How to talk with your doctor about sensitive issues

by NIH

Much of the communication between doctor and patient is personal. To have a good partnership with your doctor, it is important to talk about sensitive subjects, like sex or memory problems, even if you are embarrassed or uncomfortable. Most doctors are used to talking about personal matters and will try to ease your discomfort. Keep in mind that these topics concern many older people. You can use booklets and other materials from NIA or the organizations listed at the end of the article to help you bring up sensitive subjects when talking with your doctor.

It is important to understand that problems with memory, depression, sexual function, and incontinence are not necessarily normal parts of aging. A good doctor will take your concerns about these topics seriously and not brush them off. If you think your doctor isn’t taking your concerns seriously, talk to him or her about your feelings or consider looking for a new doctor. Read on for examples of ways to bring up these subjects during your appointment.

Anyone at any age can have a drinking problem. Alcohol can have a greater effect as a person grows older because the aging process affects how the body handles alcohol. People can also develop a drinking problem later in life due to major life changes like the death of loved ones. Talk with your doctor if you think you may be developing a drinking problem. You could say: “Lately, I’ve been wanting to have a drink earlier and earlier in the afternoon, and I find it’s getting harder to stop after just one or two. What kind of treatments could help with this?”

Driving is an important part of everyday life for many people, and making the decision to stop driving can be very difficult. Tell your doctor if you or people close to you are concerned about your driving and why. He or she can go over your medical conditions and medications to see if there are treatable problems that may be contributing to driving difficulties.

A fall can be a serious event, often leading to injury and loss of independence, at least for a while. For this reason, many older people develop a fear of falling. Studies show that fear of falling can keep people from going about their normal activities and, as a result, they may become frailer, which actually increases their risk of falling again. If fear of falling is affecting your day-to-day life, let your doctor know. He or she may be able to recommend some things to do to reduce your chances of falling. Exercises can help you improve your balance and strengthen your muscles, at any age.

Regular exercise makes you stronger and can help you prevent falls. NIA has articles and free videos designed for older adults that can help you fit exercise and physical activity into your daily life.

Vol. 17, No. 15 – April 17 – April 30, 2024 – Forever Homes Wanted

Hi: I’m Santa, a 3 1/2 year old playful Pit Bull X who is in need of a new home as my owner needs to move out of the country to take care of his seriously ill mother and there is no one to take care of me. I’m very high energy and strong. I need an active owner who will exercise and play with me daily. I know basic commands, but need work on leash training.

I’m good with children, but I need a home with no other dogs. It’s unknown how I would do with cats. I’m also choosy with strangers.

If you’re interested in meeting me, please fill out an online application. CARL adoption

Home


CARL Adoption Center-call 644-7387 for more information.

Nala is a 2-year 1 month old Pit Bull Terrier Mix
A Spayed Female
Adoptable Date: Sunday April 21, 2024
Animal ID: A843699 Kennel: 108 City Found: Oxnard
Shelter: Camarillo Animal Shelter VCAS

Vol. 17, No. 15 – April 17 – April 30, 2024 – Harbor Patrol Blotter

Wednes 3/27

 9:05pm, observed the Manson Dredge in the A-basin of the harbor conducting “beneficial reuse” of sediment to replenish harbor and beaches downcoast.

Thursday 3/28

 3:12pm, received report of a Hazard to Navigation in the keys. Officers responded in Rescue B19 and removed a 20ft long garden hose floating in basin.

6:34pm, received report of a female screaming near VHV C-dock. Officers responded, found the female transient as reported, escorted her to Harbor Blvd.

Friday 3/29

 4:07am, dispatched to a fall victim in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded, assisted the patient up off floor, no injuries were sustained.

3:20pm, received report of illegal fishing at Pond in Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded and removed the young men from the park.

Saturday 3/30

 9:33am, officers cleaning, relocating equipment in preparation for their Boat House remodel and rebuilding beginning next week.

2:09pm, while on patrol, observed 5mph buoy in the A-basin off station. Officers towed it back to its position, moved during dredging.

