The ladies at CAFÉ EIREANN welcome new member Patricia Faherty
Theresa Kelly and Siobhan Gallagher dance up a storm at the IPC St. Bridget's event
Computer Lessons at the IPC

Interested in becoming totally tech savvy? Well the IPC is the right place for you!

The weather meant we had to cancel our computer lessons on February 12th, however we will kick off this Tuesday the 19th at 3.30, here at the IPC. These lessons will cover everything from beginners (turning on the computer) to more advanced topics such as using email and Skype. Space is limited and filling up fast. Please call Eileen on 617.265.5600 if you are interested in becoming a computer whiz!

Ashe Wednesday

Sr. Marguerite led us in a wonderful prayer service for Ashe Wednesday here at the IPC. Those who braved the snow really enjoyed the morning. Many thanks to Sr. Marguerite again! We look forward to seeing you all again next week where Jodie from South Shore Elder Service will be giving us some money management tips and advice!

Alternative treatments for Arthritis

Winter can be a tough season for Arthritis suffers. Stiff joints or dull aches during summer months may well become a shooting pain in the winter. Some studies have shown that about 70 percent of people with arthritis are weather sensitive. Here are some tips and suggestions to overcoming the pain of the winter season!

Fish oil Fish oil can ease pain and inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Fish-oil capsules may, in fact, be as effective for relieving pain and inflammation as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen and naproxen), according to some research. High doses, typically 4 grams a day or four standard fish-oil capsules seem to be more helpful. 

One of the simplest home remedies is also one of the best: heat. A 15-minute hot bath or shower can help you relax and soothe painful joints and muscles. You can also try applying heat to an area with a heating pad, or chilling out with an ice pack or ice water. Alternating hot packs with cold ones can also offer powerful relief. But as with exercise, don’t overdo it; talk to a health-care provider about how to use heat and cold safely.

Acupuncture

This is an ancient Eastern healing technique of stimulating certain points in the body—usually by inserting very thin needles and leaving them in place for between several minutes and an hour. This is said to promote the flow of ‘qi’, or life force, through the body. Only a handful of small studies have shown that acupuncture can help with RA symptoms. Still, many people swear by acupuncture, and there’s really no downside to giving it a try—unless you’re scared of needles!

Rest

One of the most important things if you have rheumatoid arthritis is not to overdo it. When you need a rest, take it. Pushing yourself too hard can only make fatigue worse.

Connect

Having a chronic illness can be very isolating. However being open with your family and friends about your condition can make a big difference in how you feel, both physically and mentally. There are also online and real-life support groups where you can meet other people with RA and share coping strategies. Of course our coffee mornings and other gathering at the IPC are always great for meeting new friends and old and having a good chat!

For full article see health.com

All here at the IPC would like to wish Pat ‘Doc’ Walsh a speedy recovery. Pat is a great advocate and friend of the IPC and we can’t wait to see him back up and about soon!

Please feel free to call Eileen at 617 265 5300 x 13 for more information on IPC Senior Citizen Outreach Program activities and services.