Issue 17

Senior
Siren
Issue 17
Brought to you by the Senior Citizen Liaison Team
The Senior Citizen Liaison Team (SCLT) is an independent charity
that provides opportunities for older adults to benefit from crime
prevention advice, victim aftercare, social inclusion events and
much more. To arrange a talk from the SCLT or to find out more
information please visit our website www.sclt.us
r
Senio
1
Siren
Out in
April
2014
8
Senior Siren Editor
Michael Wedlock
Reports
" Under Attack ! "
Every day I'm under attack. But my prospective assailants don't want to kill me or maim me or even rip the
wristwatch from my body. Instead a succession of dodgy dealers, bent brokers, evil emails, and perverted property
agents bombard me with appeals that pretend will make me rich but will, in reality, only move money from my
account to theirs. And as their accounts will be in offshore places you'll need a very big atlas to find, I know that
once the cash goes, that's the end. Scammers know they have to target many people to get one victim. Phoning
200 people in ten hours and having one bite for £10,000 is a good day's work. Scams don't involve violence but
psychology. So by understanding the mind of your attacker you can greater prepare your defences. This is the
psycho-pathology of the scammer. Here are the ten points they learn at Con-Artist College:
1) Conceal your aggressive intentions - No knives, guns or scary clothing. Respectability rules – that includes
seemingly expensive addresses, well designed brochures and websites, and operatives who sound highly
educated.
2) Know vulnerabilities - Just as a battlefield commander looks for the enemy's less well defended spots, the
scammer seeks blind spots to exploit.
3) Be clinically ruthless - This is war so the scammer has no awareness or qualms over the harm he's doing.
“Front line” operatives – the ones who phone you – will have various “self-defence” mechanisms such as convincing
themselves they are working for a legitimate organisation.
4) Positive reinforcement - The scammer flatters you and boost your ego. This makes you vulnerable. Methods
include admiring your financial knowledge, praising your position in society (they always try to probe your
occupation and family status) and pretend sympathy with any investment losses you have made.
5) Negative reinforcement - The “guilt trap” where victims are made to feel bad because they have not made the
financial returns the scammer is promising. The sympathy (point 4) simply serves to boost the guilt feeling. Negative
reinforcement can also include emotional blackmail (your family will suffer unless you buy this) and the threat of
withdrawing the offer because “you are not ready” or even “you are not worthy”.
6) Lying - This sounds obvious but scammers train so they actually believe what they say, beating liedetectors any day. In his head, the conman minimises or denies the effect of his actions on those he is trying to
defraud. This is easier when the crook feels totally in “control” of the conversation. Some will use your first name all
the time – from a stranger, this is way of making you feel small. And much of the lying is leaving out vital facts that, if
revealed, would make victims aware.
7) Selective attention and diversion - Scammers learn to side-step certain questions potential victims might ask
by either ignoring them (victims under “control” won't protest) or diverting to something “positive”. Another tactic
makes the victim feel guilty for asking after all the “trust” that has been built up.
8) Comparison - The scammer will often compare himself to the victim. Pyramid schemes almost invariably use the
“I was as poor as you once and now I have a Rolls-Royce, a £2m home and bathe in champagne” line. The idea is
what one person can ostensibly do, so can you. Of course, the car and house in the picture will probably have been
rented for the photo-shoot.
9) Confusion and control - Scammers know it is vital that victims eat out of their hands. They will often ensure you
have pen and paper at hand so you can take down details of how their scheme will bring quick riches. This dictation
helps control the conversation while victims will be “grateful” that a complex and confusing plan has been explained.
10) Throwing a gift - This element can take on various guises from access to a “confidential” website to a glossy
book or brochure. Once a victim is hooked, they will often immediately go into profit – although they won't be able to
cash in their “winnings.”
In this edition...
Dear Audrey
Page 4. Dear Audrey.
Page 5. Computer Safety.
Audrey replies to your letters.
"Ratting".
Page 7. Directory.
Page 8/9.
Crime Prevention Advice.
Services useful to the older adult.
Crime
Prevention
Useful hints and tips.
Page 10/11. Puzzles.
Page 12/13. Short Stories.
Sudoku, Crosswords and much more.
"Flashes" by Edward Detore.
Page 14.
Products. Security products reviewed.
Recipes "One pan English Breakfast".
Page 15.
Down at the Allotment.
Page 16/17.
Seniors Fitness. Top yoga poses.
Siren M.D. Hip replacement.
Page 18/19.
