Coconuts are a delightful fruit that sometimes seem hard to find.  When they are located, people feel they can only indulge in small quantities because this delight is high in saturated fat.  While it’s true that most saturated fats, particularly the animal variety, may not be so good for us, recent studies have suggested certain vegetable/fruit versions might not be bad after all (and neither are their oils!)

Let’s look at what the newer coconut oil info is suggesting.

• Weight loss. Okay, this seems counter intuitive; a food high in saturated fat that helps us lose weight?  Well, some studies suggest this is the case.  Coconut oil is believed to boost the metabolism (which in turn burns calories).  And, speaking of calories, coconut oil has fewer calories than some other fats.  An added bonus?  Enhanced energy!
• Stronger immune system.  Coconut oil contains antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal benefits.  The lauric acid in coconut oil is believed to convert into properties that work to counteract conditions like skin infections, ulcers, stomach upset, herpes, and the list goes on.  Some studies have even indicated coconut oil could be beneficial for more serious conditions like HIV, AIDS, hepatitis, and syphilis.
• Heart health.  How is it possible that a product with over 90% saturated fat can be helpful to the heart?  Again, lauric acid is believed to be the reason.  Coconut oil contains around 50% lauric acid, and lauric acid helps guard against high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and assorted heart problems.  It’s also alleged to help prevent arterial wall buildup (nonetheless, everything in moderation).
• Skin Superstar? When applied topically, this oil is a fabulous moisturizer.  Skin appears softer, younger, hydrated, and better balanced.  Compared to the price of anti-aging products, it’s truly an economical way to go.  Coconut oil is also thought to provide benefits for psoriasis, ringworm, age spots, dandruff, eczema, and skin infections.

Which type of coconut oil is best?  Organic extra-virgin coconut oil.  It can be found online and in some health food stores.  It’s a fantastic skin conditioner, frying oil, and supplement.

So, what really makes this oil such a marvel?  It seems to boil down to fatty acids.  Many fat/oil products, whether animal or plant-based, contain long-chain fatty acids (LCFA).  Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA).  Studies suggest that medium-chain fatty acids are better for the body and help protect against (or address) a variety of symptoms and/or conditions.  An added benefit?  There does not appear to be any unpleasant side effects.  Still, always check with your doctor if you are using this product for any kind of ailment.

Coconut oil?  It’s definitely worth a look!

Coffee seeds are housed in berries (cherries) which are grown on bushes, small trees, or trees (the type depends upon the location).  After the berries are selected, picked, and dried, the inner seeds are roasted in preparation to distribute.  The degree of roasting will have an affect on flavor: lightly roasted beans have a greater degree of fiber, and heavily roasted tend to produce a full-bodied experience.  Other factors, such as bean density, bean grade, storage techniques, and brewing methods (percolator, automatic coffee maker, boiling) also influence taste.

There are two types of beans that coffee drinkers consume: Arabica and Robusta.  Let’s look at each one more closely.

• Arabica Beans:  Arabica beans are grown in highly elevated areas and are more involved to cultivate because they require specific environmental factors (like temperature and rainfall) to realize an optimal product.   Subsequently, this coffee is more expensive to make.  Arabica beans are developed in regions like Kenya, Zambia, Columbia, Hawaii, Ethiopia, and Mexico.  Many experts believe these beans are far superior to Robusta in taste, body, and class.  The brew typically yields an earthy, complex flavor devoid of bitterness.  Coffee snobs (hey, the majority of us are snobby about something at one point or another in our lives) will drink nothing but Arabica coffee.
• Robusta Beans:  Robusta beans are much easier to grow because they are not as dependant on environmental factors.  The berries also cultivate at a faster rate, so the turnover is quicker.  In short, Robusta beans are more economical and cooperative to produce.  Naturally, there are different grades within the respective type, so some Robusta beans taste better than others.  Still, generally speaking, they are bitterer and inferior overall to Arabica beans.  Having said that, there are some wonderful Robusta blends, and certain countries mix Arabica and Robusta to produce a multifaceted personality.  Countries that cultivate Robusta beans include Uganda, Vietnam, Columbia, and Brazil.

