Category: Living Life

  • Lanakila Serves as Model Senior Center

    In the former location of taro patches and rice paddies, Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (LMPSC) managed by Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, nestled in Liliha in the heart of Honolulu, offers camaraderie, education, recreation, exercise, health promotion, volunteer opportunities and more for kūpuna 60 years of age and older from diverse ethnic, cultural and career backgrounds.

    LMPSC, the oldest and largest senior center in Hawai‘i, was created by the state in 1969 as part of Hawai‘i’s comprehensive response to the passage of the Older Americans Act of the 1960s. Devoted elected officials and other community leaders supported and funded this much-used gathering place.

    There is no membership fee. Those who are able to participate safely on their own without supervision are welcome to visit and observe the activities of the senior center twice. If they feel comfortable, make an appointment with the LMPSC’s membership specialist (see below).

    Currently, there are about 2,000 members participating in over 50 classes a week, including pickleball, ping pong, yoga, cultural dances, ‘ukulele and guitar, language and calligraphy classes, technology training, arts and crafts, line dancing, stretching and toning, tai chi, fitness fusion, American Sign Language, board games, singing and performing arts, and much more.

    LMPSC members attend hundreds of educational presentations and workshops, excursions, and social and volunteer activities throughout the year. LMPSC has demonstrated for over five decades the importance of social engagement, sharing talents and knowledge for the betterment of the community, recreation and lifelong learning opportunities to keep older adults happy, healthy, and living independent and productive lives.

    CCH CEO Rob Van Tassell emphasized that “the annual cost of two nursing home patients equates to the operating costs associated with this senior center. Public and private sector support for senior centers throughout Hawai‘i would be a very good investment for the state.”

    Long-time Lanakila member Mary Sueda was touched every day by the caring and kindness that members and staff shared with one another. She is happy that her mom was able to enjoy such wonderful times with friends at Lanakila, too.

    Sen. Carol Fukunaga believes that the center “can serve as a role model that can be incorporated into future community developments and redevelopments, because it encourages healthy aging and effectively keeps our kūpuna active and independent!”

    LANAKILA SENIOR CENTER managed by CATHOLIC CHARITIES HAWAI‘I (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
    1640 Lanakila Ave., Honolulu, HI 96817
    Membership Specialist Iris Hiramoto: 808-847-1322
    suzanne.oakland@catholiccharitieshawaii.org
    catholiccharitieshawaii.org
    Check online for Catholic Charities Hawaii offices on the Neighbor Islands: Hawai‘i Island, Maui and Kaua‘i.

    In the former location of taro patches and rice paddies, Lanakila Multi-Purpose Senior Center (LMPSC) managed by Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, nestled in Liliha in the heart of Honolulu, offers camaraderie, education, recreation, exercise, health promotion, volunteer opportunities and more for kūpuna 60 years of age and older from diverse ethnic, cultural and career backgrounds. LMPSC,…

  • Becoming the Reason Someone Smiles

    Volunteering brings fun, joy and a sense of purpose into your life. It has certainly made my retirement more meaningful and enjoyable! The skills I learned in my working life are put to good use and are the foundation of the WIN-WIN relationships forged between me and those in need of assistance.

    In retirement, one gift we can freely give is the gift of time spent sharing our skills, talents and experiences. I volunteer for RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) as an Americorps Senior. When I started, I didn’t even begin to imagine what benefits I would gain from this wonderful partnership.

    It is such a blessing to be part of a program that helps the community thrive in many different ways — from supporting healthy and independent living for seniors to supporting keiki in developing school readiness, and promoting literacy. Being reconnected with the community and making a difference is the perfect antidote to any feelings of isolation or lack of purpose.

    Best of all, my gift of time can change a life and be the reason someone smiles!

    ADRC HAWAI‘I
    City & County of Honolulu Elderly Affairs Division
    925 Dillingham Blvd., Ste. 200, Honolulu, HI 96817
    808-768-7700 | elderlyaffairs.com
    RSVP Program (an AmeriCorps Seniors program)
    808-768-7778 | elderlyaffairs.com/site/460/rsvp.aspx

    Volunteering brings fun, joy and a sense of purpose into your life. It has certainly made my retirement more meaningful and enjoyable! The skills I learned in my working life are put to good use and are the foundation of the WIN-WIN relationships forged between me and those in need of assistance.

