Boomers d n o y & Be June 2017
Fairfield County
Waveny Offers Caregiver Relief Solutions p2 The Greens at Greenwich Excellence in Dementia Care p5 June Book List for Seniors p8
Lifeline—June Tips for Seniors p18 VNA of Hudson Valley Delivers Best Quality In-Home Rehabilitation p19
Columbia Doctors Specializing in Cardiology p20
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
June, 2017
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The Inn’s “Songs of the 50s” Musical Revue
photos provided
The “Inn-Notes” singing group brought their audience of more than 100 guests back to “The Hop” at The Inn’s “Songs of the 50s” Musical Revue on Tuesday, April 25th. With an assortment of musical acts, dance numbers and a Doo-Wop band, The Inn’s Revue showcased the era of poodle skirts and greaser jackets for residents, families, friends and members of the community alike. Part of Waveny LifeCare Network in New Canaan, The Inn provides carefree, independent senior living and welcomes older adults from all areas. For more information about The Inn, call 203.594.5450 or visit waveny.org.
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Center for Hospice Care wins Platinum AVA Digital Award for “Sooner is Better” commercial PAGE 4
June, 2017
provided
Pictured (L to R): Alec Arsten, Firesite Films, LLC owner and producer, Carol Mahier, President/CEO Center for Hospice Care, Karen Neilan, Board Member (Vice President), Center for Hospice Care, MaryAnn Fitzsimmons, Board Member (Secretary), Center for Hospice Care, Lenny Winkler, Board Member (President), Center for Hospice Care and Edwin Lorah, Board Member (Treasurer), Center for Hospice Care.
Center for Hospice Care Southeast Connecticut is pleased to announce that it has been selected the winner of the Healthcare (Non-Hospital) Platinum Category of the AVA Digital Awards for its “Sooner is Better” commercial featuring a Mother, Son and his family utilizing services provided by Center for Hospice Care. The AVA Digital Awards is an international competition that recognizes excellence by creative professionals responsible for the planning, concept, direction, design and production of digital communication. Work ranges from digital engagement campaigns – to audio and video production – to website development – to social media interaction – to mobile marketing. This year, there were 2,500 entries from the United States, Canada and sixteen other countries. “The team at Firesite Films and I are very proud that “Sooner is Better - MOM” has received this award. We enjoyed working with their staff on this project and feel everyone involved
with Center for Hospice Care should be recognized for the light and warmth they provide in dark times. Thank you for doing what you do! We are honored to have the opportunity to cinematically share your story across the region,” said Alec Arsten, owner and producer of Firesite Films, LLC. who produced the commercial. “We could not be more thrilled with this recognition,” said Carol Mahier, President/CEO of Center for Hospice Care. “We were really pleased with how both of our commercials portrayed what we do to help those in need of end of life care and assist their loved ones and caregivers along the hospice process. You don’t need to be in the last days or weeks of life to qualify for hospice and palliative care. Our care is about living – living well in the time you have left and we feel these commercials really reflected that message” said Mahier. Center for Hospice Care would like to express its sincere appreciation to Arsten and his entire
crew at Firesite Films for their professionalism, and quality of work in producing two quality commercials that represent why when it comes to hospice care, “Sooner, really is Better!” For more information on this recognition, or to view this commercial, please visit our website at www.hospicesect.org.
About Center for Hospice Care Since 1985, Center for Hospice Care has served more than 12,000 patients. We are the largest community based hospice in Southeastern Connecticut and the only hospice provider that delivers all the care and services needed by patients and their families – including extended group and individual bereavement counseling to anyone who needs it, free of charge. Our staff is the most qualified and experienced in the field and is augmented by more than 140 specially trained volunteers who provide companionship to our patients and respite to their families.