Other tidbits to know?  Arabica beans contain less caffeine than Robusta; some Arabica blends do not even offer a decaffeinated version because the producers believe it unnecessary. (NOTE: No coffee, not even ones labeled decaffeinated, will be 100% free of caffeine).  And, data appears to be mixed concerning senior health.  Some studies indicate that coffee drinkers experience Type II diabetes and strokes at a lower incidence than non-coffee drinkers (antioxidants in the beans could be the reason).  At the same time, other studies suggest that caffeine may raise blood pressure (caffeine is a stimulant).

Bottom line?  Unless your physician advises against it, moderation is probably prudent; and our morning boost may be just what the doctor ordered!

Why?  Well, because senior teeth have been around longer, so there’s a greater opportunity for wear.  In addition, the glands that regulate saliva sometimes become compromised.  Here are a few of the more recognized problems that can occur in the oral area.

• Dry mouth.  Saliva (also known less eloquently as “spit”) is a washing mechanism in the mouth.  When salivary glands decrease in efficiency, the mouth may become dry.  Dry mouth can also occur because of other reasons such as side effects to a medication.  Unfortunately, when saliva is reduced, additional oral problems like tooth decay and swallowing difficulties could follow.  What can you do to help combat this type of difficulty?   First, tell your doctor or dentist as soon as you suspect a problem so a proper assessment can be made.  Concurrently, be sure to hydrate the mouth regularly by drinking water.  In addition, consider carrying sugar-free candy or gum with you at all times, as they also assist in hydration.  Finally, try to minimize sugars, salts, alcohol, soft drinks, and coffee as much as possible; these products tend to exacerbate the condition.

• Gum disease.  Gum disease occurs because of an overabundance of bacteria in the mouth; the populating bacteria can form plaque on the teeth.  If the material is not addressed by ongoing oral care, gum tissue may pull away from the teeth and recession could take place.  If this occurs, teeth may become loose or fall out.  Even so, there are individuals who do everything they can from an oral standpoint to circumvent gum problems yet still suffer from gum disease.  In this type of situation, medication, illness, or faulty dentures could be to blame.  What to do?  Be certain to regularly visit the dentist and follow his or her advice if there is an issue with your gums.  Bleeding, odor, pain, and recession are a few indicators that suggest there could be a problem.

• Cancer.  Many people fear the “C” word, but some do not think it will happen in the mouth.  Nonetheless, the possibility of contracting oral cancer increases with age.  Signs that indicate cause for concern are mouth sores or lesions that take a while to heal, bumps, odd-feeling pieces of skin, bleeding, and lumps.  Tobacco (chewing and cigarette types) is a contributing factor, as is excess alcohol consumption.   Early oral cancer detection is important to a favorable prognosis.  Therefore, if you have any abnormalities in your mouth, immediately seek attention.

It is never too late to begin proper oral care; next week we look at some specific ways to help stave off problems.

So, what Worcester happenings are coming up?  Here are a few

• Pet Rock Festival.  This impressively-large animal expo will be held on Sunday, September 12, from 12-5 at Quinsigamond Community College; the rain date is September 19.  Tickets for the event are $12 for adults and $5 for children.  An exciting array of notable, regional bands will be performing, and vendors, contests, and food offerings will also be available.  The money raised from this exciting day benefit various animal causes.  The Worcester Telegram and several other local businesses are sponsoring the “largest on the East Coast of this kind” fest.  For more info, go to www.petrockfest.com
• Start on the Street.  This arts and music festival takes place on Sunday, September 19, from 11-5; the rain date is September 26.  The free celebration encompasses several blocks in the Park Avenue vicinity.  Artists, food vendors, bands, craft makers, activities, and so much more will be on hand.  Be sure to sport comfy footwear (you may do a lot of walking), and it might also be wise to take along a foldable chair (seating is limited).  Portable toilets will be available to the public at 255 Park Ave.  Detailed information concerning this event is available at www.startonthestreet.org
• Worcester Art Museum: Unveiling Celebration of “The Dead Toreador.” For all the art lovers out this, this experience should be exciting!  Edouard Manet’s masterpiece will be on loan to the Worcester Art Museum from Washington D.C.’s National Gallery of Art.  The festivities begin on September 25, from 7 to 10 p.m., with dancers, small plates (tapas), wine, and live music.  Manet, a legendary 19^th century French artist, received both acclaim and criticism for his collection of works.  In this particular painting, the dead bullfighter is symbolic of the appreciation Manet had for the animated showmanship of Spanish artist, Diego Velazquez.  The cost for this extravaganza is $40 for nonmembers and $30 for members.

