WHAT’S ON OUR MIND

On my first solo trip to an appointment last winter, I confidently stepped out of a taxi when I found myself sprawled inelegantly on the sidewalk. After several surgeries, on that day I was already weak from bed rest, but I also had not looked down when falling. I might have seen the broken pavement and avoided the fall altogether.

We're all familiar with the macramé rage of the '70s — plant hangers, owl-shaped wall hangings and even door drapes. But this ancient art form is experiencing a comeback, thanks in part to the millions who were sequestered in their homes during the pandemic. Along with knitting and crocheting, fiber art in general has emerged as a front runner for quiet at-home recreation. It might also help with dexterity and cognition.

A recent study in Canada suggests that knowledge of a subject, such as birdwatching, could play a role in aging and memory.

Pirates ensured they had plenty of citrus fruits like limes and grapefruits onboard for their journeys.

On a busy day last year, 61-year-old Neil (not his real name) got a call from a man who called himself "John" and said he was from Apple Tech Support.