Good Life 2017 by southernstarIRL

GoodLife

inside >>

The magazine for West Cork’s Over 55s

FASHIONABLY FAB FIFTIES 10 tips to looking smart, energetic,

Autumn 2017

DRIVE! Get the car of your dreams

youthful ... and appropriate

TECH Must-have gadgets for your home

TIME FOR TRAVEL Where’s good and when?

JUST DO IT! Have a happy, healthy sex life Plus great advice on fitness, mobility, well-being ... and more

GoodLife

WELLNESS

Keep your mind in mint condition! Cognitive behavioural therapist Linda Hamilton offers six ways to keep your brain ship-shape and razor-sharp

Stay connected

The Grant Study, the world’s longestrunning study into adult happiness, has followed hundreds of people over a 75-year period. It found you could predict people’s subsequent physical health not by looking at cholesterol levels, but by assessing how satisfied they were in their relationships. ‘The people who were the most satisfied in their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80,’ notes Professor Robert Waldinger. The moral: stay connected and invest in your relationships with your partner, family, friends and neighbours. ‘Taking care of your body is important,’ adds Waldinger, ‘but tending to your relationships is a form of self-care too.’

Stay physically active

Regular exercise – around 30 minutes daily – is invaluable. Research suggests it can increase people’s physical capacity by 10–15 years. It aids brain function in older adults, provides us with social interactions, and boosts mood and well-being.

exercise your mind, the better, so keep learning and stay mentally active. Sudoku or crossword puzzles, reading, learning a new language or a new skill – countless mental activities keep the mind in shape. Just ask Dr Aaron Beck, the father of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): now 96, Beck continues to work and expand his CBT research into new areas.

Stay young at heart

How old do you feel? Surveys show most people feel younger than they really are, and that’s good: people who feel younger tend to live longer. The reasons are various, but staying physically and mentally active keeps you feeling younger, boosting self-confidence and quality of life.

As well as your physical well-being, Its important to take good care of your relationships. One study shows that those most satisﬁed with their relationships at age 50 were also the healthiest at 80.

Practise gratitude

Psychological research shows simple gratitude exercises – for example, listing three things for which you feel grateful – help relieve pain and fatigue, boost physical health and raise energy levels. To quote the late Seamus Heaney: ‘To be first on the road, Up with the ground-mists and pheasants. To be older and grateful.’

Positive ageing

Stay mentally active

The negative aspects of ageing are wellknown, but what about the positives? Studies show older adults have fewer rows, are less angry, better at accepting misfortune and controlling emotions, and

The bad news: working memory starts declining at age 35. The good news: people are holding onto their long-term memory longer than they used to. The more you

e s i c a u Aq

less likely to self-criticise. Holding positive views about ageing is associated with longevity, so remember this: studies show happiness is typically U-shaped, dipping between youth and middle age and heading back upwards after that.

• Linda Hamilton is a Kinsale-based cognitive behavioural therapist. Read her fortnightly column in the Life section of The Southern Star. If you would like to get in touch with her, call 086-3300807. www.kinsalecbt.com

Classes at the Clonakilty Park Leisure Club involve fitness, cakes and even the odd trip to the cinema! James Deasy is multi-skilled. He is a personal trainer, group exercise instructor, swimming teacher and coach. He teaches spinning, aquacise, he’s a wonderful singer, and in case you’re worried about nutrition, he’s also a qualified chef. The busiest parts of James’ week are probably his Aquacise classes in the Clonakilty Park Leisure Club at the Quality Hotel. On Tuesdays at 11am and Thursdays at 10am, between 20 and 40 people join James in the pool for what have been described as ‘the most fun classes you can take with your clothes off!’ Participants range from 16 to 80+ and they can adjust the difficulty to suit their fitness level. And you don’t even need to be able to swim. So, if you are a ‘never exercised before and can’t swim’ person; a ‘haven’t exercised since I had my babies’ or a ‘need to exercise my new hips without hurting myself’ person, you could really benefit from these classes. James uses special equipment, buoyant dumbbells and woggles etc, which allows him to adjust the level of difficulty according to each participant. ‘I have noticed, and all the research shows, that even a small bit of regular exercise, particularly in a group, improves not only our fitness but our immune systems. And for most of us it’s worth as much as the fitness if we’re getting sick less often and recovering faster.’ The people coming to the class report big improvements in their energy levels and mobility, with one person commenting ‘Getting in and out of the car or off the couch is not

What if E IS MOR Fitness was

a problem any more.’ However, the most commonly reported benefit of the class is the improved social life that comes with it and it’s possibly the only exercise class in the country with a sing-song in the middle of it. As well as going for coffee or lunch after the class which many participants do, James has cake FROM JUST mornings every six weeks or so when anyone who wants to bring in cakes or scones can do so, and everyone adjourns to the hotel after class. Vicki, one of the hotel chefs has even joined in baking cakes FOR 3 MONTHS MEMBERSHIP especially for gang. He also organises Appliesthe to new Aquacise members joining in January only. Based on a 12 month contract. Fee for first 3 months is €150 and thereafter a €64 payment per month applies special screenings in the Park Cinema next door. PLUS Right now he has just finished their Halloween Coffee morning, so it’s time to start planning the Christmas lunch, the more tinsel, the better! So if you’re looking Includes: Lunch for 2 adults Cinema pass for 2 for an activity, some exercise, rehab, some great 2 free fitness classes people to socialise withAssessment and a whole lot (normal cost €50)of fun, get Free Fitness Applies to full membership only. to the Clonakilty Park Leisure Centre next Tuesday or This is an exclusive offer to readers. Mention ”Havefungetfit” on joining. Thursday morning. It is best to book in advance and you can do so on 023-8834387.