Sunday 3/31

 12:32am, dispatched to 99 y/o unconscious. Officers responded with AMR / VFD and assisted with treatment and preparing for transport.

Monday 4/1

 3:20pm, received report of 2 transients attempting to use thrown away paddle boards to paddle to the Santa Clara Rivermouth from the L/R. Officers were able to convince them to postpone the adventure. Issued warning for no PFD’s.

Tuesday 4/2

 3:10pm, dispatched to vehicle in the water at the L/R, officers responded by land and water. Once on scene, determined no one in the vehicle. The individual was retrieving their vessel and accidently backed into the water. Vehicle towed out of the water with assistance from TowBoat US and Anacapa towing.
Thursday 4/4 .10:40am, received a request for disposing of expired flares. Officers explained US coast guard receives flares at CI Harbor safety expo or contact USCG.

Friday 4/5

 4:43pm, while on patrol in truck, flagged down by injured individual at the launch ramp. Officers rendered first aid for an injured thumb, released at scene.

6:51pm, received report of an injured seabird, Greeb on Spinnaker Dr. Officers responded and were able to capture the bird for rescue group and rehabilitation.

Saturday 4/6

 5:15am, received request to jumpstart security vehicle in the village. Officers responded and were able to start the vehicle.

12:18am, dispatched to a sick person in the Ventura Marina Community. Officers responded and assisted VFD and AMR with the patient.

3:22pm, dispatched to investigation of large oil spill occurring at Surfers Knoll. Officers responded, found Manson conducting beneficial reuse, or replenishment of sand erosion. The operation was explained to concerned patrons and caller.

Sunday 4/7

 6:33am, observed bad weather forecast again, raised Gale Warning pennants.

2:25pm, dispatched to an unknown medical at Surfers Knoll. Officers responded and found the patient intoxicated and going in and out of the ocean, to the concern of beach patrons. Convinced the individual to stay out of the sea.

11:33pm, officers securing vessels due to gusty winds loosening lines.

Monday 4/8

 10:44am, advising fire dispatch that primary response vehicle is Out-of-Service, 2nd vehicle in primary role. Harbor 1 needs diagnostics and fuel tank repair.

11:41am, dispatched to a sick person at the Surfers Knoll parking lot. Officers responded with VFD/AMR to assist the patient who was transported to hospital.

5:03pm, received report of a disgruntled customer at gift shop in the village. Officers responded and diffused the situation, customer satisfied with returns.

Tuesday 4/9

 8:47am, officers conducting traffic control in Fireboat/Rescue B19 for Manson Dredge returning to Pierpont Basin for repairs.

 

Let’s Dance

Residents are lined up and ready to Spring into shape with Lelie!

by Leslie Sokol

Spring is in the air! This is the perfect season to get moving, be fit, and have fun. One of the best ways to improve your overall health and get in shape is to dance. Dancing can be many things: an expression of art, a social activity with friends, part of a cultural experience, a fun hobby, or a great form of exercise. The combination of movement, time spent with others, and rhythmic music is good for your physical and mental well-being. No matter your age, moving your body to the sound of music can transform your life for the better.

9 Ways Dancing Improves Your Health

Boosts cardiovascular health. Like other aerobic exercises, dancing increases your cardiovascular endurance by elevating your breathing. Dance moves of a moderate intensity can reduce your risk of developing heart disease.

Builds core strength. Dance requires balance and builds core strength, which promotes good posture and prevents muscle injuries and back pain. For example, ballet moves train your body to stand still and balance on one leg using deep muscles in your body and engaging your abs.

Promotes flexibility. Many forms of dance stretch your limbs and improve flexibility. This in turn will help improve your balance, help you avoid falls and decrease the risk of injury in many areas of your life.

Helps with weight loss. Dancing may include both aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Aerobic exercises involve continuous movement fueled by oxygen – examples include bike riding or running. Anaerobic exercises involve short bursts of high-intensity movement fueled by energy stored in your muscles (think weight lifting). Both types of exercise can improve your health and are great calorie burners. In general, the more up-tempo the dance style, the more calories and energy will be burned.

