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A Lifestyle Resource for Adults 55+ Vol 11 Issue 1
Retirement Planning page 6
Stay Active & Keep Your Mind in Shape page 12
Health Resolutions page 14
www.HighroadsLiving.com
To Advertise, Please Contact: Mountain Lake Publishing 888-896-2412
2 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
5 Cooking Swaps to Help Manage Cholesterol
When cooking, keep in mind small changes that can make a big impact on heart health. Reduce saturated fat - Select lean cuts of meat or opt for plant protein, limit processed meats, broil or bake rather than pan-fry meats and remove skin from poultry before cooking. Eat more fish - Fish can be fatty or lean, but it’s still low in saturated fat. Choose oily fish like salmon or trout, which are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Use liquid oils in place of solid fats - For roasting, sauteing and more, use non-tropical liquid vegetable oils like canola, safflower, soybean or olive instead of butter, lard or shortening.
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1/4 cup finely chopped onion 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon ancho powder 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 corn tortillas (6 inches each), cut into 1/4-inch-wide strips 1 corn tortilla (6 inches), torn into pieces 2-4 tablespoons snipped fresh cilantro 1/4 cup finely chopped avocado 1/4 medium red bell pepper, cut into matchstick-size strips In slow cooker, stir chicken, corn, broth, tomatoes, onion, sugar, ancho powder, garlic and salt. Cook, covered, on low, 6-8 hours, or on high, 3-4 hours. Preheat oven to 350 F. On baking sheet, arrange tortilla strips in single layer. Bake 8-10 minutes, or until crisp. Transfer baking sheet to cooling rack. Let strips stand 15 minutes, or until cool. Transfer to airtight container and set aside. When soup is ready, transfer 1 cup to food processor or blender. Stir in tortilla pieces. Let mixture stand 1 minute. Process until smooth. Stir mixture into soup. Stir in cilantro.
Lower dairy fats - Low-fat, fat-free or non-dairy milk can be used in many recipes instead of whole milk or half-and-half.
Ladle soup into bowls. Sprinkle with avocado, bell pepper and reserved tortilla strips.
Increase fiber and whole grains - Add high-fiber vegetables to meals, serve fruit instead of juice and try brown rice instead of white.
Air Fryer Crispy (Un) Fried Chicken
Chicken Tortilla Soup
This recipe is reprinted with permission from “Healthy Slow Cooker Cookbook, 2nd Edition.” Copyright 2018 by the American Heart Association. Published by Harmony Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC. Servings: 4 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, visible fat discarded, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 2 cups frozen whole-kernel corn, thawed 2 cups fat-free, no-salt-added chicken broth 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) no-salt-added, diced tomatoes, undrained
Recipe courtesy of the American Heart Association Servings: 4 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) 1/2-1 cup low-fat buttermilk 1/2 tablespoon hot pepper sauce (optional) 1/3 cup whole-wheat panko breadcrumbs 1/3 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 ounces each),
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Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 3
visible fat discarded, flattened to 1/4-inch thickness, patted dry with paper towels nonstick cooking spray Preheat air fryer to 390 F. In shallow dish or pie pan, whisk flour, parsley, oregano, pepper and cayenne.
Live Well
In separate shallow dish or pie pan, whisk buttermilk and hot sauce. In third shallow dish or pie pan, stir panko and Parmesan. Place dishes and large plate in row. Dip chicken in flour mixture then buttermilk mixture then panko mixture, turning to coat at each step and gently shaking off excess. Using fingertips, gently press panko mixture so it adheres. Place chicken on plate. Cover and refrigerate 30 minutes. Lightly spray chicken with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange chicken in single layer in air fryer basket, working in batches if needed. Cook 10-15 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink in center and coating is golden brown, turning once halfway through and lightly spraying with nonstick cooking spray.
Chatuge Family Practice A non-profit organization
828.389.6383 Teresa A. Heavner, M.D.
www.chatugefp.org Sally Cody, FNP-C
Justin Roby, M.D.
Services Offered (Family Features) #16049 Source: American Heart Association
Quality Care
241 Church Street, Hayesville, NC 28904
Jill M. Brinke, M.D.
