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September Special Section
2 | September 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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It’s time to check your cholesterol level Brought to you by Home Helpers of Alpharetta September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a perfect time to check your cholesterol level and take action if it’s high. High cholesterol typically doesn’t have any symptoms, and that can make people ignore their cholesterol levels or think that high cholesterol isn’t really a problem. However, high cholesterol is a major health risk factor. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over 100 million American adults have total cholesterol levels at or above 200 mg/dL, which is above healthy levels. More than 35 million of these people are at high risk for heart disease with levels of 240 mg/dL or higher. Understanding what cholesterol is and how it affects health can help you address the serious health concerns this can pose for you or your older loved one. About Cholesterol The Mayo Clinic describes cholesterol as “a waxy substance” that the body uses to make new cells. Cholesterol is produced in the liver, but it is also present in some of the foods people eat, like meat, poultry, and full-fat dairy products. The high amounts of saturated and trans fats in those foods cause the liver to kick into overdrive and produce even more cholesterol than the body needs, causing cholesterol levels to rise and possibly reach unhealthy levels. Cholesterol levels are measured using a simple blood test. Doctors look at total cholesterol levels as well as LDL and HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is the bad kind. HDL is the good kind. Total cholesterol level should be 200 mg/dL or lower. Ideally, LDL cholesterol
should be at 100 mg/dL or lower. HDL should be at 60 mg/dL or higher. Too much cholesterol in the blood can cause plaque to build up on the walls of arteries. Over time this can narrow the arteries, impeding blood flow that can cause chest pain, a heart attack or a stroke. When an older loved one has high cholesterol, doctors may prescribe medications and advise lifestyle changes to help bring the levels down. Maintaining a healthy weight is important, this includes following a low fat and high fiber diet with less salt, more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. A moderate exercise program is recommended for at least 2 ½ hours a week. It’s also important to follow a plan to reduce stress and stop smoking. This may be a perfect time to consider the benefits of a professional Home Helpers caregiver who can assist your older loved one with cooking, medication reminders, diet planning or following an exercise program. Caregivers can assist with all personal care, help around the house, accompany them to doctor’s visits or social outings and provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. Home Helpers of Alpharetta knows that despite the passing years, each of our clients has a youthful spirit. Our carefully matched and talented caregivers not only bring skills, but a heart centered approach and positive spirit that boosts confidence and provides the best quality of life for our clients and their families We’re here to help. Call Home Helpers of Alpharetta at (678) 430-8511 for a free in-home consultation to develop a customized care plan to help your older loved one age in place in the comfort of home.
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Eat more dark chocolate – doctor’s orders By Dr. Brent Taylor Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta The best drink that I have ever tasted in my life wasn’t a cold beer or a full bodied wine; it was a paper cup of dark hot chocolate at Kollar Dr. Taylor Chocolates on Washington Street in the town of Yountville. (Their passion fruit truffle was also particularly outstanding!) I love dark chocolate. And I mean seriously love dark chocolate! There are wine people, craft beer experts, kambucha fans, but for me, dark chocolate is where it’s at. Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco is, for me, hallowed ground. The other night, as I found myself in search of a dark chocolate late night snack, it occurred to me that I should look into how dark chocolate is good for the skin… somewhat to help my patients and somewhat to justify my vice! So this is my attempt to validate my dark chocolate habit as healthy. Enjoy! It turns out dark chocolate has been studied A LOT. Particularly with regard to cardiovascular health. Dark chocolate contains polyphenols called flavonoids. They have been celebrated for their antioxidant effects. Dark chocolate contains polyphenols that induce the release of nitric oxide (NO) through activation of endothelial NO synthase. This can dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure and may be cardioprotective. An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2007 reported a decrease in hypertension prevalence from 86% to 68% of their study population during an 18 week trial with consumption of between 6 and 7 grams of dark chocolate per day. White chocolate did not result in this decrease, and the study omitted the fact that white chocolate is also not as yummy. But that was just one study. The Cochrane Database Review is considered the gold standard for determining whether the sum total of published studies have identified discoveries that are real and significant. A Cochrane Database Review found that dark chocolate “may have a small but statistically significant effect in lowering blood pressure by 2-3 mm Hg in the short term.” Not exactly strong words, but, when it comes to dark chocolate, I will take what I can get. What about dark chocolate and the skin? Researchers Calzavara-Pinton and colleagues were able to demonstrate that a dark chocolate extract taken every
day for a week made it more difficult for study participants to sunburn – they suggest that dark chocolate may be photoprotective. So practicing sun-safety means sun-protective clothing (check), sunscreen (check) and eating dark chocolate (triple check). Got it. There is also a hot area of research about connections between gut health and skin health. Researchers increasingly believe that different types of intestinal bacteria may have either a pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory effect, and some studies suggest that dark chocolate may help shift our gut bacteria towards an anti-inflammatory milieu. Just as importantly, the International Journal of Dermatology found that regular consumption of moderate amounts of dark chocolate worsened a number of male teenagers’ acne. Thank goodness. This is excellent news for parents like myself whose spouses scold them for not sharing their chocolate-based desserts with their children more generously. Dark chocolate is expensive, and my future teenage boys have no business raiding dear old dad’s pantry and eating all of his chocolate, and now science has proven it. So adults everywhere, keep calm and eat dark chocolate! If you or a loved one hasn’t eaten enough dark chocolate, please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery for your skin care needs. Dr. Brent Taylor is a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, board-certified dermatologist, vein expert and dark chocolate lover.
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | September 2019 | 3
4 | September 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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Longleaf Communities Brought to you by Kathy Rice Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Longleaf Communities is the premier luxury homebuilder for active 55+ adults in metro Atlanta. Their spectacular, English Cottage style homes and communities are designed to meet the lifestyle needs and Rice wishes of active seniors while providing low maintenance living. With three convenient locations, Longleaf Communities provides things other Active Adult communities provide: proximity to area attractions and life necessities, low maintenance and ease of living, a lock and go lifestyle and neighborhood amenities. With a Longleaf home, you can have all that plus, the distinguished architecture, attention to detail and superb craftsmanship you’re accustomed to. Our elegant homes feature airy floor
plans with lofty 10-foot ceilings and solid 8-foot doors outfitted with generous millwork throughout. Choose from a variety of custom cabinetry for your designer kitchen and select your preferred finishes for your designer bath. All of our homes feature two main floor bedrooms, each with a full bath and laundry on the
main. The upstairs includes a finished loft, additional full bath and the option to add another bedroom for more livable space to welcome guests. Longleaf currently has 3 communities: Village Green of East Cobb in Marietta (1 opportunity remains), Longleaf Woodstock in Cherokee County (with Clubhouse
and Pool) and Longleaf Battle Park in West Cobb (with Pool & Clubroom). Our thoughtful floor plans and Longleaf’s reputation for superior craftsmanship, are what make Longleaf the luxury builder of active adult communities. www.longleafsouth.com, (678) 697-4984
Battle Park • East Cobb • Woodstock 678.523.7063
THREE NEW LUXURY 55+ COMMUNITIES
Marketing and Sales by Atlanta FIne Homes Sotheby’s International Realty - 770.442.7300. © All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to change without notice.
