Course Title: Maturity Matters Newsletter

December 2016

Planning a Christmas get-together?  Check out our tips to create a perfect event.

We know that the Christmas season can be especially demanding for caregivers.  Find out what you can do to be a little beacon of light and support for others as well as yourself!

Speaking of looking after yourself, don’t forget about your skin and hair — your food choices can make a big difference.

Finally, a nip of some non-alcoholic Hot Mulled Tea can hit the spot on a cold winter day.

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November 2016

This edition of Maturity Matters starts to prepare us for the up-coming holiday season.

Although this time of year can be filled with festive celebrations, Alex Handyside helps us understand how this can also be a lonely and difficult time for some seniors, and most importantly, what we can do to help others feel connected and valued.  Is there any greater gift?

Alex’s article is followed with some tips on how to arrange ‘stress-free’ visits, and we are then inspired by Christopher Reeve’s reminder of what constitutes true heroism.

Finally, we could not have a holiday prep edition without a mouth-watering Brussels Sprouts with Caramelized Onions and Pistachios recipe!

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October 2016

In our feature article this month, Alan Atkins feeds our spirit with his reflection on the liberation of compassion, and how it “allows us to rise above pain and disappointment, personal losses and the drag of the past to love and be at peace with ourselves.”  Beautiful words of wisdom growing out of the courage of introspection of life experience.

Ms. Nielsen, a registered dietitian,  then provides some tips to better feed our body, and we also learn about the role of supplements in managing diabetes.

The newsletter would not be complete without a heart-healthy version of an old favourite — Mac and Cheese!

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September 2016

 We are what we eat…. is that true?

This edition of Maturity Matters reveals the importance of making every bite count — especially as we transition into our later years!

Keeping our nutrient levels high is important for overall well being, especially ensuring we do not become compromised through anemia. We’ll tell you how — so make sure you look inside!

Speaking of eating well, we learn that good dental health practices not only keeps our ability to chew off what we want to consume in life, but also helps to minimize the likelihood of infections throughout our whole body!

If you want to consume lots of good stuff in this life, we find out that an honourable life can include a healthy serving of mistakes along the way while we cook up a life rich and fulfilling.

(BTW — check out the wild and brown rice recipe — a great way to add to the ingredients of a good life!)

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August 2016

In this edition of Maturity Matters, we shine the light on the gifts of vision and grace.

From a literal perspective, we learn that as we age, in order to see better, we must increase the amount light in our homes and environments, while reducing the amount of glare from shiny surfaces. From a more philosophical perspective, we discover how health changes can illuminate the need to graciously ask for and offer a helping hand when needed.

Finally, you’ll be able to stay active longer with the joint health tips.

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July 2016

Think you’ll make it to 100 years of age or more? Not so far-fetched as it use to be. In this edition of Maturity Matters, we look at some of the financial extras you’ll have to consider, above and beyond just your basic income needs.

This additional longevity also brings with it new roles and opportunities. You’ll likely need to serve as an advocate for a loved one at some point in your life journey. We offer some practical tips and communication strategies that maximize the likelihood that you are representing what your loved one wants and that the care professionals you engage with understand your family needs, are able to provide the necessary resources or services, and everyone feels respected and heard throughout the exchange.

Most importantly, the ‘Eleven Hints of Life,’ remind us to be careful of our words and tender with our love.

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June 2016

Having a bad hair day? 

Whether you are losing your hair, dying your hair, styling your hair, cutting your hair, or simply washing your hair, this feature article reveals the do’s and don’ts to look after your crowning glory!

You’ll learn how your overall health contributes to your hair health, so we had to include some nutrition tips and 8 more reasons to add more physical activity to your life!

We decided to ‘top off’ this edition with a mouth watering recipe that ‘crowns’ leaf lettuce with a delicious head of goat cheese stuffed peaches 😉

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May 2016

Investing into the ‘Bank Account of our Life’ is the theme for this Maturity Matters Newsletter.

The choices we make each day either make a deposit or a withdrawal from this important and sometimes neglected account.

Do you know the current balance of your various accounts?

This edition provides essential tips about how to have a positive balance in our nutritional account, our physical account, and our inter-personal account with others. 

Valuable information you will want to review and share!

Of course, our heart healthy recipe just had to contribute to this theme with the delicious and ‘deposit creating’   ‘Almond Oat Bar’ Recipe.  Can’t wait to try that one!

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April 2016

Ever been told to ‘Take a Hike?’  

Now you’ll know how to do it!

In this edition of ‘Maturity Matters’ you’ll learn about the essentials you will need when embarking on a healthy hike!

