Assisted Living Residences

If such studies don’t have you convinced, consider an example from real life: Jeanne Calment, the longest living person in world history. Calment lived to be 122 years old, and she reportedly ate, on average, twopounds of chocolate a week!

Just remember that not all chocolate is equally healthy. Cardiologist Chauncey Crandall, of Palm Beach Cardiovascular Clinic, has recommended sticking to just a few squares of dark chocolate every so often. Dark chocolate contains the highest concentration of healthful flavonols, without the added fat and sugar of more highly processed chocolates.

Now that you’ve learned about the health benefits of chocolate, it’s time to take your knowledge to the next level. Become a certified “chocolate expert,” by attending“Chocolate 101” with Judith Kalaora on Tuesday, February 16th. Residents are invited to learn by tasting. There will be many opportunities to taste, while also learning about the history and production of chocolates throughout the world. We hope to see you there!

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you are sure to notice a conspicuous amount of chocolate around Youville Place. Chocolate is a time-honored Valentine’s Day tradition, but recent research has revealed that it is also, literally, good for your heart.

Dark chocolate contains high levels of nutrients known as “flavonols.” Similar to antioxidants, flavonols improve blood flow to the brain and heart and lower blood pressure. Flavonols also exist in peanuts, apples, tea and wine, but those aren’t as fun to consume as chocolate!

Research institutions throughout the world are eager to learn more about how chocolate might benefit the mind and body. Brigham and Women’s Hospital is currently participating in the Cocoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study. In 2013, Harvard Medical School found that older adults who consumed two cups a day of hot cocoa performed better on memory tests. In Canada, researchers found that individuals who regularly consumed chocolate had a 22% less chance of suffering from a stroke.

To Good Health: A Valentine’s Day Tribute to ChocolateFebruary 2016

Superbowl 50Denver Broncos vs. Carolina PanthersSunday, February 7 at 6:30 PMWatch Superbowl 50 in the Community Room with friends.

Math Project Night with the Russian SchoolSaturday, February 6 at 6:00 PMElementary school students from the Russian School of Mathematics in Lexington will hold a community Math Night at Youville Place. The students will display interactive projects of their own creation that demonstrate the mathematical concepts they have been learning in school. According to Sona Antonyan, Principal of the Russian School, “Math Project night is a key tool in helping us to battle the negative stigmas many kids attach to math, by showing them that math is about creativity, that it can be a cool and even beautiful thing. This will be our sixth consecutive year of Math Night!” Whether you are a math enthusiast or just enjoy interacting with children, these bright students are very eager to share their projects.

ArtMatters Presents...The Great American WestTuesday, February 9 at 1:30 PMAmerican artists have been like America itself: pioneering, bold, and independent. In the western frontiers, artists confronted a beautiful landscape, an alien culture and a dramatically different lifestyle. Join us for a look at the Great American West, as seen by the artists who sought to capture and preserve it for posterity. Writing Workshop with Tom DaleyTuesday, February 9 & 23 at 3:15 PMAward-winning poet and local writing instructor Tom Daley returns to Youville to lead two memoir-writing workshops. Experienced and/or aspiring writers are encouraged to join! Mr. Daley will lead participants through a series of in-class prompts to help set a scene and stimulate the imagination and memory. If you were present at last month’s class, this is your opportunity to build on or add to your previous writing.

Arts & Crafts with LexFun! Wednesday, February 10 at 10:00 AMLexington’s “Five and Under Network” will be at Youville Place on Wednesday morning to participate in a winter arts and crafts project. The children always bring a smile to our faces when they visit.

Farewell Tea for Claudia Wilson, Director of MarketingTuesday, February 2 at 2:00 PMAfter thirteen years of service, Claudia Wilson is retiringas Director of Marketing. Claudia has played many important roles at Youville Place, where she began as Programs Director and later made the shift to Marketing. According to Dinah Olanoff, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications, “Claudia has made wonderful contributions to our marketing efforts at Youville Place. Her ever-present smile and friendly attitude have always made her a pleasure to work with.”In retirement, Claudia looks forward to spending more time with her grandchildren. Please join her on February 2nd and wish her all the best.

Broadway Seated Dance with Phyllis RittnerWednesday, February 3, 10, 17 & 24 at 9:30 AMBroadway Seated Dance is a music and dance program for older adults who love the upbeat tunes from movie musicals, Broadway and the popular performers from the 1930s and 1960s. This program includes a gentle warm up, easy-to-follow body movements and a relaxing cooldown. The exercises are designed to improve cardiovascular function, range of motion, muscle tone, posture, circulation and flexibility. Be sure to join us on Wednesday mornings!