€150 Fun ?

N U F E V A H than just exercise Above: Aquacise classes are all about fun and are suitable for all ages and abilities. Left: Clonakilty Park Leisure Club aquacise instructor James Deasy believes that exercise improves not only fitness but also people’s immune systems.

GET FIT 2

FREE WELCOME PACK WORTH €100

BECOME A MEMBER

www.clonleisure.com | 023 8834387

GoodLife

LIFESTYLE

The drive of your dreams The dream of driving home in the latest Porsche, Ferrari or Aston Martin is for most of us just that – a fantastic dream. However, there are other avenues available when it comes to owning a special, much-sought-after, and far more realistic ‘dream’ car, writes Brian Moore

EVERYDAY cars need to be reliable, efficient and fit for purpose. Zipping along, the wind in your hair on the sun-soaked, winding roads over looking the French Rivera in your red 1962 Mercedes-Benz 190SL is all very well, but how would this masterpiece of German technology handle driving on the N71, in the rain? ‘You don’t have to give up on your dream car or that perfect driving experience,’ says Justin Galvin of Finbarr Galvin Motors in Bandon. ‘These days, when it comes to your dream everyday car, reliability and safety are all but guaranteed, and now it’s all about ease of use, convenience and connectivity.’ ‘For example, a perfect car for the good life in West Cork would have to be the Seat Ateca,’ Justin continued. ‘The Ateca comes in both two and four wheel drive, with extra height, more than ample boot space with hands-free opening as well as an electronic fold away tow-hook. However, the Ateca is also at the cutting edge when it comes to connectivity. It’s simply clever.’ These days we have come to, some would say over depend, on our smartphones, and cars like the Ateca have taken the ‘hands-free’ concept to a whole new level. ‘There is full connectivity from the very moment you sit into the car,’ Justin

explains. Your phone will link with the car, and whether you have an iPhone or an Android device, you can “mirror” all your contacts and apps directly on to the touch screen monitor. You can also recharge your phone wirelessly. The Ateca also comes with 360 degree camera and the ultrasonic sensors measure the distance between the rear of the car and even takes control of steering for those tricky parking situations.’ At another level of connectivity, Jonathan Kelly of the Kevin O’Leary Group in Bandon suggests the latest offering from Opel – the Grandland X – just might be the everyday car of your dreams. ‘The Grandland X, which will be released this December, offers everything from climate control to sat-nav, LED headlights and a 360 degrees camera as well as hands-free parking,’ Jonathan said. ‘But with Opel’s On-Star connect you cannot only find hotels, restaurants or indeed anything you need at the push of a button, but you also have a tracking device and an SOS button, which will send your exact location to the emergency services should you be in an accident.’ While these cars and others of their ilk offer ultra-modern technology – and that’s all very well – what about finding a classic motor which evokes memories of

Lar Cummins of Muskerry Vintage Club with his 1975 Mazda 818. Lar recommends anyone to consider getting the vintage car of their dreams, but says ‘going down the road of owning a vintage car can become something of an obsession.’ simpler, bygone days? ‘Cars have been part of people’s lives for over 100 years now and it is amazing how a machine can trigger memories,’ says Lar Cummins of the Muskerry Vintage Club. ‘I think for many it’s the memory of their first car, be it a Ford Cortina, a Mini, VW or whatever. These would be their dream cars to own again. And with a bit of work this dream can be a reality once again.’ However, Lar warns that going ‘down the road’ of owning a vintage car can become something of an obsession. ‘You have to ask yourself exactly what you want before you buy a vintage car. Do you want one to restore, or do you want one that is up and running, a car that you

Vehicles like the Seat Ateca (left) and the Opel Grandland X (right) offer the very latest in hi-tech features, including things like connectivity, navigation systems, onboard cameras, parking sensors and hands-free parking. 3

can take out and drive straight away? Get as much advice as you can, go to the vintage shows that are on around the county and talk to the owners there. If you are prepared to invest the time and money into your dream car, you will be rewarded. The best place to learn exactly what you need to do – or not do – is to come along to something like one of the Muskerry Club open days and you’ll not be short of good advice and support.’ So, whether your dream car is the latest ultra modern hi-tech offering or a memory-filled pre-loved classic, all that’s left to decide is where to go on that first road trip! Safe driving.

