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Why Barnaby Joyce’s TV diagnosis of insomnia plus sleep apnoea is such a big deal

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alexander-sweetman-1331085">Alexander Sweetman</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a></em></p> <p>The <a href="https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-how-does-david-littleproud-handle-the-latest-barnaby-joyce-embarrassment-223289">health</a> of Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce is in the news again, this time with a diagnosis of a sleep disorder made <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/media-and-marketing/barnaby-joyce-to-be-diagnosed-with-a-sleep-disorder-on-live-tv-20240223-p5f79q">while filming</a> a TV documentary.</p> <p>Joyce’s diagnosis of insomnia plus sleep apnoea arose while filming <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/whats-on/article/australias-sleep-revolution-with-dr-michael-mosley/nuyko305b">Australia’s Sleep Revolution with Dr Michael Mosley</a> in 2023. SBS has confirmed episode three, in which my Flinders University colleagues reveal his sleep disorder, is set to air on March 20.</p> <p>I was not involved in the program and have no knowledge of Joyce’s <a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/weekend-australian-magazine/australias-sleep-crisis-has-flinders-university-cracked-the-code-to-a-better-nights-sleep/news-story/d3b82617af33fff82487da2534722733">ongoing health care</a>. But I was part of the research team that in 2017 <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2016.04.004">coined the term COMISA</a> (co-morbid insomnia and sleep apnoea), the official name of Joyce’s on-screen diagnosis. Since then, I’ve led research into this <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2019.01.004">common</a> sleep disorder.</p> <p>Here’s why it’s so important to diagnose and treat it.</p> <h2>What was Joyce’s diagnosis?</h2> <p>People can be diagnosed separately with <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/insomnia-2">insomnia</a> or <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/obstructive-sleep-apnoea">sleep apnoea</a>.</p> <p>Insomnia includes frequent difficulties falling asleep at the start of the night or difficulties staying asleep during the night. These can result in daytime fatigue, reduced energy, concentration difficulties and poor mood. Over time, insomnia can start to impact your <a href="https://theconversation.com/insomnia-and-mental-disorders-are-linked-but-exactly-how-is-still-a-mystery-212106">mental health</a> and quality of life.</p> <p>Sleep apnoea (specifically, obstructive sleep apnoea) is when people experience repeated interruptions or pauses in breathing while they sleep. This reduces oxygen levels during sleep, and you can wake up multiple times at night. People with sleep apnoea may be aware of loud snoring, gasping for air when they wake up, or feeling exhausted the next morning. However, not all people have these symptoms, and sleep apnoea can go undiagnosed for years.</p> <p>But in Joyce’s case, both insomnia and sleep apnoea occur at the same time.</p> <p>We’ve known this could happen since <a href="https://doi.org/10.1126/science.181.4102.856">the 1970s</a>, with <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0022-006X.67.3.405">evidence growing</a> over <a href="https://doi.org/10.1378/chest.120.6.1923">subsequent decades</a>. Since then, sleep researchers and clinicians around the world have learned more about how <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2019.01.004">common</a> this is, its <a href="https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.01958-2021">consequences</a> and how best to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13847">treat it</a>.</p> <h2>How do you know if you have it?</h2> <p>Many people <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2005.08.008">seek help</a> for their sleep problems because of fatigue, exhaustion, physical symptoms, or poor mood during the day.</p> <p>If you think you have insomnia, a GP or sleep specialist can talk to you about your sleep pattern, and might ask you to complete <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/assessment-questionnaires">brief questionnaires</a> about your sleep and daytime symptoms. You might also be asked to fill in a “sleep diary” for one to two weeks. These will allow a trained clinician to see if you have insomnia.</p> <p>If you or your GP think you may have (or are at risk of having) sleep apnoea, you may be referred for a sleep study. This normally involves sleeping overnight in a sleep clinic where your sleep patterns and breathing are monitored. Alternatively, you might be set up with a recording device to monitor your sleep at home. A trained medical professional, such as a sleep and respiratory physician, will often make the diagnosis.</p> <p><a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2021.101519">Up to 50%</a> of people with sleep apnoea report symptoms of insomnia. About <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2021.101519">30–40%</a> of people with insomnia also have sleep apnoea.</p> <h2>What are the consequences?</h2> <p>Insomnia and sleep apnoea (individually) are associated with reduced <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-short-history-of-insomnia-and-how-we-became-obsessed-with-sleep-211729">sleep quality</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/insomnia-and-mental-disorders-are-linked-but-exactly-how-is-still-a-mystery-212106">mental health</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/health-check-heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-sleep-apnoea-26402">physical health</a>.</p> <p>Importantly, people with both at the same also tend to <a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci9120371">experience</a> worse sleep, daytime function, mental health, physical health and quality of life, compared with people with no sleep disorder.</p> <p>For instance, we know having both conditions comes with an <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13563">increased risk</a> of diseases of the heart.</p> <p><a href="https://doi.org/10.2147/NSS.S379252">In</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.01958-2021">three</a> <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleepe.2022.100043">studies</a>, we found people with both insomnia and sleep apnoea have about a 50–70% higher risk of dying early from any cause, compared with people with neither sleep condition. People with insomnia alone and sleep apnoea alone did not have an increased risk of dying early.</p> <p>However, there are effective treatments to reduce these health consequences.</p> <h2>How is it treated?</h2> <p>In general, it is best for people to access evidence-based treatments for both disorders. These treatments vary according to the patient and the severity of their condition.</p> <p>For instance, wearing a <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/cpap-continuous-positive-airway-pressure">CPAP mask</a> while sleeping improves breathing during sleep and reduces many of the daytime consequences of obstructive sleep apnoea. However, other effective treatments may be recommended based on each person’s symptoms, such as weight management, avoiding sleeping on your back, <a href="https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/sleep-disorders/oral-appliances-to-treat-snoring-and-obstructive-sleep-apnoea-osa">oral devices</a> (which look a bit like a mouthguard), or surgery.</p> <p>The <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-can-i-get-some-sleep-which-treatments-actually-work-212964">most effective</a> treatment for insomnia is cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, also known as <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/cbti">CBTi</a>. About four to eight sessions often lead to improvements in sleep, daytime function and mental health that are maintained for many <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/16506073.2021.2009019">years</a>. This can be delivered by trained therapists such as psychologists, nurses or GPs, as well as via <a href="https://www.sleepprimarycareresources.org.au/insomnia/cbti/referral-to-digital-cbti-programs">online</a> programs.</p> <p>Last year, we drew together evidence from more than 1,000 people with both conditions. We found CBTi is an <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/jsr.13847">effective treatment</a> for insomnia in people with treated and untreated sleep apnoea.</p> <h2>New treatments and approaches</h2> <p><a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frsle.2024.1355468/abstract">We</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06753-4">other teams</a> internationally are developing and testing new ways of delivering CBTi.</p> <p>Several groups are testing devices, which <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002%2Flio2.761">stimulate</a> the tongue muscles during sleep, to treat sleep apnoea in people with both disorders.</p> <p>And we’re still working out the best order for patients to access treatments, and the best combination of treatments.</p> <h2>The power of TV</h2> <p>Joyce’s public diagnosis of both insomnia and sleep apnoea will no doubt raise awareness of what we suspect is an underdiagnosed condition.</p> <p>Based on how common insomnia and sleep apnoea are in Australia, we estimate Joyce is one of about <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sleep.2021.03.023">5–10%</a> of Australian adults to have both at the same time.</p> <p>The Conversation contacted Joyce’s spokesperson for comment but did not hear back before deadline.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/224616/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/alexander-sweetman-1331085">Alexander Sweetman</a>, Research Fellow, College of Medicine and Public Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/flinders-university-972">Flinders University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-barnaby-joyces-tv-diagnosis-of-insomnia-plus-sleep-apnoea-is-such-a-big-deal-224616">original article</a>.</em></p>

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The US just returned to the Moon after more than 50 years. How big a deal is it, really?

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-flannery-3906">David Flannery</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p>In the few short years since the COVID pandemic changed our world, China, Japan and India have all successfully landed on the Moon.</p> <p>Many more robotic missions have flown past the Moon, entered lunar orbit, or crashed into it in the past five years. This includes <a href="https://www.planetary.org/space-missions/kplo">spacecraft developed by South Korea</a>, <a href="https://english.alarabiya.net/News/gulf/2023/04/27/Dubai-s-ruler-announces-new-moon-mission-after-UAE-s-Rashid-Rover-lunar-crash-">the United Arab Emirates</a>, and an <a href="https://www.spaceil.com/">Israeli not-for-profit organisation</a>.</p> <p>Late last week, the American company <a href="https://www.intuitivemachines.com/">Intuitive Machines</a>, in collaboration with NASA, celebrated “America’s return to the Moon” with a successful landing of its Odysseus spacecraft.</p> <p>Recent <a href="https://theconversation.com/change-5-china-launches-sample-return-mission-to-the-moon-is-it-winning-the-new-space-race-150665">Chinese-built sample return missions</a> are far more complex than this project. And didn’t NASA ferry a dozen humans to the Moon back when microwaves were cutting-edge technology? So what is different about this mission developed by a US company?</p> <h2>Back to the Moon</h2> <p>The recent Odysseus landing stands out for two reasons. For starters, this is the first time a US-built spacecraft has landed – not crashed – on the Moon for over 50 years.</p> <p>Secondly, and far more significantly, this is the first time a private company has pulled off a successful delivery of cargo to the Moon’s surface.</p> <p>NASA has lately focused on destinations beyond the Earth–Moon system, including Mars. But with its <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/commercial-lunar-payload-services/">Commercial Lunar Payload Services</a> (CLPS) program, it has also funded US private industry to develop Moon landing concepts, hoping to reduce the delivery costs of lunar payloads and allow NASA engineers to focus on other challenges.</p> <p>Working with NASA, Intuitive Machines selected a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malapert_(crater)">landing site</a> about 300 kilometres from the lunar south pole. Among other challenges, landing here requires entering a polar orbit around the Moon, which consumes additional fuel.</p> <p>At this latitude, the land is heavily cratered and dotted with long shadows. This makes it challenging for autonomous landing systems to find a safe spot for a touchdown.</p> <p>NASA spent about US$118 million (A$180 million) to land six scientific <a href="https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Space_Engineering_Technology/About_Payload_Systems">payloads</a> on Odysseus. This is relatively cheap. Using low-cost lunar landers, NASA will have an efficient way to test new space hardware that may then be flown on other Moon missions or farther afield.</p> <h2>Ten minutes of silence</h2> <p>One of the technology tests on the Odysseus lander, NASA’s <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/directorates/stmd/impact-story-navigation-doppler-lidar/">Navigation Doppler Lidar experiment</a> or NDL, appears to have proved crucial to the lander’s success.</p> <p>As the lander neared the surface, the company realised its navigation systems had a problem. NASA’s NDL experiment is serendipitously designed to test precision landing techniques for future missions. It seems that at the last second, engineers bodged together a solution that involved feeding necessary data from NDL to the lander.</p> <p>Ten minutes of silence followed before a <a href="https://twitter.com/Int_Machines/status/1760838333851148442">weak signal was detected</a> from Odysseus. Applause thundered through the mission control room. NASA’s administrator released a video congratulating everyone for returning America to the Moon.</p> <p>It has since become clear the lander is not oriented perfectly upright. The solar panels are generating sufficient power and the team is slowly receiving the first images from the surface.</p> <p>However, it’s likely Odysseus <a href="https://www.universetoday.com/165864/odysseus-moon-lander-is-tipped-over-but-still-sending-data/">partially toppled over</a> upon landing. Fortunately, at the time of writing, it seems most of the science payload may yet be deployed as it’s on the side of the lander facing upwards. The unlucky payload element facing downwards <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/23/world/odysseus-lunar-landing-sideways-scn/index.html">is a privately contributed artwork</a> connected <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2024/02/22/style/jeff-koons-moon-phases-odysseus-landing/index.html">to NFTs</a>.</p> <p>The lander is now likely to survive for at least a week before the Sun sets on the landing site and a dark, frigid lunar night turns it into another museum piece of human technology frozen in the lunar <a href="https://www.britannica.com/science/regolith">regolith</a>.</p> <h2>Win some, lose some</h2> <p>NASA’s commercial approach to stimulating low-cost payload services all but guarantees some failures. But eventually NASA hopes that several commercial launch and landing providers will emerge from the program, along with a few learning experiences.</p> <p>The know-how accumulated at organisations operating hardware in space is at least as important as the development of the hardware itself.</p> <p>The market for commercial lunar payloads remains unclear. Possibly, once the novelty wears off and brands are no longer able to generate buzz by, for example, <a href="https://www.columbia.com/omni-heat-infinity/moon-mission/">sending a piece of outdoor clothing to the Moon</a>, this source of funding may dwindle.</p> <p>However, just as today, civil space agencies and taxpayers will continue to fund space exploration to address shared science goals.</p> <p> </p> <p>Ideally, commercial providers will offer NASA an efficient method for testing key technologies needed for its schedule of upcoming scientific robotic missions, as well as <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis/">human spaceflight in the Artemis program</a>. Australia would also have the opportunity to test hardware at a reduced price.</p> <p>It’s worth noting that US budgetary issues, <a href="https://spacenews.com/nasa-warns-of-very-problematic-space-technology-budget-cuts/">funding cuts</a> and <a href="https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/news/jpl-workforce-update">subsequent lay-offs</a> do threaten these ambitions.</p> <p>Meanwhile, in Australia, we may have nothing to launch anyway. We continue to spend less <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_departments/Parliamentary_Library/Budget/reviews/2023-24/ScienceResearch">than the OECD average on scientific research</a>, and only a few Australian universities – who traditionally lead such efforts – <a href="https://business.gov.au/grants-and-programs/moon-to-mars-initiative-demonstrator-mission-grants/grant-recipients">have received funding</a> provided by the Australian Space Agency.</p> <p>If we do support planetary science and space exploration in the future, Australians will need to decide if we want to allocate our limited resources, competing with NASA and US private industry, to supply launch, landing and robotic services to the global space industry.</p> <p>Alternatively, we could leverage these lower-cost payload providers to develop our own scientific space program, and locally developed space technologies associated with benefits to the knowledge economy, education and national security.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/224276/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-flannery-3906"><em>David Flannery</em></a><em>, Planetary Scientist, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Intuitive Machines</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-us-just-returned-to-the-moon-after-more-than-50-years-how-big-a-deal-is-it-really-224276">original article</a>.</em></p>

