Don’t put those sunglasses away just yet. The advent of winter doesn’t mean the end of the risk of sun damage to eyes. Although the winter sun may emit lower levels of UV radiation, a snow cover can reflect up to 80% of UV rays, more than doubling their effect. The glare of winter sun can contribute to cataract formation and even cause burns to the cornea resulting in “snow blindness”. Sunglasses need to be more than just dark, they need to block both UVA and UVB rays to protect winter eyes. Wraparound sunglasses are most effective because UV rays can enter the eye from the sides, above and below regular sunglasses.

Additionally, dry heat indoors can lead to dry eyes, a condition that can lead to irritated eyes that may get rubbed vigorously, causing scratches and more irritation. Eye drops that simulate tears can be used to keep the eyes from becoming too dry. Using a humidifier indoors will also help keep the air from becoming too dry.

The air outdoors can also dry out eyes. Often the cold and dry air whips around the face, drying the natural tear film that protects eyes. Artificial tears and sunglasses, scarves, wide-brimmed hats – anything to protect from winter wind – will help prevent this from occurring.

Buy eye protection products at our Golden Agers Store

The Eldercare Locater has launched its 4th annual drive to encourage older adults to volunteer during the holiday season and share their unique abilities and talents.

Studies show that older adults who keep physically and socially active suffer less depression and fewer physical ailments. Volunteering provides purpose and an opportunity to contribute.

The Eldercare Locator links to local Area Agencies on Aging and Title VI programs that can connect older adults to a variety of volunteer programs that involve people of all ages and backgrounds. These include planning events for children’s charities, visiting the homebound, serving as a foster grandparent, and cooking and delivering meals to those in need.

‘Tis the season for giving and the rewards are oten greater than any gift you could receive this Christmas.

Eldercare Locator

‘Tis the season for holiday decorating but be careful – some of those decorative seasonal plants are poisonous and dangerous or even fatal if ingested. Be wary of pets and grandchildren who might visit and keep these out of reach if you have them on display.

The red Holly berry is highly toxic and can be fatal, even in small amounts.

Known as the kissing plant, Mistletoe berries are poisonous. Both leaves and stems are also poisonous. Kiss under the mistletoe but don’t put your lips near the plant itself.

Jerusalem Cherry also has red berries which are poisonous. All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested.

The berries, leaves and stems of Bittersweet are all poisonous.

It’s long been known that the Poinsettia plant contains an irritant that can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It’s not as poisonous as once thought, but can make someone seriously ill if ingested.

When it comes to choosing a vacation that is within your means, the AARP service is invaluable. They have a comprehensive list of suggestions for destinations and ways to make your money go further.

One I looked at was Seeing New York for Free, an excellent article giving details of places to visit where the costs are very low or non-existent. These include such famous places as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Public Library and the Rockefeller Center, as well as suggesting the use of a Big Apple Greeter.

We all know the disadvantages to getting older – how the body begins to show the results of all those years of hard work, stress and strain; so it’s great that there are benefits too and we should use whatever is available, including such useful services as AARP’s.

AARP Destinations Site