GoodLife

WELLNESS

With a song in your heart Singing is good for the soul, but it’s also great for your memory, concentration and overall physical and mental well-being. it’s also really good fun, writes Aisling Meath SINGING is a very popular activity across the region and many West Cork towns have choirs that people enjoy as a very sociable and inexpensive pastime - and it is one of the most positive things you can do for your health! Dr Hilary Moss is director of the MA in Music Therapy at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick. ‘Research regarding the potential health benefits is well developed with a large body of work to support singing as a health and well-being intervention,’ she told The Southern Star. Dr Moss has worked as director of the National Centre of Arts and Health in Tallaght Hospital, and completed her PhD in the role of arts for older people at the School of Medicine in Trinity College – so there has been a lot of research behind her findings. Liz Clark is a West Cork-based singer, songwriter and musician who has recorded five albums of original songs and has collaborated with world-class musicians such as Emmylou Harris and Sarah McLaughlin. Liz currently works in arts and healthcare settings, where she has a collaborative approach to the songwriting process, and has developed the ‘Starling Song Project’ which preserves stories and heritage from older members of the community in the form of song. She also facilitates the Skibbereen Community Choir that meets weekly at Uilinn West Cork Arts Centre. ‘We explore singing and harmony through taking a different popular song each week,’ she said. ‘We welcome everybody to join us and actively encourage people with dementia and their carers to come along.’ Indeed singing has proven to be very beneficial for people with memory impairment as a result of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The act of singing well-loved songs can evoke memories both verbal and emotional, help restore a sense of confidence and a sense of self, and the harmony and rounds used in group singing can keep levels of concentration active. On a physical level, singing strengthens the voice, increases blood flow to the brain, relaxes neck and shoulder muscles, and contributes to better posture and breathing technique. ‘I absolutely love singing and really enjoy our sessions with Caz Jefferies,’ said Breda Holohan (74) who is part of ‘Ceol na

Clockwise from main: Joining a choir is a great way to get out of the house and socialise while also picking up some new skills; Dr Hilary Moss of the University of Limerick; Liz Clark and Caz Jeffreys, both of whom are involved in organising choirs and other musical projects within the community for the benefit of participants’ mental health and well-being. Laoi’ in Ballincollig, one of several choirs facilitated by Caz. ‘It totally lifts you and it’s a great social outing,’ she told The Southern Star. ‘We also go into residential homes for older people and sing for them as well. We really enjoy sharing our songs.’ Caz Jeffreys has been making and facilitating singing and music within the wider West Cork community for many years and holds an MA in Community Music. ‘I use the call and response method,’ she explained, ‘and you don’t need to read any music to join in.’ In 2003, Caz initiated the West Cork Community Choir ‘Acapellabella’, which now has sister branches in Clonakilty

and Kinsale. Recently she started ‘The Roaring Waterboys’ – a male voice choir in Ballydehob. ‘We want to get the men from all age groups singing too,’ she said. ‘It has a great effect on positive mental health.’ Caz is also the driver behind the ‘West Cork Big Sing’ project carrying the message of singing as an inclusive activity . Retired healthcare professionals from Cork University Hospital also enjoy the benefits of singing with their workplace group ‘The Scrubs Choir’ and there is also ‘The Ultrasounds’ from the CUH maternity section. ‘We have retired staff who just love meeting their colleagues once a week and joining them for choir practice. It’s a great

way to keep in touch,’ said Edelle Nolan, arts co-ordinator at CUH. With such positive example from health professionals based on robust evidence and great input from local musicians, joining a choir is a great way to enjoy retirement and boost your health. ‘My research recommends particularly that singing is a great activity in older age, for physical health, anxiety management, meeting new people, staying socially connected, cognitive stimulation- and fun!’ ‘You do not have to be a great singer, just willing to try something new – so give it a try and sing!’ concluded Dr Moss. westcorkartscentre.com www.cazjeffreys.com

GoodLife

STYLE

Fashionably fab ﬁfties!

Give a nod to fashion - but don’t be a fashion victim! Dress to suit your shape and personality and remember to have fun with fashion - it’s not time for the twin sets just yet!

By Emma Connolly BY the time women reach their 50s, it’s important to schedule in a wardrobe reevaluation. And no that doesn’t mean the time has come to embrace twin sets and pearls, but it does mean that the denim mini-skirts are probably consigned to nostalgia. ‘Mutton dressed as lamb’ is something that gets thrown about a lot once you hit this age category –fairly or unfairly – but the simple truth is that certain hemlines, neck lines, cuts and styles are no longer as flattering as they once were. That needn’t be something to lament though as thankfully designers – from the high street to high end – are waking up to the fact that it’s this market that has the most disposable income so there is lots out there to interest and excite. One of the country’s leading fashion stylists Barbara Stack, known from Ireland AM and Exposé explains: ‘Our bodies, faces and lifestyles have changed over the decades and we need to reflect this in our fashion choices. We need to choose looks that flatter the shape we have and our skin and the active lives most of us are lucky to lead. ‘I am in my 50s and we dress completely differently to the way our mothers did in their 50s. We are more active physically and we go out more – thank goodness!’ Here are some top tips for women who want to fight the frump and look smart, energetic, youthful and ... appropriate.

1. It’s in the jeans

4. Accessorise

Always have a great pair of jeans in your wardrobe - either dark denim, mid-rise or straight-leg. Skip the tight skinny jeans (unflattering on most of us), and instead go for dark blue, with no fading or whiskering. Make sure they reach our waist – this shape is much more flattering and comfortable too. Pair with this season’s runners, loafers or flat boots, and tuck them into tall boots in cooler weather.

It doesn’t have to be a string of pearls you know! Liven up your look with statement costume jewellery – just be careful where neck pieces sit as an aged décolletage isn’t always an area we wish to draw attention to.

5. Hemlines

It’s an obvious one but most of us don’t possess gorgeous knees in our 50s. Aim for just to the knee or the very popular midi length. But if you have good legs, don’t be afraid to show them off. Hosiery has become very sophisticated - the barely-there look is very popular both in skin and dark shades for this season.

ape 2. Skime,ywoeuharvesha few lumps and

At our ag d rest othes glide an bumps so let cl e and ape. Go for loos easily on our sh r shape es that drape ou easy tops; styl d feminine too. and are soft an

6. Check trends, bu td be a fashion victim on’t

The high street m ay seem intimidat ing but it’s possible to get ideas or even to pick up some fun pieces here. Take a trot around every now and then – you’d be surprised what yo u’d find!