International Travel

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Grant Denyer serenades one of Australia's oldest Deal or No Deal contestants

<p>In the latest feelgood episode of <em>Deal or No Deal</em>, 94-year-old contestant  Phyllis Goldsack was given the chance to win $100,000. </p> <p>As one of the oldest contestants on the show, Phyllis kept everyone entertained as she challenged the banker.</p> <p>In one particularly sweet moment, game show host Grant Denyer serenaded her with a special song.</p> <p>A clip of the moment was shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, with the caption: "We're not crying, you're crying,"  and the crying emoji. </p> <p>"Okay the deal is, if I serenade you, with the song of your choosing, you get $800 from my pocket," Grant told Phyllis in the show. </p> <p>The audience were touched when Phyllis revealed that her late husband only ever sang her one song when he proposed, <em style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">You Are My Sunshine.</em></p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're not crying, you're crying! 😭<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DealOrNoDealAU?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DealOrNoDealAU</a> 6.00 Weeknights on <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel10AU?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@channel10au</a> and 10 Play. <a href="https://t.co/CVR0M5rq7y">pic.twitter.com/CVR0M5rq7y</a></p> <p>— Deal Or No Deal Australia (@DealOrNoDealAUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/DealOrNoDealAUS/status/1756942546767339956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 12, 2024</a></p></blockquote> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">"Should we do it one more time maybe?" Grant asked Phyllis who eagerly replied: "yes, you sing it for me". </span></p> <p><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">The crowd joined in and serenaded the 94 year old. </span></p> <p>“Thank you, you know you have made me feel so happy,” she told Grant. </p> <p>Although Phyllis did not win the $100,000, she went home $9,255 richer, which was the best offer she received from the banker. </p> <p>“That’s why I do this show!” Grant said. </p> <p><em>Images: X</em></p>

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"Like the cash cow had come out": Commuters puzzled by money bundles on motorway

<p>Motorists in Perth have been left puzzled after bundles of cash were spotted flying across a motorway. </p> <p>On Monday evening, several members of the public called Western Australia police after up to $40,000 in cold hard cash was seen flying across the Mitchell Fwy in Connolly, in the city’s northern suburbs. </p> <p>According to Commissioner Col Blanch, honest civilians bundled up some of the mysterious money and “came forward with large wads of cash”.</p> <p>“We believe that up to $40,000 has been recovered,” he said.</p> <p>Police believe that the money came from an alleged drug deal gone wrong, but the incident is still under investigation. </p> <p>"It looks like it was a total fiasco by the person involved and probably not one of our smartest (alleged) offenders," Mr Blanch said.</p> <p>"It's like the cash cow had come out, and there was cash flying everywhere."</p> <p>"There's no more money on the freeway … let's not go there."</p> <p>After police attended the scene, they arrested a man close by who had another $8,000 in his possession, along with 51g of cocaine. </p> <p>Despite some people stopping to retrieve the money to hand over to police, the free money prompted some motorists to stop their cars to retrieve a share for themselves.</p> <p>Talk on social media suggested one commuter even pocketed about $10,000. </p> <p><em>Image credits: WA Police</em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Going home for the holidays? How to navigate conflict and deal with difficult people

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jessica-robles-617248">Jessica Robles</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/loughborough-university-1336">Loughborough University</a></em></p> <p>The holiday season is upon us and for many that means all the tension that comes with it. This time of year can be a minefield of uncomfortable moments, disagreement and outright conflict. It’s no wonder <a href="https://fortune.com/well/2022/12/03/home-for-holidays-family-gatherings-mental-health/">many young people</a> are apprehensive about returning home for the holidays after living far away.</p> <p>There are many reasons interpersonal difficulties can arise over the holidays. Perhaps your aunt doesn’t like what you did with her pie recipe, or your friend’s new partner has unsettling political beliefs. Maybe you haven’t lived at home in a while, but your family still talks to you like you’re the same person you were in school. Maybe you’re bringing your partner to meet your family for the first time, and aren’t sure whether everyone will get along.</p> <p>People have socialised less with friends and family <a href="https://triple-c.at/index.php/tripleC/article/view/1167">since the pandemic</a>, and may be feeling out of practice. This can be compounded by all the things people can disagree about.</p> <p>Some topics are higher risk for blowups, and best <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/book/10.1002/9781444354119#page=122">avoided</a> in such settings (religion and politics, for starters). Whether it’s <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11109-018-9476-2">true or not</a>, there’s a popular perception that tricky subjects are more numerous and divisive than ever. Dare one bring up anything adjacent to Brexit, vaccinations or the cost of living? Even bringing your mobile phone to the dining table could get you in trouble.</p> <p>So what happens if your uncle has too much mulled wine and something slips out that annoys or even horrifies you? Family arguments are a common theme in holiday films, but their scripted resolutions are rarely realistic and not based on <a href="https://repository.lboro.ac.uk/articles/book/Talk_the_science_of_conversation/9476291">empirical research</a>. By considering how these things work in the context of real interactions, we can move from what sounds good in theory to what we can put into practice.</p> <h2>Think before you speak</h2> <p>In real-world situations, <a href="http://pstorage-loughborough-53465.s3.amazonaws.com/21189843/Thesis2019Joyce.pdf">interactions can escalate</a> before you’re even fully aware that they’re happening. You might be able to anticipate why and how an interaction might become a problem. Does alcohol generally lead to arguments in your family? Are your parents usually hypercritical of your new partners? Consider how to avoid problems before they start.</p> <figure>In the moment, you can often spot “clues” that something is about to go awry. Trouble doesn’t usually emerge solely because of one person, but through <a href="https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780429058011-13/conflict-interaction-phillip-glenn">the back-and-forth between people</a>. Assuming too much about who might be “the difficult one” and why won’t be helpful on its own.</figure> <p>You have to learn to recognise the conversational moves people are making (including your own) and see how <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780126235500500082">other people respond to them</a>. Some facial expressions can express doubt or distrust, and contemptuous expressions (such as <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08351813.2021.1936858">eye-rolling</a>) can signal that a conversation might take a turn toward insult rather than discussion. A response that starts with the word <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378216615002465?casa_token=gyu3pjfpGrEAAAAA:VwEe8rVBXvsbF9V_aeYylN42IpKYeZ1BGqp85VoP_rkBQZtEI5AbuqBloiPxgTKfsJjj5VTSvcY">“well”</a> can be warning of incoming disagreement.</p> <p>As you notice what ways of speaking get what kinds of responses, you can be more thoughtful about what you choose to say. Even <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-319-99094-1_2">changing a single word</a> can shift the direction of a conversation. A common sign that a conversation is starting to escalate unhelpfully is that people begin <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/08351813.2020.1826765?casa_token=AIU2DQgEJQUAAAAA%3AGoBBF8SPSXcDmiKBAwaIihjFngE1ck8QiVj0HFZO7VGxi8TtkOf7PB0j5NMV9ufgMN4BwF-dMFA1Gw">commenting on the conversation itself and accusing</a> one another of unreasonable behaviour. Once you learn to be more conscious of that, it can help you reflect on how to respond in ways that might deescalate… if that’s what you want to do.</p> <h2>Why we fight</h2> <p>There is a dilemma here: sometimes backing down from a conflict challenges our values of authenticity and commitment to our beliefs. If someone says something insulting, whether mild or <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378216622002120">egregious</a>, it feels disingenuous and morally irresponsible to smooth things over. Some conflict is worth engaging, especially with someone you care about who is willing to listen and think about things. The complication is, that’s not always the case.</p> <p>Often when people argue about something they care about, they end up <a href="https://ttu-ir.tdl.org/handle/2346/16661">misaligned</a> or “talking at cross purposes”, where they’re not really even discussing the same thing anymore. Every conversation has a trajectory, but it’s entirely possible for a conversation to have <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/2786745#metadata_info_tab_contents">parallel or divergent trajectories</a>. In such cases, it’s unlikely that any amount of <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/08351813.2019.1631044">good-faith discussion</a> is actually going to be <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378216618304302?casa_token=y7CoCCptr6AAAAAA:LCHuB6-BRaH4HPIothLVX_ENhSPlfshapdyvxzk9LjlQa24WJyRM4sXF2_bFp6oiWAfWnsVIoK8">productive</a>.</p> <p>At the end of the day, it’s also worth considering what makes a person or conversation “difficult”. Assigning that word to someone <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-2885.2001.tb00234.x?casa_token=g5XfR-FKNLEAAAAA:GFvy6M4CY9IHrE51_NTEJDNgf6bdPqJZPX2Q2KZStBesgv8UIJDj7YTBnVMOSpRCDRWbX-DsmkQFaWQ">is not a neutral or objective</a> statement. Maybe you, in fact, are the “difficult person”. Maybe, for some kinds of conflict, you should want to be difficult. And maybe, sometimes, it’s alright to go outside and let off steam with a snowball fight.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/196751/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jessica-robles-617248">Jessica Robles</a>, Lecturer in Social Psychology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/loughborough-university-1336">Loughborough University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/going-home-for-the-holidays-how-to-navigate-conflict-and-deal-with-difficult-people-196751">original article</a>.</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Qantas won’t like it, but Australian travellers could be about to get a better deal on flights