And with the exercise points covered, you’ll discover some targeted heart healthy eating tips, a recipe for ‘zippy chicken thighs’ (a personal favourite), and finally, will find out what 2 different behaviours can serve to define us….hmmm

Bet you want to read more!

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March 2016

This edition of Maturity Matters discusses the importance of getting enough of some life essentials:
•    getting enough water,
•    getting enough sleep, and
•    getting enough engagement through our social connections.

We round out this newsletter with an tempting recipe for Tortilla and Shrimp Salad, and an inspirational message to help us re-frame how we see obstacles in our lives.

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February 2016

The theme for this edition of Maturity Matters is ‘setting it up!’

From setting up a plan for succession planning or potential family care needs, to identifying an executor, or even setting up a home gym — planning ahead helps to guard against having to make a decision at a time of crisis or while feeling pressured or impulsive.

Struggling with those cold ‘February Blues?’  The fresh broccoli salad with avocado dressing offers a taste of sunshine at this time of year!

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January 2016

What you can’t see can help you and can hurt you!

In this edition of Maturity Matters, Alex tells us about the top 5 essential micro nutrients that support our healthy aging, what they do for us, and how to include them in our diets.

We then turn to the ‘dark side’ — the micro germs we can’t see that live on everyday surfaces from ketchup bottles to remote controls. Keep those wipes handy!

Continuing with a theme of safety, we then learn about the fundamental planning documents that help to inform and protect us and our love ones.

Finally, who can resist the recipe for Roasted Figs with Honey, topped with just a dash of goat cheese?   Can’t wait to give that one a try and to share this newsletter with friends, family, clients and customers, and new friends waiting to meet us.

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December 2015

Your December Maturity Matters newsletter could be a lifesaver!

This is the season that is packed with MORE — more food, more alcohol, more events, more demands, more stress, more good times, and yes — More Heart Attacks!

Alex gives us insight into what contributes to this higher risk, and shares life-saving ‘red flags’ from the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

From a prevention perspective, this edition also includes practical tips for managing the stress of the season, and we simply had to include a scrumptious heart healthy recipe for those turkey leftovers!

Wishing you the best of the season from our hearts to yours.

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November 2015

In preparation for the holiday season (yes, it is that time already!) we start to think about what gifts to give our family and friends — especially those living in a limited space.  This edition of Maturity Matters offers some great practical ideas, while we are also reminded of the ultimate gift of our time.

Speaking of the gift of our time, will family or friends be visiting someone they have not seen in a while? Find out how to prepare them for the visit to make it a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

We then provide a list of questions you need addressed when your doctor writes you a prescription, and follow up with a refreshing recipe for Pineapple-Lime Rice Pudding!

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October 2015

October — This is the month when Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving — and we do have so much to be thankful for!

We start with the feature article about the significant role grandparents can play in providing support and care — especially during times of stress and crisis.  

Alan then reminds us about ‘joy’: ” the free gift hinging only on the miracle of being alive!” ….love that!

Part 2 on blood donations offers more information about this gift of life; and finally, we learn about the ‘present of the present’ while we munch on salmon sliders on garlic spinach…

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September 2015

Are you putting off life? Stuck in sabotage? Fear often comes disguised in many forms. Find out how to shift out of this trap to regain control and focus.

You’ll also learn about the ageless gift of blood donation, the importance of protecting your brain, and for our words of wisdom, we turn to gracious Audrey Hepburn to remind us to live in the present.

Take it all in while you enjoy lip smacking BBQ drumsticks!

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August 2015

This edition is all about the heart…

     • We start with the preventative value of recognizing the first signs of a heart attack (it truly can be different for women!)  and move to
     • the healing power of bird watching, then include
     • the anti-aging properties of strength training, add the ever important
     • restorative value of gratitude…
and ultimately, top it off with the to the delight of enjoying a shrimp and spinach salad!

This Maturity Matters Newsletter was meant to be savored and shared!

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July 2015

In this edition of Maturity Matters, we learn about the importance of living well – but not too well! 

While Alex warns us about the disease of excess in our food choices, Alan cautions us about excess reliance on technology over personal engagement.  From wisdom to whiskey to living like kings, you’ll want to read more!

(remember to try out fresh mixed bean salad on a warm summer day!)

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June 2015

Another great Maturity Matters Newsletter to share!

While Alan inspires us to reflect on ‘how to be more content in our own skin’, Alex helps us to understand ‘how to better look after our own skin.’

You’ll love the heart healthy zesty bean dip and chips recipe and Mother Teresa’s statement about love.

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May 2015

Whether you are being moved by music to a better quality of cognitive engagement, or are moving to a new home for a different lifestyle experience, this edition of ‘Maturity Matters’ is sure to make a difference for your clients, for you or a loved one.