3. Don’t be shy

Don’t avoid bright colours, bold styles and patterns. Anything works as long as you feel comfortable wearing it and it fits with your personality. Having said that muted shades like blush pinks, greys, minks and khakis are flattering to more mature skin tones; too much black can be draining and too many bright colours all at once can be garish. But like everything else it comes down to personal taste!

7. Quality shapewear

Wearing good shapewear underneath is very important. Underwear should be brand-name and fit properly. A proper fitting bra will make your clothes look better and make your waistline thinner.

8. Get help

If you are uncertain of your look, book a session with a local stylist or check out the social media pages of your favourite shops. They often have tips and guides on the season’s looks. Look for inspiration on Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram – social media is for everyone.

9. Buy the best you can afford and tailored

Invest in quality clothing clothes that will flatter your figure. you Perhaps it’s a time in your life when t grea a 50, At can finally treat yourself? e aus bec fit is crucial. Opt for quality , you will find better fabrics, better cuts ter. bet better fits –and yes will look

10. Hair and make-up

Dated make-up is especially ageing – what you wore in your 40s most likely won’t work any longer. A more muted look and different colour palette should now be introduced (coloured eye shadows should be avoided at all costs). Same for your hair and nails.

GoodLife

TECH

Everyday life can be stressful and busy, but with the help of some of the latest tools and gadgets for your home, health and pleasure you can make things just a little bit easier, writes Brian Moore. Here are five of the top tech trends predicted to enhance your life in 2018

Gadgets for the good life! It’s time to join the Hive

Miles to go

Energy bills are going nowhere but up, it’s time to take control and turn your house into a smart home with the Hive range of remotely controlled devices. Every aspect of your home’s lighting, heating and security can be controlled and monitored no matter where you are in the county, country or indeed on the planet. You can turn on, off or dim the lights with the Hive low energy light bulbs, control plugs with the interactive sockets, monitor any movement with motion sensors and return to a warm and cosy home with the Hive Active Heating monitor. And all this is controlled from your mobile phone. There are many more remote devices available from Apple, Google and as well as from local tech companies.

It’s time to get healthy and there are numerous gadgets out there to help you keep up the healthy lifestyle and to let you know just how well you’re doing. The Fitbit range of smart watches are just what you need not only when you’re exercising but they look pretty good as well. The Fitbit Ionic, the latest offering, combines a heart and pulse rate monitor, a personal coach who will outline the various exercises. You can wear your Fitbit in the pool or rain and use it to track swimming workouts with stats like lap counting, duration and calories burned. The Fitbit can even monitor your rest patterns and let you know if you are really getting a good night’s sleep. All this and it tells the time as well. Fitbit Ionic.

Here come the robots

Everything is better with bluetooth

Bose Soundlink Revolve Bluetooth speaker.

Cutting the lawn or hoovering the house are jobs not many people enjoy. However, now you can hand this tiresome activity over to your friendly robot companion. The Husqvarna Automower will cut your lawn without any guidance from you. The mower uses GPS technology that allows it to know exactly where it is, where it has been and where it needs to go to finish cutting the grass. You can set up a time for it to begin, either day or night, set the mowing duration, no matter the weather or time of day. You don’t even have to collect the cut grass as unlike traditional lawnmowers, these robomowers only cut a little at a time, but frequently. The cutting disc shaves the grass clippings into barely visible pieces, that fall to the ground and decompose. This is the most ecological way to deal with clippings — fertilising the lawn naturally. Meanwhile, you can set your Dyson 360 Eye robot vacuum cleaner to work indoors. The Dyson can tell the difference between floor covers such as hardwood or carpet, it can tell where it is, locate chairs tables and other obstacles and you can programme it to run day or night, all from your mobile phone if you want. One drawback, it hasn’t worked out how to climb Dyson 360 Eye robot vacuum cleaner. stairs yet!

A wireless world is what it’s all about and with the range of bluetooth connected devices available growing almost daily, it is the addition of this wireless technology to the range of speakers and headphones that has really revolutionised the way we listen to music. From Apple’s bluetooth iPods to the top of the range Bose noise cancelling headphones, you can now link your phone, music system or even television directly to your headphones – no more wires just great sound. And with the noise cancelling technology all you’ll get is the music you want to hear with no external sounds. However, you can also share your music with a bluetooth speaker. Again the range is vast with some of them designed for the outdoors such as the JBL Charge 3, which is waterproof, and the Bose Soundlink Revolve+.

I can see you

We all have to take security seriously these days but thanks to the latest hi-optic remotely controlled cameras you can leave your home and still maintain control over your property, both inside and out. The Samsung Smart Home Cam will send hidefinition images directly to your phone even if it’s completely dark. You can direct the camera again using your phone and there are also two way speakers, which will record any sound. Or how about the latest video and intercom door bell from Skybell 2.0. The door bell will send hi definition video to your phone and will also allow you to speak to the caller. It is completely weather proof and works in complete darkness. Also you can record and save these videos in case you need them. Samsung Smart Home Cam.

Now sit back and relax

Of course some times you just want a nice relaxing seat to sit on while you listen to you music via your bluetooth headphones, dim the lights, set the robot mower and vacuum going and let your smart watch monitor you heart rate while you relax. And to do this you need a seriously relaxing stress-less chair from Glentree Furniture in Dunmanway.