  • Be Prepared and at Ease for the Holidays

    Charming sad old woman is sitting on sofaGrief is a natural response to a loss, change, transition, or death. Grief affects everyone uniquely. It could be emotionally, mentally, physically, intellectually, and/or spiritually. As the 2023 holidays approach, take time to self-care with positive activities. Examples are reading uplifting stories and poems, journaling, stretching, meditating, connecting with people, appreciating nature walks, etc. Find your source of strength and peace each day. Be prepared for the upcoming holidays.

    Daily Self–Care for December and New Year’s Day

    Breathe deeply. Be open. Believe good things will happen.
    Evoke encouraging words. Evolve as you take the first steps forward.
    Prepare for the holidays by planning what you are willing to do. Be patient with yourself.
    Preview and reflect on life’s lessons.
    Energize through exercise. Every effort counts.
    Pause. Peace comes from within.
    Attitude matters. Aspire to inspire.
    Remember to count your blessings.
    Eat nutritiously. Embrace a healthy lifestyle.
    Dedicate time to be kind to yourself daily.
    Free yourself from negative thoughts. Forgive.
    Options and opportunities are all around us.
    Random acts of kindness uplift your spirit.
    Take care and rest. Take some time off.
    Humor helps. Smile, even if you don’t want to.
    Engage in inspirational self-care activities. Embrace the ones you enjoy doing.
    Understand moments can be tough. Use the time to hold your heart.
    Promote wellness. Pamper yourself.
    Choose to be calm and courageous. Celebrate the small steps.
    Observe. Optimism opens new doors.
    Take time for yourself. Move with music.
    integrate new experiences. Invite change.
    Navigate your path. Notice nature’s beauty.
    Grieve, yet greet today with gratefulness.
    Hope for the best. Have a blessed day.
    Open your heart to new beginnings.
    Laughter is good for you. Let it go.
    Invite positive thoughts.
    Develop new traditions & rituals. Dance daily!
    Allow ALOHA in your life. Acknowledge both the pain and joy in the grief journey.
    You are important. Yes, you will be fine.
    Seek strength from within. Speak with sincere gratitude in the NEW YEAR.

    BEREAVEMENT NETWORK OF HAWAI‘I — facilitated by KOKUA MAU (501(c) 3 nonprofit)
    808-585-9977 | kokuamau.org | kokuamau.org/grief-and-bereavement
    kokuamau.org/wp-content/uploads/Bereavement-network-of-Hawaii.pdf

    Grief is a natural response to a loss, change, transition, or death. Grief affects everyone uniquely. It could be emotionally, mentally, physically, intellectually, and/or spiritually. As the 2023 holidays approach, take time to self-care with positive activities. Examples are reading uplifting stories and poems, journaling, stretching, meditating, connecting with people, appreciating nature walks, etc. Find…

  • My Reflections on Caregiving

    Aloha! When we hear the words “kūpuna care,” it can bring forth many thoughts, perhaps of taking care of a parent, grandparent, neighbor or friend. For me, “kūpuna care” has also meant a career of three decades working in senior care communities in California and Hawai‘i. As a licensed administrator, I’ve been there in the continuum of care: independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. I strived, with other staff members, to provide the highest quality of care and services.

    Family caregiving

    Like many baby boomers, I have also been a family caregiver. From Mom to an uncle, it has been a journey of applying working knowledge of quality of care, regulations, psycho-social needs, Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia types, finding caregivers for home care and end-of-life care, and discovering the true grit of a team of first-time family caregivers.

    As I age, and kūpuna in my family age, we share with each other our inter-generational experiences of growing up in Hawai‘i nei, working for a living and raising a family. And, as we retire into the sunset, we reflect on the contributions our ancestors made so we could, hopefully, have a better life.

    Elderly woman falling down at home after heart attack.Showing love by being present

    In the year 1987, at the first skilled nursing facility I worked at in Sacramento, CA, I met two sisters who drove from the Bay Area to Sacramento to see their issei mother every weekend. Their mother was in advanced dementia, but just their presence showed undeniable love for their mom. I observed them talking to her with reminiscences of childhood days, raising families, work, then retirement.