Well, summer is not officially over, but it is winding down.  Nonetheless, an exhilarating fall is on hand.   For additional “around town” events, go to www.worcestermass.org/calendar-of-events

One such scam is health care fraud.  In certain instances, people do not see the money come directly from their wallets but instead Medicare is the victim.

How does it work?  Well, seniors might be charged for services that never took place, or patients may unwittingly receive unnecessary procedures.  Either way, Medicare is deceived

There are also instances where health care scams directly affect a senior’s resources.  One such example is where patients are manipulated in to believing they need products they may not.  Medicare might not cover the items; therefore, individuals pay out of their own pockets.

So what can seniors do to protect themselves?  Here are a few ideas.

1. Don’t be bullied in to buying pricey products unless your doctor agrees that you need the item/s.
2. Never give out personal information (Medicare insurer number, SS#, etc.) unless you are certain the person you are talking to is a legitimate health care provider (even then, it is preferable to provide the information in person).
3. Always review medical bills to ensure they are accurate and that no erroneous charges are included.
4. Only let authorized medical professionals have access to your medical records.
5. Try to keep accurate records (maybe in a notebook) concerning all medical procedures, appointments, medications, and bills (in the event something questionable should pop up).
6. Be suspect of anyone who tries to make you believe that a service or product is not covered under Medicare but “not to worry” because the caller or representative knows strategic ways to get around it.

Unfortunately, scams abound, and a number of them involve health care.  A newer con that recently surfaced centered on Medicare’s prescription drug rebate program.  Some seniors received a call from swindlers pretending to be Medicare employees.  The fraudsters alleged they needed personal information before the recipients could receive their checks.  Medicare characteristically does not call and ask for this type of data, so never give out private information over the phone.

Whether it is unscrupulous people bilking the system or heartless swindlers targeting seniors, Medicare scams are a reality.  Should you have questions concerning Medicare fraud, the hotline 1-800-447-8477 or the Web site www.medicare.gov (Reporting Medicare Fraud section) might have some answers.

So, are there any local opportunities?  Yes, many.  One in particular is The CASA Project located in Worcester County.

CASA is nonprofit agency that works on behalf of abused or neglected children; its name is an acronym for Court Appointed Special Advocate.  Volunteers normally take on one case at a time, and their primary objective is to speak on behalf of the respective child’s best interests. This may or may not coincide with the child’s desires.

Are there educational prerequisites in becoming a CASA?  No, a thorough training program is provided.  Still, candidates should have an interest in children, possess adequate communication skills, and maintain some level of writing proficiency (volunteers write court reports).  In addition, every candidate must pass a background check.

So what are some CASA duties?

• Maintain a working knowledge of the case by reviewing all pertinent information (e.g., documents, records, reports).
• Contact key parties and keep notes about important details (this is a fundamental part of the investigation process).
• Visit with the child for 30 minutes or so about once a month.
• Write Court reports and attend hearings.
• Seek out support from the CASA supervisor and keep him or her abreast of the latest developments.
• Connect with fellow team members (e.g., social worker, parents, clinicians, teachers) to identify the proper services for the child; this can usually be accomplished by phone conversations and/or meetings.  NOTE: It is important to mention that sometimes team members do not always agree about the course of action on a case; the Court report allows the judge to understand CASA’s position.

How often does a CASA volunteer work?  It varies according to the complexity of the case.  Some situations warrant only a few hours per month, while others could require two to four hours per week.  The duration of each case is normally 12 to 18 months, although a small number of cases can be much longer.  Few words can articulate the accomplishment an advocate feels when a child proudly proclaims, “This is ‘my CASA!” Still, other CASA opportunities, such as assisting with fund raising or community outreach, are also available.  Many individuals throughout the country age 60 and over volunteer for CASA in a number of ways.