GoodLife

TRAVEL

Time for travelling ... By Emma Connolly THE Over 55s are largely regarded as being the most discerning and knowledgeable age group of all those who like to travel. That’s according to one of the country’s leading travel journalists Eoghan Corry, editor of Travel Extra, the country’s biggest circulation travel publication, who says this demographic has a talent for ‘studying the form’ and doing their homework. However, what really gives them an edge on other age groups and what their main advantage is, is that they are flexible and aren’t tied to school terms. ‘This group of travellers is known for getting to know how airlines work, and as a result they know when to book,’ he said. They may or may not have more disposable income but, Eoghan says, regardless, they have the advantage of being able to move at the cheapest times of the year. In the lead-in to Christmas, holiday prices can spike by anything from two and a half to three times when schools close for term times. The same goes for the February mid-term break. Avoiding these periods can bring some very welcome savings – although this age group, he says, aren’t always all about following the cheapest prices. Access to destinations is more of a deciding factor in where they go to. ‘The key really is access, where there are lots of flight options and available beds. This is where we have big tourist traffic. They don’t have to follow the cheapest prices, because the key is flexibility and in any case people can find cheaper hotels and Airbnbs if they need,’ said Eoghan. A case in point being the fact that currently the three big city break destinations from this country are the quite pricey London, Paris and Rome. ‘Division Two for city breaks are Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen. Amsterdam has great air fares because there are three competing airlines on the route, so has Brussels,’ he added. ‘In terms of countries, Spain and Portugal are burgeoning, both up by 17 to 20% this year when figures are completed. ‘There’s also been a big airlift to Malaga and Faro (both available from Cork) but places like Bilbao and Porto are feeling the increase in Irish visitors. Nice is another popular European city break destinations.’ Interestingly, Eoghan pointed out that while numbers are comparatively small, Iceland has become trendy while ‘the arrival of Norwegian flights to upstate New York (Newburgh) and Providence has done something remarkable – turned East Coast USA into a city break destination.’ Lorraine Crowley, senior travel

Amongst destinations proving popular with the over 55s at the moment are, clockwise from top left: Amsterdam, Netherlands; Kracow, Poland, Rhode Island, USA, and Rome, Italy. consultant with Cork city’s Shandon Travel said Krakow in Poland, Malaga in Spain, Palma in Majorca and Amsterdam were among their more popular destinations for the Over 55s this year. Palma and Majorca are popular as they offer both beach and tour options. ‘The over 55s can avail of the best fares as they can travel at any time – they are mainly looking for good value,’ she said. ‘Another benefit this age group gets to enjoy is getting in early on new or extended services – before the wider

public get in on the act,’ explains Eoghan. ‘New or newly extended services this winter are always cheaper until they become better known among the travelling public. Some examples are Aer Lingus to Bilbao and Ryanair to Naples. He points out that Easter is the second earliest in recent years in 2018 (after 2008) which means that some of the summer schedules will start a little earlier than before and ski services will run right up to Easter. However, for those travelling with

The Over 55s have the advantage of being able to move at the cheapest times of the year – so says Eoghan Corry of Travel Extra. (Photo: Collins PR) Right: Easter 2018 is early, which means that some of the summer schedules will start a little earlier than other years, and ski services will run right up to Easter. 7

children or even grandchildren there’s still a chance of a bargain, Eoghan says. ‘For those with families do not despair! St Patrick’s weekend is unique to Ireland and ski locations in Austria such as Westendorf and popular winter sun spots like Gran Canaria have organised festivals specially for the Irish market.’ • Local travel agents will be happy to help with any queries and it’s also worth checking Cork Airport (www.corkairport. com) for route information.

GoodLife

Have a happy, healthy sex life

The Southern Star’s health & nutrition expert Rosie Shelley outlines the myriad benefits of sex for the Over 55s ‘Sex is not all about making love; it’s also about pleasure, joy, intimacy, connectedness and sensuality in general. It’s about being open, having fun and engaging in real conversation.’ – Dr Thomas Moore MORE and more studies are revealing that people over 55 are enjoying their sex lives, perhaps more than they did when they were younger, and this is all for the good. One study found that ‘sex is the number one activity associated with self-reported happiness.’ The proven benefits include: • Better heart health (slashes the risk of heart attack and stroke almost in half). • Higher levels of testosterone in both sexes. • Better joint health, suppleness and mobility. • Better sleep patterns. • Lower stress levels. • Better immune function. • Lower risk of cancers, especially of the prostate. • Higher brain function (basically the more sex, the better the participants

shown to play out in our relationships for two days. • People who have regular sex look on average ten years younger. • Enhancing self esteem, feelings of being wanted, connected and of course loved. Most people in their fifties and beyond say that there is a new sense of freedom: ‘Your children need you less and go out more. It’s a time when marriages get the va va boom back’, says author of Couples Therapy, Barbara Bloomﬁeld. • Sex tends to get better with long term knowledge of each other and ourselves • Just this year, the European Court of Human Rights aﬃrmed that ‘sexual behaviour in people 50 and over has an

performed on memory tests. Having sex can actually build new brain tissue). • In women, regular activity is vital to keep tissues healthy, lessen the impact of vaginal dryness, cystitis and urinary incontinence. • Far better emotional health. Loneliness and feelings of isolation are now recognised as being major contributing factors in many conditions. • Producing several ‘feelgood’ hormones and chemicals that keep us on an even keel, and help us look and feel our best. One of those hormones is akin to morphine, boosting mood and relieving pain (even of migraines). And the eﬀects of good, connected feeling sex have been

WELLNESS

important part to play in quality of life ... physical and psychological relevance for the self-fulfilment of women, as well as promoting the welfare of men.’ If you are having trouble, as a woman, it’s likely the effects of the menopause; do see your GP or if it’s something to do with vaginal thinning or drying you can just nip into the pharmacy – there’s a new range available called multi-gyn liqu-gel that addresses these issues. For both sexes, it’s all about keeping that blood flowing: plenty of brightly coloured veg, nuts and seeds, coffee and dark chocolate. Above all, don’t buy into old notions about sex being for the young. Enjoy!