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gui-lohmann-1476773">Gui Lohmann</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-wastnage-489752">Justin Wastnage</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a></em></p> <p>Weeks after Qantas chief executive Alan Joyce brought forward his resignation to help Qantas “accelerate its renewal”, the company’s chairman Richard Goyder today announced he too is retiring early, to “<a href="https://cdn-api.markitdigital.com/apiman-gateway/ASX/asx-research/1.0/file/2924-02723591-2A1480044?access_token=83ff96335c2d45a094df02a206a39ff4">support restoration of trust</a>”.</p> <p>But the early retirement will take place “prior to the company’s annual general meeting in late 2024” – meaning Goyder will be in the chair for a while yet.</p> <p>This will give him time to (among other things) help Qantas respond to the Senate inquiry into air services, which <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Commonwealth_Bilateral_Air_Service_Agreements/cbasa/Report">reported on Monday</a>.</p> <p>If acted on, some of the report’s recommendations would shift power away from Qantas – such as by giving travellers automatic cash compensation for delayed or cancelled flights.</p> <p>But the inquiry arguably still didn’t go far enough, shying away from bolder action already taken in Europe.</p> <h2>What did the Senate inquiry recommend?</h2> <p>The Senate inquiry was set up to investigate the Albanese government’s refusal to approve <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-will-putting-the-interests-of-qantas-ahead-of-qatar-airways-cost-1-billion-per-year-and-a-new-wave-of-protectionism-of-legacy-carriers-212495">extra flights into Australia sought by Qatar Airways</a>, but broadened its scope to examine the way Qantas has been <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Commonwealth_Bilateral_Air_Service_Agreements/cbasa/Report/Recommendations">treating its customers</a>.</p> <p>Among its recommendations are that:</p> <ul> <li> <p>the government immediately review its decision not to increase capacity under Australia’s bilateral air services agreement with Qatar</p> </li> <li> <p>when making decisions relating to bilateral air service agreements, the government have regard to cost benefit analysis, consult widely with key stakeholders, and publish a statement of reasons for decisions taken</p> </li> <li> <p>the government review reform options to strengthen competition in the domestic aviation industry, including potential divestiture powers</p> </li> <li> <p>the government direct the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to conduct an inquiry into potential anti-competitive behaviour in the domestic aviation market</p> </li> <li> <p>the government develop and implement consumer protection reforms as soon as reasonably practicable to address significant delays, cancellations, lost baggage and devaluation of loyalty programs.</p> </li> </ul> <p>The committee also wanted to be reappointed so it would be able to reexamine witnesses who were unable to appear, including Alan Joyce and Transport Minister Catherine King.</p> <h2>Consumer cashback and action on Sydney Airport</h2> <p>Specific suggestions in the report would shift power away from Qantas.</p> <p>One is automatic cash compensation for delayed or cancelled flights, of the kind Europeans have enjoyed for <a href="https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52016XC0615%2801%29">almost 20 years</a>.</p> <p>Another is for the government to respond to an independent review’s recommendations on improving Sydney Airport’s “slot management system” (how air traffic is managed), which <a href="https://www.infrastructure.gov.au/infrastructure-transport-vehicles/airports/review-sydney-airport-demand-management-scheme">reported back almost three years ago</a>.</p> <p>Yet another concerned “<a href="https://theconversation.com/explainer-cabotage-and-why-foreign-airlines-dont-fly-domestic-42350">cabotage</a>”: the ability for foreign airlines to pick up domestic passengers on a domestic leg of an international flight. The committee recommended the government consider limited cabotage.</p> <p>The government hasn’t yet indicated which of the recommendations it plans to act on.</p> <h2>Open skies, or tightly-controlled skies?</h2> <p>The committee could have, and perhaps should have, put forward bolder recommendations.</p> <p>One would have been unrestricted <a href="https://theconversation.com/under-open-skies-the-market-not-the-minister-would-decide-how-often-airlines-could-fly-into-australia-213214">open skies</a> agreements, of the kind Australia already has with China, India, Japan, New Zealand and Singapore. This would see the government remove itself from decisions about landing slots and leave that to the airports.</p> <p>An alternative approach – almost the opposite – would be retaining the power to decide who lands, but using it to achieve outcomes the government wants, such as commitments from countries including Qatar on things such as workers’ rights.</p> <p>The European Union has shown what could be done. It extracted key <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_21_5344">concessions</a> from Qatar over workers’ rights and environmental protection before signing off on an Open Skies agreement in 2021.</p> <p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a former transport minister who understands the detail of aviation policy, might be particularly keen on this idea, given Labor’s commitment to workers’ rights.</p> <h2>Sweeping changes ahead</h2> <p>Next year, the government will release a white paper on aviation policy through to 2050, after obtaining <a href="https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/aviation-green-paper-open-feedback">feedback</a> on a green paper it released last month.</p> <p>Those next 30 years will be far from business-as-usual for airlines and airports, whatever decisions the government takes now, and however Qantas responds.</p> <p>Ultra-long-haul aircraft are likely to link Paris with Perth, and even London with Sydney within a decade. They are likely to force new alliances between airlines that today seem unlikely bedfellows.</p> <p>And the chorus against the excesses of long-haul travel is likely to become louder.</p> <p>Prince William’s <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/fifa-womens-world-cup-2023/132776452/large-carbon-footprint-behind-prince-william-not-attending-world-cup-final">refusal to travel to Sydney</a> for the Women’s World Cup Final because of the size of the carbon footprint might be a sign of things to come.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/214718/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gui-lohmann-1476773"><em>Gui Lohmann</em></a><em>, Professor in Air Transport and Tourism Management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justin-wastnage-489752">Justin Wastnage</a>, Adjunct Industry Fellow, Griffith Institute for Tourism, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/griffith-university-828">Griffith University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image </em><em>credits: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/qantas-wont-like-it-but-australian-travellers-could-be-about-to-get-a-better-deal-on-flights-214718">original article</a>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Can a daily multivitamin improve your memory?

<p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jacques-raubenheimer-1144463">Jacques Raubenheimer</a>, <em><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/research-check-25155">Research Checks</a> interrogate newly published studies and how they’re reported in the media. The analysis is undertaken by one or more academics not involved with the study, and reviewed by another, to make sure it’s accurate.</em></p> <hr /> <p>Don’t we all want to do what we can to reduce the impact of age-related decline on our memory?</p> <p>A new study suggests a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement is a simple and inexpensive way to help older adults slow the decline in some aspects of memory function.</p> <p>The <a href="https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(23)48904-6/fulltext">new study</a>, which comes from a <a href="https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02422745?term=NCT02422745&amp;draw=2&amp;rank=1">long-running clinical trial</a>, shows there may be a small benefit of taking a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement for one type of cognitive task (immediate word recall) among well-functioning elderly white people. At least in the short term.</p> <p>But that doesn’t mean we should all rush out and buy multivitamins. The results of the study don’t apply to the whole population, or to all types of memory function. Nor does the study show long-term benefits.</p> <h2>How was the study conducted?</h2> <p>The overarching COSMOS study is a well-designed double-blind randomised control trial. This means participants were randomly allocated to receive the intervention (a daily multivitamin and mineral supplement) or a placebo (dummy tablet), but neither the participants nor the researchers knew which one they were taking.</p> <p>This type of study is considered the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5654877/">gold standard</a> and allows researchers to compare various outcomes.</p> <p>Participants (3,562) were older than 64 for women, and 59 for men, with no history of heart attack, invasive cancer, stroke or serious illness. They couldn’t use multivitamins or minerals (or <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2216932120">cocoa extract</a> which they also tested) during the trial.</p> <p>Participants completed a <a href="https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04582617?term=NCT04582617&amp;draw=2&amp;rank=1">battery of online cognitive tests</a> at the start of the study (known as baseline), then yearly for three years, of which only three were reported in this paper:</p> <ul> <li> <p>ModRey, measuring immediate recall. Participants were shown “a list of 20 words, one at a time, for three seconds each,” and then had to type the list from memory</p> </li> <li> <p>ModBent, measuring object recognition. Participants were given 20 prompts with a shape and then had to select the correct match from a pair of similar prompts. After this, they were prompted with 40 shapes in turn, and had to indicate whether each was included in the original 20 or not</p> </li> <li> <p>Flanker, measuring “executive control”. Participants had to select a coloured block that corresponded to an arrow in a matrix of arrows, which could have the same (or different) colour to the surrounding arrows, and the same (or different) direction as the prompt block.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>What did the researchers find?</h2> <p>Of all the tests the researchers performed, only immediate recall (ModRey) at one year showed a significant effect, meaning the result is unlikely to just be a result of chance.</p> <p>At two and three years, the effect was no longer significant (meaning it could be down to chance).</p> <p>However they added an “overall estimate” by averaging the results from all three years to arrive at another significant effect.</p> <p>All the effect sizes reported are very small. The largest effect is for the participants’ immediate recall at one year, which was 0.07 – a value that is <a href="https://academic.oup.com/jpepsy/article/34/9/917/939415">generally considered very small without justification</a>.</p> <p>Also of note is that both the multivitamin and placebo groups had higher immediate word recall scores at one year (compared to baseline), although the multivitamin group’s increase was significantly larger.</p> <p><a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/epdf/10.1073/pnas.2216932120">In the researchers’ prior study</a>, the increase in word recall scores was described as a “typical learning (practice) effect”. This means they attributed the higher scores at one year to familiarisation with the test.</p> <p>For some reason, this “learning effect” was not discussed in the current paper, where the treatment group showed a significantly larger increase compared to those who were given the placebo.</p> <h2>What are the limitations of the study?</h2> <p>The team used a suitable statistical analysis. However, it did not adjust for demographic characteristics such as age, gender, race, and level of education.</p> <p>The authors detail their study’s major limitation well: it is not very generalisable, as it used “mostly white participants” who had to be very computer literate, and, one could argue, would be quite well-functioning cognitively.</p> <figure class="align-center "><figcaption></figcaption>Another unmentioned limitation is the advanced age of their sample, meaning long-term results for younger people can’t be assessed.</figure> <p>Additionally, the baseline diet score for their sample was abysmal. The researchers say participants’ diet scores “were consistent with <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/1899558">averages from the US population</a>” but the cited study noted “the overall dietary quality… [was] poor.”</p> <p>And they didn’t measure changes in diet over the three years, which could impact the results.</p> <h2>How should we interpret the results?</h2> <p>The poor dietary quality of the sample raises the question: can a better diet be the simple fix, rather than multivitamin and mineral supplements?</p> <p>Even for the effect they observed, which micronutrient from the supplement was the contributing factor?</p> <p>The researchers speculate about vitamins B12 and D. But you can find research on cognitive function for any arbitrarily chosen <a href="https://www.centrum.com/content/dam/cf-consumer-healthcare/bp-wellness-centrum/en_US/pdf/lbl-00000775-web-ready-centrum-silver-adults-tablets-(versio.pdf">ingredient</a>, including <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&amp;as_sdt=0%2C5&amp;q=selenium+cognitive+function">selenium</a>, which can be <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969720378608">toxic at high levels</a>.</p> <h2>So should I take a multivitamin?</h2> <p><a href="https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2013/08/should-you-take-dietary-supplements">Health authorities advise</a> daily multivitamin use isn’t necessary, as you can get all the nutrients you need by eating a wide variety of healthy foods. However, supplementation may be appropriate to meet any specific nutrient gaps an individual has.</p> <p>Using a good quality multivitamin at the recommended dose shouldn’t do any harm, but at best, this study shows well-functioning elderly white people might show some additional benefit in one type of cognitive task from using a multivitamin supplement.</p> <p>The case for most of the rest of the population, and the long-term benefit for younger people, can’t be made.</p> <hr /> <h2>Blind peer review</h2> <p><strong>Clare Collins writes:</strong></p> <p>I agree with the reviewer’s assessment, which is a comprehensive critique of the study. The key result was a small effect size from taking a daily multivitamin and mineral (or “multinutrient”) supplement on memory recall at one year (but not later time points) and is equivalent to a training effect where you get better at taking a test the more times you do it.</p> <p>It’s also worth noting the study authors received support and funding from commercial companies to undertake the study.</p> <p>While the study authors state they don’t believe background diet quality impacted the results, they didn’t comprehensively assess this. They used a brief <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22513989/">diet quality assessment score</a> only at baseline. Participants may have changed their eating habits during the study, which could then impact the results.</p> <p>Given all participants reported low diet quality scores, an important question is whether giving participants the knowledge, skills and resources to eat more healthily would have a bigger impact on cognition than taking supplements. <!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/208114/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jacques-raubenheimer-1144463">Jacques Raubenheimer</a>, Senior Research Fellow, Biostatistics, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/can-a-daily-multivitamin-improve-your-memory-208114">original article</a>.</em></p>

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Carrie Bickmore's rumoured TV return

<p>Carrie Bickmore is rumoured to be the next host of the upcoming reboot of the iconic Aussie game show <em>Deal or No Deal. </em></p> <p>The former <em>The Project </em>anchor is the front-runner to host the series which is set to air on Channel 10 next year. </p> <p>It is understood that the network is desperate to get Bickmore onboard, but with fame comes a hefty price tag. </p> <p>“She’s one of the biggest stars in Australia and she comes with a very big price tag,” a source reportedly told <em>New Idea</em>, revealing that her current rate is believed to be over $500,000.</p> <p>“Deal or No Deal is currently lined up to air at 6pm as the lead-in to The Project - with hopes those eyeballs that tune in to the game show will stay on to watch Sarah Harris, Waleed Aly, and the gang,” the source added. </p> <p>“It’d be a win-win for the network, getting Carrie back on TV and hosting a show that could actually get people back into watching The Project - it’s sort of genius.”</p> <p>However, she isn't the only star the broadcaster have their eyes on. </p> <p>Peter Helliar is also rumoured to be part of the line up, with a much cheaper price tag. </p> <p><em>Deal or No Deal</em> first aired in 2003 on Channel 7, and had a ten-year run before the show was axed.</p> <p>Although there's no set date for the when the show will air just yet, they are looking for their next stars with <a href="https://eu.castitreach.com/ag/esgau/dond/welcome.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">casting calls</a> open for those over 18. </p> <p>Image: </p>

TV

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Shock twist in Stuart MacGill's kidnapping saga