It’s Tick Season Again
By Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA President & CEO, RVNA With the advent of warm weather, tick season is upon us again. In our area, tick bites can cause Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and babesiosis. If you find an engorged blacklegged (deer) tick on yourself or a family member, you can bring it to the Ridgefield Health Department at 66 Prospect Street to be tested. Drop the tick off in a plastic vial or ziplock bag. Test results are returned in 7-10 days; approximately one third of the ticks tested are usually positive for Lyme disease. If you get a positive result or display symptoms, it’s important to consult a health care provider. Early symptoms of Lyme disease include a red rash around the bite, muscle aches, fatigue and fever. Anaplasmosis and babesiosis cause similar symptoms although no rash. There are no vaccines for tick-borne diseases and you can suffer from these infections multiple times. To minimize your chances of a tick bite, the Ridgefield Health Department encourages people to follow the BLAST safety tips: Bathe or shower within 2 hours of outdoor activity; Look for ticks and rashes daily; Apply repellent to skin and clothing; Spray the yard; Treat pets with veterinarian recommended products. Effective repellents for humans contain 20-30% DEET to apply on skin or permethrin which is used to chemically treat clothing. As an extra precaution, throw outdoor clothing in a hot dryer for 10 minutes if dry, an hour if wet, to minimize ticks being carried indoors. For more information, check out the town health department website, Blastlyme.org and LymeConnection.org. Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited nonprofit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety, and promotes the highest quality of life. RVNA provides compassionate care to all individuals, whether young or old, through a continuum of care that encompasses health care at home and in the community. RVNA also provides home health aides and companionship through a non-medical subsidiary called HomeCare by RVNA and outpatient physical, occupational and speech therapy in its Rehab by RVNA facility at 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.
Is home for people diagnosed with some form of dementia or memory impairment. Our philosophy of care centers on the whole person; body, mind, and spirit. We understand that each individual is unique and is deserving of dignity and respect. We celebrate their stories and experiences everyday. 1155 King Street, Greenwich, CT 06830 • 203-531-5500 • www.thegreensatgreenwich.com
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June, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Advertiser’s Index
A Place for Mom......................................................................................7 Acorn Stairlifts.......................................................................................11
ColumbiaDoctors.....................................................................................20
The Greens at Greenwich........................................................................5
Life Alert................................................................................................13
Safe Step Walk-In Tub Co..................................................................14
VNA of Hudson Valley........................................................................19
Boomers
Waveny Lifecare Network.......................................................................2
Fairfield County
& Beyond
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com
PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito Joe@belsito.com
••• GENERAL MANAGER
Nancy Sorbella
Our View
By Nancy Sorbella
GENERAL MANAGER
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month and there probably is not a reader in our audience whose life has not been impacted by this tragic form of dementia. In this issue we offer information and suggestions on care and treatment as well as therapies and current professional positions on memory loss and how to help our loved ones live with the daily cognitive challenges of this disease. We celebrate the patient and the caregiver as they navigate the complex territory of life with this unpredictable illness while still finding hope in everyday activities and medical advances. June is also Hernia Awareness Month. Although hernias are common and can affect anyone regardless of age or gender, there are times when a visit to the ER is necessary. They cannot go away on their own so they must be monitored. In this issue we share what you need to know about hernias. As we do every month, we hope that our information is valuable and provides you with tips and tidbits of helpful advice to keep you living a healthy lifestyle at any age and ability. Get in touch with us at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.
Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
Gregory W. Buff Greg@belsito.com
••• MARKETING CONSULTANT
Anthony Mairo
Anthony@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MANAGING EDITOR
Cathryn Burak
Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT
Maureen Rafferty Linell MRLinell@charter.net
••• CIRCULATION
Michelle Belsito
Michelle@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
Corporate Information
Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition - Vol. 4 No. 6 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
Next Month Retirement Communities Deciding the right one for you Rehabilitation Incredible stories of recovery Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
June, 2017
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June, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Reading is exercise for your brain: Our June Book List for Boomers
The Wonder of Aging: A New Approach to Embracing Life After 50 Michael Gurian A comprehensive look at the emotional, spiritual, and cognitive dimensions of aging—and how to celebrate life after fifty.