International DanceAlan Pearlmutter, PianoLinda Poland, ClarinetSaturday, February 6 at 1:30 PMAlan Pearlmutter and Linda Poland have proven to be a winning musical combination. Their innovative instrumental arrangements on piano and clarinet span a wide range of genres and always make for an interesting performance. This month, they explore the world of international dance. You will likely hear tangos, waltzes, polkas, ballets & mazurkas the world over!

Monthly Highlights...Winter Concert Series Classical Pianist Constantine FinehouseThe Comic and the Tragic Voices of the Piano Monday, February 8 at 2:00 PMRussian-born pianist Constantine Finehouse is best known for his nuanced interpretations of Brahms, Ravel and the American composer William Bolcom. Mr. Finehouse has performed extensively in the United States and abroad since receiving his Masters in Piano Performance from Yale University. He has played with numerous orchestras in the Boston area and has given a number of solo and chamber music performances in the city’s best halls. He is currently recording an album of the complete solo piano works by William Bolcom. Don’t miss his debut performance at Youville!

An Evening of Music with Pianist Nancy DayTuesday, February 23 at 2:00 PMAn accomplished pianist, singer and composer, Nancy Day consistently thrills audiences with her dynamic performances. She draws from a wide-ranging repertoire that includes jazz, country, ragtime, musical theater and enchanting love songs. Don’t miss the chance to see this engaging performer at Youville!

Pianist Sarah TakagiEmotions, Energy & Music Sunday, February 28 at 2:00 PMSince making her orchestral debut at age 11, Sarah Takagi has performed numerous concerts in the United States, Canada and Japan. A New England Conservatory faculty member, Takagi has been featured on PBS and WGBH, and has won numerous awards and competitions. She is a chamber musician, a master improvisationalist, and an innovative songwriter whose original work has been critically acclaimed by The Boston Globe.

Lunch Trip: The Great Wall RestaurantWednesday, February 3Depart: 11:30 AMReturn: 2:30 PM Cost: $ for lunchGet a head start on the Chinese New Year with a scrumptious meal at The Great Wall Restaurant in Bedford. Lunch specials include General Gao’s Chicken, Kung Pao Spicy Shrimp, Buddha’s Delight and more!Lunch Trip: The Ninety-Nine Restaurant & PubWednesday, February 17Depart: 11:30 AMReturn: 2:30 PM Cost: $ for lunchEnjoy a satisfying lunch in an inviting, lively setting. From burgers and fries to more sophisticated entrees, the menu at The Ninety-Nine Restaurant & Pub has something for everyone.

Shopping Trips Lexington Stop & ShopTuesday, February 2 & 23Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AM

Burlington Market BasketTuesday, February 9Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AM

Lexington Center / Walgreen’sThursday, February 11 & 25Time: 1:00 PM Return: 2:30 PM

Bedford Stop & ShopTuesday, February 16Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AM

Happy Birthday! Maria B. February 2Sr. Suzanne F. February 2Helen S. February 2Ann G. February 28

Residents born in February are invited to lunch in the Private Dining Room to celebrate on Friday, February 19 at 12:00 PM.

Community Outings

See more “Monthly Highlights” on page 7 2 3

9:30 Fitness 9:30 Shopping Trip: Bedford Stop & Shop 10:30 An Hour w/ Sheila 2:00 Chocolate 101 w/ Judith Kalaora 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Open Season

9:30 Fitness 9:30 Shopping Trip: Lexington Stop & Shop 10:30 An Hour w/ Sheila 2:00 An Afternoon of Music w/ Pianist Nancy Day 3:15 Writing Workshop 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: The Muppets

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance10:00 Centering Prayer10:30 Chaplet of Divine Mercy11:30 Lunch Trip: Ninety-Nine 1:30 Documentary Movie: Spirits of the Jaguar 3:00 Bible Study 7:00 Documentary Movie: Spirits of the Jaguar 9:30 Broadway Seated Dance 10:00 Centering Prayer 10:30 Chaplet of Divine Mercy 1:30 Trip: Afternoon Ride 1:30 Documentary Movie: Extreme Ice 3:00 Bible Study 7:00 Documentary Movie: Extreme Ice