    In Hawai‘i we simply “talk story.” Talking story is such a relaxing way of communicating. Talking story reflects the “hanabata days” of being a “runny-nosed” kid. Remember when…? What  neighborhood…? What high school…? You know so-and-so…? All these are ways of sharing. Even though a senior may repeat these stories, it is aloha to listen and share with them, bringing love and comfort. This is just one aspect of senior care and, for me, my most treasured memory as a caregiver of Mom and Uncle.

    Feel free to contact Calvin with questions about caregiving.
    Calvin Hara | 916-812-5524 | cmhara@comcast.net

    Aloha! When we hear the words “kūpuna care,” it can bring forth many thoughts, perhaps of taking care of a parent, grandparent, neighbor or friend. For me, “kūpuna care” has also meant a career of three decades working in senior care communities in California and Hawai‘i. As a licensed administrator, I’ve been there in the…

  • Grandma’s Butter Crunch Jello Cream Cake

    My fondest memories of my late grandma, Shirley Ihara, are of watching her cook and bake in the kitchen. During the holidays, she would make her Butter Crunch Jello Cream Cake and it was one of my favorites. She actually taught me this recipe when I was a child, but I really didn’t make it on my own; for some reason, hers always tasted much better.

    My grandma was a great cook and baker; she has so many recipes that we all have enjoyed and loved. If you have ever come to one of my Uncle Les’s fundraisers, joined us in a family dinner or visited her at her home, she always had great food and awesome desserts to share with others.

    As she was getting older, she stopped cooking as much. In recent years, I was going through her recipes and decided to cook them for her. I cooked everything from BBQ hot dogs, lasagna, banana muffins, stew, Chicken Divan and more. She would compliment me on how good it was and I responded to her with “Well, it’s your recipe.” She would laugh and keep enjoying her meal.

    Ingredients:
    Bottom Crust: (Butter Crunch)
    1 stick oleo (margarine or butter)
    1/4 cup brown sugar
    1 cup flour
    1/2 cup chopped nuts
    Filling:
    1 3 oz box jello (lemon)
    1 cup hot water
    3/4 cup sugar
    1 8 oz Cool Whip (or 1 bottle Avoset)
    1 8 oz cream cheese
    Topping:
    1 6 oz box jello (flavor of your choice,
    strawberry is the best)
    3 cups hot water

    Directions:
    Bottom crust: Cream sugar and butter, add flour and nuts. Press and spread into 9”x13” cake pan. Cook at 375 degrees for 10 minutes

    Filling: Dissolve jello in hot water and cool. Add cream cheese mixed with the sugar. Fold in Cool Whip (or whipped Avoset). Pour into cooled crust.

    Topping: Dissolve jello in hot water. Cool and chill.

    When about set, pour on cake.

    Makes: Approx. 30 2”x2” sq. | Total time: 45 min.

    Do you have a favorite recipe and story to share? For consideration in the next issue of Generations Magazine, mail your story and recipe to Generations Food & Story, PO Box 4213, Honolulu, HI 96812, or email them to Debra@generations808.com

    My fondest memories of my late grandma, Shirley Ihara, are of watching her cook and bake in the kitchen. During the holidays, she would make her Butter Crunch Jello Cream Cake and it was one of my favorites. She actually taught me this recipe when I was a child, but I really didn’t make it…

  • Ban the Grinch This Christmas

    Holidays are for giving, but for some it’s a season of taking. Don’t let a Grinch ruin your holiday! Below are some common scams and what to look out for to avoid them.

    Online Shopping Scams

    Scammers tout incredible deals in emails, websites and social media posts. But clicking the link may take you to fake websites that take your money but don’t send you the item or what arrives is a low-quality version of what you were expecting. Even worse, a visit to a fake site could enable crooks to download malicious software or steal personal information, logins and passwords.

    TIPS:

    • If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
    • If you’ve never heard of a company before, check it out.

    Drained Gift Card Scams

    Criminals can scratch off strips on the back of gift cards, get the PIN and return them to store racks. Once the card is purchased and loaded, a computer program notifies them and criminals are able to almost instantly drain the value from the cards.

    TIPS:

    • Purchase gift cards online directly from the merchant. If you do purchase gift cards at a brick-and-mortar store, inspect them for damage or tampering.
    • Keep the purchase and activation receipts. You may not have any recourse, but at least with the receipts, you have a shot.

