National Home Care Month!
Join us in celebrating the countless acts of kindness performed by our caregivers. Their selfless nature, dedication and unwavering compassion make it possible for our loved ones to maintain their independence at home.
CCM - Because we know local matters! Find the Dollar Dog hidden in one of our ads and enter for your chance to win a basket of goodies from local businesses! Send your entry by November 30th to:
The Community Connection Monthly, P.O. Box 201, East Greenville, PA 18041
Name ___________________________
Address _________________________
City _____________________________
State _____ Zip ___________________
Phone (day) _______________________
Phone (evening) ____________________
Which ad had the hidden Dollar Dog?
Congratulations to Beth Bunkoski of Red Hill! She found the dollar dog hidden in the Sunset Pest Control ad and won abasket of goodies! Find the dollar dog hidden in this months issue and enter for your chance to win!
FIND ME!
National Home Care Month
As the aging population grows and more people choose to age in place, the demand for private duty (non-medical) home care is increasing significantly. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2030, more than 20% of the U.S. population will be 65 or older. Many seniors express a strong desire to stay in their own homes as they age, preferring home care services over institutionalized care.
This month, we celebrate our caregivers that make these services possible.
November is National Home Care Month, a time for us to celebrate the many professional caregivers who provide the much needed care at home. Caregivers become trusted companions, offering not just physical assistance but emotional and social support, which is crucial for a client’s well-being.
Family Caregivers Network is an award-winning PA licensed non-medical home care agency located in Pennsburg. They have been providing compassionate and personalized care in the home for the past 24 years. Caregivers offer assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, errands, meal prep, medication reminders, and homemaking tasks to ensure one’s safety at home. Services range from a few hours a week to 24-hr care.
Home care services are essential because it allows aging individuals to:
• Maintain independence at home.
• Receive care tailored to ones’ personal preference and needs.
• Avoid the emotional strain of moving into assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
• Maintain a higher quality of life, with routines and comfort preserved.
• Avoid the financial stress of paying for long term care by choosing a more cost-effective care at home.
Family Caregivers Network also offers specialized programs in Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care. In addition, our community education programs and support groups help family members cope with the emotional stress of caring for a loved one with a chronic long term illness. Give us a call or check out our website to learn more about what we can do for your loved one!
www.family-caregivers.com
* Correction to October article, Shannon Glerum is a registered nurse and her credentials are RN, CDP.
PHYSICAL THERAPY IN THE WINTER
As winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, many people find it increasingly challenging to maintain their physical activity levels. Cold weather often leads to a sedentary lifestyle, which can exacerbate existing health issues and lead to new ones. For those undergoing rehabilitation or managing chronic pain, winter can present unique challenges. However, physical therapy during these months can be a vital component of maintaining health and mobility. Here’s how to effectively navigate physical therapy in winter.
The Importance of Staying Active
Winter can encourage people to retreat indoors, which may lead to muscle stiffness, joint pain, and decreased flexibility. Staying active is crucial for maintaining overall health, particularly for those with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, or previous injuries. Physical therapy can help mitigate these issues by providing structured exercise regimens tailored to individual needs.
Common Winter Challenges
1. **Cold Weather Effects**: The drop in temperature can lead to muscle tightening and joint discomfort. Cold air can also trigger conditions like asthma in some individuals, making outdoor exercise difficult.
2. **Reduced Daylight**: Shorter days may lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can decrease motivation for physical activity and affect mental health.
3. **Increased Risk of Injury**: Slippery conditions increase the risk of falls, particularly for older adults or those with balance issues.
Tips for Effective Winter Physical Therapy
1. **Indoor Exercises**: Utilize indoor facilities like gyms, community centers, or even your home to perform exercises. Many physical therapy clinics offer specific programs that can be done inside, focusing on strength, balance, and flexibility.
2. **Warm-Up Techniques**: Before any physical activity, especially in cold weather, it is crucial to warm up. Gentle stretching and movement can help prepare your muscles and joints, reducing the risk of injury.
3. **Hydration**: It’s easy to overlook hydration in winter, but staying hydrated is essential, as dry winter air can lead to dehydration.
4. **Footwear Matters**: Wearing appropriate footwear can help prevent slips and falls. Look for shoes with good traction and support, particularly when navigating icy conditions.
5. **Modify Your Routine**: If outdoor activities are part of your physical therapy, consider modifying them to ensure safety. Opt for shorter durations and lower intensity to start, gradually increasing as you adapt to the conditions.
6. **Incorporate Balance Training**: Winter is an excellent time to focus on balance exercises. Simple activities like standing on one leg or practicing tai chi can enhance stability and reduce fall risk.
7. **Consult with a Physical Therapist**: Regular consultations with a physical therapist can help adjust your treatment plan to include seasonal considerations. They can provide specialized exercises that focus on flexibility, strength, and coordination.
Mental Health Considerations
Winter can take a toll on mental health, leading to increased feelings of anxiety and depression. Incorporating physical activity can boost endorphins, improve mood, and alleviate symptoms of SAD. Activities like yoga or Pilates not only enhance physical well-being but also promote mental clarity and relaxation.