CDL Exams Preventative Care Laboratory Work Minor Surgery
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8 am - 6 pm Wed and Fri: 8 am - 4:30pm
Sports Physicals Acute & Chronic Disease Management Weight Loss Management
Acupuncture Dermatology/Skin Checks Medication & Medical Assistance Programs
Serving Your Loved One for a Better Quality of Life
24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care 20-Bed, Quiet, Secured Unit for Dementia Care Therapeutic Recreation & Activities Respite Care for Care Givers Who Need A Break
Comprehensive Rehabilitation & Therapies Physical, Occupational, Speech, & Respiratory Therapy; Short Term “Rehab-to-Home” Programs; Post-Surgical, Orthopedic, Neurological, & Cardiac Rehabilitation IN2L Touchscreen Technology to Keep Families Connected & Offer The Interactive World To All Residents
CLAY COUNTY C A R E CE N TE R a Consulate Health Care Center
Tours Welcome
86 Valley Hideaway Drive Hayesville, NC 28904 828.389.9941 • 828.389.3712 fax
4 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
5 Reasons to Eat If you want to add superfoods to your diet in the new year, Montmorency tart cherries may be perfect for you. Montmorency is the variety of tart cherries grown in America, primarily on small family farms. Compared to sweet cherries that are typically eaten fresh during the summer season, tart cherries are available yearround as dried, frozen, canned, juice and juice concentrate. Decades of scientific research has shown Montmorency tart cherries are deserving of their superfood reputation. Here are five reasons to enjoy them more often: Sleep: Tart cherries are one of the few food sources of melatonin and have been the focus of multiple sleep studies. Exercise recovery: Tart cherry juice has become a popular exercise recovery drink for athletes. Arthritis and gout: Studies have explored the impact of Montmorency tart cherry juice consumption on gout attacks and arthritis symptoms. Heart health: Montmorency tart cherry research has examined blood pressure and blood lipids. Versatility: Although they remain perfect for pie, tart cherries can easily transition from sweet to savory, adding complex flavors to oatmeal, smoothies, salads, granola bars, trail mix and grain bowls. Look for dried U.S.-grown tart cherries at the store and online for enjoyment at the start of your day and at night in recipes like Tart Cherry Overnight Oats and Tart Cherry Bedtime Bites.
Tart Cherry Bedtime Bites
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More Tart Cherries Yield: 12 bites 6 medjool dates, pitted 1/2 cup dried tart cherries 1/2 cup finely shredded coconut flakes 3/4 cup unsalted cashews 1 teaspoon almond extract 1 pinch fine sea salt In food processor, process dates until broken into peasized bits. Add dried tart cherries, coconut flakes, cashews, almond extract and sea salt; process until combined. Form into 12 balls and chill 2 hours.
Tart Cherry Overnight Oats
Recipe courtesy of the Cherry Industry Administrative Board Servings: 2 1 cup dried tart cherries, plus additional for topping (optional) 1 cup old-fashioned oats 1 cup almond milk 1/2 cup slivered almonds, plus additional for topping (optional) 2 tablespoons tart cherry concentrate 2 tablespoons chia seeds 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon honey, for topping (optional) In large jar or container, mix cherries, oats, milk, almonds, cherry concentrate, chia seeds and cinnamon. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Spoon into bowls and enjoy cold or warmed up. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with extra dried tart cherries and almonds, if desired.
Recipe courtesy of the Cherry Industry Administrative Board
(Family Features) #16110 Source: Cherry Industry Administrative Board
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Orthopedic Rehab An injury to a bone, joint, tendon, ligament, or muscle may cause pain, limited functional mobility, and loss of strength of range of motion. These impairments may prevent you from enjoying your normal work or recreational activities. Orthopedic injuries and conditions may include: fractures, muscle strains, ligament sprains, postoperative conditions, tendonitis, bursitis Our therapists can treat all types of general orthopedic injuries and conditions, including: arthritis, post-surgical rehab, neck and back pain, joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder), shoulder and elbow injuries, knee injuries, foot and ankle injuries, tendon and ligament injuries, muscle weakness, overuse injuries, pediatric injuries and therapy, geriatric injuries and conditions, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff tear, low back pain, TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders Your one-on-one customized treatment program may include: strengthening exercises, decompression - lumbar and cervical, flexibility and range of motion exercises, cardiovascular exercises, gait training, posture and coordinating traning, manual and massage therapy, activities of daily living training, fall prevention, injury prevention Specific tools to help you during your rehab may include: therapeutic modalities like heat or ice, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, assistive devices, orthotics, exercise tools and equipment, evaluation and assessment tools, mobilization or soft tissue massage instruments
Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 5
Pro Motion Rehab Physical, Occupational, & Massage Therapies 2810 US Hwy 64 W Suite 1 Murphy, NC 28906 828-837-0400 Fax: 828-837-0404 pt@promotionrehab.com
ProMotionRehab.com
Exercise is often your main tool to help you recover fully and prevent future orthopedic problems. Some exercises for your recovery may include: strengthening exercises, stretching and flexibility exercises, exercises to improve range of motion, balance exercises, functional mobility exercises, endurance exercises Pro Motion Rehab Inc. has physical therapists that are trained in injuries that cause impairments or dysfunction to various bony and soft tissue structures of the body. We focus on treating conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. No matter what ails you, our amazing therapists can take care of all your aches and pains. Our skilled therapists can help you overcome any type of muscle, joint or nerve pain, restore your range of motion, increase your strength, and help you feel years younger.