Senior Spotlight.
Polite
Notice
Seasonal Gardening tips.
Down at
the Allotment
Senior
Spotlight
Mr Brian Cumming MBE.
NO
DOORSTEP
TRADERS
HERE.
I do not answer the door to
unexpected callers. My nominated
neighbour is at number
The consumer protection
from unfair trading regulations 2008.
The residents of this property do no want
uninvited traders or doorstep callers to visit.
If you do not leave and/or you return you will
commit a criminal offence.
Please call there so that my
nominated neighbour can check
your identity
3
The Home Care Specialists
No unwanted
mailings or
leaflets, to be
posted at this
address
Do you need a
Helping Hand?
If you are looking for an alternative to
residential care or extra support for
those everyday tasks that are
becoming difficult for you or a loved
one - then we’re here to help - from
30 mins per week to Live-in Care.
thank you.
Our Somerset care team has been
providing award winning homecare
since 1989 and can help with: personal
care, housekeeping, help getting
around or even to provide a break for
an existing care-giver.
To find out how we can help,
call: 01454 643701 or
visit: www.helpinghands.co.uk
y ...
e
r
d
u
A
Dear
home
I recently registered my
e Telephone
telephone number with th
) to stop
Preference Service (TPS
calls. This
receiving unsolicited sales
am getting them
worked great, but now I
le to register
on my mobile. Is it possib
limited to the
another number, or am I
one?
Audrey, I am 55 years
old and have been
noticing that my eyes ar
en't as good as they
used to be. As I am not
yet 60, would there be
any other way of gett
ing a free eye test?
There are quite a fe
w different things th
at
would entitle you to
a free eye test,
receiving income su
pport, or having been
diagnosed with diab
etes or glaucoma to
name a few. Contact
NHS Direct at
08451268600 for m
ore information or po
p
down to your local ey
estore.
I have always loved garden
ing and
growing my own vegetables,
but have
recently moved to a one be
droom flat to
be closer to my family. Is th
ere any way I
can get an allotment?
Try contacting your loca
l council and
ask to apply for an allo
tment near you.
They will either allocate
you a plot, or
in many cases will add
your name to a
waiting list....good luck
!
er more than one.
Luckily, you can regist
me way you
You can do this the sa
mber, either by going
registered your first nu
e.org.uk or by phone
in
nl
so
tp
w.
ww
at
e
lin
on
as a reminder, it can
st
Ju
7.
70
00
07
45
08
on
the service to
take up to 28 days for
Hope this helps!
become fully effective.
4
"Ratting"
Computer
Safety
You use your computer or mobile device for many
everyday private or confidential tasks, which is
why it is essential to take precautions to protect
it from viruses and spyware. One type of spyware
becoming increasingly common is known as a RAT
(Remote Access Trojan). Criminals can use a RAT
to access your computer or mobile device to take
control of it and obtain your private information
or spy on you. This is known as ratting.
RATs are usually downloaded invisibly with a program requested by you – for example a game
– or sent to you as an email attachment. They can perform actions similar to legitimate
software. RATs can be difficult to detect because they do not usually show up in lists of the
programs or tasks you are using, nor can you generally notice that they are affecting your
device’s performance. RATs being used to take control of webcams is becoming increasingly
common, with the objective of the resulting video or images being used for blackmail or other
inappropriate purposes.
The Risks
Being spied on (including being recorded) via your own webcam. In some cases, they are
designed to do so without activating the indicator light, so you are unaware that you are
being watched. Having your online behaviour monitored (including which websites you are
visiting, who you are emailing, what you are typing. Having your confidential information
accessed – including bank account and social security details. Being used as part of a botnet
to distribute viruses and other malware. Having your computer drives formatted. Having your
files and file systems deleted, downloaded or altered.
How to Avoid Ratting
-Ensure you have effective and updated antivirus/antispyware software, and firewall running
whenever your computer or mobile device is switched on. Do not be tempted to
download programs or apps that are not from a trusted source, as they could contain RATs
and other malware.
-Download updates to your programs and apps when prompted to do so … they often include
security fixes.
-Take great care about opening attachments in emails, even if they seem to be from people
you know.
-Avoid suspicious website and torrent downloading. Many such downloads are not only against
the law but also a major gateway for this type of cyber-attack.
-Cover your webcam when not in use, whether it is a built-in or clip-on device.
If you think you have been the victim of being spied on via your webcam,
report the incident to your local police on tel. 101.