Reinventing Myself: Memoirs of a Retired Professor Marlys Marshall Styne Candid approach to retirement after expectations and plans go awry and it becomes apparent that adapting to a new reality requires reinvention
Nevertheless: A Memoir Alec Baldwin Candid and beautifully written memoir chronicling honestly the highs and lows of Alec Baldwin’s career
The Fiction Class Susan Breen Candid, witty and entertaining story for all those who love books
You Don’t Look Your Age and Other Fairy Tales Sheila Nevins A collection of short stories, essays and poems about Shelia Nevins life in Hollywood and what it’s like to be a female senior executive in show business. Leading Lady: Sherry Lansing and the Making of a Hollywood Groundbreaker Stephen Galloway Powerful biography of movie executive and philanthropist Sherry Lansing The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully Joan Chittister Celebrating getting older with clarity and honesty
National Geographic Cat Shots Michele Slung A collection of photographs of the domestic cat
The Federalist Papers Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, Clinton Rossiter Defense of a revolutionary charter: The Constitution of the United States of America The Prentice Hall Reader George E. Miller Classic and contemporary essays on life and how to read and write analytically, effectively and persuasively photos provided
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
June is Cataract Awareness Month
June, 2017
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Prevent Blindness America has declared June as Cataract Awareness Month. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the United States, and it is the leading cause of blindness in the world. There are 24 million Americans over the age of 40 who are affected by cataracts, so it seems fitting that an entire month should be dedicated to education and awareness. In anticipation of Cataract Awareness Month, here are some common questions and answers about cataracts:
What is the treatment for cataracts? Even though cataracts are so prevalent, they are very simple to treat. Cataracts are a clouding of the lens of the eye, which prevents passage of light into the eye. The solution to cataracts is cataract surgery, which requires a surgeon to remove the deteriorated lens and replace it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens or IOL. Over 3 million Americans undergo cataract surgery annually, making it one of the most common surgeries in the United States. In fact, the entire surgery lasts only about 20 minutes, and most people can resume normal activities fairly rapidly.
Is cataract removal safe? Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective surgeries with a success rate of 95 percent. Your surgeon will remove your clouded lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). Only a miniscule incision in the cornea is necessary to do this procedure, and it can be completed in about 15 minutes in an outpatient surgery center Do cataracts only affect seniors? Cataracts can affect anyone! Although most people do not show symptoms of cataracts until at least the age of 40, cataracts can also
affect young adults or even children. Heredity, disease, eye injury and smoking could cause cataracts to develop at an earlier age. Can I prevent cataracts? There is no proven way to prevent age-related cataracts. However, choosing a healthy lifestyle can slow the progression of cataracts. Some ways to delay the progression of cataracts include avoiding smoking, reducing exposure to UV rays, eating healthy foods, and wearing proper eye protection to avoid eye injury.
source: http://yoursightmatters.com/junecataract-awareness-month/
Five tips to help prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
Memory loss is one of the most recognized signs of “getting old,” but not everyone experiences this, just like not everyone will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Unfortunately, there are no silver bullets when it comes to warding off memory loss and even Alzheimer’s, but Harvard Medical School has some great recommendations for things that we can do to optimize our health and better our chances: 1. Maintain a healthy weight. Cut back on calories and increase physical activity if you need to shed some pounds.
2. Check your waistline. To accurately measure your waistline, use a tape measure around the narrowest portion of your waist (usually at the height of the navel and lowest rib). A National Institutes of Health panel recommends waist measurements of no more than 35 inches for women and 40 inches for men.
3. Eat mindfully. Emphasize colorful, vitamin-packed vegetables and fruits; whole grains; protein sources such as fish, lean poultry, tofu, and beans and other legumes; plus healthy fats. Cut down on unnecessary calories from sweets, sodas, refined grains like white bread or white rice, unhealthy fats, fried and fast foods, and mindless snacking. Keep a close eye on portion sizes, too. 4. Exercise regularly. This simple step does great things for your body. Regular physical activity helps control weight, blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. Moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, biking, rowing), can also help chip away total body fat and abdominal fat over time.