678.523.4872
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d. 678.697.4984 o. 770.442.7300
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NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | September 2019 | 5
6 | September 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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Soleil Laurel Canyon named Best 50 Master-Planned Communities Tucked away in the North Georgia foothills of Canton and just a short drive from exciting Atlanta, Soleil Laurel Canyon is more than a beautiful community of maintenance-free, ranch-style homes and breathtaking views. It’s the lifestyle you’ve worked your whole life to enjoy. If you are 55+, we invite you to come experience Soleil’s incomparable array of recreation, culture, and entertainment for yourself. You’ll have no doubt why it was named among the Best 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S. by Where to Retire Magazine in 2015. “Clubhouses, fitness centers, social clubs and education classes mean residents get much more than a house at a planned community,” said Karen Northridge, publisher of “Where to Retire.” One of the great pleasures of living at Soleil is that a low-maintenance home gives you the free time to take advantage of all that the community offers or take a trip without concern. The landscaped grounds of Soleil Laurel Canyon are always impeccably maintained, while your HOA dues cover complete lawn maintenance and an irrigation system, in-home security monitoring and maintenance, and even Comcast cable TV. Soleil Laurel Canyon offers a selection of Cottage, Traditional and Craftsman-style single-family homes from the mid $200,000s to $400,000s for adults 55+. Residents live independently in homes that range from 1,500 square feet to almost 3,000 square feet. All of Soleil’s new floor plans include elegant details and are designed for aging-in-place with stepless-entry access and wide doorways. These homes are energy efficient with HERS ratings above standard.
Soleil residents have membership in a 28,000-squarefoot clubhouse complete with an arts and crafts room, billiards room, fitness center, gourmet teaching kitchen, indoor heated saline lap pool, and library. Outside the clubhouse, residents have a heated Lagoon-style pool, a community garden and greenhouse, a 3.5-acre fishing lake and the tennis facility with a full-time USPTA-certified teaching professional. The Fairways of Canton golf course is located just
outside Soleil’s gate within Laurel Canyon, and offers challenging golf for a reasonable, daily-fee price. Two Lifestyle Directors maintain a full social calendar of events including wine socials, movie nights, trips to nearby attractions, and Grandkids day. Call Today for Your Personal Tour 678.710.9023 102 High Mountain Trace, Canton, Georgia 30114
Amenity-Rich Resort Living for Active Adults
Final Phase is Now Open Great Selections Available
Just north of Atlanta, only minutes from shopping, dining, hospitals, culture and Blue Ridge is our awardwinning 55+ resort-style community, Soleil Laurel Canyon.
UP TO $20,000 OFF SELECT HOMES* * See agent for details
New Homes from the Low $300s Find Your New Home at SoleilLaurelCanyon.com Call Today for Your Personal Tour 678.710.9258 ©2019 Lifestyles at Laurel Canyon, LLC. Special offers, prices, home designs and other information subject to errors, changes, omissions, deletions, availability, prior sale and withdrawal at any time without notice. Not an offering to CT, NJ or NY residents. Void where prohibited.
102 High Mountain Trace Canton, Georgia 30114
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NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | September 2019 | 7
intelligently designed down to every detail, combining social psychology with the artistic eye of an industryleading architect. In addition to thoughtfully designed neighborhoods, Village Park provides tech-enabled care, chef-led dining experiences, and a robust offering of amenities that reflect an elegant lifestyle. Focused on creating vibrant environments that nurture the dignity, health, and comfort of our families, Village Park continues to operate with one mission: to elevate the senior living experience. It is our belief that a crucial part of creating that experience is through asking the residents what they
truly want and need and adapting to those needs. Our residents take an active role through resident council, town hall meetings, and a number of committees that influence everything from our restaurants’ menus to social outings to philanthropic efforts. There are many remarkable aspects of Village Park but perhaps none more remarkable than our outstanding residents. Village Park is here to help. Get to know our independent living, assisted living, and memory care options by visiting www.villageparkseniorliving.com. You can also call us at (470) 509-4557 or stop by any of our locations to speak to a senior living consultant.