‘Sexual behaviour in people 50 and over has an important part to play in quality of life ... physical and psychological relevance for the selffulfilment of women, as well as promoting the welfare of men’

GoodLife

FITNESS ADVERTORIAL

Water-based exercise is hugely beneﬁcial Swimming and aqua-aerobics at the Wild Atlantic Pool help mobility while supporting weak muscles and joints WITH the nights closing in and cold, wet, windy weather the norm for the winter season, it’s hardly an appealing prospect to go out for a walk or a run. However, being physically active has too many benefits to let something like bad weather stop you. Exercise, at any age, is good for your body and mind – it maintains and increases mobility, boosts your mood and helps you to manage and cope with stress. So, taking to swimming in your local pool – especially this time of year – is the perfect solution, and the Wild Atlantic Pool in Baltimore is the perfect place to dive in and get started. If your knees, hips, or back are stiff, or if walking just doesn’t appeal, taking to the pool is the ideal option. Water supports your body, taking weight off sore joints, while providing resistance eight times greater than movement through air, so your muscles have to work harder. At 1.3m deep throughout, the Wild Atlantic Pool is well-suited for walking up and down or gentle paddling as well as swimming. If you can’t swim but would like to learn, there are adults’ classes to help you learn.

If you want something a little faster, there are aqua-aerobics classes on Wednesday nights and Thursday mornings. There’s no need to sign up in advance – just show up and have fun! After your exertions, relax in the sauna, steam room, or jacuzzi, and let the heat release any tension in your muscles. You may think that lifting weights is only for bodybuilders – not so! Weight-bearing exercise is an important factor to prevent loss of bone density as we get older. In the fully equipped gym upstairs, there are free weights and machines to let you stretch your muscles safely, and trained staff can show you how to use everything, and even work with you to formulate a personal exercise plan. The Wild Atlantic Pool is open long hours, so there’s sure to be a time that suits you. Come down and see how much better you feel when you move! See www.baltimorepool.ie for more. Right: Aqua aerobics involves a range of exercises for your whole body. The fact that the exercises are carried out in warm water, means that circulation is increased and your body is supported, thus decreasing the likelihood of strains and other injuries.

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GoodLife

FITNESS ADVERTORIAL

‘I can go at my own pace and it keeps me ﬁt’ At Skibbereen Sports & Fitness Centre there is a range of activities for the 55+ age group SPINNING and pilates classes are for all ages, and Sports Centre regulars Bea Delahunty, Rachel O’Keeffe and Betty Chapple are proof of this. Since spinning was introduced to the centre back in November 2009, all three have been attending weekly classes. ‘I enjoy it immensely – it keeps me fit and young,’ enthuses Bea, while Betty says ‘The staff at the centre are excellent. I’m in charge of my own bike during the class and I really enjoy the workout.’ Rachel agrees with Bea and Betty: ‘It’s most enjoyable, I can go at my own pace and it keeps me fit.’ All three agree that occasionally they may not feel like going, but after 40 minutes of spinning they feel so good that it’s always worth the effort. On Wednesdays and Friday at 12pm take part in Go for Life Fitness. This class, which is specifically tailored for those in the 60+ age group involves 30 minutes of cardio fitness in the gym and 20-30 minutes of strength and flexibility exercises in the fitness studio. This is a pay-as-you-go class – €3 for members and €5 for nonmember.

Spin to win! Skibbereen Sports Centre regulars Bea Delahunty, Rachel O’Keeffe and Betty Chapple. The fitness instructors at Skibbereen Sports Centre are experienced and qualified to work with all age groups, so

classes are modified and appropriate to suit each individual, ensuring safety at all times.

Active retirement and ICA groups book the centre for fitness programmes that are tailored to their fitness needs. Groups get an opportunity to use the gym, participate in stretch and mobility exercises, and to try out sports like curling, basketball and badminton in the sports hall. Fitness tests including blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) measurements and heart rate monitoring while you exercise, are also available. The bowls club meets on Wednesdays from 2-4pm and Thursdays from 5-7pm. Skibbereen Active Retirement group meets Fridays from 3-4.30pm and new members are always welcome to attend. Skibbereen Sports & Fitness Centre is purpose-built for physical activity with changing rooms, showers, toilet facilities, wheelchair access and parking. The centre provides personal training with fitness testing essential for all gym and fitness class users. Sessions can be booked by contacting the centre at 028-22624. For further details check www.skibbsportscentre.ie or Facebook page.