5. Keep an eye on important health numbers. In addition to watching your weight and waistline, ask your doctor whether your cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and blood sugar are within healthy ranges.
Source:www.brightstarcare.com/alzheimers-brain-awareness-month/
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June, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month June is National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The dangerous affliction causes loss of memory and severe cognitive illness. Sadly, most people with Alzheimer’s aren’t aware of it. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, worldwide, 47 million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In fact, 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
Identifying Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease What is Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)? Imagine losing your memory so severely you forget your name and the names of those you love. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, which is serious loss of cognitive ability in a previously unaffected person, beyond what may be expected from normal aging. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, which worsens as it progresses and eventually leads to death. Most often, AD is diagnosed in people over the age of 65, but early-onset Alzheimer’s can occur much earlier. The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease There are four stages of Alzheimer’s Disease:
Pre-dementia The first symptoms are often mistaken for aging or stress. Testing can reveal mild cognitive trouble for up to eight years before an actual diagnosis of AD. The biggest change is memory loss, which involves short-term memory loss and an inability to learn new information. Apathy can be observed at this stage and remains the most prevalent symptom throughout the course of AD. Early The increasing impairment of learning and memory eventually leads to a definitive diagnosis. In a small portion of AD victims, problems with language, executive functions, perception and movements are more prominent than memory problems.
Older memories of the person’s life, facts learned and implicit memory (the body’s memory on how to do things, like using a fork to eat) are affected to a lesser degree than new facts or memories. This stage features a limited vocabulary and decreased word fluency. The person is capable of communicating basic ideas. Motor tasks such as writing, drawing, dressing or movement coordination may be present but are unnoticed. As the disease progresses, people with AD can continue to do things on their own, but they may need assistance with the most cognitively demanding activities. Moderate In this stage, deterioration stymies independence with subjects unable to perform the most common activities of daily living. Speech, reading and writing skills are progressively lost. Motor skills decrease, so the risk of falling increases. Memory problems worsen, and the person may fail to recognize close relatives. Long-term memory, previously available, becomes impaired. Drastic behavioral changes are common, including wandering, irritability, crying, outbursts of aggression and resistance to caregiving. Victims can also have trouble controlling their bladder. These symptoms can create stress for caregivers. The stress can be reduced by moving the person with AD from home care to long-term care facilities.
Advanced During the last stage, the person is completely dependent upon caregivers. Language is reduced to simple phrases and words, which leads to complete speech loss. Despite this, people can understand emotional signals. Aggressiveness can still be present, but extreme apathy and exhaustion are very common. In this stage, people are often confined to their bed and lose the ability to feed themselves. AD is terminal, but pneumonia or other external factors are usually the cause of death. Source: www.brightstarcare.com/alzheimers-brain-awareness-month/
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June, 2017
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June, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
10 Awesome Apps for Seniors
1) Pillboxie Customize your daily medications in the virtual pillbox to easily organize and to remember to take at the prescribed time. Available for iPhone & iPad, $0.99 2) Silver Surf This app enables users with less than perfect eyesight to change contrast, zoom in and display larger buttons, making some of the more challenging smart phones more manageable. Available for iPhone, iPad & Android, Free
3) Blood Pressure Monitor This app tracks blood pressure and weight along with helpful statistics and reminders, and is a motivational tool for managing your overall daily health and wellness. Available for iPhone, iPad, Free
4) Easy Facebook for Seniors This easy-to-use, simpler Facebook “lite” app allows seniors the chance to navigate Facebook without investing too much time and provides a cleaner version of the busy, classic app. Available for iPhone, iPad, Free
5) Find My iPhone This app helps users find their phone while protecting personal data and information if lost or stolen. Available for iPhone, iPad, Free
6) WebMD This app is best used to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It provides relevant and physician-reviewed health content and can be an interactive health tool to track exercise and eating goals. Available for iPhone, Free
7) Lumosity The perfect tool for maintaining mental sharpness by offering games and puzzles for memory improvement.