    Package Delivery Scams

    Porch pirates steal packages from people’s front doors — they are out in force over the holiday season. Scammers will also claim to be carriers (FedEx, UPS, etc.) and send fake package notifications to steal money or personal information.

    TIPS:

    • Ask shippers if packages can he held at their location until you are notified, or have them delivered in a location that would be hard to see from the road.
    • Ignore urgent, unsolicited demands about shipments that you don’t know about. Check directly with the shipper. Don’t click on links.

    AARP HAWAI‘I (501(c) nonprofit)
    1001 Bishop St., Ste. 625, Honolulu, HI 96813
    866-295-7282 | hiaarp@aarp.org
    states.aarp.org/hawaii
    Fraud Watch Network Helpline: 877-908-3360 (Be sure to leave a message to get a call-back.)
    aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork
    Local AARP events and webinars: aarp.org/local

    Holidays are for giving, but for some it’s a season of taking. Don’t let a Grinch ruin your holiday! Below are some common scams and what to look out for to avoid them.

  • Ask a Kupuna

    When I suggested a Q&A for Generations Magazine, I didn’t expect that so many ku¯puna would be so shy! Mahalo to everyone willing to share their answers with me and our readers. Look out for my next column of “Ask a Kupuna” in the next issue. The question will be “Do you have a favorite Valentine’s Day story to share?”

    It’s that time of year when we fondly reminisce about family gatherings and vacations, so my question for this issue was:

    “What is your favorite Christmas memory?”

    Sharon M. (68) Honolulu
    When the kids were young, we would have Christmas Eve family gathering. We would play games, eat onolicious food and Santa would visit and bring all the kids a gift. Just seeing their eyes light up with amazement when they opened their gift from Santa were happy times and special moments… Christmas spirit!!

    SC Anderson (69) Honolulu
    Over Christmas 2020, my mother visited me from Pennsylvania and we enjoyed several O‘ahu Christmas traditions: watching boat and marching band parades; partaking in a festive trolly ride; and visiting Honolulu Hale to see the decorations outside and the annual tree and wreath decorating contests inside of the building.

    Nathan Y. (76) Ewa Beach
    My special Christmas memory was when our daughter was in elementary school. We’d decorate the tree together, do lots of family photos with our dog… trying to get everyone looking at the camera simultaneously, stuff stockings with little goodies, and on Christmas morning we’d set up “Deal or No Deal” for her. She was so excited.

    Alfred K. (94) Mililani
    Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria was my favorite time. In many cities during the first week in December, there were booths for a craft fair, and seasonal food and drinks to enjoy. There were Christmas lights and decorations, with lots of fun music. There was also a Santa who climbed into buildings with gifts.

    Call Sherry Goya at 808-722-8487 or email, sgoyallc@aol.com by November 20, 2023 to answer the “Ask a Kupuna” question for Jan/Feb 2024: “Do you have a favorite Valentine’s Day story to share?” And if you have a question you’d like to suggest, feel free to do so!

    It’s that time of year when we fondly reminisce about family gatherings and vacations, so my question for this issue was: “What is your favorite Christmas memory?”

  • Finding Balance and Joy in Your Life

    Some things are universal to the human race. The night sky is one of them, for we can all look up and feel connected to the moon and stars. Perhaps we have even placed a lost loved one there in the firmament and look to them for guidance when times are tough.

    In her recent memoir, Under a Full Moon and a Guiding Star, Lani Almanza shares the wisdoms she learned while caring for her youngest son Jacob, who passed away in 2005, from cancer, at age 22. Drawing on her experiences from childhood on, she offers us ways to navigate pain and loss, sharing personal stories, images, meditations and lessons that enable caregivers to process their journey and live an “activated life.”

    The book is divided into three parts: Doing and Being, Being and Becoming, and Alaka‘i Life Lessons. Alaka‘i is a Hawaiian word that signifies a leader or a guide and, as a verb, the act of doing that. The resources in Part III guide us towards transformative well-being so we can each live a healthier, happier life. Many can be practiced daily.

    Wherever you are on life’s journey, this 166-page gem will inspire you to find balance and joy in your life.