For more information: Pro Motion Rehab: 828-837-0400
6 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
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5 retirement readiness hacks
to help you save smarter
What are your goals for the future?
One simple way to start is understanding where your If retirement planning is top of mind, money is going and any barriers that are holding you back from meeting your goals. Utilize online you’re not alone. tools that can help provide a holistic snapshot of According to new research from Empower and your financial life and commit to making changes Personal Capital, 36% of Americans are making where necessary. For example, determine areas retirement planning a priority this year. That’s more you can decrease spending and put more money than those who said losing weight (28%), buying a toward saving. house (14%) or getting a new job (11%). MAXIMIZE RETIREMENT SAVINGS PLAN PERKS Don’t leave “free” money on the table. If you have Whether you’re just getting started or looking to kick it up a notch, here are some of the best ways to an employer-sponsored 401(k) plan (or 403b, 457 or other), enroll and meet your match. This is the save for retirement in 2022 and beyond: money your employer provides to match what you set aside for retirement, so you can save more than UNDERSTAND YOUR COMPLETE FINANCIAL if you did it individually. PICTURE It’s important to look at your finances from where you are in the present and where you want to be in the future. Make sure you’re in a good spot now, so you can stay on track to accomplish future financial goals.
Additionally, check out the IRS 401(k) limits and consider maxing out your contribution. For 2022 the IRS allows individual contributions of $20,500 per person and $27,000 (including catch-up
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Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 7
contributions) for people age 50 and older. If that’s not possible, consider increasing your contribution a bit every year. Remember to explore all options of your employer’s retirement plan to create a savings approach that is right for you. For example, some employers offer a Roth 401(k), which is funded with taxed dollars. There are no income limits on a Roth 401(k) and withdrawals are tax-free at age 59½ as long as your initial account contribution was made five or more years prior to the withdrawal. CONTRIBUTE TO AN IRA IRAs are another retirement tool to consider directing savings into. IRAs are great options for self-employed workers, small businesses, teens with their first job and those who are maxing out their employer retirement plan. Even if a spouse isn’t working, they may be eligible to fund a spousal IRA. Remember, you can save in both a 401(k) and an IRA. Which type of IRA is right for you? A traditional IRA gets a tax break upfront because it is funded with pretax dollars and a Roth IRA is funded with post-tax dollars, so you can pull that money out in retirement and not have to pay additional taxes on the contributions and earnings. If flexibility is important, a Roth IRA might be a good choice because you can withdraw your contributions without penalties at any time if needed. CONTRIBUTE TO A HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT Health savings accounts (HSAs) are a convenient way to set aside money for expenses related to your health, but they are also a smart financial tool. HSA contributions reduce your taxable income so you benefit come tax time. HSA earnings growth and qualified withdrawals are also tax free, rounding out HSAs’ triple tax advantage. In 2022, an individual with coverage under a qualifying high-deductible health plan can contribute up to $3,650, according to the IRS.
Everthing Dental Voted Best Dentist for 12 Years by Readers Choice of the Cherokee Scout American Dental Association • International Association for Orthodontics Fellowship Status with Aacademy of General Dentistry Fellowship Status American Orthodontic Society American Academy of Implant Dentistry International Congress of Oral Implantologists American Association of Cosmetic Dentistry
Welcome Dr. Courtney Marshall to the Team!