Available for iPhone, Free, with Luminosity subscription
8) The Weather Channel Live mobile alerts based upon wherever you are or are going keeps active seniors prepared for any weather. It allows users to view forecasts for travel, recreation, etc.
Available for iPhone, Free
9) Park’n’forget This app helps users remember where their car is parked in parking lots and also monitors time in metered spots. Available for iPhone, $0.99
10) Wunderlist This easy to use app enables users to create to-do lists, manage important tasks, and check off completed tasks. Available for iPhone, Android, Free
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
June, 2017
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June, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Griffin Hospital talk offers “Caregiver’s Toolbox”
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Four new managers join Waveny since the new year
Griffin Hospital’s Healthy U program and The Valley Senior Services Council is hosting free presentations on skills and techniques that caregivers can use to help loved ones diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. “The Caregiver’s Toolbox” will feature a presentation by Maria Tomasetti, of The Alzheimer’s Association, on care methods for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, including communication strategies and helpful activities. The Griffin Hospital Community Outreach Program will present a “toolbox” of resources for caregivers to help a loved one manage their disease and gain control of their health. The talk is part of a series that focuses on providing information, resources and support to caregivers of seniors, especially those of “the sandwich generation,” who are caring for an elderly loved one while still managing work and care of their children.
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However, the series will share information and resources that are beneficial to anyone caring for another person. The series wraps up on Thurs., June 8 at 5:30 p.m. with a variety of presentations on caregiving from area resources, including Wesley Village UMH, Sunset Shores, Griffin Hospital Lifeline, Alzheimer’s Association, TEAM, Valley Transit District and Agency on Aging. The presentations will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A. A light dinner sponsored by Valley Senior Services Council (VSSC) and their Valley United Way Special Needs Grant and Griffin Hospital Lifeline will be provided at 4:30 p.m. Participants are invited to bring their loved one whom they provide care. Space is limited, so registration is required. Call 203-732-1511 or register online on the Griffin Hospital events calendar at griffinhealth.org.
provided
Vernon Manor celebrates Anniversary with residents, families and staff
Waveny LifeCare Network has welcomed four key staff members to its management team since the New Year. From left to right, Jean Gleeson, CTRS, Director of Therapeutic Recreation; Mary A. Kolodziej, MSN, RN, RAC-CT, Clinical Reimbursement Specialist; Rachel Brunetti, LMSW, Director of Social Services; and Stephanie Kazmierczak, General Ledger Accounting Manager. Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the needs of older adults from all areas. For more information about the nonprofit eldercare organization, call 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.
Photo credit: Tom Andrea
Vernon Manor celebrated its 40th anniversary on May 17 with an outdoor party that included food, drink, a disc jockey and dancing. The festivities also included the planting of a tree to symbolize the community health care center's roots in Vernon and promise of continuing care for its residents and their families. Pictured at the 40th anniversary ceremony are, from left, Kristi Dougherty, director of nursing at Vernon Manor; Charlie Cormier, husband of a Vernon Manor resident; Bev Bachiochi, assistant director of nursing who has worked at Vernon Manor for all its 40 years; Brian Liistro, managing partner of Vernon Manor; Lorraine Perkins, wife of a resident of Vernon Manor; and Paul Liistro managing partner and administrator of Vernon Manor.
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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Connect the dots… Retirement Boot Camp
Elderlaw Boot Camp: Is it time to revise your Estate Plan?
Learn about the basic documents needed for an estate plan, and why they should be revised or reviewed. Discussion includes the importance of documents such as Last Will and Testament: important considerations in choosing an Executor, providing for your family and making sure your wishes are followed; Power of Attorney form—a new law, effective October 1, 2016, dictates changes for both the grantor and the agent--what should you know about these revisions? Includes a discussion of the Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act, another new law regarding our social media accounts’ and Advanced Health Care directive: formerly known as Living Wills. Denise Mortati is a licensed attorney working with clients in Fairfield and New Haven counties, specializing in estate planning, probate matters and elder law issues. Date: Thursday, June 1 Advance registration is required.
