Engaged

“I go to all the concerts that they take us to,” Cliff explained, referring to just one of the many activities that The Heri-tage of Green Hills helps organize for its residents. “They set things up for us, which we appreciate.”

He relished taking in the RSO’s dress rehearsal.

“The pianist was just fantastic,” he com-mented about the playing of guest artist Alon Goldstein. He admired Alon’s deft adjustment to Conductor Andrew Constantine’s many interrup-tions during the rehearsal of the Schumann Piano Concerto.

“It’s a fairly long concerto, and the conduc-tor would frequently stop.” he says “It had to be difficult for Alon to stop and restart in the middle like that.”

But Andrew’s perfectionism paid off for RSO

patrons during the evening’s full performance, and greatly impressed. Reading Eagle music critic Susan Peña. On the RSO’s handling of Wagner’s Tannhauser Overture, she commented, “From the ‘Pilgrims’ Chorus’ at the beginning, featuring lovely playing by the French horns, clarinets and bassoons to the bacchanalian pas-sages of the ‘Venusburg’ music, the orchestra played brilliantly.”

She raved about Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A minor as well: “Pianist Alon Goldstein, returning to the RSO after performing with them in January 2009, gave a beautiful, finely calibrated interpretation of the concerto, as did Constantine.”

High-tech Tools Make Staying In Shape More Funyou along your very own personal-ized training program, providing you with interesting and surprising challenges along the way. By the way, that’s why socially interactive games have been so successful: We can’t predict what’s coming next in the game.Science Fiction To Science Fact

How could this evolve even futher? There’s a company in Eng-land called Musion Technology that is developing holograms. That’s right baby boomers, remember watching Star Trek, where they used holograms for training, relax-ation and fun? Well, they are now a reality. To take a peek, return to YouTube and type in “Prince Charles Hologram.”

So, what are the implications? Well, we’ve already seen how games like the Wii have changed our exercise behavior with fun games like Wii Bowling. Those same principals can be used for many other applications.

Personally, I think that the real opportunities exist in behavioral modification. Humans are by nature both social and competitive. How else could you explain the suc-cess of Facebook’s Mafia Wars and Farmville?

In fact, if you look at some of the most successful games of the last five years, they have flipped the gaming world on its head. Think

about it. These games have no end, they are on-going and they utilize social interaction. Facebook has over 400 million users, that’s bigger than most countries. The US only has 308 million people by compari-son. So, there are plenty of people to interact with, socialize with, and most of all compare yourself to. Then, when you throw into the mix augmented reality, like the Wii, you start to see real behavioral change.

For example, a not-for-profit foundation, LEAF Ltd., is developing a brain fitness program that implements social interaction and reinforcement, i.e. live classes, with augmented reality computer based training, in a comprehensive cognative fitness program called Super Noggin (www.SuperNoggin.com). The goal is true behavioral change, to help people improve their cognitive health. This innova-tive approach is already being used at The Heritage of Green Hills.Older … But Wiser?

In the next 30 years, some experts think we will see expo-nential growth in life expectancy. Remember, ‘exponential’ is the power of doubling. With each year seeing more and more advances,

this is how our friend Aubrey de Grey, the researcher I introduced in my first article in this series in August, arrives at the idea that some people alive today could live to be hundreds of years old. In fact, Mr. de Grey coined the term ‘actu-arial escape velocity’ (AEV) which is the point at which life expectancy goes up faster than 1 year per year. Once we reach AEV, he says, each

year our odds of not dying are better than they were the previ-ous year.

Farfetched? Maybe. But whether any indi-vidual lives

the lifespan that de Grey thinks possible, there’s no question our society as a whole is aging at an incredible rate. The number of centenarians is increasing at 7% per year, which means we are doubling the centenarian popu-lation every decade, pushing it into the millions in the next few years. With the average life expectancy of a US citizen now over 78, even a 30% increase in healthy life span will

give the first beneficiaries of reju-venation therapies another 20 years. During those 20 important years, science might continue its amazing exponential march, adding addi-tional second-generation therapies that could give you another 30% increase. How long can this process could repeat itself, giving us many more healthy, active years?

All of this is good news, right? After all, we’re going to live for-ever. Well, I’m not so sure. But I do know it’s time to start paying atten-tion to the old adage, “If I knew I was going to live this long, I would have taken better care of myself.”

Photos courtesy of the RSO.

ANSWERS

FROM “SYMPHONY” ON P. 1

FROM “HIGH TECH” ON P. 2

Phillies Fans Enjoy Outstanding SeasonWith a truly intimidating pitching staff leading them to the best regular

season record in the major leagues, the 2010 Phillies enjoyed one of their best seasons in recent memory. Fans at The Heritage of Green Hills enjoyed cheering the team on together as they gathered in the community’s Tavern to watch the playoffs.