5
Route 60+
A very popular free workshop designed to help older drivers
with any concerns about driving safely on today’s busy roads,
thereby helping them to continue driving safely for longer.
Held in an informal and enjoyable atmosphere, attendees
are given lots of tips and advice, a free goody bag and the
opportunity to book a ‘refresher’ drive with an Approved Driving
Instructor if they wish.
To find out more, including a list of dates and venues, plus
comments from those who have already attended a Route 60+
workshop, visit our website: www.somersetroadsafety.org
Working with you to reduce casualties
For further details or to enquire about any of the above, please call us
on 01823 423430 or visit us at www.somersetroadsafety.org
6
Directory
Useful contacts for the older adult
Victim Support
www.victimsupport.org.uk
Tel. 0845 456 6099
Victim support offer help and advice to help you cope after
becoming the victim of a crime
Senior Citizen Liaison Team
www.sclt.us
Tel. 07879116009.
Police Headquarters Portishead Bristol.
Mailing Preference Service (MPS)
www.mpsonline.org.uk Registration Tel. 0845 703 4599.
Citizen Advice Bureau
The Mailing Preference Service (MPS) supports your
www.citizensadvice.org.uk
right to choose the mail you wish to receive. It is a free
Tel 08444 111 444
service.
The Citizen Advice Bureau offer you a range of free advice
Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
you are claiming all of the benefits you are entitled to.
www.tpsonline.org.uk
including a benefits check which enables you to ensure that
Registration Tel. 0845 070 0707
Soldiers, Sailors , Airmen, Families Association.
The Telephone Preference Service (TPS) is a free service
(SSAFA)
to enable the user to opt out of receiving unsolicited
sales or marketing calls.
www.ssafa.org.uk
Tel. 020 7403 8783
NHS Direct
military personnel then SSAFA may be able to cover costs for
If you are ex-military personnel or the dependent of an exnumerous things e.g home improvements, mobility scooters.
www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk Tel. 111
NHS Direct provide advice about any medical concerns
that you may have.
Age UK
Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM)
Age UK offer a wide range of help and advice for Senior
www.iam.org.uk
Citizens. They can be contacted on the above telephone
http://www.ageuk.org.uk
Tel. 0845 126 8600
The drive check 55 is a chance to get your driving
Tel. 0800 169 6565
number for free advice on all of their services.
checked by a qualified IAM instructor. This is not a test
just a chance to be reminded of good driving habits if its
Neighbourhood Watch
been a while since you passed your driving test.
Tel. 0116 271 0052
Receive regular information about local crime trends and crime
Crime Stoppers
www.crimestoppers-uk.org
prevention advice. Also available is information about how to
Tel. 0800 555 111
set up a scheme in your local area.
This service can be used to report things to the police
anonymously.
7
Your Local Police tel 101
Doorstep scammers are professional
criminals who make their livings by visiting
you at home in order to steal from you.
There are two types of doorstep scammers:
FEEL SAFER, BE SAFER.
Crime
Prevention
The Distraction BurglarDistraction Burglars visit you at home unannounced and use a
variety of scams and deceptions to confuse or trick you into letting
them in. Tricks such as posing as utility engineers or council
officials are commonly used by this type of criminal. Once inside
your home, either they or their accomplice will attempt to steal
cash or other valuable items from you.
The Rogue TraderRogue traders visit you at home unannounced and use a variety of scams and
deceptions to confuse and/or intimidate you into paying for a service that you
don't really want or that is grossly over priced. Scams such as telling you that
you require urgent home repairs or unnecessary gardening work are commonly
used by this type of criminal.
Combating these criminals has become known as the 'Battle of
the Doorstep' and here are some helpful tips to win it.
- Try to use chains and spy holes before opening the front door fully.
- Check the callers photographic identification properly (get them to
post it through the letter box rather than opening it if you're unsure.
- Contact the callers company to ensure that the caller is genuine
(source the telephone number yourself, never use one that is on the
ID card or that is given to you by the caller). Do this with the caller
outside and the front door shut.
-It is illegal if a doorstep sales person tells you that their job or
livelihood is in jeopardy if you don't buy their services or products.
IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT !!!!!
Mailing and Telephone Scams.
Unsolicited letters and telephone calls are a real and constant annoyance to many
people cross the world. The trickster has used this medium for many years to
defraud people out of their hard earned money with billions of pounds stolen each
year in the UK alone . The Telephone and Mailing preference services (TPS)
(MPS) can help you avoid becoming the victim of one of these scams and can cut
down on the amount of unwanted letters and and telephone calls that you receive.