<p>In a shock twist  Stuart MacGill has been charged with taking part in a huge cocaine deal, which police allege is related to his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/stuart-macgill-kidnapped-and-threatened-at-gunpoint" target="_blank" rel="noopener">kidnapping</a>. </p> <p>MacGill was reportedly arrested  by police from the Robbery and Serious Crime Squad on Tuesday, and has been released on bail, according to <em><a href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=DTWEB_WRE170_a_NEW&dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailytelegraph.com.au%2Ftruecrimeaustralia%2Fpolice-courts-nsw%2Fstuart-macgill-charged-over-300k-cocaine-deal%2Fnews-story%2Fe60e00693bf3cfa2a3287f6fb1c0e4aa&memtype=anonymous&mode=premium&v21=dynamic-high-control-score&V21spcbehaviour=append" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Daily Telegraph</a></em>. </p> <p>Police will allege that the 52-year-old facilitated a deal between two people, where they agreed to sell 1kg of cocaine for $330,000 in 2019. </p> <p>Investigators will also allege that MacGill had a $1000 cocaine debt owed to one of the men, and this debt would be cleared as a benefit of facilitating the deal. </p> <p>Police allege that this was what led MacGill to be blamed, <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/strange-new-twist-in-stuart-macgill-s-kidnapping" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> kidnapped</a>, threatened at gunpoint, and beaten up before he was released in Belmore on April 2021. </p> <p>The kidnapping incident resulted in six men being arrested.</p> <p>Police had previously cleared MacGill from any illegal activity and publicly stated that MacGill was an "innocent victim", before further evidence was reportedly uncovered. </p> <p>MacGill had also given a number of <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/stuart-macgill-breaks-silence-on-kidnapping" target="_blank" rel="noopener">TV interviews</a> after the kidnapping, where he maintained his innocence and recalled the terrifying ordeal. </p> <p>“I was in a situation that’s foreign to me and I was physically and mentally intimidated.</p> <p>“I couldn’t have done anything differently, I don’t think," he previously said in an interview with Channel Nine's <em>A Current Affair</em>. </p> <p>Although the nature of the new information that police received cannot legally be revealed, the charge carries a potential maximum penalty of life in jail. </p> <p>The famous bowler will face Manly Local Court on October 26 charged with one count of taking part in the supply of a large commercial quantity of cocaine, according to a NSW Communities and Justice spokesman. </p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Legal

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11 simple daily habits of couples in healthy relationships

<p><strong>The secrets of happy relationships </strong></p> <p>Do you expect your partner to take out the bins every week without ever being thanked? Can you recall the last time you paid your partner a compliment? Find out the secrets of people in a happy and healthy relationship.</p> <p><strong>They Netflix and chill together </strong></p> <p>There are many little ways to boost your marriage – and chief among them is simple companionship. Even if you’re couch surfing, do it together. Spending time with one another is one of the highlights of a healthy relationship. If he’s reading a book, grab one and cuddle up next to him. Bring him a drink while he’s mowing the lawn. Does washing the car bore you to tears? Then simply stand nearby and chat while he suds it up.</p> <p>“In the beginning, couples go out of their way to impress each other and create new ‘first memories’ together,” says Julie Spira, an online dating expert, CEO of Cyber-Dating Expert and author of <em>The Perils of Cyber-Dating</em>. “After a while, just being together rises to the top of the relationship totem pole.” And there’s nothing wrong with a good binge-watch. One study found a direct link between media consumption while together and relationship satisfaction.</p> <p><strong>They compliment one another</strong></p> <p>Here’s how to have a healthy relationship: Tell him how hot he is. Or that he smells delicious. Give her rear a smack in those jeans you adore. Happy couples know how to give a sincere compliment in the moment. In fact, a study found that receiving a compliment has the same positive effect as receiving cash.</p> <p>“Compliments are the quickest way to put a smile on your partner’s face,” says Spira. “Find something appealing about the other and never forget what attracted you to him in the first place. If it’s her ability to fill in the Sunday crossword puzzle or his ability to take charge when you need it, let each other know.”</p> <p><strong>They say those three little words</strong></p> <p>If you’re looking to build a stronger relationship, you’re going to need to say “I love you.” Happy couples say it throughout the day – when they wake up, when they’re eating lunch, when they go to sleep. “Saying I love you to your partner, whether it’s first thing in the morning or at bedtime, is important,” says Bonnie Winston, a celebrity matchmaker and relationship expert.</p> <p>“And saying it with a shared kiss makes it extra special.” She says for variation to try other meaningful three-word phrases like “You amaze me,” “You enthrall me,” “I adore you,” or “You’re my everything.” They slip it into conversation whenever they can. Just be sure that you say these words genuinely. “Those three little words are great to say, as long as you say them with intent and not just purely out of habit,” says Alexis Meads, a professional dating coach.</p> <p><strong>They say thank you</strong></p> <p>One of the best ways to make your spouse feel loved is to show graciousness – even for something as seemingly trivial as picking up the kids from a playdate or grabbing a carton of milk at the supermarket. “Appreciation for all the good your partner contributes to your life is vital,” says Gilda Carle, PhD, relationship expert and author of <em>Ask for What You Want AND GET IT</em>. “Thank-yous go a long way to continuing wedded bliss.” In fact, a study in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that gratitude increased an athlete’s self-esteem, which is a component of an optimal performance.</p> <p>For the sake of your relationship, it’s important to express your appreciation for what your significant other does for you. “No one wants to feel taken for granted,” says Antonia Hall, MA, a psychologist and relationship expert. “By finding things each day for which you’re grateful and expressing it to your sweetie, you foster positive connectivity with him. It will make him feel appreciated and often sparks his desire to want to please you all the more.”</p> <p><strong>They show PDA</strong></p> <p>Public displays of affection aren’t just for teenagers. Happy couples aren’t afraid to show their affection for one in another – even in public. “Intimacy and touch keeps you connected with your partner,” says Hall. “It fosters a connectedness that supports a strong and happy relationship.” Don’t worry, you don’t need to have a full-on make-out session in front of your in-laws. But you can keep your love alive by holding hands at the mall or snuggling at the kids’ sports game. A little PDA goes a long way.</p> <p>“Just touching your partner will help you feel more connected, both physically, emotionally and intellectually,” says Spira. “Plus, it’s a great form of foreplay.” Not to mention that it shows that you’re vulnerable. “When vulnerability is shown and nurtured, then trust in your relationship has the ability to grow,” says Kristie Overstreet, a licensed professional clinical counsellor, certified sex therapist and author of <em>Fix Yourself First: 25 Tips to Stop Ruining Your Relationship</em>.</p> <p><strong>They check in with one another</strong></p> <p>You don’t have to speak on the phone or text 24/7, but couples in healthy relationships call or text – to show the dog’s latest mess, a funny street sign, or for no reason at all. “Checking in with one another boosts feelings of ardour and security,” Winston says. Dr Carle adds, “People who check in with one another during their busy days are letting their partner know they’re thinking of them, despite all the other things going on.”</p> <p><strong>They go to bed at the same time</strong></p> <p>“This doesn’t mean that you both have to fall asleep. But at least wind the night down and get into the bed at the same time,” says Overstreet. “This gives you the opportunity to close the day together, which is very important.” Research shows that 75 percent of couples don’t go to bed at the same time, usually because one person is surfing the web, working or watching TV.</p> <p>Happy couples do their best not to stay up late cleaning the kitchen or folding laundry while the other catches some shuteye. Save the chores for another time. “In my experience as a relationship therapist, couples that go to bed at the same time have a more trusting relationship than those who don’t,” says Overstreet. Bedtime is an opportunity to talk about the day ahead and maybe have a quickie before you hit the hay too.</p> <p><strong>They laugh together </strong></p> <p>Soccer is at 4pm; doctor’s appointment is at 5:30pm.; remember to pick up a pizza on the way home. It’s easy to get into the habit of talking only about the logistics of life and kids. Healthy couples make it a habit to laugh together – often. It keeps the joy and spirit alive in your relationship.</p> <p>A new paper from US professor Jeffrey Hall gives data-backed validity to something you may have figured for yourself: couples who laugh together, stay together. “Find a way to make each other laugh,” says Spira. “Whether it’s watching a funny television show together or doing some playful teasing, laughter and happiness go hand-in-hand.”</p> <p><strong>They share a hobby</strong></p> <p>Tennis anyone? How about writing music? Happy couples take up a hobby that they can do together. Even if they don’t have common interests, happy couples will develop them. Maybe they try new restaurants together or volunteer at the local soup kitchen side by side once a week. “By no means do you need to do everything together,” says Meads.</p> <p>“However, couples who stay together have fun doing some of the same things.” When couples see their relationship as full of fun, they’re more likely to be happier over the long term. “Adding your mutual hobby to your schedule gives you something to look forward to and a memory to look back upon,” says Spira. And living a stimulating life outside the bedroom will lead to a stimulating life inside it.</p> <p><strong>They ask for what they need</strong></p> <p>Happy couples ask for what they need and listen to each other’s requests. “Healthy relationships encourage people to be authentic in their feelings so they can genuinely express themselves,” says Dr Carle. You’re doomed if you just hope that your partner will be a mind reader and “just know” what you’re thinking.</p> <p>Happy couples openly talk about their needs and understand their differences. “When your significant other does something you like, tell him so,” says Winston. “This will give him a feeling of validation and he’ll continue to want to please you.”</p> <p><strong>They're a team </strong></p> <p>“With a team mentality, couples lift each other up and are stronger together,” says Hall. “They make sacrifices to benefit the long-term partnership.” They make decisions together – one person doesn’t call all the shots. It can be small issues like deciding what to watch on the TV to bigger issues like figuring out where you want to raise a family. “Knowing your partner has your back and vice versa is a great source of comfort in the game of love,” says Spira.</p> <p>You function as a unit and think in terms of “we” instead of “I.” Remember that you’re on the same team, says relationship expert Andrea Syrtash, author of<em> Cheat on Your Husband (with Your Husband)</em>. “It doesn’t make sense to have a winner and a loser in an argument,” Syrtash says. “You’re more likely to fight more fairly when you consider this.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/true-stories-lifestyle/relationships/11-daily-habits-of-couples-in-healthy-relationships?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

Relationships

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Lump sum, daily payments or a combination? What to consider when paying for nursing home accommodation