    UNDER A FULL MOON AND A GUIDING STAR
    by Lani Almanza, is available in hardcover, paperback and Kindle formats from Amazon.
    alakaiassociates.com/book

    Some things are universal to the human race. The night sky is one of them, for we can all look up and feel connected to the moon and stars. Perhaps we have even placed a lost loved one there in the firmament and look to them for guidance when times are tough. In her recent…

  • The Sewing Hui

    Nestled in the quiet paniolo town of Makawao in Upcountry Maui lies a powerhouse of volunteer sewists. Jennifer Oberg, a dressmaker who specializes in custom wedding gowns, opens her studio on a weekly basis for The Sewing Hui to gather, create, and talk story. On most Thursdays, you’ll find people from Upcountry, Kihei, Kahului, Lahaina and even visitors sewing together.

    This group came together as the Maui Face Mask Project in the spring of 2020. The project was started to address the critical shortage of N-95 face masks on Maui. 10,411 high quality filter face masks were created for Maui’s healthcare providers. Since then, the volunteers wanted to continue sewing for the community, and became The Sewing Hui in June 2020. The Sewing Hui maintained a core group of volunteers, mostly retirees. Friendships have been formed and good work has been  accomplished.

    Past initiatives include 13,000 fabric masks for organizations and community members, fleece blankets for kūpuna in long term care facilities, shorts and bags for the unsheltered, costumes for local dance schools, garments for May Day celebrations, and walker bags for kūpuna. The next big project is costume design for the December 2023 production of The Nutcracker ballet by Alexander Academy of Performing Arts on Maui.

    Current projects are helping those displaced by the recent fires. The studio is buzzing with people cutting and sewing pillowcases and walker/ wheelchair bags. We’ve put the word out to other sewing organizations around the world, and they have responded with donations and support. We appreciate all the love and concern everyone around the world has for Maui. Contact the hui for more information, to volunteer, or to make a supply or monetary donation to our cause.

    THE SEWING HUI OF MAUI
    thesewinghui@gmail.com | thesewinghui.com
    facebook.com/thesewinghui
    instagram.com/thesewinghui

    Nestled in the quiet paniolo town of Makawao in Upcountry Maui lies a powerhouse of volunteer sewists. Jennifer Oberg, a dressmaker who specializes in custom wedding gowns, opens her studio on a weekly basis for The Sewing Hui to gather, create, and talk story. On most Thursdays, you’ll find people from Upcountry, Kihei, Kahului, Lahaina…

  • Tech Update for Older Adults

    Trends in technology for older adults highlight continued adaption in a variety of services, including health care.

    Older adults are continuing to live better because of technological innovation. A recent AARP report about tech trends shows that adults over 50 have nearly as high an adoption rate for smartphones, wearables, voice assistants and smart home technologies as their younger counterparts.

    Tech Adaption Increases

    Older adults are streaming movies, video-chatting with friends and family, and buying plenty of smart devices such as tablets and home security systems. COVID-19 was the tailwind that spurred increased acceptance of technology while we couldn’t get together in person. Spending on devices such as smart TVs, smartphones and Bluetooth headsets skyrocketed as older adults changed how they consume entertainment.

    However, that’s not to say that barriers to adoption don’t exist for older adults. More than half were eager to learn more about how to use technology, and over a third said they’d use technology more often if they knew how. The three top barriers cited were cost, lack of knowledge, and concerns around privacy. The majority (83%) were not confident that what they do online remains private.

    Finally, there are still disparities relating to access. Some relate to cost, which is an issue for about a quarter of older adults. But a quarter of rural consumers cited a lack of access, including 15% who either don’t have internet access or are not sure if they do.

    What’s On the Horizon

    So, knowing that tech is increasingly prevalent in the lives of older adults, let’s look at what’s catching on. Sheri Rose, director of the Thrive Center nonprofit that provides education on tech for older adults and looks at trends, highlights five areas where home tech and delivery models are morphing.

    1. Tech to support independent living. The kitchen is changing, from induction cooktops that can’t burn a user to fridges that let users see the contents without opening the door and remind users when product is expiring. Those lacking the full pocketbook for a fancy fridge can take advantage of a voice assistant — one that can be paired with other devices to move the thermostat, see who’s at the door, or turn on the lights. Sensors can help family members living elsewhere keep tabs on a loved one by detecting motion via laser scanning or measuring changes in gait and thus the likelihood of a fall.