Full details are in the directory section on the previous page.
8
Personal Safety
It is important that at all times when out and about that we think about our personal safety. Not all
criminals use clever tricks and deceptions. Some are just happy to grab a handbag and run as fast as
they can. Here are a few simple suggestions that might lessen your chances of becoming a victim of
crime.
- Keep all of your valuables close to your person as visible cash and
jewellery can bring unwanted attention.
- Where ever possible travel with a friend and use will lit busy routes.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables out and about.
- Don't put all of your valuables into a handbag as this is often the
primary target of street criminals.
- Carry a personal alarm. These can be used to draw attention to you
in an emergency.
Forensic Advice.
Offenders of all kinds will leave some form of forensic evidence at the scenes of their crimes. This
evidence is a useful tool for the police to link offenders to their crimes and to bring them to justice.
However forensic evidence is often fragile and is easy to accidentally destroyed. Preserving this
evidence will help the police catch criminals. Please consider the following,
- Never touch or wipe surfaces or objects that you know the offender has handled. This may
include the doorbell. These areas are a good source of fingerprints and DNA evidence.
- Try not to walk on shiny flooring which the offender has walked on. Footprints recovered from
the scenes of crime result in more convictions than fingerprints.
- Forensics come second to security. Try to preserve one or two good areas for evidence but if
forensic opportunities have to be lost to secure your home or vehicle then this must come first.
When should I dial 999?
The police service depends heavily on members of the public to use the 999 telephone
service appropriately in order to prevent crime and catch criminals. There are two instances
in which 999 should be dialled immediately.
1. Where you know of a criminal offence at which the offender(s) is still at the scene.
2. Where loss of life or limb or serious damage to property could be prevented by immediate
intervention.
When speaking to the telephone operator please remember to speak in a clear, calm voice.
Tell the operator as much information as you can about the incident, its exact location, and
try to give detailed descriptions of the offender(s).
Finally Some Good News.
Thankfully the crimes that we have spoken about in this section are rare and it
is highly likely that you will never become a victim of one. Crime generally is
at an all time low and people have never been safer.
Please don't let crime prevention advice scare you, instead think of it as a tool
which can be used to increase your confidence and reduce previously
unforeseen risks
9
Siren
5 Differences
to Spot
10
Word Wheel. Make as many words as you can using
the letters in the wheel. Each word must contain the
centre letter. 0-5 poor 6-10 average 11+ good
Puzzles
11
Siren Short Stories.
"Flashes" by Edward Detore
Have you ever dreamed of being a published author with a readership of 250,000+ people ?. Siren short
stories is giving you that chance!. We are publishing the best fictional stories sent to us. Stories must be
fictional and must be between 900 and 1000 words. So give it a go and discover your inner talents.
The deafening sound of man-made thunder shook the ground and thrust Charles from
his slumber into a state of hyper awareness. He was confused and disorientated; rain
poured down his face and onto his drenched, tattered clothing. His army issued size
nine boots were ankle deep in a thick brown slurry of French mud. His body ached from
weeks of crouching in small fox holes and shell scrapes. All around him, the smell of
war crept slowly over the battlefield.
Charles scanned his surroundings trying to identify something familiar. Through the
gloom he could see a tangled mess of barbed wire playfully dancing in and out of the
torn up ground. Countless corpses draped over it like bows tied to a ribbon. There in
the dark of night, Charles saw something familiar; a pale white face stared at Charles
from a few feet away, its eyes deathly still and its mouth frozen in a silent, agonising
scream. Charles recognised the face instantly, it was Steven Hodge. Charles and
Steven had been called up together just eight months ago, aged nineteen. They had
been the best of friends ever since completing basic training together.
Charles stood frozen in shock at the sight of his friend’s untimely and gruesome
conclusion. Time seemed to stop and the rain and filthy conditions no longer bothered
him. When Steven was with him Charles always knew what they were fighting for, each
other; suddenly it all seemed so pointless.
Another deafening crack of thunder and Charles was thrown onto his back. Suddenly,
he was all too aware of what was happening around him. Red hot metal zipped through
the air in all directions like a swarm of killer bees. Dashes of red, green and blue tracer
bullets lit up the sky like hundreds of confused shooting stars. The ground seem to
erupt without warning all around as artillery shells exploded deep into the mud.
