Living

  • Christian Women’s Connection brunch

    There’s been a change! Join the Christian Women’s Connection brunch at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 12, at the Annandale United Methodist Church, 250 Oak Ave. N. (rather than at St. John’s Lutheran Church). The brunch will feature a presentation on safety from scams and frauds by Keith Jerpseth, music by Rachel Pletke, and a message…

  • Changing the narrative on Mental Health

    Join CentraCare’s free online wellness class In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, CentraCare invites the community to join us for a transformative online session titled “Changing the Narrative on Mental Health.” This free event will take place from noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, May 28. Event overview Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall…

  • Talking spring allergies with U of M

    As winter fades and spring arrives, so does allergy season. The runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes that come with spring allergies can sometimes dim the excitement of the new season. Neal Godse, M.D., with the University of Minnesota Medical School and M Health Fairview, talks about spring allergy symptoms and steps to keep them…

  • What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes?

    What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes?

    Dear Savvy Senior, What are the early signs and symptoms of diabetes? I’m 60 years old, and in pretty good shape, but was just diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. What did I miss? Diabetic Dan Dear Dan, The signs and symptoms of type 2 diabetes can be so mild that many people miss them. That’s…

  • Talking gut health with University of Minnesota

    The gut contains a community of microscopic organisms called microbes – including bacteria and fungi – that live in our intestines. Known as the gut microbiome, it’s important to our overall health, immune system and digestion.  Alexander Khoruts, M.D., with the University of Minnesota Medical School and M Health Fairview, talks about gut health, why…

  • Medicaid has big impact on central Minnesota

    State shares regional data showing Medicaid’s reach in people and dollars New state data shows the importance of the Medicaid program to central Minnesota’s people and economy. Nearly 24% of the people in central Minnesota get their health insurance from Medicaid. That adds up to just under 177,000 neighbors who live in communities throughout the…

  • CenterPoint Energy offers tips and resources to save energy, manage bills, and stay safe

    CenterPoint encourages customers to spring into action to prepare for the warmer temperatures ahead by leveraging tips, tools, and resources With March 20 marking the start of spring, CenterPoint Energy encourages customers to leverage tools, tips, and resources as part of their spring cleaning and preparation. Customers can unlock energy savings through a combination of…

  • When to worry about your memory

    When to worry about your memory

    Dear Savvy Senior, At age 70, I’ve become more and more forgetful lately and am concerned it may be an early sign of dementia. Are there any memory screening tools or services that you can recommend to help me gage my problem, without going to a neurologist? Forgetful Frank Dear Frank, Many older adults, like…

  • Talking blood donation with U of M

    Someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion about every two seconds. Blood donations play a critical role in maintaining the health of our communities, particularly in the winter when the blood supply tends to be at its lowest.  Claudia Cohn, a professor and director of the University of Minnesota Blood Bank Laboratory in…

  • Is a reverse mortgage a good idea?

    Is a reverse mortgage a good idea?

    Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about reverse mortgages? When my husband passed away last year my income dropped almost in half, and I’ve been struggling to keep up with my monthly living expenses. Senior Homeowner Dear Senior, For retirees who own their home and want to stay living there, but could use…