You’ll also discover some provocative stats about the historical changes in our longevity, while you are encouraged to sit down to a dish of heart health Italian Spinach Baked Eggs.

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April 2015

The feature article in the previous edition of  ‘Maturity Matters’ really did warm our hearts.  This edition continues the theme and looks at how we can now care for the needs of our hearts.

You’ll learn about:

– the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet,
– how de-cluttering can honour our memories and reduce stress in our lives,
– heart healthy exercise, and
– a special quote that offers insight into how we can care for the hearts of others through compassionate acts.

….of course – your heart will love the Fritatta recipe!

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March 2015

This edition of Maturity Matters is guaranteed to warm your heart.  You can always count on Alan Atkins to write a thoughtful and moving feature article – this time, on the ‘hero’s journey.’  We then add some practical cleaning tips, mature women’s travel adventures, a hot salmon jerky recipe, and pull it all together with timeless quote on love by  Paulo Coelho from his best selling book, ‘The Alchemist.’

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February 2015

How often do we really take the time and make the effort to truly see into the heart and depth of another person?  How would your relationships be transformed if you did?  This edition of Maturity Matters looks at one of the greatest gifts you can give to another – the gift of recognition. 

You’ll also learn about how to still have quality of life experiences while managing arthritis, you’ll be tempted by an amazing recipe for pineapple chicken, and you’ll be inspired by the ‘crazy ones’ who dare enough to change the world!

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January 2015

This edition of Maturity Matters covers some important and sometimes hard to discuss considerations. 

With skill and sensitivity, Alex Handyside shares with us how to prepare for a potentially difficult diagnosis.  (Find out what he did and didn’t do…)

This newsletter also includes straight-forward travel tips for caregivers, and you’ll discover how we might be sabotaging our own weight loss efforts.  

The inspiring quote from Theodore Roosevelt is one of our personal favorites – you’ll see why when you read it!

(…and remember to try the heart healthy ‘Creamy’ Broccoli Soup – sure to keep you warm on these colder winter nights!)

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December 2014

12) Food is often a focal point for the holiday season, and this month’s Maturity Matters Newsletter runs to theme.  In this edition you will find out about:

• Ways to eat healthy and still have fun
• Mindful eating
• Role of Humor for Health
• and a special Cranberry Chutney Recipe.

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November 2014

11) Ever wonder what to give a caregiver? What about the gift of your time – or perhaps even the gift of laughter?

This edition of Maturity Matters Newsletter provides you with great ideas for helping the caregivers you know, offers a painless way to reduce salt in your diet, introduces dancing for fun and your health, and describes how to whip up a one pan meal of pork tenderloin and sweet potatoes. Finally, you’ll learn what Michael Jordan says about making the winning shots in life!

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October 2014

10) In this jam-packed edition of Maturity Matters, you’ll learn about the two sides of technology — how it serves us, and what we need to do to protect ourselves from ‘cybercrime.’

You can curl up with a comforting bowl of heart healthy clam chowder while you learn about all that money out there in dormant bank accounts, with instructions on how to find out if some of it is yours!

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September 2014

9) Lots of information about keeping well in this Maturity Matters Newsletter. You’ll learn 10 different ways to boost your memory and what to do AFTER a heart attack!

Warm up with the delicious heart healthy turkey chili recipe, check out the tips for safely bathing a loved one, and be reminded of the importance of looking after yourself! Click on the link below:

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August 2014

8) A good time to review why it is so important to keep a healthy body and healthy brain! This edition of Maturity Matters dispels common excuses for not being active and reveals some easy to find and very tasty brain healthy food. You’ll also discover the power of laughter, and enjoy a ‘must-try’ delicious shrimp cup recipe.

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July 2014

7) This month’s feature article in your Maturity Matters Newsletter explores the architecture of goal achievement.

Whether your goal is to drop a few pounds, or contribute toward national confederation or independence, there are some requisite steps and practices that are revealed in this featured piece.

And that’s not all! You’ll also learn about new fire alarm technology, phantom loads sabotaging your energy bill, and how to make that colorful and fresh summer vegetable spaghetti salad.

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June 2014

6) This edition of Maturity Matters is here! Let’s see what is inside.

• When a loved one needs caregiving should you move to be closer to them? Should your loved one move to be closer to you? Should we just move in together?
  
  Important questions, and our feature article this month provides some insight into the questions and issues you should consider when facing these significant life transitions.

On the food front, you’ll find out why spinach and lemon are a match made in heaven, how to make lasagna roll ups (yum!), and why bananas are considered a super fruit. Click on the link below:

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