Gortnaclohy, Skibbereen, Co.Cork T: 028 22624 W: www.skibbsportscentre.ie E: info@skibbsportscentre.ie @skibbsportscentre

CLASSES TIMETABLE MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

ALL CLASSES - MEMBER €5 NON MEMBERS €8 GFLF Go For Life Fitness (+60 Age Group): Member €3 - Non Member €5 Personal Training Sessions: Member €10 - Non Member €15 Teen Gym: €3 Class Schedule Starting Oct 31st - Dec 22nd

9.30am Circuits - Paula 11.00am Spin + Sculpt - Paula 5.45pm Pilates (Beginners) - Mary 7.00pm Spin +Sculpt - Niall 8.15pm Pilates (Intermediate) - Mary

7.00am Spin + Sculpt - Paula 9.30am Spin + Rip 60 - Niall 10.45am Pilates (Improvers) - Mary 12.00pm GFLF - Paula

6.15am Spinning - Niall 7.00am Spinning - Niall 9.30am Body Sculpt - Niall 11.00am Pilates (Beginners) - Mary 4.00pm Teen Gym 5.45pm Spin + Sculpt - Paula 7.00pm Total Body Blast - Paula

7.00am Spin + Sculpt - Niall 9.30am Stretch, Core, Mobility - Niall 11.00am Spin + Sculpt - Mary 12.00pm GFLF - Mary 1.30pm Teen Gym 6.15pm Boogie Bounce - Paula 7.00pm Boogie Bounce - Paula

8.00am Spinning - Jennie

THURSDAY

6.15am Spinning - Paula 7.00am Spinning - Paula 9.30am Spinning - Mary 11.00am Pilates (Beginners) - Mary 4.00pm Teen Gym 6.45pm Spinning - Niall

OPENING HOURS WINTER 2017 MON 8.30am - 10pm

TUE 7am - 10pm

WED 7am - 10pm

THUR 7am - 10pm 10

FRI 7am - 10 pm

SAT 9am - 7pm

SUN 10am - 2pm

GoodLife

WELLNESS

Keeping you strong and mobile ADVERTORIAL

Our senses and reflexes play a huge part in our mobility says West Cork-based chiropractor Eoin Roe AS we get older we would all like to have good mobility and move easily without pain. We know that eating correctly and regular exercise is key to improved health and being able to keep doing the things we enjoy. So ensuring that your sensory motor system is working correctly is important for continued good health. Human movement is a complex system and when we look at how this works, we begin to realise that a small imbalance in this complex system can cause pain, discomfort and/or lack of performance. This system uses a huge amount of information from sensors in our eyes, ears, skin, muscles, tendons, joints and our reflexes to work properly. It turns out that very little of our movement is under conscious control. After the initial signal from your brain, even apparently simple movements like walking or picking up a cup of tea are reliant on your senses and reflexes. Three of the most important factors in your ability to move well are: • The Myotactic reﬂex which is often called the knee jerk reflex and will be familiar to anyone who has sat in a doctor’s office

and had their knee tapped with a hammer and noticed how their foot involuntarily flies forward. • The Withdrawal Reﬂex protects us from standing on sharp objects or touching something hot by causing us to pull away from the damaging sensory input. It is

There are a number of factors that can impair this system, whether it is previous injury, misalignments in your spine, nutritional deficiency or even jewellery. The good news is that we can assess the reflexive part of your nervous system and in most cases restore its normal

‘The better the nervous system works the more responsive your reflexes are. Responsive reflexes improve strength and resilience’ also the reflex that is in action when we are being tickled. • The Law of Reciprocal Inhibition recognises the body’s innate ability to contract one muscle group whilst extending the opposing muscle. The easiest muscles to use as an example are the biceps and triceps, the muscles that move the elbow. Whenever we bend our elbow, the bicep contracts. As the bicep is contracting, messages are sent to the opposing tricep muscle to temporarily reduce its tone. The bicep is said to be ‘facilitated’ whilst the tricep is ‘inhibited’.

function. In a recent case a patient came in for a minor left groin tightness, which she noticed during exercise class and a feeling of instability in her left foot. By assessing her muscle tone we found a weakness in her left foot. The correction to restore the foot strength was actually in her upper spine in between her shoulder blades – her foot strength returned immediately and this is a copy of the text I received the next day: ‘Amazing! I still felt something in both places after I left you, but it was definitely a bit better. At circuit training tonight,

though, it was a HUGE improvement. Just a wee bit of tension left at the top of my leg, but it wasn’t inhibiting any moves. Brilliant! Long may it last!.’ In another recent case it turned out to be a belly button piercing causing weakness in the patient’s large back muscles, and an ear piercing that was causing weakness in her neck muscles. Since taking them out she has noticed improved muscle tone in her back, stomach and legs without any additional exercise and her persistent neck pain has gone without the need for manipulation or rehabilitation exercises. What has improved for both these patients is their nervous system. The better the nervous system works the more responsive your reflexes are. Responsive reflexes improve strength and resilience reducing the occurrence of injury and illness and keep you doing the things you want to do. • Eoin Roe is a chiropractor and aﬀerent input specialist with clinics in Skibbereen, Douglas and Kinsale. Treatment is suitable for all ages and if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment please call Eoin on 087-9582362 .

Mind your ears for your later years ADVERTORIAL

By Graham Walker, Clinical Audiologist at Walker Hearing Clinic

proven to potentially cause irreversible damage to your hearing. If you are around loud noise, you are in a high risk category and you must protect yourself and your hearing. Hearing loss can be irreversible and once gone, may be gone forever.