CASA volunteers speak for one of the most vulnerable segments of society, innocent children.  For additional information about CASA or The CASA Project of Worcester County, call 508-757-9877 or visit www.casaworcestercounty.org.

The museum, established in 1939, is located in Cooperstown, New York. Over 300,000 travelers visit this small town each year to enjoy the art, literature, pictures, historical data, videos, memorabilia, and other intriguing information The Baseball Hall of Fame has to offer.

How does someone make it into the Hall of Fame?  Well, it’s not easy.  Actually, the chances are about 70 to 1 for the average player.

First, players must have worked a minimum of ten years in the major leagues and have been retired for at least five (although there have been exceptions to this rule).  Afterwards, there are no set guidelines that automatically qualify an individual (like hitting over 500 home runs).  Instead, the Baseball Writer’s Association and Veterans Committee (living Hall of Famers) determine eligibility based on standards like character, aptitude, sportsmanship, skill level, and team contribution.

A basic rule of thumb?  The best players are the ones who often make it in.  It’s interesting to note, however, that candidacy is not limited to baseball players.  Managers, executives, and umpires are also included in the 292 members.

So who are some of these Famers?  Here are a few names that you might recognize.

Hank Aaron

Yogi Berra

Wade Boggs

Roy Campanella

Gary Carter

Joe DiMaggio

Dennis Eckersley

Rickey Henderson

Tommy Lasorda

Mickey Mantle

Willie Mays

Jose Mendez

Satchel Paige

James Rice

Cal Ripken, Jr.

Phil Rizzuto

Jackie Robinson

Babe Ruth

Tom Seaver

Ted Williams

Carl Yastrzemski

Cy Young

The Baseball Hall of Fame attracts a wide variety of people to its doors each and every year, not only baseball fans.  The reason?  There are so many exhibits to enjoy like The Records Room, Babe Ruth Room, Diamond Dreams: Women in Baseball, Pride and Passion: The African-American Baseball Experience, Scared Ground, Taking the Field: The 19th Century, the Plaque Gallery, the Bullpen Theater, the Education Gallery, and so much more!

Thinking about a trip to Cooperstown this summer?  Why not?

What are they?  Here are a few.

1. Wait until age 70.  If you wait to collect benefits until age 70, the guaranteed benefit increases by 8% per year between the ages of 66 to 70 (for up to 32%).  This means that if you don’t need the income at age 66, it might be wise to hold off.  Some thoughts as to when this makes sense?  You plan to work until 70.  You received an inheritance.  You have family longevity on your side.  Naturally, the longer you live, the more beneficial this strategy becomes.
2. Do-over option.  If you decide to take reduced benefits at age 62 and later regret the decision, you can pay back the money you collected and begin from scratch at age 66 (or later) at the FRA rate.  Why the heck would someone do that?  Maybe a person’s health picture has changed, and he or she now expects to live a longer life?
3. File and suspend strategy.  In this situation, the primary income earner has reached full retirement age (currently 66) and files for SS benefits.  However, he/she wants to wait until age 70 to maximize the amount.  He/she immediately suspends the benefit and does not take any checks at all.  The secondary income earner, who never collected in the past under his or her own SS benefits, files for spousal benefits at age 66 (spousal benefits are 50% of primary earner’s FRA check).  The secondary earner might do this even if his or her check would have been larger.  Why?  Because at age 70, the secondary earner can then collect the maximized amount under his or her own benefits.
4. Hybrid Method.  In this situation, the secondary earner takes his or her reduced age 62 benefit and then converts to the 50% spousal benefit at age 66.  The secondary earner can convert back to his or her individual Social Security benefit at age 70 (and receive the maximized rate).

Okay, this probably all seems confusing.  So what’s the break-even point for the above scenarios?  That’s an important question, but the answer differs for each respective situation.

The above options are typically unrealistic for people who need their Social Security benefits as soon as they qualify.  However, for other individuals, it might actually work in their favor.  Your financial advisor or certified financial planner likely has access to software programs that can run the numbers and help determine if any of the above strategies could be right for you.