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anam-bilgrami-1179543">Anam Bilgrami</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/macquarie-university-1174">Macquarie University</a></em></p> <p>Moving yourself or a loved one to a nursing home can be <a href="https://theconversation.com/should-we-move-our-loved-one-with-dementia-into-a-nursing-home-6-things-to-consider-when-making-this-tough-decision-189770">emotional and difficult</a>. While some have their nursing home accommodation costs fully covered by the government (based on a <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/how-much-will-i-pay">means test</a>), most will have to pay their own way.</p> <p>The average lump sum room value is <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2021/08/ninth-report-on-the-funding-and-financing-of-the-aged-care-industry-july-2021.pdf">A$334,000</a>. Choosing how to pay can make this time even more challenging, particularly for those with <a href="https://theconversation.com/would-you-pass-this-financial-literacy-quiz-many-wont-and-its-affecting-expensive-aged-care-decisions-175063">low financial literacy</a>.</p> <p>This is an important and complex decision. It can affect your income, wealth, means-tested aged care fee, and bequests. Here are some things to consider before you decide.</p> <h2>3 ways to pay</h2> <p>You can <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/understanding-aged-care-home-accommodation-costs">pay</a> for a nursing home room in three ways.</p> <p>You can pay the entire room price as a one-off, refundable lump sum (a “refundable accommodation deposit”, sometimes shortened to RAD). This lump sum is refunded to the resident or their estate when the person leaves the nursing home (if they move or pass away).</p> <p>The refund is <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/aged-care-home-accommodation-refunds">guaranteed by the government</a>, even if a provider goes bankrupt.</p> <p>People who don’t want to pay a lump sum can instead choose rent-style, “daily accommodation payments” (sometimes shortened to DAP).</p> <p>These are fixed, daily interest-only payments calculated on the total room price. The rate at which they are calculated is known as the “maximum permissible interest rate” or MPIR.</p> <p>The maximum permissible interest rate is set by the government and is currently <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-06/base-interest-rate-bir-and-maximum-permissible-interest-rate-mpir-for-residential-aged-care_0.pdf">7.9%</a> per annum. The <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/managing-residential-aged-care-services/managing-accommodation-payments-and-contributions-for-residential-aged-care#accommodation-payment">formula</a> for a daily accommodation payment is (RAD × MPIR) ÷ 365.</p> <p>Unlike lump sums, daily accommodation payments are not refunded.</p> <p>The third option is a <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/managing-residential-aged-care-services/managing-accommodation-payments-and-contributions-for-residential-aged-care#accommodation-payment">combination payment</a>. This means paying part of the room price as a lump sum, with daily payments calculated on the remaining room amount. On leaving the home, the part lump sum is refunded to the resident or their estate.</p> <p>With a combination payment, the consumer can choose to pay whatever amount they like for the lump sum.</p> <p>The table below shows three different ways someone could pay for a room priced at $400,000.</p> <figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=432&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=432&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=432&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=542&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=542&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/540310/original/file-20230731-130241-shaphm.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=542&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w" alt="" /></a><figcaption><span class="attribution"><a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></span></figcaption></figure> <p>So which is best? It’s impossible to say. It depends on a person’s circumstances, family situation, finances, preferences and expected length of stay.</p> <h2>Why do some people choose a lump sum?</h2> <p>One downside of a lump sum (or part lump sum) is that choosing this option means this money is not invested elsewhere.</p> <p>By handing over the lump sum, for example, you forgo returns you could have made by investing this same money into property or stocks over the period of your nursing home stay.</p> <p>On the other hand, paying lump sum means you get to avoid the daily interest payments (the 7.9% in the table above).</p> <p>So you could potentially be better off paying a lump sum if you think there’s no way you could make investment returns on that money that are substantially higher than the interest you’d be charged through daily payments.</p> <p>One advantage of choosing a lump sum is it’s considered an <a href="https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/care-home-or-aged-care/help-pay-home-or-aged-care/residential-aged-0">exempt asset</a> for pension purposes; some people may get more <a href="https://www.afr.com/wealth/personal-finance/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-aged-care-deposits-20200302-p54606">pension</a> if they pay the lump sum.</p> <p>The lump sum, however, does count as an asset in determining the <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/charging-for-residential-aged-care-services/residential-aged-care-fee-scenarios-for-people-entering-care-from-1-july-2014">means-tested care fee</a>.</p> <p>And if you sell your house, remember any money leftover after you pay the lump sum will be counted as assets when you’re means-tested for the pension and means-tested care fee.</p> <h2>Why might some people prefer daily payments?</h2> <p>Not everyone can can afford a lump sum. Some may not want to <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-it-worth-selling-my-house-if-im-going-into-aged-care-161674">sell their home</a> to pay one. Some may want to hold onto their house if they think property prices may increase in the future.</p> <p>Daily payments have recently overtaken lump sums as the most <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2021/08/ninth-report-on-the-funding-and-financing-of-the-aged-care-industry-july-2021.pdf">popular payment option</a>, with 43% of people paying this way. However, recent <a href="https://amp-smh-com-au.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/amp.smh.com.au/money/super-and-retirement/aged-care-interest-rate-increase-sees-daily-payments-almost-double-20230324-p5cuz2.html">interest rate rises</a> may slow or reverse this trend.</p> <p>And if a spouse or “<a href="https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/care-home-or-aged-care/residential-aged-care/aged-care-costs">protected person</a>” – such as a dependant or relative that meets certain criteria – is still living in the house, it’s also exempt from assets tests for the pension and other aged care fees.</p> <p>If the home is vacated by a protected person, its value is still excluded from the pension means test for <a href="https://www.dva.gov.au/get-support/health-support/care-home-or-aged-care/help-pay-home-or-aged-care/residential-aged-0">two years</a> (although rental income is still assessed).</p> <p>If you do not anticipate a lengthy nursing home stay, daily payments may potentially be the easiest option. But it’s best to consult a financial adviser.</p> <h2>What does the research say?</h2> <p>My <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1190086/What-drives-end-of-life-financial-decisions.pdf">research</a> with colleagues found many people choose the lump sum option simply because they can afford to.</p> <p>Those <a href="https://ahes.org.au/portfolio-items/entering-aged-care/">owning residential property</a> are more likely to pay a lump sum, mostly because they can sell a house to get the money.</p> <p>People who consult financial advisers are also more likely to choose lump sums. This may be due to <a href="https://www.afr.com/wealth/aged-care-costs-most-opt-for-pay-as-you-go-20181023-h170g4">financial advice</a> suggesting it’s tough to earn investment returns higher than what you’d save by avoiding the interest charged in the daily payment option.</p> <p>Some aged care providers <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/1164243/the-role-of-refundable-accommodation-deposits-FINAL.pdf">prefer</a> lump sum payment since they <a href="https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/providers/prudential-standards/permitted-use-refundable-deposits">use</a> these to renovate or refurbish their facilities. But providers are not allowed to influence or control your decision on how to pay.</p> <p>The recent Royal Commission into Aged Care recommended <a href="https://agedcare.royalcommission.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-03/final-report-recommendations.pdf">phasing out</a> lump sums as a payment option, leaving only daily payments. While that would reduce the complexity of the payment decision and remove the incentive for providers to sway decisions, it would also reduce consumer choice.</p> <h2>Is there anything else I should know?</h2> <p>Some 60% of people we <a href="https://www.mq.edu.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/1190086/What-drives-end-of-life-financial-decisions.pdf">surveyed</a> found the decision complex, while 54% said it was stressful.</p> <p>It is best to seek professional <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/understanding-aged-care-home-accommodation-costs#financial-advice">financial advice</a> before you decide.</p> <p>Services Australia also runs a free <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/what-financial-information-service?context=21836">Financial Information Service</a> that can help you better understand your finances and the payment decision. But it does not give <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/financial-information-service-officers?context=21836#a2">financial advice or prepare plans</a>.</p> <p>You have <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/managing-residential-aged-care-services/managing-accommodation-payments-and-contributions-for-residential-aged-care">28 days to choose a payment method</a> after admission, and six months to pay if you <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/our-work/residential-aged-care/managing-residential-aged-care-services/managing-accommodation-payments-and-contributions-for-residential-aged-care">choose a lump-sum payment</a>.</p> <p>In the interim, you will be charged daily interest payments on the room price.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/207405/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anam-bilgrami-1179543">Anam Bilgrami</a>, Research Fellow, Macquarie University Centre for the Health Economy, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/macquarie-university-1174">Macquarie University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/lump-sum-daily-payments-or-a-combination-what-to-consider-when-paying-for-nursing-home-accommodation-207405">original article</a>.</em></p>

Retirement Life

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Daily aspirin doesn’t prevent strokes in older, healthy people after all

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nial-wheate-96839">Nial Wheate</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tina-hinton-329706">Tina Hinton</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p>The daily use of <a href="https://www.nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/drugs-in-secondary-stroke-prevention">low dose aspirin</a> has been a mainstay of preventing strokes for decades. While there has always been a risk of bleeding associated with aspirin use, the benefits were thought to outweigh the risk.</p> <p>Now <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.25803">new research</a> led by Monash University has shown daily, low-dose aspirin doesn’t prevent strokes in relatively healthy people aged over 70. And it increases their risk of bleeding on the brain after falls or other injuries.</p> <p>But if you’re taking aspirin, it doesn’t mean you should abruptly stop. It may still have a role to play in treating people at high risk of stroke. Or, after talking to your doctor, there might be better options available.</p> <h2>Why has aspirin been used to prevent strokes?</h2> <p>Aspirin is an anti-platelet medicine, which is commonly known as a blood-thinner. <a href="https://www.lifeblood.com.au/blood/learn-about-blood/platelets">Platelets</a> are the component of blood primarily responsible for its clotting action. They are what stop you from continuously bleeding any time you have a cut or scrape on your skin.</p> <p>A <a href="https://strokefoundation.org.au/about-stroke/learn/what-is-a-stroke">stroke</a> is when oxygen can’t get into the brain because of a burst or blocked blood vessel. A blockage can occur when platelets in the bloodstream form a clot and it gets stuck in the artery.</p> <p>Because aspirin acts on platelets, it can help prevent the clots that can lead to a stroke.</p> <p>But because aspirin acts on platelets, it can also increase the risk of <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heart-disease/in-depth/daily-aspirin-therapy/art-20046797#:%7E:text=While%20daily%20aspirin%20can%20help,of%20developing%20a%20stomach%20ulcer.">unwanted bleeding</a>, usually in the stomach. It can also increase your risk of bleeding more when you have another injury, like hitting your head.</p> <p>Aspirin isn’t just used for the prevention of strokes. It is also the first aid treatment for someone undergoing a <a href="https://www.nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/acute-myocardial-infarction-early-treatment">heart attack</a>.</p> <h2>Findings of the Monash trial</h2> <p>New <a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.25803">research from Australia and the United States</a> reports results from the Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial.</p> <p>The researchers examined the protective use of daily low-dose aspirin (100 mg) in nearly 2,000 people who were aged 70 years and older and had no history of heart disease or stroke and whose blood pressure and cholesterol were well managed.</p> <p>When compared with placebo, aspirin didn’t reduce or increase the risk of stroke. Of the participants who took the aspirin, 195 or 4.6% had a stroke. Of those who took the placebo, 203 people or 4.7% had a stroke.</p> <p>But it did statistically increase the rate of non-stroke bleeding in the participants’ brains, for example when they injured their head. Those on aspirin showed a rate of bleeding in the brain of 1.1% (108 participants) compared with 0.8% (79 people) for those on placebo. This is a relatively, low but serious, risk.</p> <p>These findings are not entirely new. <a href="https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1800722?query=featured_home">Research</a> published five years ago based on the same ASPREE trial showed a similar result: a higher rate of bleeding among those taking low-dose aspirin compared with placebo.</p> <p>However as the study authors note, aspirin continues to be widely used for the prevention of stroke.</p> <h2>What are the study’s limitations?</h2> <p>The researchers examined aspirin in mostly people of white European heritage.</p> <p>So we don’t know whether the results are translatable to people with different ethnic backgrounds. <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2594139/">Genetics and ethnicity</a> can significantly impact the efficacy and safety of some drugs.</p> <p>The clinical trial only included people who were not significantly at risk of a stroke, and had no history of heart disease.</p> <p>Younger age groups were not studied either, so we cannot make any conclusions about their use of low dose aspirin to prevent stroke.</p> <p>It’s also possible the potential benefits and risks are different for those who have underlying heart problems or who have previously had a stroke and are therefore at higher risk of another stroke.</p> <h2>I’m taking aspirin, what should I do?</h2> <p>If you’re taking daily low-dose aspirin and are concerned by the results of the study, it’s important you don’t just stop taking your medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist.</p> <p>For people who are at high risk of having a stroke, or have previously had one, low-dose aspirin may remain their treatment of choice despite the slight bleeding risk.</p> <p>If you’re at high risk of bleeding, for example because of falls and other accidents due to advanced age, frailty, or another underlying condition, your doctor may be able to reduce the amount of aspirin you take by adding in <a href="https://www.nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/dipyridamole">dipyridamole</a> or prescribing a different medicine completely, such as <a href="https://www.nps.org.au/australian-prescriber/articles/clopidogrel">clopidogrel</a>.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/210388/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/nial-wheate-96839">Nial Wheate</a>, Associate Professor of the Sydney Pharmacy School, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tina-hinton-329706">Tina Hinton</a>, Associate Professor of Pharmacology, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty </em><em>Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/daily-aspirin-doesnt-prevent-strokes-in-older-healthy-people-after-all-210388">original article</a>.</em></p>

Body

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Christmas in July sale: Sleep soundly with these half price mattress deals