9:30 Fitness10:30 Let’s Talk Food 2:00 Forever Fit! 4:00 Roaring ‘20s Happy Hour Hosted by w/ Katie Blanchard 7:00 Music & Musical Film:

9:30 Fitness10:00 Flower Arranging10:30 Stations of the Cross 2:00 Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande 3:30 Bonus Bingo 7:00 Movie: Max

9:30 Fitness10:00 Flower Arranging 10:30 Stations of the Cross12:00 Birthday Luncheon 2:00 Caring Canines 3:00 Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande 7:00 Movie: The Judge

9:30 Fitness10:00 Flower Arranging 10:30 Stations of the Cross 2:00 Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande 3:15 Tea for the Soul 4:30-6:30 Manicures by Appt. 7:00 Movie: Across the Universe

9:30 Fitness10:30 Painting w/ Simona 1:30 Silent Movie w/ Richard Hughes 3:00 Classic Matinee Movie: All Over Town 7:00 Classic Movie Night: All Over Town

9:30 Fitness10:30 Painting w/ Simona11:30 Winter BBQ 1:30 Bonus Bingo 3:00 Classic Matinee Movie: Bridge Over River Kwai 7:00 Classic Movie Night: Bridge Over River Kwai

Presidents’ Day 9:30 Fitness10:15 Group Crosswords10:30 Reminiscing w/ Sheila 2:00 Youville Takes the Stage! 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Door to Door

2:00 Great Courses on DVD: From Jesus to Constantine A History of Early Christianity w/ Maria Benoit 6:30 Super Bowl 50 Denver Broncos vs Carolina Panthers

Happy Valentine’s Day 2:00 Great Courses on DVD: From Jesus to Constantine A History of Early Christianity w/ Maria Benoit 7:00 Movie: New York, New York

2:00 Great Courses on DVD: From Jesus to Constantine A History of Early Christianity w/ Maria Benoit 7:00 Movie: Tender Mercies

Country StoreHours

Monday & Friday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Wednesday 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

9:30 Fitness 10:15 Group Crosswords10:30 Short Stories w/ Sheila 2:00 Drumming Circle w/ SoulWorks Rhythm 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Shaun the Sheep

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9:30 Fitness 9:30 Shopping Trip: Burlington Market Basket 10:30 An Hour w/ Sheila 1:30 ArtMatters Presents... The Great American West 3:15 Writing Workshop 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Champions

9:30 Yoga w/ Veronica Woolf10:30 Current Events w/ Pam 1:00 Trans. to Lexington Ctr. 2:00 Forever Fit! 4:00 Oscar Party at Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: Sparkle

Lenten Day of Prayer 9:30 Fitness10:30 Painting w/ Simona11:30 Winter BBQ 1:30 Bonus Bingo 3:00 Classic Matinee Movie: Dark Victory 7:00 Classic Movie Night: Dark Victory

9:30 Fitness10:15 Group Crosswords10:30 Short Stories w/ Sheila 2:00 Classical Pianist Constantine Finehouse 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Minions

Ash Wednesday 9:30 Broadway Seated Dance10:00 Arts & Crafts w/ LexFUN! 10:30 Ash Wednesday Mass 1:30 Documentary Film: Willa Carter 3:00 Bible Study 7:00 Documentary Movie: Willa Carter

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9:30 Fitness10:30 Nurse’s Chat 1:00 Trans. to Lexington Ctr. 1:30 American Musical Theater w/ Jack Craig 4:00 Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: Lady Sings the Blues

9:30 Fitness10:30 Painting w/ Simona 1:30 International Dance Alan Pearlmutter, Piano & Linda Poland, Clarinet 3:00 Classic Matinee Movie: Dancing Lady 6:00-8:00 Math Project Night w/ the Russian School

Hair SalonHours

Thursday, Friday & Saturday8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

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9:30 Fitness10:15 Group Crosswords10:30 Reminiscing w/ Sheila 2:00 Programs Planning Mtg. 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Elsa & Fred

2:00 Emotions, Energy & Music w/ Pianist Sarah Takagi 7:00 Movie: All Aout Eve 8:00 88th Academy Awards

9:30 Fitness10:00 Flower Arranging 1:00 Blood Pressure Clinic 2:00 Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande 4:30-6:30 Manicures by Appt. 7:00 Movie: The Hundred Foot Journey

Manicures & Pedicures w/ Connie

Wednesday, February 10 & 24Please sign up in the Programs Dept.