    2. Wearables for health data. A plethora of wearable products is available to help users monitor their own health. Of course, there are the iconic Apple Watch and Fitbit, but you can also find Wi-Fi-enabled pulse oximeters and blood pressure monitors that will reduce visits to the doctor or alert when the measurement is abnormal. “Chronic heart failure and other comorbidities can be monitored remotely and help seniors avoid exposure to the virus, keeping them safe and healthy at home,” Rose says. “Smart tablets designed for seniors have integrated data collected from wearables. While you’re playing solitaire on your tablet, you get an alert that you need to take a walk or take your heart medication.”

    3. Telehealth is taking off. The pandemic spurred adaption of remote health visits, made possible by secure videoconferencing platforms and improvements in camera sensitivity, making it possible for doctors to diagnose a rash or assess healing.

    4. Virtual reality is viable entertainment. The isolation of COVID-19 corresponded with an uptick in the use of virtual reality (VR) systems. Thrive Center seniors have been overwhelmingly positive in their assessment of the technology. “We see older adults visit Thrive and put on a VR headset, and they get so enthralled with sitting on the beach and meditating,” Rose says. “We do so much with virtual reality because we know the impact it can have on reducing pain, loneliness and stress levels.”

    5. 5G will make a difference. The fifth-generation cell service is set to boost speeds up to 100 times over current levels, and users will have to be trained in best-practice cybersecurity measures before joining up. Older adults may see the most benefit in the healthcare delivery arena. “5G is really going to boost a lot of  download and upload capacity. When deployed, I think it will make a huge difference,” Rose says.

    It’s clear that technology use is on the rise among older adults. Senior living facilities may soon be competing based on their tech offerings, as well as more traditional amenities.

    SOCIETY OF CERTIFIED SENIORADVISORS
    The SCSA educates and supports specialists in aging dedicated to improving lives of older adults.
    1-800-653-1875 | csa.us
    Sources:
    https://healthtechmagazine.net/article/2021/01/whats-next-senior-tech-5-insights-thrive-center
    https://www.rendever.com
    https://www.rendever.com/rendeverfit
    https://www.aarp.org/research/topics/technology/info-2021/2021-technology-trends-older-americans.html

    Trends in technology for older adults highlight continued adaption in a variety of services, including health care. Older adults are continuing to live better because of technological innovation. A recent AARP report about tech trends shows that adults over 50 have nearly as high an adoption rate for smartphones, wearables, voice assistants and smart home…

  • A Healthy Lifestyle Can Help with Diabetes

    Medications and insulin may be necessary to help you manage diabetes, but diet and exercise can have great impacts on your health.

    Noticeable benefits of a healthy lifestyle include improved glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol; maintaining a healthy weight or weight loss; building muscle strength; improved mood and improved sleep.

    Wondering where to begin? National guidelines for healthy adults recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, which can be broken down into 30-minute sessions a day for five days each week. Taking a brisk walk, doing housework, dancing, and swimming are just some of the various activities that you can do. Here are some tips that can help you get started incorporating physical activity:

    ❉ Find something you enjoy doing. This makes it fun rather than a chore.
    ❉ Start small. You are creating a lifelong habit. You can always build and add to the time and intensity of your activity.
    ❉ Set a goal. Give yourself something to strive for; hold yourself accountable and make sure these goals are specific and realistic.

    It does not have to be too difficult to manage diabetes and your health. You can start slowly and gradually build to make healthy eating and physical activity more manageable for you. Your doctor and healthcare team are always a resource for you if you have any questions or need help creating and managing your goals.

    From the American Diabetes Association’s Food Hub, enjoy this thirst-quenching beverage.
    SPARKLING STRAWBERRY MINT WATER
    Prep Time: 5 min.
    Servings: 4 glasses
    Ingredients
    1- ½ cups Sparkling water
    2 tsp. Fresh lemon juice
    4 Fresh mint leaves & sprigs
    4 Fresh strawberries with crown
    Directions
    – Puree the strawberries, mint leaves, lemon juice and ½ cup of sparkling water in a blender on low speed until smooth, at least 30 seconds.
    – Pour the puree into a serving pitcher. Very slowly, pour in the remaining sparkling water.
    – Serve chilled over ice in tall beverage glasses. Garnish each with a sprig of fresh mint.