So what are some senior-friendly choices?  Well, let’s look at a few.

• Subaru Legacy.  This spiffy car is fitting for the distinguishing senior who values quality, safety, impressive standard equipment like all-wheel drive, and a reasonable price tag (think of $20,000 as a starting point for the 2010 model).  And, as a wonderful bonus, the gas mileage is not bad, either.  Numbers run about 22 to 23 miles in the city and 30 to 31 on the highway.
• Ford Fusion Hybrid.  Fords may have been out of favor for a while, but that scenario is well is in the past.  The safety aspect of this spunky hybrid is really quite impressive.  Drivers can anticipate comforts such as blind spot monitoring, disc brakes with ABS, tire pressure alertness, stability and traction control, and the list goes on.  A tax credit (at least for now) makes this purchase even more appealing, and the gas mileage (41/36) and cost (beginning under $28,000) could actually clinch the deal!
• Toyota Avalon.  Okay, so many people love the reliability and safety aspect of Toyota cars.  And although the Camry is probably the most popular model (and one many seniors love to drive), there are many reasons to look at the roomy, luxury-leaning Avalon.  Why?  For starters, it’s a great car.  That fact, couple with standard features like keyless entry, a theft deterrent system, daytime running lights, side air bags, heated seats (front and back!), cruise control, make this “starting at a couple of thousand dollars under $30,000” vehicle a senior must see!
• Hyundai Sonata.  The Sonata is a great value for the money.  Standard safety features like anti-lock brakes, traction control, head restraints, etc., work to position this spacious car in the “highly impressive” category.  In fact, the Sonata received a 5 star crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  The pleasant design, and even more pleasant cost (beginning under $19,000), are two of the many reasons to give this vehicle serious consideration.

The models mentioned above are but a few of the many senior-friendly options.  There are numerous others like the economical Kia Forte Sedan, sporty Ford Taurus, classy yet affordable Buick LaCrosse, and upscale Audi A8.

For additional auto information, the web site www.edmunds.com might be helpful.

Naturally, baking soda is used as a leavening agent in cooking.   In addition, baking soda can safely remove odors from the refrigerator, freezer, and cat box.  What some of us don’t realize, however, is that there are a number of other uses for this inexpensive powder.  What are some?  Let’s look at a few.

• Teeth and Mouth.   Just a little baking soda sprinkled on a moist toothbrush, along with a natural toothpaste, can help remove stains.  In addition, a mouth gargle made of ½ teaspoon of baking soda, mixed in ½ glass of water, could banish morning odors (be sure to swish the mixture all over your mouth!).
• Bug Bites.  Some people experience allergies to bug bites that necessitate immediate attention; in this situation, an emergency room visit might be necessary.  Still, for those who maintain only harmless discomfort, a baking soda paste may help.  How is it made?  Mix baking soda with water into a fairly thick consistency and apply to the affected area.
• Minor Burns.  Serious burns require immediate attention!  Yet, minor burns (such as those sometimes caused by the sun or wind) can occasionally be treated at home.  To help ease the discomfort of minor sun or wind burns, mix a little baking soda with water and spread over the skin.  Another method?  Moisten the sore area with water and top with a small amount of undiluted soda.
• Odor Eaters.  Baking soda can be sprinkled in places where unpleasant scents have settled.  Some thoughts?  Sneakers, shoes, dishwashers (before cleaning), carpeting (spot test to make sure carpet color will not be affected), dog beds, garbage pails, trash receptacles, sponges, mops, under arms, diaper pails, thermos bottles: um, the options appear never-ending!

Other baking soda thoughts?  Empty down a clogged drain (followed by hot water) to naturally unstop clogs, sprinkle in toilet and scrub with commode brush to take away rings, add a small amount to laundry to brighten clothes, mix with water to clean tubs and shower surfaces, pour in cracks and crevices to discourage ant invasions, mix with water and apply as a body scrub, and the options go on.

The uses for baking soda almost seem endless.  And to think many of us have this cost-effective tool sitting right in our cupboards!