Transportation HoursMonday & Friday

9:00 AM - 12:00 PMTuesday, Wednesday & Thursday

8:00 AM- 2:00 PM

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance10:30 Centering Prayer11:30 Lunch Trip: The Great Wall 2:30 Resident Management Mtg. 3:30 Bible Study 7:00 Documentary Movie: Henry Ford

9:30 Yoga w/ Annie Hoffman 2:30 Favorite Love Poems 4:00 Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: What’s Love Got to Do With It

Groundhog Day 9:30 Fitness 9:30 Shopping Trip: Lexington Stop & Shop 10:30 An Hour w/ Sheila 2:00 Farewell Tea for Claudia Wilson 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Everybody’s Fine

9:30 Fitness10:15 Group Crosswords10:30 Reminiscing w/ Sheila 2:00 February Jeopardy trivia 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Babette’s Feast

Womens Clothing SaleWednesday, February 24

11:00 AM - 1:00 PM

In observation of Presidents’ Day, observed Monday, February 15th, 2016, Youville Assisted Living Residences hereby proclaims the first annual Presidential Trivia Contest! Youville residents are encouraged to answer the following and submit their answers to the Programs office by Monday, February 15th. All participating residents will be entered into a raffle to win a $25 gift certificate to the hair salon at Youville. Let the contest begin!

1. Who was the only U.S. President to serve more than two terms?a) Richard Nixonb) John Adamsc) George Washingtond) Franklin Roosevelt

2.Who was the oldest U.S. President to take office?a) Jimmy Carterb) Ronald Reaganc) Bill Clintond) George H.W. Bush

3. Who was the first president to live in the White House? a) John Adams b) George Washingtonc) Abraham Lincolnd) James Madison

4. Who was the first president to appear on TV?a) Dwight Eisenhowerb) Theodore Rooseveltc) Franklin Roosevelt d) Woodrow Wilson

5. Who was the first president to be impeached? a) Richard Nixonb) Bill Clintonc) George W. Bushd) Andrew Johnson

Official Proclamation: Presidents’ Day Trivia Contest

Happy Hour Hosted by Katie BlanchardKatie Blanchard, Director of Programs, will host a “Roaring Twenties” Happy Hour on Thursday, February18th. Stop by for a drink, lively music, trivia and conversation with Katie and fellow residents. As Director of Programs, Katie has been responsible forcreating the monthly programs and managing staff, interns and volunteers at Youville’s three communities:Youville Place, The Courtyard at Youville Place and Youville House. If you are scratching your head as to how she juggles so many responsibilities, you should see how she juggles drink orders as a bartender! Be sure to join her on February 25th to enjoy one of her signature cocktails (non-alcoholic versions are also available). In the meantime, enjoy this brief Q & A with Katie: Why is your Happy Hour 1920s-themed? The 1920s is my favorite historical era. I love the fashion of the time, the way the women dressed. This is probably why I am so into the TV show Downton Abbey.What are your hobbies outside of work?I’ve always loved lake fishing. I have a habit of naming all the fish I catch and throwing them back in the lake. I also like cards and board games. How have the programs at Youville changed since you first started?We have a lot more of them now! I always aim for a “balanced” monthly calendar that addresses the diverseneeds of the residents. I want our programming to include programs that are intellectually stimulating, programs that involve physical exercise, programs with a spiritual component, trips, creative activities, and opportunities for socialization. What do you enjoy most about working at Youville?This job is special because I get to create variety for residents based on their interests. I love variety, and can’t think of too many other jobs where I would get to experience so many different activities. If you haven’t heard, Katie is expecting a baby in April, and will soon be taking maternity leave. She is also getting married in February! These are both great reasons to join her at Happy Hour on the 18th and wish her the best.