Financial Boot Camp: What Happens When the Paycheck Stops?
PJ Boatwright, of Edward Jones, Inc. presents. Are you ready to retire? If you are nearing or entering retirement, join us for What Happens after the Paychecks Stop? We'll examine how to budget for retirement expenses and your potential sources of retirement income. We'll also identify some of the potential risks to your investment income and ways to address them. Date: Thursday, June 8 Advance registration is required.
For more information, please contact:
Bigelow Center for Senior Activities (formerly Fairfield Senior Center) 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield, CT 06824 203-256-3166 www.fairfieldct.org/bigelowcenter
Get ready to love…
Mondays
What are your expectations for retirement? What will you look forward to most? While many fantasize of lazy days, no schedules, and no bosses; that's often not the case. Many retirees are extremely busy and wonder how they ever had time for work? Many retirees love Mondays because of the sheer joy they feel when everyone else they know has to go back to work. And you don't. No longer will you dread that the weekend is coming to an end. Weekdays now represent a whole new world. Many retirees join fitness programs, support groups, attend senior activities and trips and volunteer at local hospitals or meal services. Boomers & Beyond would love to hear from retirees who would like to share with our readers what they are involved in now that they have time. Please send your stories to: Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation celebrates the Spirit of America during National Nursing Home Week
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was the site of many special events during National Nursing Home Week, May 14-20. Hughes residents and their families joined with Hughes employees to honor their country and each other in a series of festivities created to celebrate the theme of National Nursing Home Week 2017– The Spirit of America. According to the American Health Care Association (AHCA), The Spirit of America theme “underscores the bond between staff, volunteers and residents that capture the American spirit.” “At Hughes, we are proud of our employees every day, and we are thankful to have a special week every year to honor them,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “Without their dedication and loyalty, Hughes would never have achieved the national recognition for resident care that we have.” Among the national accolades Hughes has received is the coveted Gold – Excellence in Quality Award from the AHCA and National Center for Assisted Living. Hughes was one of just three providers nationwide to receive this recognition for superior performance in the long term and post-acute care profession in 2016.
National Nursing Home Week at Hughes started on Mother’s Day, May 14, when more than 180 carnations in an array of colors were given away to all resident and staff females. On Monday, the Spirit of America was celebrated by honoring the great American pastime -- baseball. Hughes employees wore their favorite team’s jerseys or colors, and everyone, including residents, were treated by a visit of the Hartford Yard Goats mascot. Tuesday’s events celebrated American music and art. Residents were treated to a painting program and everyone enjoyed a special musical presentation by local guitarist, T-Bone. All employees celebrated their love for arts by wearing bright colors for the day. Wednesday, May 17, was another special day at Hughes. Lunch was served on the patio and employees’ longevity was recognized. Hughes proudly awarded 5 year, 10 year, 15 year, 20 year, 25 year, and three 30 year service pins. Gift cards were also given to employees who received pins. Also, all Hughes staff received a Gold Award lapel pin and a gift signifying the Gold Quality Award. Included in the day’s event was the announcement of the Hughes employee of the year, Solange Thibeault. In addition to the midday ceremony on May 17, Hughes hosted an appreciation dinner for the 3-11 p.m.
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shift workers. Also, the 11p.m.-7a.m. workers were recognized on the morning of the 18th with breakfast. On Thursday, the Spirt of America was celebrated by honoring families. Hughes residents and staff proudly shared their wedding photos, and a display of wedding gowns and shoes was provided by Johnny Cake Mountain Antiques. Employees wore white to symbolize their wedding day, or pink and red to signify love. On Friday, the final day of National Nursing Home Week, Hughes hosted an American Apple Pie Day, which included an apple pie social in the afternoon. Employees wore red, white and blue to support the day’s theme. To capture the spirit of the entire week, Hughes created a huge mural of photographs that powerfully portrayed the power and importance of caring. Called Hands Across Hughes, the wall-sized display showed people’s hands holding and caressing each other. “This project symbolizes what we are all about here at Hughes,” said Diane Kozikowski, Hughes’ director of recreation and organizer of the display. “It is a touching testimonial to our residents, whose lives we care about every single day.” For more information about Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, visit www.HughesHealth.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
Hands Across Hughes, a collage of photographs of the hands of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation residents, their families and staff members, was created to portray the power of caring during National Nursing Home Week.