Charles heart started to beat quicker and quicker, was his next breath going to be his
last ? Suddenly Charles thoughts were with Claire and her last words to him as he had
boarded the train, “now you come back safe to me you hear, promise me!!” Charles
had promised her and her tender lips pressed against his to seal the agreement.
“Damn it private sort yourself out and remember your training”, he screamed to
himself. Charles looked around furiously for his rifle, his hands quickly covering the
muddy bottom of the swamp that he had called home for far too long.
12
His fingers, now numbed by the ice cold water in which he had been searching finally
struck something metal. A sense of relief swept over Charles like a warm summers
breeze; it was his rifle. Charles grasped it tightly by its barrel and pulled it from the mud.
It was time to say goodbye to Steven and get the hell out of this god forsaken place.
Charles took one last look at his friend and scrambled out of the muddy hole. Charles
now fully appreciated the epic scale of the battle that was raging all around him. The
ground in all directions was mangled by artillery, countless dead lay where they fell.
The air was thick with the fog of war, so thick that Charles could not help but taste its
awful stench.
Charles crouched as low as he could and began to run. He was unsure as to where
he was going but anywhere was better than here. Adrenaline coursed through his veins
as he ran faster and faster. Charles had been quite the athlete before the war and now
found his skills useful as he leaped over coils of deadly barbed wire, and shards of
wood and metal.
Charles kept on running until suddenly he could hear voices. Charles stopped and
jumped into a nearby impact creator. He laid flat on his stomach and listened intensely,
praying that he would hear a familiar voice.
Charles delicately inched to the top of his creator and peered over the edge. The
distance flash of an explosion briefly lit the gloom and Charles saw two figures headed
in his direction. As the light from the explosion faded, Charles could no longer see the
figures; he was unsure if they were friend or foe.
He quickly debated to himself what to do, the inner conflict weighed heavily on him.
Charles did not want to shoot one of his friends, but what if it was the enemy? His
natural sense of self preservation was overwhelming urging him to shoot first and ask
questions later.
There was no more time; the figures would be upon him any second. Charles made
the decision. He rose to his knees and pressed the butt of his rifle into his shoulder.
Charles stared down the sights into the blackness, his finger lightly tickling the trigger.
He waited for the next flash of light to identify the position of his target.
Suddenly Charles felt a hand press down firmly on his shoulder from behind. He slowly
turned and saw the pale white face of Steven glaring back at him, “Are you ok grand
dad, are the fireworks bothering you?”
Charles sat back in his armchair and slowly exhaled a sigh of relief. Realising that the
loud bangs and flashes of bonfire night had taken his grandfather back to a time long
since past, Steven cautiously smiled and said in a comforting voice,
“I’ll put the kettle on”.
13
Money Belt.
Siren
These simple pouches attach around your
waist and can help you to keep your
valuables safe when you are out and about.
These devices are a great deterrent for would
be bag snatchers.
Produc
t
Award
This product is available from various outlets and
can be purchased for as cheaply as retails at
approximately £3.
D Type Bike Locks.
These types of bike locks are far more effective than simple chains
and padlocks. The ridged "D" type bar provides a much stronger
bond with the locking mechanisms which makes it far more difficult
to break apart.
These types of products retail at around £30.
Can Safes.
These cleverly disguised safes are a quick, easy and effective
way to store cash and other small personal items. They are not
lockable and instead rely on camouflaging your valuables from
the eyes of a would be thief. These safes work most effectively
when placed amongst other canned goods.
This product is available from various outlets and retails at
approximately £4.
Siren Recipes
One Pan
English Breakfast
Ingredients:
4 good-quality pork chipolatas
4 rashers smoked back bacon
140g button mushrooms
6 eggs, beaten
8 cherry tomatoes, halved
handful grated cheese (optional)
1 tbsp snipped chives
1. Heat a medium non-stick frying pan, add the chipolatas and fry for 3 mins.
2. Add the bacon, turning occasionally, until it starts to crisp, about 5 mins more.
3. Tip in the mushrooms and continue to cook for a further 3-5 mins.
4. Drain any excess fat and move the ingredients so they are evenly spread out.
5. Season the eggs, then add to the pan, swirling to fill the spaces.
6. Gently move with a fork for 2 mins over a low-medium heat until beginning to set.
7. Scatter over the tomatoes, cheese, if using, and chives, then grill for 2 mins until set.
8. Cut into wedges and serve with your favourite sauces.
14
Down at the Allotment
Top tips on how to keep your garden in
good order. An overgrown garden is
known to be one of the reasons why
doorstep criminals target an address.