THIS article aims to raise awareness about Noise Induced Hearing Loss and the importance of protecting your hearing if you are frequently exposed to loud noise. Walker Hearing, alongside Norman Brookes, have a newly built specialised audiological clinic in Brookes’ Pharmacy, Bandon. Here, we will help you with whatever hearing-related issues that either you or a loved one may be having. Noise Induced Hearing Loss Although the causes of hearing loss vary, exposure to loud noise is one of the most common causes that we see in our clinics. By the time you have finished reading this short article, you will have a better understanding of what noise induced hearing loss is exactly and more importantly, why, if you are around loud noise, you should care. What Is Noise Induced Hearing Loss? Noise induced hearing loss is hearing loss that occurs as a result of exposure to sounds that are beyond a safe listening level. The American Hearing Research

Can I Prevent Noise Induced Hearing Loss? Yes you can! Here at Walker Hearing Clinic, we advocate prevention rather than cure and offer a wide range of custom made hearing protection to suit your needs. If you are in a noisy environment, you need to be wearing appropriate hearing protection or you risk irreversible damage to your hearing.

Clinical audiologist Graham Walker. Foundation gives a good explanation: ‘When noise is too loud, it begins to kill cells in the inner ear. As the exposure time to loud noise increases, more and more hair cells are destroyed. As the number of hair cells decreases, so does your hearing. Currently, there is no way to restore life to dead hair cells; the damage is permanent.’ How Does it Happen? Exposure to loud noise without the correct ear protection is scientifically

The Signs & Symptoms of Noise Induced Hearing Loss You may experience hearing loss instantly or notice it gradually deteriorating over time. Outlined below are some of the signs and symptoms that you or a loved one may experience due to noise induced hearing loss. • Difficulty hearing on a one-to-one basis. • Difficulty hearing in group situations. • Difficulty making out sounds with background noise. • Finding that you have to ask people to

repeat themselves often. • A family member may have expressed concern about your hearing. • Turning up the volume on the television and radio. • The experience of ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus). Diagnosis To protect both your hearing health and overall well-being, it is advisable to have your hearing assessed as soon as you think, notice or feel any kind of problem. Early diagnosis of hearing loss, the same as any other health problem, can potentially reduce its impact on your life and is also important to rule out underlying health issues. Unfortunately, despite this, most people wait, on average, for 10 years from the time they realise they have a hearing problem until they actually do something about it. If you have any queries or questions that you would like answered or if you would like to make an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. You can find our contact details on www.walkerhearingclinic.ie. Thank you for reading and remember, mind your ears for your later years!

GoodLife

COMMUNITY

New Seniors Alert Scheme being rolled out nationwide Cork community groups are being asked to attend a special information meeting in Cork next Tuesday THE new Seniors Alert Scheme provides older persons (65 years +) with a free personal monitored alarm and is run by local groups around the country. An information meeting for Cork Community Groups will be held on Tuesday next, November 14th in the Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Cork city. To register your attendance log on to www.pobal.ie. Groups that may be interested in administering the scheme in their area are encouraged to come along to the information meeting to learn more about the scheme. All users have a base unit installed in their home that is connected to a national Seniors Alert Scheme helpline using landline or mobile telecommunications. When the user activates the personalised alarm it puts a call through to the national call centre which is open 24/7/365.The call centre operator talks to the person in their home and decides whether to alert a local volunteer responder or, in potentially serious circumstances, the emergency services. Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring said: ‘The Seniors Alert Scheme provides

‘This scheme exemplifies what my department is about.’ – Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring. personalised monitored alarms to older citizens in order to provide them with security and peace of mind in their own homes. Alarms, which are monitored 24 hours, can be worn as a pendant or around the wrist like a watch, ensuring assistance is always available no matter where the person is in their house. Over 60,000 people have received the personalised alarm pendant from the Government under the Seniors Alert Scheme since 2010. ‘The Seniors Alert Scheme provides

older citizens with security and peace of mind in their own homes. From this year on, you no longer have to be living alone in order to qualify for the scheme. As Minister for Rural and Community Development, this scheme exemplifies what my department is about. It exists with the support of local voluntary groups and if users feel in danger or require immediate assistance they can activate the device, which will alert designated members of their community who can then assist them. There is free personal

monitoring of the alarm for the first twelve months after which the person pays a small fee.’ Jerry Murphy, Deputy CEO of Pobal, administrators of the scheme, said: ‘The Seniors Alert Scheme is a community response to keeping people connected to enable them live in their homes with confidence and independence. There are Seniors Alert Schemes being run by local community groups in all 26 counties, all of which are listed on Pobal.ie. I would encourage all those with older family members or neighbours to contact their local community group to learn more about the scheme. You can find out about your local community group by logging on to www.pobal.ie or calling 01-5117222.’ The main features of the new scheme include: · Those eligible no longer have to be living alone · Free monitoring of the alarm service for the first year · Increase in administrative payment to community groups involved in rolling out the scheme.

Hearing Enhancer for Aural Rehabilitation

2017 MONTHLY HEARING CLINICS PRIMARY CARE MEDICAL CENTRE

part of the Southern Star family

Sackville Street, DUNMANWAY Tel: 023 8855500 Friday 10th November

We can deliver design, print and digital solutions to promote your business, event or festival

CLONAKILTY MEDICAL CLINIC Larkin Street, CLONAKILTY Tel: 023 8833386 Thursday November 16th

MEDICAL CENTRE

Market Street, SKIBBEREEN Tel: 028 23456 Friday November 17th Free confidential hearing test, consultation and advice.

APPOINTMENTS NECESSARY For further information 062 75505

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