6.Who was the only president to be unanimously elected to office by the electoral college? a) George Washington b) Franklin Rooseveltc) Lyndon Johnsond) Theodore Roosevelt

7. Who was the first president to appoint an African American to the Supreme Court? a) Abraham Lincolnb) Richard Nixonc) Lyndon Johnson d) John F. Kennedy

8.What name was given to the commission to investigate the assassination of JFK?a) Warren Commission b) Johnson Commissionc) Camelot Commissiond) Dallas Commission 9.Who is the only president to resign from office? a) William McKinleyb) James Monroec) Jimmy Carterd) Richard Nixon

10. Who was the first president to win a Nobel Peace Prize?a) Bill Clintonb) Theodore Roosevelt c) Barack Obamad) Jimmy Carter

11. Circle the two presidents who signed the Declaration of Independence and later both died on the 50th anniversary of its signing. a) George Washingtonb) James Madisonc) Thomas Jeffersond) John Adams

American Musical Theater with Jack CraigThursday, February 11 at 1:30 PMJack Craig has led us through many important periods in musical history. His performances include wonderful spoken accounts of the “stories behind the music,” as well as moving renditions of the songs themselves. Now, Jack will lead residents through the greatest hits of American Musical Theater. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to sing along to the greatest hits from the likes of Porgy & Bess, Oklahoma, My Fair Lady, and more, while learning about the intriguing history of the American Musical.

History at Play with Judith KalaoraChocolate 101Tuesday, February 16 at 2:00 PMNine out of ten people like chocolate...and the tenth person is lying! This hour-long seminar will provide all the essential details about this mouth-watering delicacy, including its history, production, health benefits and many flavor profiles. You’ll even learn what your chocolate preference says about your personality! Be sure to bring your appetite, as we will be sampling some of the best chocolates from the world over, from white chocolate all the way up to 100% cacao. If you can’t imagine life without chocolate, then this program is for you!

Caring CaninesFriday, February 19 at 2:00 PMIf you haven’t stopped by the Community Room when Caring Canines comes to visit, you are missing out! Spend the afternoon with adorable dogs from the neighborhood and enjoy their affection.

Drumming Circle with SoulWorks RhythmMonday, February 22 at 2:00 PMExperience the exhilaration of communal drumming! Learn the basics of drumming and musically collaborate with fellow residents. SoulWorks Rhythm will provide an array of drums and guide the group through traditional drumming techniques.

. . . More Monthly Highlights!

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Save the Dates...Resident/Management MeetingWednesday, February 3 at 2:30 PM

Blood Pressure ClinicFriday, February 5 at 1:00 PM

Manicures with Joanne by AppointmentFriday, February 5 & 26 from 4:30 PM- 6:30 PMSign up in the Community Happenings book!

Country Store Store HoursMonday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AMWednesday 10:30 AM - 12:00 PMFriday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Store Volunteers: Sr. Theresa R., Margaret B., Sr. Dolores B., Florence K. & Judith B.

Transportation Services–– New HoursMonday and Friday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PMTuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday8:00 AM - 2:00 PMThe fee for transportation is $10.00 for Lexington and $20.00 for surrounding communities. Please see Brian King in the Programs Department with any questions. We will make every effort to accommodate your wishes, but please understand that no transportation can be guaranteed with less than 48 hours notice.

Programs / Menu Hotline...Have you ever wondered whether your favorite program is on the schedule for the day? Would you like to know in advance what the daily menu choices are? Now you can hear a recorded list of the daily programs as well as the menu for lunch and dinner at Youville Place. Simply call 781-761-1334 directly, or call the Reception Desk and the receptionist will connect you.

Youville Place Management Team

Nicole Breslin CEO & PresidentJoanne Scianna COOJohn Cooney Senior Director of FinanceDinah Olanoff Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Katie Blanchard Director of Programs Claudia Wilson Director of Marketing Kathryn Carlino, RN Director of WellnessBob Salamanca Director of Environmental ServicesEdith Wikina Director of Dining ServicesVirginia Ellis Director of Community Life Maria Benoit Director of Mission & Pastoral CareTom Landry Director of Human ResourcesMal Allard Director of The Courtyard at Youville Place

The Mission of Youville PlaceTo be a community of enduring hope that

celebrates God’s love through compassionate care, while fostering the individual and embracing all.