February seems like the deepest part of winter, but temperatures should start to rise this month,
but there is still a daily risk of frost and even snow. Protect vulnerable plants, pots and taps from
frost by wrapping insulation such as garden fleece around them and check pots and containers
are raised off the ground if possible. Tender trees and shrubs will thank you for a generous
application of dry mulch to protect their roots from freezing conditions.
March is the time for a thorough spring clean; weed and dig over your borders incorporating as
much organic matter as you can - those chilly winds will really help to dry out the soil. Mulch bare
soil once you have done the work and remove moss and weeds from paths, terraces and driveways.
They may be boring tasks but if you don’t get on top of the garden now (especially the weeds!) it
will be a nightmare for the rest of the season.
Keep Cleaning - When the weather allows, carry on clearing paths, clean and insulate
greenhouses and ensure greenhouse heaters are working properly. Even a little insulation will
make a huge difference to your heating bill. Remember not to let leaves accumulate around alpines
- they will die if left damp for long. Keep off the lawn as much as possible whilst it is still wet damage to waterlogged lawns is easily inflicted.
Feathered Friends - It’s another lean month for wildlife and especially birds. Putting out fresh
water and food is really important, especially on cold days. You’ve heard it all before, but please
do buy good quality bird food or fat/suet balls and check that water is not frozen. Remember, at
a time of the year when our gardens have very little on offer in the way of colour, our flying visitors
do break the monotony.
Kitchen Garden - Many vegetable crops can be sown in March - wait until the weather turns
warmer, check the instructions on the seed packets and plant away! Broad beans, early peas,
carrots, lettuces, spinach, salad leaves, leeks and chard are just a few ideas to get your healthy,
cheap and home-grown food underway! Prepare the ground for French and runner beans - this
is really worth the effort! Dig a trench a minimum of a spade's depth and put in a generous layer
of well-rotted manure or compost (as for sweet peas). Do the same for courgette plants.
All valuable
items have
been removed
Please display this card after you have removed or put all property out of sight
Seniors Fitness.
Top five Yoga poses.
1. Equal standing
• In bare feet, stand on a yoga mat or the floor with feet parallel and together or hip-width apart, arms
hanging at sides.
• Focus on the feet and how your body weight is distributed. Without lifting the soles of your feet off the
floor, shift forward, backward and side to side to move your body weight until you bring it to centre.
• Moving your attention up the body, feel that your hips are stacked over ankles and shoulders over
hips. Move the chin back so that the skull is balanced on the spine. Aim to find an equilibrium that
means you're using as little muscle strength as possible to stand.
• Imagine that a string is pulling you up from the crown of your head. Notice if you're slouching and
stand up straighter, without overengaging any muscles such as the glutes.
2. Tree pose
•Start in equal standing posture, then shift most of your body weight into the left foot and leg. Bring
your hands to prayer position in front of the chest.
• Come onto the toes of the right foot and open the right hip and leg.
• If your balance is unsteady, keep your right toes on the floor, right heel against the inside of the
left calf. If you feel stable here, lift the right foot off the floor and place against the inside of the left
calf or thigh, being careful not to press against the knee.
• Take a few breaths, then slowly lower and repeat on the second side.
3. Squat
• Start in equal standing posture with feet together and arms at sides.
• Keeping the knees and feet together, sit back as though you were going to sit in a chair. Only go as
far as you are comfortable and balanced, but do try to challenge your muscles. To protect the knees,
make sure they're behind the toes and not moving forward.
• At the same time, reach the arms straight in front of you to help with balance.
4. Downward dog.
• Start on hands and knees, with wrists under shoulders and knees under hips. Fingers
should be spread wide and engaged, with middle fingers pointing forward. Look behind
you and check that feet are about hip width apart.
• Curl under the toes and reach the tailbone toward the ceiling. At this point, keep the
heels high off the floor and keep a gentle bend in the knees.
• Gently straighten the knees and lower the heels toward the floor (it's unlikely that they'll
touch) until you feel a soft stretch in the back of the legs and in the back. If it feels too
strong, bend the knees again until you're more comfortable. The very unflexible might
want to take their feet a bit farther apart.
5. Seated twist
• Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position with spine upright. If you find yourself uncomfortable
or slouching, try placing a folded blanket, cushion or yoga block or bolster under your hips.
• Inhale and sit up as straight as possible. On the exhale, twist gently to the right, starting the
movement from the base of the spine and letting it flow upward. As you move, place the left hand
on the right knee and the right hand behind you for balance. Move the head last and only as far
as it can comfortably go without strain.
