calls are increasing from this age group
who are also caring for their grand-
children.
She adds that "many of these,
mostly women, feel isolated and
depressed. Often times, there are no
solutions to their problems and their
stress increases. Some may become
clinically depressed and may or may
not seek help. Others become more
susceptible to physical illness, such as
pneumonia and the flu."
Scientists are starting to link stress
and illness. Studies show that the
brain and the immune system — tra-
ditionally thought to have no biologi-
cal connection — are not separated at
all. The worst fears of middle-aged
people are the possibility they will
develop some form of dementia and
become a burden on their families. A
recent study by the National Institute
on Aging and the Alzheimer
Association reports that people, ages
20 to 60, who keep active outside of
work are three to four times less likely
to develop Alzheimer's than people
who spend their leisure time passively.
"People in their mid-50s and
healthy need to start rethinking how
they are going to stay mentally active
for another 30 years," says Ruby
Kushner, a clinical psychologist in
Farmington Hills. "The psychological
needs for connection and to be pro--
ductive require meaningful solutions
if someone retires before 55 or 60.
Some may find satisfaction as volun-
teers; others may decide to return to
work."

BEAT
THE CLOCK.

RENT AN APARTMENT NOW AT

Contact Donna at The Trowbridge

by December 31, 2000
before the clock runs out
and the prices go up.

24111 CIVIC CENTER DR.
SOUTHFIELD, MI • 48034
(888) 704-2759

Forest City Management, Inc., Apartment Division, does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in the admission
or access to or treatment, or employment in its programs and activities, Equal Housing Opportunity/Equal Opportunity Employer

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speaks to your interests

Sexual Health

Sexuality and sexual performance con-
tinue to be serious issues for both men
and women in this age group.
"Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects a
substantial number of men, although
many of my patients won't talk about
it unless I ask them," says Rosenberg.
"Today, there are many treatments
and therapeutic regimens that can
benefit patients. The same is true for
women who a,re perimenopausal or
menopausal. The ability to maintain
an interest in their sexuality is within'
most women's reach." The trick for
active seniors is to maintain a level of
wellness. The point to remember is
that growing old and getting sick are
not interchangeable.

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2000

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