<p dir="ltr">When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, the last thing you want is an uncomfortable mattress.</p> <p dir="ltr">Even when you’re getting a bad night’s sleep, the tossing and the turning is just unbearable and we all know you’ll be waking up in a mood.</p> <p dir="ltr">And if you’re putting off getting a great mattress for your back just because it's expensive, it’s your lucky day.</p> <p dir="ltr">For a limited time, Emma Mattress is having a <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/sale/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Christmas in July sale</a> with many of their popular mattresses reduced to a nice sum.</p> <p dir="ltr">It doesn’t even matter what your sleeping pattern is, <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/sale/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Mattress</a> has something for everyone and helps with spinal alignment through its patented technology.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/sale/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Check out what’s on offer:</a></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-diamond-hybrid-mattress/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/07/orange-bed.jpg" alt="" width="1062" height="705" /></p> <p dir="ltr">Enjoy a stunning 55 per cent off the <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-diamond-hybrid-mattress/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress</a> going for $809.55, down from $1,799.00.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Emma Diamond Hybrid Mattress is a foam and spring hybrid one, featuring the patented technology which will help with your spine.</p> <p dir="ltr">It also has the 7-zone dynamic support on each layer which is sure to help keep you in a deep sleep.</p> <p dir="ltr">A bonus is the machine washable covers so that’s one less thing you need to stress about.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-comfort-mattress/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Comfort Mattress</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">You know it’s got to be good when a mattress has won an award and the <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-comfort-mattress/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Comfort</a> has done just that.</p> <p dir="ltr">Twice in a row, the Emma Comfort has been dubbed the Top Scoring Mattress 2021 AND 2022 by CHOICE.</p> <p dir="ltr">Emma Comfort Mattress is perfect for all types of sleepers and thanks to the innovative airocell helps regulate body temperature.</p> <p dir="ltr">The high-quality foam also adapts to your body ensuring that your sleep remains uninterrupted.</p> <p dir="ltr">It also has 50 per cent off going for $499.50, down from $999.00.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-boxbed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Emma Signature Bed</strong></a></p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/07/emma-boxbed.jpeg" alt="" width="1337" height="761" /></p> <p dir="ltr">May as well go all out with this incredible sale and buy a new bed while you’re at it!</p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-boxbed/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Signature Bed</a> is extremely easy to assemble with a step-by-step instruction booklet.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is made from the most durable and premium materials and the bed base uses patented FlexiSlats technology giving ultimate support and breathability.</p> <p dir="ltr">The bed is usually sold for $999.00 but thanks to 50 per cent off it is $499.50 for a limited time.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-foam-pillow/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Foam Pillow</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/07/emma_foam_pillow.jpeg" alt="" width="1062" height="705" /></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-foam-pillow/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Foam Pillow</a> is designed to ensure you have the most comfortable headrest.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is also customisable for maximum comfort and designed for any sleeping position.</p> <p dir="ltr">For just $100, this is sure to help you get the best sleep.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-cloud-hybrid-pillow/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Cloud Hybrid Pillow</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-cloud-hybrid-pillow/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Cloud Hybrid</a> is described as “Like Sleeping on Cloud-9” and is able to be adjusted in height.</p> <p dir="ltr">The removable memory foam core will work perfectly with those who sleep on their backs, side and even stomach.</p> <p dir="ltr">You’re guaranteed to sleep cool and soundly with its breathable and hypoallergenic design.</p> <p dir="ltr">There is 50 per cent off the Emma Cloud Hybrid Pillow selling for $175.00.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-mattress-topper/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Flip Topper</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-mattress-topper/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Flip Topper</a> is a nice addition to your mattress providing you with the necessary comfort for a better night’s sleep.</p> <p dir="ltr">There is extra support thanks to the ZeroGravity foam and extra comfort from the Breathable Airgocell Foam.</p> <p dir="ltr">The UltraDry cover also helps with keeping you at the right temperature all while you’re enjoying your rest.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Emma Flip Topper has been reduced by 25 per cent for $201.75.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-all-seasons-duvet/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma All Seasons Duvet</a></strong></p> <p dir="ltr"><strong><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/07/emma-quilt-_detail-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="2560" height="1706" /></strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Made from 100% cotton the<a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-all-seasons-duvet/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> Emma All Seasons Duvet</a> lives up to its namesake.</p> <p dir="ltr">It will make you want to stay in bed all day, or just that tiny bit longer as it helps you keep warm through those chilly autumn nights and cool in summer.</p> <p dir="ltr">You can save 25 per cent off the duvet which is currently being sold for $179.25.</p> <p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-mattress-protector/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong>Emma Mattress Protector</strong></a></p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://www.emma-sleep.com.au/emma-mattress-protector/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Emma Mattress Protector</a> ensures your mattress is protected from any spills or messes.</p> <p dir="ltr">It will protect you from dust mites and allergens while at the same time is 100% water, moisture and spill proof.</p> <p dir="ltr">Enjoy 25 per cent off the Emma Mattress Protector for $126.75.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Editor's note: When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, Over60 may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial reviews, and we only write about products we feel comfortable recommending to our readers. Thank you.</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Advice on dealing with tricky in-laws

<p>From heated discussions to awkward family dinners, your relationship with your in-laws can have a big impact on family time. Here’s how to navigate this sometimes tricky dynamic.</p> <p>There’s nothing worse than heading to a family engagement when you have a son-in-law (or your daughter’s parents-in-law) that you just don’t get along with. Whether there's been a fight that you haven’t been able to move on from, or you simply don’t get along, if you find your in-laws draining or annoying, you may need to change the boundaries.</p> <p>Do you know the old saying, “good fences make good neighbours”? Think of your in-laws like your neighbours – there needs to be really good fences (aka boundaries) in place for the relationship to run smoothly. The best way to go about this is in such a way that you don’t make anyone feel as though you're closing them out, but rather comes off that you are simply focussing on yourself and things you have going on.</p> <p>Once you’ve set boundaries, don’t be afraid to talk to your family and in-laws about them, they’re not as fragile as you think. But do choose your words carefully and keep the focus on you and what your needs are, rather than making any judgements or comments about them or their behaviour.</p> <p>Still not sure how to deal with your son, daughter, sister or brother in-law? Here are some top tips for setting boundaries and dealing with awkward situations:</p> <ol> <li>The person with the primary relationship (for example your daughter, not your son-in-law) should be the one to step in and help fix a problem if it arises. You should never be the messenger or go straight to an in-law. Gently raise the issue or concern with your immediate family member. </li> <li>Decide with your partner, or in your own time if you are single or widowed, what type of role you want your in-law/s to play in your life. If you don’t get along and spending time with them just seems to cause issues, then you might want to limit catch-ups to birthdays and big events. This is ok. Just be gentle if asked to explain. And keep your explanation brief and about you. Something along the lines of, my schedule is quite busy at the moment or I don’t feel up to going out too much, but I am looking forward to the next family get together. </li> <li>Never criticise your family for their relationship with his or her spouse/your in-laws, nor comment on your in-law to your immediate family member – for example don’t criticise your son-in-law to your daughter/his wife. This tends to only lead to complications and awkwardness. And remember, you only know what your daughter tells you and if they come to you everytime they’re upset or angry with their partner or their partner’s extended family, you’re only hearing the problems when your daughter is frustrated and upset. You might not hear all the good things and about when they make up. Don’t take these things on board and stay out of it by reserving any judgement or comments. </li> <li>Don’t get involved. Easier said than done, right? You have to trust that you have brought your children up right and they are responsible enough to navigate their own relationships, treat others respectfully and can stand up for themselves if need be. As such, you should not get involved in their issues, arguments and general day-to-day dealings with their other relationships. Stay on the peripheral, be there for some light guidance if need be, but ultimately you should just help them come to their own opinions, decisions and judgements on things rather than sharing your ones with them. </li> <li>Don’t get pulled into arguments by your child and in-law. You can be supportive and still let the couple handle their own problems. Take a step back and trust that you have raised an adult who has the vision and the courage to resolve the problems that concern his/her own family. Couples need to set boundaries for their own relationships and this can, as I am sure you know, take some time to find the right ones. </li> <li>Think of yourself as a guest. When spending time with family in big groups, and especially when you’re at someone else’s home, it is best to think of yourself as a guest and act accordingly. For example you may not like the way you son’s wife is doing things in her home (child rearing, cooking, cleaning etc), but unfortunately it is not really any of your business. This is between your son and his wife. A good checkpoint is to ask yourself if you have a sense of entitlement and expectancy that is inappropriate. If there are issues that you just can’t stand but can’t let go, then you may need to consider not visiting them.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Shop Smarter and Save Big: Unbeatable Deals on Appliances, Home items, and More in the EOFY Sales!