Improves bone health. As a form of weight-bearing activity, dancing can help you maintain bone density and even build new bone mass.

Helps prevent memory loss. One of my favorite sayings is, “Sound mind, sound body.” Dance gets you moving both physically and mentally. Learning new steps and routines requires mental focus while counting and staying on beat to the music. This makes you feel more alert, focused and engaged and improves your cognitive skills.

Improves mental health. Dance is one of the best types of exercise to lift your spirit. Dance decreases anxiety, increases self-esteem, and improves your psychological well-being. Reduces stress. Dancing can be uplifting, make you feel good and forget your worries. It is the perfect way to brighten your mood on days where you might be feeling upset or stressed.

Creates social connections. Social connectedness and interaction are critical components of your mental and physical health. Dancing with others is a shared experience. When you take a class, you will feel an immediate connection with your fellow students as you all respond to the music and the movements of your bodies. Incorporating dance into your life will have an immediate positive impact on how you feel. It will help you focus, improve self-discipline, increase your confidence, and change your brain and body for the better. Through my many years of dance training and teaching, I am so grateful to be able to share my knowledge and experience with others. From ages 3 years to 105 years old, my students learn the positive power of dance. So put a spring into your step and let’s get dancing!

Leslie Sokol is the creator and founder of the adult dance and fitness program For the Young at Heart. She has been teaching adults and children for forty-five years.

For more information contact Leslie at [email protected] 805-312-8089 or visit the website: www.LeslieSokolDance.com

 

The Bookmark About Libraries and Friends

by Mary Olson

The Ventura County Library Foundation is bringing its Rising from the Ashes Home Tour back for a third year, on Saturday, April 20, 12:00 to 4:00 pm.

The “Rising from the Ashes” Home Tour celebrates the strength and solidarity of the Ventura County community following the devastating Thomas Fire. Attendees can look forward to exploring homes rebuilt after the fire featuring a variety of architectural styles. The 2024 tour features five homes, a native plant garden, refreshments, live music, and more.

All proceeds from the home tour will directly support the Ventura County Library Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing Ventura County Library Services. The funds raised will contribute to a vast array of programs at Ventura County libraries, encompassing literacy, the arts, technology, and cultural lessons designed to engage and inspire library members of all ages throughout the county.

Tickets are $50 each. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.vclibraryfoundation.org/

California State University, Channel Islands Broome Library Lecture Series

Faculty from disciplines across the CSUCI campus participate in these unique and informal lectures at local libraries throughout the county as a way to engage with the broader public and participate in community outreach. Events are free and open to the public.

Peering Into Darkness: Exploring the Deep Sea

Hill Road Library Sunday, April 21, 11:30 am

What makes the deep ocean a wondrous, mysterious environment? Dr. Geoffrey Dilly will discuss the strange adaptations deep ocean animals have developed, the human impact on this far-away ocean environment, and his own experiences in deep sea biology, including several dives on Alvin, the most widely recognized deep-sea submersible. For more information, contact Linda Cherry, Hill Road Librarian, [email protected]

Who Wrote Shakespeare?

Hill Road Library Tuesday, May 7, 5:00 pm

Shakespeare’s plays are known world-wide and have shaped our languages and literary imaginations for centuries.

But is Willam Shakespeare truly the author of the works we know as “Shakespeare’s”?

English Professor Bob Mayberry will host a presentation and discussion of the myths, legends, and theories

surrounding the authorship of what we know as “Shakespeare” as part of the Broome Library Lecture Series.

Professor Mayberry has taught classes on English, poetry, composition, swearing, and even baseball literature during his 16 years at CSU-CI,

For additional information, contact Linda Cherry, Hill Road Librarian, at [email protected]

The Ventura Friends of the Library Bookstore in E.P. Foster Library

2nd Look Books
is now open 7 days a week,
Monday through Saturday, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays, 1:00 to 4:00 pm.