• Return to centre on an inhale, then repeat on the left, making sure to switch the crossing of your
legs first.
16
Siren M.D.
Understanding Hip Replacements
The hip joint is one of the largest joints in the human body and is what is known as a 'ball and socket joint'. In a
healthy hip joint, the bones are connected to each other with bands of tissue known as ligaments. These
ligaments are lubricated with fluid to reduce friction. Joints are also surrounded by a type of tissue called cartilage
that is designed to help support the joints and prevent bones from rubbing against each other. The main purpose
of the hip joints is to support the upper body when a person is standing, walking and running, and to help with
certain movements, such as bending and stretching.
Why do I need a hip replacement? It might be necessary for you to have a hip replacement if one (or both) of
your hip joints becomes damaged and causes you persistent pain or problems with everyday activities. Many of
the conditions treated with a hip replacement are age-related so hip replacements are usually carried out in older
adults aged between 60 and 80. However, in some cases a hip replacement may be necessary in children or
younger adults whose hips are incorrectly formed (hip dysplasia).
What happens during hip replacement surgery? A hip replacement can be carried out under a general
anaesthetic (where you are asleep during the procedure) or an epidural (where the lower body is numbed). The
surgeon makes an incision into the hip, removes the damaged hip joint and then replaces it with an artificial joint
that is a metal alloy or, in some cases, ceramic. The surgery usually takes around 60-90 minutes to complete.
Recovering from hip replacement surgery For the first four to six weeks after the operation you will need a
walking aid, such as crutches, to help support you. You will also be enrolled on an exercise programme that is
designed to help you regain and then improve the use of your new hip joint. Most people are able to resume
normal activities within two to three months but it can take up to a year before you experience the full benefits of
your new hip.
What to expect after a hip replacement Since its introduction in the 1960s, hip replacement surgery has proved
to be one of the most effective types of surgery in modern medical history. Most people experience a significant
reduction in pain and, to a lesser extent, improvement in their range of movement. However, it is important to
have realistic expectations about what the operation can achieve. For example, you should be able to ride a bike
but it is unlikely that you would be able to play a game of rugby safely (although, as with most things, there are
always exceptions to this rule). The rehabilitation process after surgery can be a demanding time and requires
commitment.
Risks of hip replacement surgery A modern artificial hip joint is designed to last for at least 15 years, but there
is always the risk that the artificial hip joint can wear out or go wrong in some way before this time, meaning that
further surgery is required to repair or replace the joint. This is known as revision surgery. It is estimated that
around 1 in 10 people with an artificial hip will require revision surgery at a later date. There have been recent
cases of metal-on-metal (MoM) replacements wearing quicker than would be expected, causing deterioration in
the bone and tissue around the hip. There are also concerns that they could leak traces of metal into the
bloodstream. The risk of serious complications such as blood clots and infection at the site of the surgery is low –
estimated to be less than 1 in a 100.
Alternatives There is an alternative type of surgery to hip
replacement, known as hip resurfacing. This involves
removing the damaged surfaces of the bones inside the
hip joint and replacing them with a metal surface. An
advantage to this approach is that it is less invasive and
leaves you with a greater range of movement after
surgery. However, it is usually only effective in younger
adults who have relatively strong bones.
17
Senior
Spotlight
SCLT reporter Ashley Jones
presents
Mr Brian Cumming MBE. KStG
Brian Cumming was born in Plymouth 80-years ago and was educated at Plymouth Grammar School, before
leaving when he was 14-years old to work at the local electric company. In 1947 Brian was working as a
furniture salesman at the local Co-operative store when he met his future wife, Patricia, when he was 15-years
old. They were married by the time they were 18. Thus began a wonderful married life together, which spanned
for 48-years until Patricia sadly passed away 4-years ago. At the tender age of 17½, Brian decided to join the
Army and enlisted as a radio technician and was trained at Catterick. This was followed by numerous overseas
postings the last of which saw Brian returning to Germany, to the town of Minden, where he served in the
station staff office looking after the welfare needs of the service families on the base until his retirement in
1983. He then returned to his home city of Plymouth, where he worked for the Ministry of Defence as a civilian
welfare officer, again looking after the interests of the service families in the military base.