    Nutrition Facts (total per serving) Calories: 5, Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 0mg, Carbohydrate: 2g, Sugars: 1g, Protein: 0g, Potassium: 30mg

    diabetesfoodhub.org/recipes/sparkling-strawberry-mint-infused-water.html

    TIMES PHARMACY
    1620 North School St., Honolulu, HI 96817
    808-832-8265 | timespharmacyhawaii.com

    Medications and insulin may be necessary to help you manage diabetes, but diet and exercise can have great impacts on your health. Noticeable benefits of a healthy lifestyle include improved glucose levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol; maintaining a healthy weight or weight loss; building muscle strength; improved mood and improved sleep. Wondering where to begin?…

  • Thrifting: The New Cool

    Save money, help the environment,  and get a fresh look all at the same time by shopping the Gen Z way: at thrift stores.

    Buying gently used clothing has become trendy, thanks to young adults and the pandemic. A culture has built up around finding your wardrobe at Goodwill, Savers, Salvation Army, flea markets, and a host of other brick-and-mortar second-hand stores, or online sites dedicated to recycled clothing. It is a way to add pieces to perk up your basics without spending an arm and a leg. You can get expensive items for a fraction of the retail price. And then there’s that added element: the thrill of the hunt.

    According to a recent study commissioned by online resale platform ThredUp, it’s a $36 billion market in the U.S. today, and expected to reach $77 billion in five years, eclipsing the growth in the broader retail sector 11 times over. One in five Americans shops at a thrift store in a given year — about the same number as those who go to a major department store.

    Green Machine

    “Having a young family where the kids are constantly outgrowing their clothes, thrift stores are a blessing,” says mom Beth Jarvie. “There is also now the awareness of conservation of resources, keeping your environmental footprint small, and upcycling durable goods.” According to the ThredUp study, younger shoppers are far more concerned with the environmental impact of clothing than their grandparents.

    The apparel and footwear industry accounts for about 10% of climate impact, which is more than the combined effect of every international flight and all maritime shipping, combined.

    Keenly aware of clothing’s impact, college student Grace Snelling says, “I’ve kind of stopped buying clothes from traditional stores. People almost respect you if what you’re wearing is thrifted, and it looks good because you’ve managed to pull off a cool outfit, and it’s sustainable.”

    What’s In It for Older Adults

    Thrift stores are a goldmine of clothing for grandchildren, and it’s priced right for people on a fixed income. You may find jeans or a gorgeous dress for your  granddaughter for around $5. Bikes, toys, crafts — they can all be thrifted.

    Switching to a fake Christmas tree? Shop your local thrift store and get it for a quarter of the retail price. Need some new dinnerware or kitchen tools? How about an edger for the lawn? Halloween costume? The nice thing about thrift stores vs. garage sales is that the thrift store will have a huge array of items in one stop. Most also have a senior day once a week when items are marked down for adults over a certain age.

    Another fun find is books, which seldom cost more than a dollar or two. How fun to bring over a basket of books for little grandkids or choose a few interesting reads for yourself. Invite a friend to accompany you for more fun and to get a second opinion on whether or not you should buy the jeans with the giant sparkle pockets.

    Online Thrifting

    Have you ever bought a used item on the internet? Hundreds of thousands of items are all available at any one time, from a vintage wool Norwegian sweater to a leather Harley Davidson jacket. Sites like eBay, ThredUp, Poshmark and the RealReal offer buyers the chance to find bargains galore. You can pay the stated price, make an offer to the seller, or bid in auctions where gorgeous clothing sometimes gets sold for a ridiculously low price. By the way, don’t forget to look for jewelry and shoes or boots. How about a fun pair of cowboy boots for $20 instead of $200? You don’t have to give up your favorite brands to thrift; they’re not this season’s goods, but they’re a whole lot cheaper!

    Be prepared to model your latest finds for older grandchildren, who will applaud your style and your savvy. They may even ask to go on your next thrifting trip!

     

    Save money, help the environment,  and get a fresh look all at the same time by shopping the Gen Z way: at thrift stores.