New donations arrive every week and the stock in our store is regularly refreshed.

We also invite you to visit our online bookstore for local sales for unique items, including Manga, Vintage, Art and Architecture. In April, the Music category is 10% off. Find the link at our website: https://venturafriendsofthelibrary.org. Orders are picked up at our bookstore in E.P. Foster Library.

Buena High School is all shook up

Buena High School is thrilled to announce the eagerly awaited spring musical, “All Shook Up School Edition,” inspired by the timeless tunes of Elvis Presley and featuring a book by Joe DiPietro.

Theatre Director Karen Rodrigues expresses her excitement, stating, “We are elated to bring you this lip-curling, hip-swiveling musical.  It is a hilarious comedy that celebrates love and the transformative power of music.”

Loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, “All Shook Up,” directed by Karen Rodrigues, with vocal direction by Kevin Downey and Choreography by Buena High School Senior Elena Ozuna, promises an unforgettable experience.  Performances kick off on Thursday, April 18, at 7 pm, with a limited run through Saturday, May 4, 2024.

Set in 1955, the musical introduces a guitar-playing young man who arrives in a conservative town, stirring up excitement and change. As the mayor enforces laws against loud music and tight pants, the townsfolk embark on a journey of self-discovery and liberation. This musical fantasy will have audiences jumpin’ out of their blue suede shoes with such classics as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and “Don’t Be Cruel.”

Director Karen Rodrigues reflects on the significance of this production, her last before retiring, stating, “I am proud that “All Shook Up” is my final production at Buena. It is a reflection of the resilience of Buena’s Theatre Department.  We had scheduled to open it in April 2020, and we had to close due to the COVID-19 shut down.  Now, we are bringing it back with a full cast of outstanding performers. Audiences will love this show.”

Don’t miss out on a great opportunity to support the arts in our local, public schools, and fill your heart with laughter and love.  Tickets are on sale now at bhsdramaboxoffice.org, and you can also purchase tickets at the door.  Performances will be held at the Buena High School McConnell Auditorium, located at 5670 Telegraph Road, Ventura, CA 93003. 

For more information about the play, contact Buena’s Theatre Director, Karen Rodrigues, at [email protected]. For more information on Buena High School or District, contact Marieanne Quiroz, Director of Communications/Public Information Officer, at 805-641-5000. 

Ventura Charter School hosts 13th annual EcoFest!

Ventura Charter School is excited to once again present Ventura EcoFest, an Earth Day celebration of our planet for the community of Ventura. This family-friendly free event welcomes the community to enjoy good green fun in the form of live performances, a silent auction, a raffle, local vendors and nonprofits, food trucks, eco arts and crafts and educational games on Sunday, April 28th, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Ventura Charter School campus, 2060 Cameron Street, Ventura. In 2023 more than 2500 attendees enjoyed the Earth Day festivities, with more expected for this year’s event.

In support of Earth-friendly practices Ventura Charter School’s EcoFest welcomes the community to head to the campus utilizing a variety of transportation options. Bicycle to event and receive bike valet services sponsored by Bike Ventura County. Through Gold Coast Transit District’s Youth Ride Free Program, students and children 18 and under ride free with no identification required. There will be a variety of entertainment for the whole family to enjoy, including a kid zone, an EV car exhibit, live music and dance and plenty more.

Guests can bid in a silent auction, benefiting Ventura Charter School’s many diverse and inclusive academic programs. Among the items available for in-person bidding are outdoor gear, tickets for local entertainment, yoga class passes, whale watching passes, local restaurant gift cards and much more.

In addition to the silent auction, the event will feature a raffle. Pre-sale raffle tickets can be purchased from families of Ventura Charter School students or at the event. All tickets are $1. The grand prize is $1,000 in Disney Cash. The raffle will be pulled each hour, with the grand prize drawing at 4:00 p.m. Winners need not be present.

