MATURE MARKET HEADLINES POSTED 08/18/97
Sticking It To Seniors: acupuncture for arthritis
People affected by the chronic pain of arthritis are increasingly seeking relief from complementary treatments such as acupuncture in addition to their conventional medical treatment prescribed by their doctor. Acupuncture is a centuries-old Chinese medical technique that involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points of the body. The aim is to restore the balance of what the Chinese call "vital energy" or qi (pronounced "chee") because it is believed that when this energy is out of balance, illness occurs. According to Cindy McDaniel, editor of Arthritis Today, several reliable studies indicate its effectiveness. However, she advises those who seek acupuncture to follow these suggestions:
- Discuss the decision with your doctor, and inform him of your progress.
- Check the acupuncturist's credentials by calling the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture at 1-800-521-2262.
- Insist that your acupuncturist use disposable needles in order to prevent infection.
- Check the cost. Prices vary. Insurance companies may not cover treatment.
Visit the Arthritis Foundation web site at www.arthritis.org
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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Memories of Romantic Rows Will Be Well-read
My first memory of a drive-in movie was watching a love scene for nearly an hour before realizing my car was parked backwards. Millions of baby boomers are about to revisit those good ol' days through the recollections of Don and Susan Sanders, authors of "The Drive-In Movie Theatre" (Motorbooks, September 1997, $29.95).
Their book offers a complete, fun, in-depth look at a piece of Americana. In 1958 there were 5,000 drive-in movie theaters, each with rows and rows of romance. Today there are approximately 800 in 35 states. Almost gone, but not forgotten. This book captures 150 color and 125 black and white vintage and current pictures of drive-ins across the country, as well as original newspaper ads, neon signs, classic cars and movie stars.
In addition to detailing the history of the drive-in, the book is filled with interesting facts. For example, the first Auto Theatre (drive-in) was opened in 1933 by Richard Hollingshead in Camden, New Jersey. In addition to the book, the authors have developed a drive-in web page so you can preview items from the book.
I expect that this walk down memory lane will be well-read among boomers and retirees alike. The website address is www.americandrivein.com
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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New Website Unlocks Home Security Secrets
Do you find yourself worrying that precious photographs and irreplaceable documents might be reduced to ashes in case of fire? Are you drowning in an avalanche of papers or spending too much time looking for misplaced records?
If the answer is yes, Sentry Group, makers of security chests and safes, offers sound advice on how to protect, organize, and secure documents and keepsakes on its new web site at www.sentry-group.com. The web site addresses critical questions regarding what documents to save, how to get organized for tax season, how to protect your home during vacation time, how to safeguard computer diskettes, video and audio tapes.
Visit the Sentry web site at www.sentry-grp.com
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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Is CRC Preventable? Some Experts Think So
Colorectal cancer (CRC) may be up to 80 percent preventable through screening and alteration of lifestyle factors, so says the American Council on Science and Health (ACSH). "Colorectal cancer is second only to lung cancer as a cause of death from cancer. Without preventive action, about one in every 17 Americans will be diagnosed with CRC," warns ACSH President Dr. Elizabeth Whelan. In a new booklet, "Colorectal Cancer: Myths, Facts, and Possibilities", ACSH experts counter common myths about CRC, and discuss the tools available for effective CRC preventions. Here's a few highlights from the booklet.
- CRC is second only to lung cancer as a cause of death from cancer.
- Consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risk to CRC.
- Antioxidant supplements (C, E, and beta-carotene) are ineffective against CRC.
- Aspirin is associated with a reduced risk of CRC.
- Physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of CRC.
- Regular screening could reduce CRC mortality by over 50 percent.
The American Council on Science and Health (ACSH) is a consortium of more than 250 scientists. The booklet, "Colorectal Cancer: Myths, Facts, and Possibilities" costs $3.85 (includes postage and handling). Contact: ACSH, 1995 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10023-5860.
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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Elder Web-surfers Spawn Internet Growth
Computers and the Internet are no longer unexplored territory for a growing number of seniors, according to research conducted by the Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association (CEMA). With more free time and an increasing ambition to learn, elders are rivaling the high technology skills and knowledge of Generation X members.
CEMA surveyed 500 seniors regarding their experience with computers and found that 28 percent own a personal computer. Among those, 51 percent use their computer one to nine hours a week. According to CEMA president, Gary Shapiro, "Seniors represent the fastest growing sector of personal computer buyers, and are now the fastest growing group of users on the Internet."
According to the survey, 38 percent of senior computer owners have access to the Internet and e-mail. Already, over 5,000 sites exist relating to senior's interests, from government agencies and pharmaceutical firms to job banks and senior chat rooms.
Finally, the research shows that seniors have more time to explore new technology and have the largest disposable income of the entire population. According to the U.S. Census, 27 percent of the U.S. population will be over the age of 50 in 1997. These adults will hold over 80 percent of the country's assets. With a projected growth of 2-3 percent every five years, the influence and buying power of this population segment is expected to increase significantly.
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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90% of Elder Depression Goes Untreated
From 1980 to 1992, the suicide rate for persons age 65-plus increased by 9%, while the rates for those 80 to 84 years of age increased by 35%, according to the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. Worse, the suicide rate among males 85-plus is six times the rate of the general population. What's behind this dismal trend? Depression.
Under-diagnosed and under-treated depression. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that as many as nine out of 10 older persons who have depression don't get treatment for the disorder. That's because late-life depression is considered normal. However, NIMH scientist, Dr. Barry Lebowitz says "Depression is not the outcome of natural processes of aging and should not be considered normal."
Of the 33 million Americans age 65 and older, a reported five million suffer from serious symptoms of depression. Another one million suffer from major, or clinical, depression. An astounding 40% of all elder suicides visit a doctor in the week before committing suicide.
Doctors often miss the diagnosis because, in older patients, the classic symptoms of sadness and withdrawal are frequently replaced with symptoms of irritability or apathy (so-called "normal" behavior for an elder). For more information, call the NAMI helpline at 1-800-950-6264. Or, visit the NAMI web site at http://www.nami.org
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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Weekly Reading to Benefit Weakly Readers
Los Angeles Times will offer its readers the opportunity to get their weakly bodies ship-shape with the launch a weekly Health section featuring comprehensive coverage of health, medical, fitness and lifestyle-related issues. It all begins on September 8.
According to Michelle Williams, editor of the new Health section, "Southern Californians have a very high interest in health, whether it's finding a personal trainer, or cardiologist, or a suitable nursing home for their parents. Our goal is to provide readers fresh, insightful features as well as news analysis."
In addition to news, the Health section will offer special features and columns such as: facts and figures on health, Q&A with health experts, profiles of health professionals, fitness regimes of celebrities, and more. As the saying goes, "If California sets the trend for the rest of the nation, can we expect other major dailies to follow suit? You can bet the ranch on it."
AgeVenture News Service, www.demko.com
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Dr. David Demko, Editor
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