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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
l
Lifeline
Monthly Tips for Seniors June is National Safety Month, a good time to think about how to keep older adults safe during hot summer months. Here are some tips to help seniors stay safe in hot weather:
Use Sunscreen: Experts recommend that seniors use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and one that’s easy to apply, such as a roll-on or spray. Also choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Since seniors have sensitive skin, they should avoid sunscreens with alcohol, fragrances or preservatives that can cause irritation.
Drink Plenty of Water: This is always sound advice, but even more so when the weather gets hot. Dehydration is the prime cause of many heat-related health issues, so encourage seniors to drink plenty of water while spending time outside in the summer, even if they aren’t thirsty. Also, try to limit alcoholic and caffeinated beverages as they can contribute to dehydration.
Wear Appropriate Clothing: No one likes to sit inside on a nice day, but it’s important to make sure seniors have the right clothing before heading out for a fun summer outing. Light-colored, lightweight clothes and a wide-brimmed hat will help keep seniors cool and protected from the sun.
Take Frequent Breaks: If you are out with a senior on a hot day, make sure to take frequent breaks. Take things slow and find a cool, shady spot to sit and rest and have a glass of water now and then. Avoid any activity that is too strenuous.
Stay in Air-Conditioned Environments as Much as Possible: During extreme heat, seniors should have access to air conditioning, and fans should not be relied upon as a primary cooling device. Always have their air conditioning unit checked before hot weather arrives to make sure it works properly. If they do not have AC, make sure they have a place to go in the event of extreme heat, like a local mall, library, or other public place. Local cooling centers are often set up in major cities during heat waves.
Know the Warning Signs of Heat Illnesses: During hot weather, if a loved one experiences dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting and breathing problems, seek medical assistance immediately.
Source://www.medicalteam.com
Senior-Friendly recipes Many studies have shown that seniors generally don’t eat well and many different factors are responsible – changing taste buds, medication side effects, or simply a lack of interest in cooking for just one or two people. As older adults have different nutritional requirements, their food should be a bit different as well, but the equation is quite simple – fewer calories and more protein, calcium, B vitamins, and other nutrients. Here is a nutrient-dense recipe for seniors that will be both healthy and delicious.
Banana Split Oatmeal Here’s an excellent way to start your day. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, 1 serving only. Ingredients 1⁄3 cup oatmeal, quick-cooking (dry) 1⁄8 teaspoon salt 3⁄4 cups water (very hot) 1⁄2 banana (sliced) 1⁄2 cup frozen yogurt (non-fat) Preparation 1. Mix together the oatmeal and salt in a microwave safe cereal bowl, and stir in water. 2. Microwave on high power for 1 minute, then stir again. 3. Repeat the process several times until the cereal reaches the desired thickness, then stir again. 4. Top with banana slices and frozen yogurt.
Source://www.mydiet.com
The Viisiting Nurse Association of Hudson Va alley fam mily of organizations - provid ding home health services since e 1898.
VNAHV delivers the best quality professional in-home nursing and rehabilitative services to residents of Westchester and P t Putnam C Countie ties.
Ourr carefully screened and d New Yo orkk State-licensed aides off offer a wide range of services to o help you u maintain your independence. ndence.
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Our family-center centered approach allows you to focus on wh hat matters most - quality of life and time spentt with ith your loved l d ones.
VNAHV V.or .org
Corporate Address: 540 White Plains Road, Ste. 300 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Ta
Putnam Addr A ess: 20 Milltow wn Road, Ste. 101 B ewster, NY 10509 Br
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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County