Sponsors include Kirby Auto Group of Ventura, UNPaste, Bamieh & De Smeth, Amigos Party Rental, Brooklyn Charm, Bodhi Salt Yoga, Bella Luna Gardens, Edible Ojai and Ventura County, and Mission Bank.

“We are excited to continue this important annual tradition for our community, and our students,” said Lisa Hildebrand, Executive Director of Ventura Charter School, “Our students look forward to this event for the fun but it’s also an important reminder for them and for us that we are stewards for our planet and change starts with our own choices.”

Proceeds from this event benefit Ventura Charter School, a tuition-free nonprofit school that serves 450 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. During school hours, Ventura EcoFest encourages students to take a closer look at their personal habits to see how they affect the planet and make changes, such as a student-led campaign to reduce disposable utensils on campus. Along with the EcoFest celebration, students experience an involved project-based curriculum centered upon empowerment through critical thinking, empathy, research, and action to benefit the spaces they occupy throughout their lives with inclusion and equity. To learn more about Ventura EcoFest or enrollment at Ventura Charter School, please visit, https://earthdayventura.org.

Kathy Odell to step down as WEV CEO

Kathy Odell, CEO of Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV), announced her retirement and resignation, effective May 1st, 2024. After five years of dedicated service, Kathy will transition to the role of CEO Emerita, marking the end of a transformative chapter in her career.

Under Kathy’s leadership the WEV team has achieved significant milestones and made lasting contributions to the lives of thousands of women and small business entrepreneurs within our community. WEV has provided essential training and resources, technical support and funding to women entrepreneurs, advocated for gender equality in the business world, helped local businesses thrive, and inspired hope for a brighter future for women in business.

Reflecting on her time as CEO, Kathy expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to lead such a dynamic and impactful organization. “The last five years have been some of the most rewarding of my career,” she said. “But now, it is time for me to embrace the next chapter of my journey.”

Despite stepping down from her role, Kathy emphasized her unwavering commitment to WEV’s mission. “WEV is a strong and enduring participant in our communities,” she remarked. “And while I may be stepping away from day-to-day involvement, my dedication to supporting women entrepreneurs and driving economic prosperity remains steadfast.”

In announcing her resignation, Kathy expressed confidence in WEV’s continued success under the leadership of Nicki Parr, who has been appointed Interim CEO. Nicki has been an employee of WEV since 2018, most recently in the role of Chief Operating Officer.  “Nicki’s experience, expertise, and leadership will undoubtedly ensure that WEV continues to thrive and make a meaningful difference in the lives of women entrepreneurs and small business owners,” Kathy stated.

As she embarks on the next phase of her journey, Kathy expressed heartfelt appreciation to the entire WEV community for their dedication, passion, and support. “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as CEO,” she said. “And I look forward to continuing to advocate for WEV and being an active participant in our community.”

Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report

Ocean water quality results for samples collected this week indicate ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling locations failed to meet State standards for bacteria:

  • Rincon Beach at Creek
  • Faria County Park Beach
  • Surfer’s Point at Seaside

Warning signs are currently posted and contact with ocean water should be avoided for a minimum of 50 yards on either side of each posted sign. Warning signs will remain posted until ocean water quality meets State standards. Any items that may have come in contact with ocean water should be avoided. If contact occurs, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

As a result of current storm and predicted rainfall the public is advised to avoid body contact with all storm water runoff and ocean water at all Ventura County beaches.

Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County. In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.

There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water. In addition, storm water runoff can transport physical hazards such as partially submerged tree limbs and logs into the ocean that could result in serious physical injury. Contact with this runoff water will result in an increased risk to human health and should be avoided for at least 72 hours after all rainfall activity has ended.This advisory will remain in effect for 72 hours (3 days) after all rainfall has ended.

Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program staff will continue with weekly bacteriological sampling of Ventura County beaches. Bacteriological sample results for specific beaches are also available on the Environmental Health Division hotline (recorded information), 805/662-6555, and on the Division’s Web page at:

www.vcrma.org/ocean–water–quality–monitoring–program