Living
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Talking loneliness with U of M
The U.S. Surgeon General recently declared loneliness an epidemic and a threat to public health, and estimates note about half of the U.S. population is experiencing loneliness. Associate Professor Carrie Henning-Smith from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health answers questions about loneliness and steps people can take if they’re experiencing it. Q: Why…
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How to find a good doctor
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good resources to help me locate some quality doctors in my area? I’m looking for an orthopedic -doctor for my 77-year-old mother, and a new internist for me since my doctor retired last year. Searching Susan Dear Susan, Finding and researching doctors is a lot easier than it…
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Five reasons to talk about mental health
To reduce the stigma surrounding mental health One of the biggest obstacles to mental health treatment is the stigma that surrounds it. Stigma can lead to shame, fear, and discrimination, which can prevent people from seeking help when they need it most. Talking openly and honestly about mental health can help reduce the stigma and…
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St. Wendelin School celebrations
St. Wendelin’s students have been busy enjoying the bouncing inflatables as a special treat for reaching their Catholic United goal of $12,000; students, staff, and guests being served a seder meal to start off their Easter season. Submitted photos.
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Anhydrous safety should be top concern this Spring
MDA safety tips Many farmers and applicators will soon apply anhydrous ammonia (NH3) prior to planting or -sidedress after planting. Even with a rush against time and the weather, safety should never be compromised. Accidents involving anhydrous ammonia have proven how dangerous and deadly the chemical can be when not handled properly. The Minnesota Department…
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Talking happy and healthy retirement with U of M
Though retirement brings freedom and excitement, it can also bring loneliness and stress from changes to long-standing routines and schedules. Kate Schaefers, director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at the University of Minnesota, answers questions about easing the transition to retirement and embracing this next stage of life. Q: How do you know…
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Plan before you dig this Spring
A crucial step for yard improvement projects is having underground utilities marked Dig smart this spring. When digging on your property for plantings, fencing, decks, or other home improvement projects, it’s important to safely plan ahead, according to experts at Gopher State One Call. “Hitting an underground electrical wire or gas line can be dangerous…
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Health benefits of high-fiber diets
Dear Dietitian, I just read an article that said a high-fiber diet helps prevent colon cancer, but other articles on this topic have said the opposite. Can you help clear things up? Joseph Dear Joseph, Scientific studies are often confusing because the results are different. Before something becomes clear in science, it has to be…
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How to get ‘Extra Help’ paying for prescriptions
Dear Savvy Senior, Does Medicare offer any financial assistance programs to help seniors with their medication costs? I recently enrolled in a Medicare drug plan, but I take some expensive medications that have high out-of-pocket costs and need some help. Living on a Shoestring Dear Living, Yes, there’s a low-income subsidy program called “Extra Help”…
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Red Cross urges residents to prepare for severe weather season
Download free Red Cross Emergency App that now includes expanded tornado features to help you prepare to protect you and your loved ones With the arrival of severe spring weather, including tornadoes, floods and thunderstorms, the American Red Cross urges all residents to prepare now for emergencies. Stay weather-aware and listen to local news or…