<p>The end-of-financial year sales are one of the biggest shopping events of the year here in Australia. Our favourite brands across various categories slash the prices by huge margins so that we consumers can grab a bargain. </p> <p>This event takes place every year, and this time round, it may be one of the best yet, with unmissable bargains including the highly-rated <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.canningvale.com%2Ftowels%2Fcollections%2Froyal-splendour%2F&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Canningvale Royal Splendour Towel Sets,</a> which has over 2,500 5-star reviews! Reviewers shared their thoughts: “Love my new towels - they feel like a bit of luxury - great thickness and fluff. Very pleased” and “Beautiful soft lush towels very happy with purchase”. Even the talk-of-the-town Calming Blankets’ best-selling <a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.calmingblankets.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fweighted-blanket&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">adult weighted blanket is $100 off, reduced to $99</a>, so grab it while you can. </p> <p>When it comes to fulfilling your shopping needs, there's no better time than now. Why wait? By seizing this opportunity, you might just save yourself a pretty penny or two. We understand the challenges of navigating sales and limited timeframes to find the best deals, which is why we're here to lend a helping hand. Our expertise lies in uncovering the most enticing offers across various categories as we approach the end of the financial year.</p> <p>Whether you're looking to upgrade your tech and appliances, revamp your home bedding and towels for the colder weather, refresh your wardrobe for the new season, or even explore new beauty products, we've got you covered. Our extensive knowledge enables us to provide you with a comprehensive list of the best deals.</p> <p>So, without further ado, let's dive into our curated selection of deals for you to flick through below. </p> <h2><strong>Home </strong></h2> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/05/BeddingSets_byToaHeftibaUnsplash_HERO.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash</em></p> <p>We're approaching the peak of the cold weather, so If your bedding still seems better suited for keeping you cool rather than providing cosy warmth, now might be the perfect time to make a change. While you're at it, why not consider swapping out some home decor pieces as well? Give your space a winter makeover by adding touches of cosiness and incorporating warm colours. </p> <h3>Myer </h3> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fbedroom-sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--product_type_filter--quilt20covers%252Cmv--product_type_filter--sheets202620pillowcases%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off selected quilt covers and sheet sets</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fsale-tableware%2Fdinnerware--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--heritage%252Cmv--mfname--maxwell202620williams%252Cmv--mfname--robert20gordon%252Cmv--mfname--salt26pepper%252Cmv--mfname--vue%252Cmv--sale_type--402520off%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">50% off Dinnersets by Maxwell &amp; Williams, Robert Gordon, salt&amp;pepper and more</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--royal20albert%252Cmv--mfname--royal20doulton%252Cmv--mfname--waterford%252Cmv--mfname--wedgwood%252Cmv--sale_type--252520off%252Cmv--sale_type--302520off%252Cmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--sale_type--502520off%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off a great range of Wedgewood, Royal Doulton, Royal Albert and Waterford</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--mfname--sheridan%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off the original price of Sheridan</a></p> <p><strong><span style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">House</span></strong><strong style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;">:<br /></strong><a style="font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Oxygen, Ubuntu, Cantarell, 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif;" href="https://www.house.com.au/collections/sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 75% off House-wide EOFY Sale</a></p> <p><strong>Koala:<br /></strong><a href="https://koala.com/en-au/eofy-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 30% off site wide </a></p> <p><strong>Canningvale:</strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.canningvale.com%2Fsale%2Fbedding%2Fbedding%3Fis_index%3D0&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40-60% Off in the Big Bedding Sale</a></p> <p><strong>Emma Sleep:</strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.emma-sleep.com.au%2Fsale%2F&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 55% off selected products</a></p> <p><strong>Sheridan:</strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sheridan.com.au%2Fsale.html&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off sitewide</a></p> <p><strong>Calming Blankets:</strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.calmingblankets.com.au%2Fcollections%2Fbest-sellers&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off sitewide</a></p> <p><strong>Bed Bath N’ Table:</strong> <br /><a href="https://www.bedbathntable.com.au/products/catalogue" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clearance Sale Up to 60% off</a></p> <p><strong>Bed Threads:</strong> <br /><a href="https://bedthreads.com.au/pages/bed-threads-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Mid-Year Makeover Sale 15% off Everything</a></p> <p><strong>Freedom:</strong><br /><a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/best-selling" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Absolutely Everything on Sale</a><br /><a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/all-outdoor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 55% off all Outdoor Furniture</a><br /><a href="https://www.freedom.com.au/c/all-rugs" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 40% off all Floor Rugs</a></p> <p><strong>Harris Scarfe:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.harrisscarfe.com.au%2Fcategories%3Fq%3D%3Arelevance%3Acategory%3Aquilts%3Acategory%3Apillows%3Acategory%3Acomforters-coverlets%3Acategory%3Atowel-collections%3AdealType%3AOnSale%3AdealType%3AFRIENDS%2520PAY%2520LESS&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40-60% off all Homewares &amp; Manchester</a></p> <p><strong>Dymocks:</strong><br /><a href="https://www.dymocks.com.au/books/promotion-winter-sale-june-2023/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Books for $9.99 in the Winter Sale</a></p> <p><strong>Booktopia:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Feofy-sale%2Fpromo3262.html&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 75% off top deals</a></p> <p><strong>My Deal:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.mydeal.com.au%2Fsale%2Fstylish-bedside-tables&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Limited-time deals on bedside tables</a></p> <p><strong>Adairs:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adairs.com.au%2Fsales%2F&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to 30% off</a></p> <h3>Tech &amp; Appliances</h3> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/EOFY_Jonas-Leupe-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Photo by Jonas Leupe on Unsplash</em></p> <p>Tech and appliances are notorious for their hefty price tags, but their entertainment value or usefulness often justifies the investment. But, due to their high cost, it's wise to hold onto your bank card until the perfect deal presents itself, and that moment might be right now.</p> <p><strong>Myer:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Fappliances-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Great savings on Appliances by Breville, Sunbeam, Delonghi and more</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fhome--sale%2Felectronics-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Great savings on Tech by BOSE, Ultimate Ears, FitBit, Garmin and more</a></p> <p><strong>Dyson:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dyson.com.au%2Fdeals%2Feofy-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to $450, plus receive complimentary gifts and additional accessories with selected technology.</a></p> <p><strong>The Good Guys:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fhisense-75kg-front-load-washer--hwfy7514&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$500 Off! Fisher &amp; Paykel 10kg Front Load Washer - $995</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fsamsung-75-inches-ls03b-4k-the-frame-qled-smart-tv-2022-qa75ls03bawxxy&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$1100 Off! Samsung 75" LS03B 4K The Frame QLED Smart TV 2022 - $2395</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Ftefal-easy-fry-classic-air-fryer-ey2018&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$100 Off! Tefal Easy Fry Classic Air Fryer - $99</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegoodguys.com.au%2Fninja-intelli-sense-kitchen-system-ct682&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$30 Off! Ninja Intelli-Sense Kitchen System - $319</a></p> <p><strong>Appliances Online:<br /></strong><a href="https://www.appliancesonline.com.au/promo/clearance-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save on Appliances in the Clearance Sale</a><br /><a href="https://www.appliancesonline.com.au/product/tefal-cy8515-cook4meplus-multi-cooker" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$99 off Tefal Cook4Me+ Multi Cooker + Bonus Gift</a></p> <p><strong>Bing Lee:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.binglee.com.au%2Fcategories%2Fpromotions%2Fend-of-financial-year-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Huge savings in the Yenda Financial Year Sale</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.binglee.com.au%2Fproducts%2Fdyson-v10-stick-vacuum-394101-01&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">$450 off Dyson V10™ Stick Vacuum, $649 (down from $1099)</a></p> <p><strong>Kogan:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kogan.com%2Fau%2Fc%2Fdyson-australia-a%2F%3Fdispatch%3Dfree%26order_by%3D-discount%26shipping%3Dfree%26page%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to $450 on Dyson deals</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.kogan.com%2Fau%2Fc%2Fawesome-eofy-sale-tvs-home-entertainment%2Fshop%2Fcategory%2Fled-tv%2F&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Save up to 55% off TV deals</a></p> <p><strong>Harris Scarfe:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.harrisscarfe.com.au%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dsmith%2520nobel%3Arelevance%3Acategory%3Akettles%3Acategory%3Atoasters%3Acategory%3Aair-fryers&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off all Air Fryers, Toasters &amp; Kettles by Smith+Nobel</a></p> <h3>Fashion &amp; Accessories</h3> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/EOFY_Priscilla-Du-Preez-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash</em></p> <p>Time to give your wardrobe an upgrade for the winter season. Think cosy layers, earthy tones, and clothes that will keep you toasty warm. Find everything you need in the sales below, and get ready to rock that effortlessly stylish winter look!</p> <p><strong>Myer:</strong></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fwomen--sale%2Fwomen-lingerie-sale%2Fwomen-sleepwear-robes-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% Off Women's sleepwear</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fwomen--sale%2Fwomen-handbags-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">FROM $69 EACH Selected women's handbags and wallets by Marcs, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger and more</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fmen-sales%2Fmen-clothing-sale%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--302520off%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off a range of men’s fashion</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fmen-sales%2Fmen-shoes-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NOW $119 EACH Selected men's shoes by Tommy Hilfiger, Lacoste, GANT, Polo Ralph Lauren, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Florsheim and Wild Rhino</a></p> <p><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fkids-sale%3Flabel%3D%26facets%3Dmv--mfname--bauhaus%252Cmv--mfname--milkshake%252Cmv--mfname--sprout%252Cmv--mfname--tilii%252Cmv--product_type_filter--coats202620jackets%252Cmv--product_type_filter--knitwear202620sweaters%252Cmv--sale_type--302520off%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">30% off the original price of Kids' jackets, jumpers and cardigans by Milkshake, Sprout, Bauhaus, Tilii and Jack &amp; Milly</a></p> <p><strong>The Iconic:</strong>  <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theiconic.com.au%2Fwomens-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off women’s Mega Sale Event</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theiconic.com.au%2Fmens-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off men’s Mega Sale Event</a></p> <p><strong>Cotton On: <br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fcottonon.com%2FAU%2Fco%2Fco-sale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sale up to 50% off original prices</a></p> <p><strong>Bonds: </strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fbonds.com.au&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off storewide</a></p> <p><strong>Seed Heritage:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.seedheritage.com%2Fsale%2Fwoman%2F&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off all sale styles</a></p> <h3>Health &amp; Beauty</h3> <p><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2023/06/Jocelyn-Morales-on-Unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p><em>Photo by Jocelyn Morales on Unsplash</em></p> <p>There's nothing quite like treating yourself to something that enhances your health or beauty. If it boosts your confidence, it's definitely a smart investment. After all, you deserve to feel as good as you look, and that's something worth going for!</p> <p><strong>Myer:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 40% off beauty brands</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--mfname--calvin20klein%3Flabel%3D%26facets%3Dsv--category--18167%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off Calvin Klein fragrances</a><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.myer.com.au%2Fc%2Foffers%2Fsale-beauty%3Ffacets%3Dmv--sale_type--402520off%252Cmv--mfname--revlon%26pageNumber%3D1&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">40% off Revlon</a></p> <p><strong>The Iconic:<br /></strong><a href="https://www.theiconic.com.au/beauty-all/?campaign=lp-wmksbh-taf20-2423" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 70% off Beauty products in the Mega Sale Event</a></p> <p><strong>Sephora:</strong> <br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.sephora.com.au%2Fsale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">15% - 50% off Selected Styles only</a></p> <p><strong>Adore Beauty:</strong><br /><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adorebeauty.com.au%2Fc%2Fspecials%2Fclearance.html&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 50% off Clearance beauty</a></p> <p><strong>Shaver Shop:<br /></strong><a href="https://go.skimresources.com/?id=204849X1683982&amp;xs=13&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.shavershop.com.au%2Fsale&amp;xcust=sen_eofy_sales_2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Up to 80% off</a></p> <p><strong>Oz Hair &amp; Beauty:<br /></strong><a href="https://www.ozhairandbeauty.com/collections/summer-clearance-sale" target="_blank" rel="noopener">EOFY Up to 70% off sale</a></p> <p><em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Editor's note: When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, Over60 may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial reviews, and we only write about products we feel comfortable recommending to our readers. Thank you.</em><span style="color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> </span></p>

Home & Garden

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“I can imagine the divorce papers”: Ben Fordham's marriage deal-breaker

<p>Ben Fordham has revealed his marriage deal-breaker during a chat about tracking devices for<em> 9Honey’s</em> “He Se She Said” with Shelly Horton.</p> <p>The radio giant, who hosts <em>Ben Fordham Live on 2GB</em>, shared that while he and his wife Jodie Speers track their children’s whereabouts via tracking apps on their smartwatches, they would never do that to each other.</p> <p>"If I said to Jodie, 'Hey, I'm going to start tracking your whereabouts,' I can imagine the look that I'd get, first of all, from Jodie, then I can imagine the conversation that I'd be having with Jodie, and then I can imagine the divorce papers that would be filed by Jodie," Fordham joked.</p> <p>"I can imagine Jodie just getting a hammer and smashing her watch," Horton remarked.</p> <p>Horton discussed how the desire to track speaks of a "lack of trust," and at the worst of times, it could suggest “coercive control” seen in domestic violence relationships.</p> <p>Fordham agreed, adding he and his wife of over a decade have no desire to track each other.</p> <p>"We've got it for the kids. But I don't know where Jodie, is and she doesn't know where I am, apart from our diaries, because we've got a diary where we kind of let each other know where we're going to be and what we're doing," he said.</p> <p>In terms of the idea of “coercive control” Fordham said, "And you might have people who feel like, 'Alright, if I've got nothing to hide, OK, I'll agree to this arrangement,” adding that this arrangement can be exploited.</p> <p>Horton then spoke about refuges and “safe” spaces that have been implemented in shopping centres to help people, primarily women, who are being tracked so closely by their partners that they are unable to seek assistance.</p> <p>"They can go to a shopping centre and get counselling there, and actually talk to people about how to exit the relationship, and the partner just sees them at the shopping centre," she said.</p> <p>Fordham highlighted that once couples have agreed to track each other’s whereabouts, stopping it “becomes a problem” so it is best to avoid it from the start.</p> <p>"Because the moment you say to the other person , 'Hey, look, I don't like this thing anymore, I don't want to be tracked anymore, then they'll be thinking, 'Oooh, what have you got to hide?”</p> <p>Fordham also suggested setting up boundaries at the beginning of a relationship.</p> <p>Image credit: Getty / Instagram</p>

Relationships

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Tina Turner’s 12 daily habits that helped her live 83 inspired years

<h3>How did Tina Turner live such a long and successful life?</h3> <p>If you’ve ever seen Tina Turner perform live – which she last did on New Year’s Eve 2022 – you might have thought the music icon seemed ageless… immortal, even. From her powerhouse voice to electrifying stage presence and energetic dancing, you would never have known she was 83 years old. But earlier this year she became ill, with some sources reporting intestinal cancer and a stroke. On Tuesday, May 23, 2023, Tina Turner’s family announced she died peacefully at her home in Switzerland.</p> <p>Born Anna Mae Bullock on November 26, 1939, in Nutbush, Tennessee, Turner never had an easy life. In the 1960s and ’70s, she rose to fame as the lead singer of the Ike &amp; Tina Turner Revue, performing with her then-husband, before launching her decades-long solo career. Tina Turner was known just as much for her personal struggles and shared her experiences openly with her fans, earning a reputation for female strength.</p> <p>So how did Tina Turner live such a long and successful life despite her many struggles? The answer is that good genetics and chance likely played their roles, but a lot of the credit goes to her healthy lifestyle. Tina Turner had some famously great health habits and a resilient attitude. Ready to take notes from the Queen of Rock-n-roll? Following her lead won’t make you a famous singer (but who are we to crush your dreams?), but it will definitely make you happier and healthier.</p> <h4>1. Tina Turner maintained a spiritual practice</h4> <p>Turner grew up Southern Baptist but as her spirituality evolved, she eventually turned to Buddhism, crediting it for giving her a purpose in life – one of the best things you can do for your health and happiness. “After I began practicing Buddhism, I realised that my hardships could give me a mission – a purpose. I saw that by overcoming my obstacles, I could build indestructible happiness and inspire others to do the same,” she said in an interview with the Harvard Business Review. “I credit my spiritual practice with all the positive transformations – from the smallest to the largest – I’ve had in my career and personal life.”</p> <h4>2. Getting 10 (!) hours of sleep each night</h4> <p>Thanks to her rigorous touring schedule, Turner’s internal clock was set to ET (entertainment time, that is). “I am late to bed and late to rise, a habit of years of rock and roll touring,” she told Vogue in an interview. But, she admitted, she still prioritised getting enough shut-eye – “a good night’s sleep is the key,” she said, adding she aimed for about 10 hours each night.</p> <h4>3. Tina Turner meditated daily</h4> <p>Turner meditated daily and chanted a mantra when she felt anxious or stressed. One of her go-to mantras was change poison into medicine, to remind her to reframe negative situations or roadblocks and transform or remove them through positivity. “This allowed my true self to come out, and I became cheerful, confident, and resilient,” she wrote in her book Happiness Becomes You. “My approach to life and work became calmer and more thoughtful, and my reactions were more tempered.”</p> <h4>4. Tina Turner Loved to move</h4> <p>The key to making exercise a regular habit is to find something you genuinely love doing. For Turner that was clearly dancing, something she did with unabashed joy on stage. When Vogue asked what her exercise routine was to shape her famous legs, she replied, “Dancing! Any excuse and I will dance anywhere.”</p> <h4>5. Tina Turner had a strong a creative outlet</h4> <p>Songwriting was one of Turner’s greatest gifts, alongside her singing. But it wasn’t something that came easily to her and she dedicated countless hours to writing and composing. This creative outlet not only gave her a healthy outlet for her feelings but doing creative things, like writing, singing and painting have huge cognitive benefits. Not sure where to start to be creative? Write what you know: “I started with the topic I knew best: my own life. I wrote about my hometown of Nutbush in what became the 1973 hit ‘Nutbush City Limits,’” she said.</p> <h4>6. Tina Turner had a sensible diet</h4> <p>From Thai food to vegetarian to local delicacies, Turner was photographed enjoying a wide variety of delicious foods. So how did she keep her healthy muscular physique? Not by starving! “I knew a very long time ago that I always wanted to be as slender and attractive as I possibly could be,” she said in an interview with the Daily Mail. “But I hate all that calorie counting. I eat what I want and then if my weight starts to go up, I cut back.”</p> <h4>7. Tina Turner made time for friends and family</h4> <p>Fame can be isolating, as Turner found out when her ex-husband Ike used it as a way to abuse her. But as she got older Turner made it a point to spend time with her loved ones, including her four children. She also made friends wherever she went, recognising the joy and benefits of having a large social circle. “I do my best to see people as individuals and emphasise common ground,” she said.</p> <h4>8. Following a self-care routine</h4> <p>“I am blessed to have very good skin,” Turner told Vogue. But it wasn’t all genetics. No matter how tired she was after a show, she made it a point to practice self-care by washing off her makeup and using a deep moisture cream before bed. Clearly it worked: Tina Turner had glowy, supple skin well into her eighties!</p> <h4>9. Tina Turner exited a toxic relationship</h4> <p>Not all relationships are worth saving, especially those that are toxic or abusive. Staying with people who hurt you takes a terrible toll on your mental and physical health. Tina Turner’s escape from her abusive marriage was very public but, like many victims of domestic violence, it took the singer a long time to figure out how to leave. “For a long time I felt like I was stuck, with no way out of the unhealthy situation I was in,” she said. “Once I could see myself clearly, I began to change, opening the way to confidence and courage. It took a few years, but finally I was able to stand up for my life and start anew.” Not only did she save her own life, but she provided a powerful inspiration to other women in similar situations.</p> <h4>10. Tina Turner spent time outdoors</h4> <p>After retiring from the public eye, Turner and her husband Erwin moved their family to Switzerland – largely for the beautiful and relaxing scenery. “I love spending days in Switzerland with my husband driving into the mountains,” she said. “It’s relaxing and very spiritual to be surrounded by the lake and beautiful nature.”</p> <p>Are you a nature lover too? Being outdoors has powerful health benefits and is linked with a longer life in the research. It’s not just the exercise that boosts your health. Science has shown that simply being outdoors, in nature, lowers stress hormones, slows your heart rate, reduces blood pressure, and increases feelings of safety and well-being, according to a study on ‘forest bathing.’</p> <h4>11. Tina Turner embraced ageing</h4> <p>Ageing in showbiz is seen as one of the worst things a woman can do (as if she has any other option!), and many stars fight it as long as they can with surgery, drugs and photoshop. Not Tina Turner, though! “Of course, I’ve aged a bit in the face, but not enough to worry about it. I have common sense enough to know that if I’m [ageing], something has to happen,” she said to the Daily Mail. “As time passes, a woman goes through changes with her body, her hormones and all of that, but I don’t have a problem with that. So I am fortunate.” This happy attitude toward ageing is revolutionary and sets a great example, especially because how we talk about ageing has a powerful effect on our health and happiness as we get older.</p> <h4>12. Tina Turner chose happiness every day</h4> <p>Experts agree: happiness is a choice, not a circumstance. No one knew this better than Tina Turner. After suffering a stroke and cancer, she shared, “My challenges can either make me a better version of myself or break me apart, and I have a choice as to which it will be. It’s so important to remember that you do have a choice, even when it feels as if you don’t. I choose to be hopeful and to honour each experience in my life, negative and positive, as a chance to increase my wisdom, courage, and compassion.”</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p> <p><em>Written by: </em><em>Charlotte Hilton Andersen</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/articles/backtips-advice/tina-turners-12-daily-habits-that-helped-her-live-83-inspired-years" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>. </em></p>

