We can’t reach old age by another man’s road. Mark Twain, How to Reach Seventy -1950

You’re how old? A portrait of an older Maine is emerging. The aging of America moves us into a new phase of our state and national life affecting the family and society. What we now seek are ways to embrace aging, individually and collectively, and make it the best that we can. Aging is a very serious matter and should not be taken lightly. It is a different condition of life. A totally different dimension.

In the land of forgetfulness as strength slowly fails and the light in our eyes is dimmed hearts are troubled. Many of us have wondered whether signs of forgetfulness are normal or the start of a more serious problem. Chronic diseases and conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and arthritis are major causes of frailty and disability in later life. Risks for disease and disability increase with age and can be made worse by lifestyle choices or other behavioral and social factors. Scientist have come to believe, that with age, certain changes in the body or the mind, such as hormonal or other shifts, could play a role in how we function in later life.

“The challenge now,” says Dr. Suzman, “is to find ways to maintain or even improve the trends in disability amid a steep rise in the number and proportion of older people.” As we age we need help with the little things, such a changing a light bulb, a ride to the doctors, shopping for food and many more simple everyday things. Only, they are not always simple as we grow old. Such as staying in your home.

An organization is trying to create Age Friendly Saco, a Community for a Lifetime. Their mission is to support and respect the aging process and special problems and needs of the aged. Volunteers and help are appreciated and needed.

There is another group of people who are studying with Fran Halamandaris ‘s Astrology Group. Would you like to know more about your character traits, have a clearer understanding of your family’s and friend’s personalities, improve your relationships with your colleagues and make the right decisions for your life path? Classes are held on the 2nd Tuesday at the Dyer Library in Saco. Time is one am to three am. Everyone is welcome.

Most historians and astrologers agree that the wonderful, intriguing and astonishing world of astrology can be traced back to Babylonia (present day Iraq) about 3500 years ago. The Babylonians, noted for their advanced culture, had a well-developed science of observational astronomy. This provided them with a calendar for when to plant, harvest, plan religious festivals and so on.

Just for fun, since this is April 18, let us check what Taurus the Bull is all about April 21 to May 21.

Astrology reads that they are patient, possessive, reliable, self-indulgent, persistent and warm. Taureans are famed for their romanticism, reliability, and charm, and they are often reputed to be the most beautiful people among the zodiac children. Warm, affectionate and sincere, they inspire confidence and loyalty in those around them. Taureans have a great need for financial and personal security. They love luxury, comfort, and symbolizes their sign, Taureans are slow to anger, but when aroused they can be fearsome.