Conclusion
Physical therapy during the winter months is not just about rehabilitation; it’s about maintaining a healthy lifestyle amidst seasonal challenges. By staying active, adjusting routines, and working closely with healthcare professionals, individuals can navigate winter successfully. Emphasizing the importance of movement, even in the colder months, can lead to improved physical and mental health, setting the stage for a more active and fulfilling spring.
Support local businesses on
SHOP SMALL SATURDAY
Saturday, November 30th
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our community. Those who own and work at these establishments are not just entrepreneurs; they are our neighbors, our friends, and our family. Small Business Saturday, initiated by American Express in 2010, has become a cornerstone of the holiday shopping season, ushering in a sense of unity and local pride.
From Emmaus to Macungie and Alburtis, the East Penn community is home to a plethora of remarkable small businesses. These include delicious eateries, pet care facilities, and specialty retail shops, among other unique enterprises. It’s easy to find gifts for everyone on your list by exploring the small businesses in the area.
This year, many of these stores are going above and beyond for Small Business Saturday, pulling out all the stops to make this event memorable. They are rolling out the red carpet with one-day-only deals and special promotions that you won't want to miss.
Supporting local businesses on Small Business Saturday is not just about finding great deals; it's about fostering a closer-knit community. When you shop locally, more of your money stays within the community, helping to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Local businesses often source their products from local suppliers, further amplifying the positive economic impact.
Moreover, small businesses are known for their personalized customer service and unique product offerings. Whether it's a handcrafted piece of jewelry, a bespoke suit, or an artisanal baked good, these businesses offer products and services that you simply can't find in large chain stores.
Small Business Saturday is an opportunity to reconnect with the local business owners who make our community unique. It's a chance to show appreciation for the hard work and dedication they put into their businesses every day. By supporting them, you're not only helping to preserve the character and charm of our neighborhoods but also ensuring that our local economy continues to thrive.
Community Connection Monthly has been promoting and supporting small local businesses since 2006. Our efforts are aimed at promoting these small businesses and their exceptional offers this holiday season. We encourage residents to shop small and make a big difference in their community. All of the advertisers you see here in our November issue are small mom and pop shops, relying on you to support local!
So this holiday season, take a moment to explore the small businesses in your area. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, take advantage of the special promotions, and most importantly, support the local entrepreneurs who help make our community a wonderful place to live. Your support on Small Business Saturday can make a world of difference.
9th Annual Operation Burnt Turkey
Thanksgiving Dinner
Open to residents of the Upper Perkiomen Valley. Please call with a head count to reserve.
Seatings from 12pm - 4pm. Available for Eat in or Take Out. Please call ahead!
Date: Thursday November 28th, 2024
Times: 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p..m.
Location: Red Hill Social Hall, 82 E. 5th St., Red Hill
Phone Number: 215-679-9840
CALL AHEAD FOR EAT-in OR TAKE OUT.
MONTHLY EVENTS ccm
NOVEMBER 9 FROM 9AM - 3PM
BAZAAR & FILLED BASKET AUCTION
OLD ZIONSVILLE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, KINGS HIGHWAY & FOUNTAIN RD, OLD ZIONSVILLE
Crafts, vendors, filled basket auction (25 chances for $5), & Bake Sale. Free admission. Free parking. Call 610.966.3601 for more info.
NOVEMBER 16 AT 4PM - 7PM (OR SOLD OUT)
HAM DINER
TRINITY GREAT SWAMP UCC, 9150 SPINNERSTOWN ROAD, SPINNERSTOWN
With our famous Salad Bar served Buffet Style (all you can eat). Adults - $15.00, Child (4 – 12) - $10.00, Child 3 and under are free. All proceeds support the 2025 Mission Trip. For more information, please call 267-374-0590.
NOVEMBER 21 - 24 THURS & FRI: 4PM - 8PM
SATURDAY 10AM - 8PM SUNDAY 10AM - 4PM
LULU SHRINERS FEZTIVAL OF TREES & LIGHTS
LULU SHRINE TEMPLE, 5140 BUTLER PIKE, PLYMOUTH MEETING
Our family friendly event is open to the public. Walk through a beautiful inside forest of uniquely decorated trees, enjoy refreshments, attend children’s activities, shop the Marketplace, view an amazing model train layout, purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a tree display, and take a FREE digital photo with Santa! Handicap accessible. Admission is $5 for adults, children under 12 are free. Raffle tickets will be on sale, 10 for $10 or 30 for $20. Advance timed tickets are required for Breakfast with Santa on Saturday, November 23, at 9 am 10 am, and 11 am. $10 adults, $5 children ages 4 to 11, ages 3 & under FREE! Storytime with Mrs. Claus on Sunday November 24, at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm is free with admission. Visit www.lulufeztival.org for tickets and more information.
NOVEMBER 30 & DECEMBER 1 FROM 10AM - 4PM
22ND ANNUAL KRAUSDALE ALPACA OPEN FARM
5169 KRAUSSDALE RD, EAST GREENVILLE
Meet the alpacas and learn all about them, see fiber demonstrations, and check out the alpaca store with socks, sweaters, dryer balls, blankets and more.
Advertise your event FREE! Submit your event(s) before the 12th of the month. E-mail: donnao@ccmonthly.com