ValuesReverence - profound respect

Integrity - complete truth and justice Dedication - selfless giving

Hospitality - generosity of spirit

Spiritual

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Cognitive

Nutritional

In 1963, Lyndon Baines Johnson became the first president to designate February as “American Heart Month.” At the time, heart disease accounted for over half of all annual deaths in the United States. In his proclamation, President Johnson noted that “over one-half of the ten million Americans afflicted by the cardiovascular diseases are stricken during their most productive years, thereby causing a staggering physical and economic loss to the nation.” Johnson – who himself would die of a heart attack at the age of 64 – knew that we could only begin to fight heart disease by starting a national conversation about its dangers, its prevalence, its underlying causes and risk factors. Every year since Johnson’s first proclamation, U.S. Presidents have declared American Heart Month every February, urging Americans to take up a heart healthy lifestyle and endorsing initiatives by the American Heart Association. This decades-long conversation has helped inspire millions to take up heart-healthy lifestyles. It has arguably contributed to Americans’ longer lifespan. Since 1963, life expectancy has increased by approximately 10 years for both men and women. However, heart disease continues to be the leading cause of death, accounting for one in three deaths nationwide. The conversation continues. In 2015, President Obama urged Americans to “recommit to improving our heart health and continuing the fight against this deadly disease, for ourselves and our families.”What is Heart Disease?Cardiologists define heart disease as a range of conditions that affect the heart’s ability to function properly. This includes diseases of the cardiovascular system as well as the heart itself. The most common form of heart disease is coronary artery disease, characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits called “plaque” in the arteries that feed blood to the heart. Narrowed arteries can result in inadequate blood flow to the heart, leading to chest pain, fatigue, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Other symptoms might include a feeling of numbness in arms or legs, pain in the neck, jaw, throat, or back. A heart attack occurs when an artery becomes completely blocked. Perhaps the scariest aspect of heart disease is that it can progress over decades without noticeable signs or symptoms. Often people are not aware that they have a problem until they experience a frightening coronary event. The good news is you can start acting now to improve your heart health and reduce your exposure to risk factors. Check your Blood Pressure A low blood pressure is one of the most reliable signs of a healthy heart. If your blood pressure reading is below 120/80, you can consider yourself in the “heart healthy” camp!

February 2016American Heart Month: A Continuing Conversation

continued

Get fit. Stay sharp. Age well.©

Youville House • 1573 Cambridge Street • Cambridge, MA 02138 • 617.491.1234Youville Place • 10 Pelham Road • Lexington, MA 02421 • 781.861.3535 • www.youvilleassistedliving.org

Assisted Living Residences

Anything higher means that you are at risk for hypertension. A reading over 130/90 means that you are at risk for a coronary event. If you haven’t had your blood pressure checked in a while, be sure to do so at this month’s Blood Pressure Clinic, on Friday, February 5. If your blood pressure is high, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor about ways to lower it. Pay Attention to Diet Avoid foods that are high in fat and cholesterol. Limit your intake of red meat, heavy sauces, butter and other fatty or oily foods. Limiting salt in your diet will help keep your arteries healthy and blood pressure low. Most processed packaged foods, such as microwaveable meals and potato chips, include high amounts of sodium. Instead of eating another bag of potato chips, turn to natural, high-fiber foods like fruits and vegetables. Quit SmokingSmoking causes many health complications and greatly reduces life expectancy. In addition to numerous types of cancer, smoking is also a major cause of stroke and heart disease.ExerciseFor older adults, simply engaging in light physical activity like gardening or walking has been shown to have positive effects on heart health. More strenuous exercising also improves cardiovascular health. Be aware of your physical limitations and consult with your physician if you are nervous about your fitness level. Youville Place offers a variety of fitness classes Monday through Saturday at 9:30 AM. Make a commitment to regularly attend at least one morning fitness program and you will be doing your heart a huge favor. Spirituality & MeditationSpiritual routines such as prayer and meditation have a wonderful side effect: they reduce stress and make us happier. These benefits also translate to better heart health. The relaxation experienced during meditation inhibits the body’s production of cortisol, a stress hormone that is detrimental to heart health. The spiritual relief experienced during prayer, one of the oldest forms of meditation, has a similar effect on the heart.

At Youville Place, there are many opportunities to nurture your spiritual side. Be sure to attend Centering Prayer on Wednesday mornings or Tea for the Soul with Maria Benoit on Friday, February 26.

Yoga w/ Annie Hoffman Fitness Forever Fit Broadway Seated Dance w/ Phyllis Rittner

Dark leafy greens are a rich source of vitamin C, K, E, and B, as well as iron, calcium, and fiber, which are essential for good health.

Catholic Mass Centering Prayer Bible Study History of Early Christianity Series w/ Maria Benoit Book Club: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande Art Matters . . . The Great American West Math Project Night w/ The Russian School Group Crosswords Chocolate 101 w/ Judith Kalaora

Pianist Nancy Day Drumming Circle w/ SoulWorks Rhythm American Musical Theater w/ Jack Craig Emotions, Energy & Music w/ Pianist Sarah Takagi

Get fit. Stay sharp. Age well.©