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5 daily habits to improve heart, brain and eye health

<p><em><strong>Blackmores Naturopath Rebekah Russell shares her top five tips for boosting heart, brain and eye health.</strong></em></p> <p><strong>1. Stand up for your health</strong><br />Sitting is the new smoking. Sitting for hours on end, like most office workers do, increases the risk of heart attack and stroke – even if you are a regular exerciser. Unfortunately, a morning run or afternoon swim can’t negate the damage of sitting for eight hours or more a day. Try setting a diary reminder on your computer to stand up and walk around or try to stand during phone calls.</p> <p><strong>2. De-stress</strong><br />Despite modern technologies that are designed to make life easier, we’re all more stressed than ever. Long-term stress can spike levels of cortisol – a stress hormone which can affect the short-term memory regions of the brain. Meditation, spending time with friends and family, switching off from the Internet and social media, are all ways you can minimise stress and maintain long-term brain health.</p> <p><strong>3. Be a floss boss</strong><br />Not only can regular flossing prevent bad breath, it may prevent heart attack. While there is currently no definitive proof periodontal disease actually causes heart disease, there is proof that bacteria in the mouth can be released into the bloodstream and cause a hardening of the arteries. This can then lead to heart attack and stroke – reason enough to include flossing in your daily routine!</p> <p><strong>4. Good food</strong><br />Good eye, brain and heart health all starts with the food on your fork. Try to include two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables in your diet each day.</p> <p>Lutein (often referred to as the “eye vitamin”) and zeaxanthin, nutrients commonly found in vegetables, are disease-fighting antioxidants that are important for eyes, brain, and heart. Both nutrients are commonly found in green leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, turnips and lettuce as well as broccoli, zucchini and brussels sprouts and eggs.</p> <p>Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and<strong> </strong>fish oil<strong>, </strong>may also help fight off macular degeneration and cataracts, while also maintaining good heart and brain health.</p> <p><strong>5. Get social</strong><br />If you need another excuse to catch up with friends, or hang out with family, it’s this one! Socialising stimulates the brain and can also help to encourage healthy behaviours such as exercising. Daily social interaction has also been suggested to protect the brain against diseases including dementia and Alzheimer’s.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

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8 spots to declutter on a daily basis

<p>Many people who are naturally tidy will say that orderliness is merely a habit.</p> <p>So get into the groove of doing a little bit of decluttering every day, and you're sure to live a (somewhat) more streamlined life.</p> <p>Here are eight areas in your home that could do with a tidy on-the-daily.</p> <p><strong>1. The mailbox </strong></p> <p>Start setting your home life in order before you even walk in the door by making sure to clear your mailbox.</p> <p>Any junk mail can go straight in the recycling bin outside and you can deal with mail and bills immediately.</p> <p><strong>2. Your handbag</strong></p> <p>The busier a woman is, the more likely she is to accumulate fodder in her handbag. Receipts, toiletries, charger cables, hair clips, mail, snacks, and more will get lumped into the bag.</p> <p>Take a couple of minutes at the end of each day to clear what's arrived there into the relevant places, and make sure you have what you need for tomorrow.</p> <p><strong>3. The kitchen sink</strong></p> <p>Does anyone really enjoy doing the dishes? </p> <p>Washing dirty pots and pans is an activity that only becomes less attractive the longer you leave it.</p> <p>Do yourself a favour and the air in your home a favour - don't leave unwashed dishes in the sink overnight.</p> <p><strong>4. Your clothes pile </strong></p> <p>Let's be real - we all have one of these. Whether it's your chair, a corner of your bed or in a hamper, unworn clothes just seem to gather.</p> <p>Make it your practice to return clothes to the wardrobe before bed for a more relaxing bedroom (and maybe even a better night's sleep).</p> <p><strong>5. The car</strong></p> <p>Don't treat your car like an open-plan filing system, a trash can or a laundry basket.</p> <p>Make a rule - when you get out of the car, all new additions - like coffee cups or the drycleaning you just retrieved - come out with you.</p> <p><strong>6. The kitchen bench</strong></p> <p>The counter in your kitchen is a waypoint in the home where clutter easily accumulates.</p> <p>It might be tempting to decorate this space with a tray for odds and ends, but by doing this, you're simply allowing yourself to procrastinate. </p> <p>Instead, create a pinboard somewhere in your kitchen. Reminders and important documents can be pinned, everything else can go back where it belongs.</p> <p><strong>7. Your desk </strong></p> <p>Maintaining a tidy home office is important for morale and productivity. Plus, you deserve to work in well ordered environment.</p> <p>It's easy to bring things from around the house onto your desk (e.g. scissors, charging cables) and then be frantically wondering where they are later.</p> <p>When you finish your work for the day, make a ritual of putting everything away. </p> <p><strong>8. Your wallet </strong></p> <p>File receipts, remove excess coins, keep an eye on your loyalty cards (you might have a nice surprise) and make sure you have all your cards.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>Written by Anabela Rea. Republished with permission on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz.</span></strong></a></em></p>

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5 negotiation tactics to grab crazy property deals in a slowing market

<p>Rising interest rates have started to put the handbrakes on Australia’s runaway property market, and that’s good news for homebuyers who are now in a far stronger position to negotiate on a property than they have been over the last few years.</p> <p>One of the most apparent advantages for buyers in the current market is the reduced levels of competition. Fewer buyers mean that prices aren’t being driven higher, and if you’re a good negotiator, it’s possible to swoop in and find yourself a bargain.</p> <p>If you’re new to negotiating for property or unsure where to start, here are five tactics that will help you achieve a strong result at the negotiating table.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Know the market</strong></li> </ol> <p>You can’t succeed in a negotiation if you don’t know the value of the asset that you’re trying to buy in the first place. That’s why any good negotiator will always start by doing their research. You need to know the market better than your competition and don’t get caught up in any hype or opinions from a sales agent.</p> <p>Start by finding what comparable properties are selling for in the market. Look for the last three months of sales around your property. The sales should be of similar property types, sizes, ages, and land components. Another good way to get an idea of the price is to speak with local agents in the area. When you have a fair market value, you then know your “walk away price,” and you won’t find yourself getting emotional and overbidding.</p> <ol start="2"> <li><strong>Understand the vendor’s motivations</strong></li> </ol> <p>In any negotiation, there is a saying that whoever needs the deal least will likely be the one that comes out on top. When looking at potential properties to buy, you can be the world’s best negotiator, but if the vendor doesn’t need to sell, they will likely either wait for their price or walk away.</p> <p>Whenever you start looking at a property, try to ascertain as much information about the vendor as possible. That will give you an understanding of how motivated they are to sell, which will then impact how much you initially want to offer.</p> <ol start="3"> <li><strong>Be the strong bidder, not the highest</strong></li> </ol> <p>In a property transaction, price is just one piece of the puzzle. When a vendor weighs up an offer on their property, they are interested in the price, but the terms can also play a big part.</p> <p>For example, if you’re a cash buyer who can settle quickly, that might be far more appealing to a vendor than a higher offer that needs three months to settle. Similarly, a larger deposit could give a vendor more certainty that the transaction will occur.</p> <p>As a buyer, getting your finances in place ahead of time and then tailoring your terms to suit the vendor might give you an edge in a negotiation even if you’re not the highest bidder. Ultimately, the vendor wants their problem solved, and your job is to find out what it is and then make a strong offer that addresses those immediate needs.</p> <p>If you are ever tempted to make an unconditional offer, be sure you’ve done extensive due diligence and can secure finance, as there could be significant costs if you have to back out of the deal.</p> <ol start="4"> <li><strong>Unique offers</strong></li> </ol> <p>A great way to make your offer seem stronger than it might actually be is to come in with an odd-numbered amount. An offer price of $596,200 instead of $590,000 or $600,000 reflects that you’ve taken the time to do your due diligence, making your offer stand out.</p> <p>Another approach is to make a written offer with a deadline. That way, you can speed up the negotiation process, and it might prevent the sales agent from pitting your bid against another buyer to drive up the price.</p> <ol start="5"> <li><strong>Know the property</strong></li> </ol> <p>It’s critical to clearly understand what you’re buying before entering any negotiation. While you might have done your comparable sales analysis and have an excellent overall picture of what similar properties are selling for, you still need to investigate this particular property.</p> <p>Several things can impact the property’s value, which can help you negotiate. For example, if an awkward tenant occupies the property, it will be less appealing to many homebuyers, which you can use to your advantage. There may also be issues with the property, such as problematic zoning, service locations, or even large trees that can alter its value.</p> <p>The most obvious factor to consider is the state of the property and whether it needs renovation or repairs. In the current market, homebuyers are less interested in buying a property that needs work due to the cost of materials and difficulty finding tradespeople. That will give you a strong starting point to negotiate around the price.</p> <p>While getting a great deal is essential, it’s crucial not to compromise on the property’s quality. Quality is more important than a bargain, and a property’s performance will ultimately determine its value.</p> <p>A slowing real estate market presents an opportunity for buyers to negotiate and secure a great property deal. By understanding the local market, paying attention to the vendor’s motivations, and putting forward intelligent offers, you can potentially grab an excellent property deal in a slowing market.</p> <p><strong><em>Rasti Vaibhav is the author of The Property Wealth Blueprint (RRP $39.95) and Founder of Get RARE Properties, a bespoke independent buyers' agency that has been helping hundreds of clients across Australia secure their financial freedom through property. </em></strong></p> <p><strong><em>For more information, visit <a href="https://getrare.com.au">https://getrare.com.au</a></em></strong></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p style="margin: 0px; font-stretch: normal; font-size: 12px; line-height: normal; font-family: Helvetica; color: #0d0d14; min-height: 14px;"> </p>

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