The real opportunities exist in behavioral

modification. Humans are by nature both

social and competitive.

The Sovereign Performing Arts Center hosts the Reading Symphony Orchestra as well as numerous other musical and theatrical performers.

The RSO will perform next on Saturday, November 13, with outstanding guest soprano Janice Chandler Eteme.

HorizonsPage 8 October 2010

Have You Visited The Heritage At Green Hills Yet?If you haven’t, you owe it to yourself to

stop by and see the beautiful apartments and villas at the area’s premier active 55 retire-ment community. You’ll enjoy envisioning the many floor layout possibilities that await you at The Heritage as you stroll through our gorgeous model apartments, tastefully appointed with furnishings from David’s Furniture. Fall is an excellent time to appre-ciate The Heritage’s lovely wooded campus.

Call Laura Zartman at 484-269-5090 today for a personal appointment with one of our retirement specialists.

The Heritage of Green Hills Sales Office Hours

Monday through Friday9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sunday11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Appointments Recommended.

The kit tells you everything you need to know about this incredible maintenance-free lifestyle, including details on prices, the amenities, ser-vices, and the important access to on-site health care. Send in the coupon below, or request your kit online at http//tinyurl.com/AHGHkit … or call today to receive your free, comprehensive retirement kit. (484) 269-5090

� Yes, please send me my free retirement information kit.

Fill out this coupon and send to:The Heritage of Green Hills

200 Tranquility Lane, Reading, PA 19607www.HeritageOfGreenHills.com

Name ___________________________________________

Address _________________________________________

City ______________________ State ______ Zip ________

Email ___________________________________________

Phone#______________________________ AdCode Hrzn10

Free Information Kit!Prices & Floor Plans Included!

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNIT YEQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNIT Y

So It’s Always 72 And SunnyAre you dreading

the coming icy winds and slip-

pery snowfalls? If you fantasize about moving to a Pacific atoll to escape the inconveniences of a Pennsylvania winter — but don’t want to leave family, friends, or a job behind — consider the oasis of The Heritage of Green Hills.

A full-service retire-ment community, The Heritage at Green Hills puts every imaginable ser-vice, amenity, and activity within a comfortable and easy climate-controlled walk of your beautiful villa or apartment home. And if you hate to drive in icy conditions, take our free shuttle to your appointments. So enjoy the luxury of an all-season pool and leave the shovel-ing to us!The Village Center

Go to the bank, beauty salon/barber shop, or doc-tor’s office without even going out in the freezing weather to get to your car. Take a dip in the heated indoor pool, or tone-up in the Fitness Center. Enjoy a round of bridge, relax with a book in the library,

tackle a project in the woodshop, or dine with good friends in the on-site restaurants. A world of enjoyment waits within the gates of The Heritage: • Fully-equipped Fitness

Center• All-season swimming

pool and whirlpool spa• Indoor main street with

a bank, hair salon, day spa, restaurants, and more

• On-site Medical Center

• Walking Trails• Business and Computer

Center with free Inter-net access

• Transportation ServicesMaintenance-Free (That has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?)

With your choice of spacious villas with garages, generous three-bedroom/two-den apart-ment homes, or elegantly designed one-bedroom apartment homes, you’re

sure to find a mainte-nance-free home to suit your style and budget. But no matter what choice suits your style, you won’t have to spend any more money or time taking care of it. From the shingles to the shoveling, from the appliances to the house-keeping, the staff takes care of everything inside and out. All of which leaves you with the time to do the things you really want to do!

Adding Years To Life And Life To Years

With an on-site Medi-cal Center, delicious dining and an array of activities, The Heritage is a healthier place to live, thanks to the community’s personalized Wellness By Design® Program. Top-notch athletes and actors have help practic-ing healthy living, why shouldn’t you?Unmatched Home Styles And Financial Choices

Just as we offer more apartment styles than anyone else, we also offer more financial options … which is why The Heri-tage is selling so quickly. This unique community provides three financial approaches: the 100% refundable entrance deposit, the 75% refund-able deposit, and the declining deposit. Regard-less of which plan you choose, you’ll discover unbelievable value at The Heritage. In fact, many of our residents tell us it costs about the same or less than it did to live in their old house.

Winterize Your Retirement

As you sit by the pool, remember when your winters were spent digging out your car from yet another snowfall and worrying if you’ll be able to drive safely in the inclement weather … and relax!

Choose from lovely apartments or luxury villas to make your permanent escape from the winter blahs. In your new lifestyle you can spend your time in the pool or gym instead of the freezing cold, and you can easily get to the wonderful on-site restaurants without the worry of winter driving.