This second career became a great passion for Brian and he received the unexpected accolade of an MBE from
the Queen for his great dedication to his role, which also included a period as Chairman for the National
Institute of Welfare. Finally after 40-years of service with the military as both a serviceman and civilian, Brian
retired and settled in Plymouth, where he was very active in the local Royal British Legion. Following the sad
loss of Patricia 4-years ago, Brian decided to apply to become an in-pensioner at the Royal Hospital Chelsea,
and to don the famous scarlet tunic of the Chelsea Pensioner, a choice he has described as the best decision
of his life (except marriage). Now, after 3-years at the hospital, Brian enjoys the tremendous camaraderie
which comes from being part of the regimental family of pensioners.
Brian now enjoys leading tours around the beautiful 66-acre Royal Hospital estate and has recently been
afforded the honour of knighthood in the Knightly Order of St George (KStG), as well as being given an honorary
commission as a Kentucky Colonel by the State of Kentucky in the USA. There is little doubt that becoming
an in-pensioner at the Royal Hospital Chelsea has brought much pleasure and a fitting conclusion to the
decades of service that Brian has dedicated to his country. In this month’s Senior Spotlight interview, SCLT
trustee Ash Jones travelled to the Royal Hospital Chelsea to share an afternoon chatting with Brian Cumming
MBE. KStG.
You have been a career soldier and have
spent many years serving your country
overseas, what sparked your interest in a
military career and kept your motivated
over the decades?
18
My paternal grandfather served in the 1st
Battalion Border Regiment and although I
never actually met him, I think this must have
served as something of a catalyst for my own
path in life. I heard many tales during my
childhood, of his military adventures and this
certainly got me interested. My father also
served with the Royal Marine Volunteer
Reserves and I only ever had one other job.
The Army was my life’s vocation and I saw to
reason to change.
As an in-pensioner of the internationally respected Royal Hospital Chelsea,
what are the 3-things that make being a Chelsea Pensioner special to you?
1). Camaraderie – naturally. When push comes to shove your mates are always there
for you.
2). The opportunity to remind the public what our military predecessors have done
whilst in service of the Crown. In that respect the scarlet tunic is very meaningful.
3). And the food is pretty impressive. We all suffer from a common situation called
‘Chelsea Chest’ (a large tummy) which is a result of the excellent food here.
How do you relax and recharge your batteries?
I really enjoy photography, mostly landscape and portrait work. I am the chairman
of the Royal Hospital Camera Club, there are about 4 or 5 of us at present who are
quite serious about photography as a hobby. We have a competition in a few weeks,
which should be fun. I also really enjoy taking walks around the city. I’ve not
previously lived in London, so I enjoy taking walks around the streets and taking in
the landmarks and sights. There’s always something to see which is fascinating.
You were a professional soldier for several decades and a leader of soldiers. What are you 3-golden rules of
leading troops?
1). Never ask anyone to do something that you wouldn’t do yourself.
2). Reconnaissance – Find out what is required before you make any rash decisions.
3). Loyalty – When under fire, you trust your life to your comrades. So loyalty to your men and your corps is very
important.
If you hadn’t chosen a career as a soldier, as there another profession you would like to have followed?
My great uncle was a policeman with the Metropolitan Police and it was a path that I thought I would follow. However,
when I attended for the medical I failed as I had something called a ‘postman’s shoulder’. Had that not been the case,
I may have gone on to have a long career in the police. I recently went on a tour of New Scotland Yard and visited their
Black Museum, which was very interesting.
If you could invite any 3-people (living or dead) to a dinner party, who would you invite and why?
Well, I assume that I’m hosting this dinner party, so my first guest would be Nigella Lawson to ensure that we would
be properly catered. I would also like to invite the comedian Rik Mayal, who I saw recently and thought he was very
funny and would certainly keep the party laughing. And finally I think John Cleese would make a great addition to the
atmosphere, also a very funny and entertaining man - but only as long as he didn’t do his funny walk.
And finally, is there one experience or
memory of being a soldier that you
would like to share?
I have one example of army efficiency,
which has stuck, in my mind. I remember
being based in Catterick where our
Sergeant Major was very particular about
the appearance of the parade ground.
There was a fire hose on wheels kept on
the parade ground, which was for use at
any fires on the base. The hose was
constantly cleaned and even whitewashed
to ensure it looked pristine at all times.
This was all well and good, however, when
there was a fire one day in one of the
sheds, we all rushed to use the fire hose,
but when we pulled it out and turned on
the water, there were dozens of small
holes in it, which let the water out like a big
lawn sprinkler. It certainly looked great,
but was useless in a fire.
19
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