Elevating the senior living experience Honored to recently be named Appen Media Group’s “Best Senior Living Community”, Village Park Senior Living would like to thank the wonderful communities and individuals that we are privileged to serve. In addition to bringing excitement and celebration to our staff and neighborhoods, receiving this award has given us the opportunity to reflect back on our humble beginnings. After graduating with a degree in Building Construction from the Georgia Institute of Technology, Village Park’s founder and CEO, Tim Gary, immediately started developing his first senior living project in 1996. He continued to develop senior living properties for 20 years while carefully observing various management models and recognizing areas for improvement. Working with a multi-faceted team including leading architects, residents, families, care staff, and managers, Tim developed Village Park Senior Living to be a senior living concept unlike anything else on the market. This new concept would reflect the style and character of the surrounding neighborhoods while providing residential options that offered care continuity through cottages and bungalows, independent, assisted, and memory care homes. Independent homes can be easily converted to assisted – no moving, no waiting. The communities are not only beautiful but
Reimagine what’s next. Bungalows Cottages Independent Assisted Memory Care Village Park Milton 555 Wills Road Alpharetta, GA 30009 470.509.4557
Village Park Alpharetta 12300 Morris Road Alpharetta, GA 30005 678.740.3499
villageparkseniorliving.com
8 | September 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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East Haven offers choices for 55+ active adult living Choosing a new home, especially when you are near retirement, must include different factors. Your home should make it simple to enjoy your lifestyle and meet new people. It should be convenient to all your favorite areas around town and it should be easy to navigate around your home. East Haven in East Cobb offers great choices for 55+ active adult living. Currently under construction, these luxury townhomes priced from $695,900 are ready to have design choices made. The model home is ready to take homeowners on a tour of what their future home may look like. Other homes are currently under construction featuring three floors and elevator access. Lock & Leave Enjoy the greatest benefits of living in a 55 and better community. The ability to lock up your home and leave for a weekend or a month without worry is one
of the best reasons to buy a home at East Haven. Choose your home from one of the 28 luxury townhomes for those who are 55 and better. While you are at home, enjoy great amenities like a social gathering area, pavilion with pool and built-in grill. Inspired living right where you want it from $695,900 Live Inspired To the ones learning, traveling, teaching, playing and dancing with this adventure called life. Here’s to fresh starts, new everything, and a home that won’t hold you back. This convenient East Cobb location provides easy access to Kennesaw Mountain, the North Georgia Mountains and the best that Atlanta has to offer. Our sales center is located at 4241 Bishop Lake Road, Marietta, GA 30062. You can call our New Home Specialist, Deborah Cook, at 404-238-7990 to set up a private tour of these luxurious townhomes for the 55 and better.
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The Memory Center Atlanta The Memory Center Atlanta is the most unique and comprehensive community for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Devoted specifically to memory care, our expertly designed program meets the challenging conditions of an aging brain with a caring, interactive community. We understand a diagnosis of dementia doesn’t mean you or your loved one stops living, rather it means finding new ways to live by providing assistance to maintain an active and meaningful lifestyle. Our residents enjoy music, dancing, live entertainment, art, gardening, - even outings, pet therapy and religious services. Enjoy a drink in the Chattahoochee Tavern, grab a movie in the Fox Theater or ice cream at the Bull Dog Café. All residents experience socializa-
tion and activities accessible across all levels of dementia. Even those who need 24/7 care benefit from life at The Memory Center. Overseen by our medical director who specializes in the field of geriatric healthcare, our team of Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants provide the best 24/7 care. Don’t let a crisis determine where your loved one receives care. If you are considering memory care, we encourage you to explore options as early as possible. Take the time to ask questions, tour and include your loved one in the decision making process. Transitioning to memory care early ensures the best quality of life with daily socialization and engaging activities designed to meet the needs of you or your loved one.
NORTH ATLANTA’S HOT TOPICS ON PODCAST
Go to NorthFulton.com, click on Podcasts and select Inside The Box
Get in touch - ask us a question or schedule a tour of The Memory Center Atlanta to learn more about how our team provides a seamless transition for your loved one into their new home. Lo-
cated at 12050 Findley Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097, less than ½ mile from Medlock Bridge Rd. directly behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Call Today, (770) 476-3678.
10 | September 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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