828-837-3577 | 1-800-544-5840 96 Central St., Suite 201 • Murphy www.MimsFamilyDentistry.com What’s more, there’s also no “use it or lose it” requirement, and many programs allow you to invest your HSA money once you hit a certain threshold. This means it’s a great way to save for health expenses now as well as during retirement. GET HELP FROM A PRO Financial planning can be confusing and complex, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. A financial advisor can help you determine exactly what your financial goals are, walk you through your options, and provide a personalized plan. Getting trustworthy advice can have a big impact on how confident you feel about your prospects going forward. No matter what stage of life you’re in, it’s never too early to start saving for retirement. There are plenty of paths you can take, and the earlier you start, the better off you’ll be. (BPT)
8 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
Senior Living in the North Georgia Mountains
HighroadsLiving.com Your home is a reflection of you, and your decor should match your tastes. With some simple home upgrades, you can create the perfect space for you and your family, even if your design preferences change over time. “When we’re designing our ideal home, too often we may only think about what we want others to see and enjoy when they visit,” said Jack Goldman, president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA). “The reality is visitors account for less than 1% of your in-home time.” Consider these ideas to get started:
BRANAN LODGE
An affordable community of apartments in a beautiful mountain setting. (Federal rental assistance for those 62+ or mobility impaired.)
SIMPSON ESTATES
The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for! Enjoy your own home in the mountains without the burden of lawn care and maintenance. (for those 55+)
leaders in senior living
493 Wesley Mountain Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512 www.wesleywoods.org 706-745-5565
5
Eye-Catching Ways to Update Your Home
Add a Fresh Coat of Paint One of the easiest home improvement projects, a fresh coat of paint can change the entire look of a room. Whether you choose to paint the entire space one new color, opt for an accent wall in a vibrant shade or simply freshen up the trim, paint can go a long way toward adding visual appeal and reflecting your personality. Patterned wallpaper, board and batten, stone and tile can also be added to create textured accents. Bring Warmth and Ambience with a Fireplace More than 3 in 5 homeowners have a fireplace or other hearth product in their homes, according to the HPBA, and including a fireplace in your construction or renovation plans is a gift of warmth, comfort and ambiance you can give yourself. Whether it’s a centerpiece for your living room or family room, or an accent to your bedroom, bathroom or study, a fireplace can provide an artful design element for your home and a safe, reliable heat source in the event of unexpected weather. Update Lighting Fixtures Proper lighting can bring rooms to life and make spaces look larger and more welcoming. You can brighten up your home in a variety of ways, from strategically placing table and floor lamps that fit your design style to replacing older ceiling and wallmounted fixtures with more modern styles. Give Cabinetry a Fresh Look There are numerous easy ways to update your kitchen and bathroom cabinets to create a more updated look. One of the easiest is swapping out older cabinet pulls and knobs for more modern options. With a variety of finishes - stainless, bronze, brushed nickel, black, copper and more - and styles available, you can match your cabinets to nearly any design style in a matter of minutes. Adding a coat of stain or paint is also a relatively quick and easy way to update some of the most-used spaces in your home without completely replacing the cabinets. Upcycle Furniture You can breathe new life into your current furniture by making simple changes. The easiest would be simply rearranging your pieces and moving some to different rooms to create an updated look. You can also add decorative covers to sofas, chairs, throw pillows and more, or take your upcycling a step further and refinish a bookshelf, table or other wooden furniture with a fresh coat of paint or stain, or give it a more weathered look with some sandpaper. (Family Features) Photo courtesy of Getty Images #15926 Source: Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association
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BLAIRSVILLE
Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 9
MedicalDirectory DAHLONEGA
Brasstown Pharmacy Drug & Gun 23 B Murphy Hwy. 706-745-2303 Blairsville’s most reliable Pharmacy for all your prescriptions, including hormone replacement therapy, vaccinations, & compounding for your specific needs. Firearms and ammunition plus parts or accessories. brasstown.biz
706-839-1001
Where our PATIENTS are our PRIMARY concern! PRIMARY and URGENT CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! M-F 9-5. Medication and disease management, Illness/Injury, Well exams/physicals, Well woman exams, DOT physicals, Sports physicals, Labs, urinalysis, EKG, plus Rapid, PCR and Antibody COVID testing. familycarega.com
CLAYTON MedLink GA 896 US-441
706-754-4348 ext 2018
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org
See pg 11
CLEVELAND MedLink GA 17 White St.
706-754-4348 ext 2018
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org
706-867-7666
Where our PATIENTS are our PRIMARY concern! PRIMARY and URGENT CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! M-F 8-6, Sa/Su 9-2. Medication and disease management, Illness/ Injury, Well exams/physicals, Well woman exams, DOT physicals, Sports physicals, Labs, urinalysis, EKG, plus Rapid, PCR, and Antibody COVID testing. familycarega.com
DEMOREST
CLARKESVILLE Family Care Habersham 5330 Hwy 115
Family Care Dahlonega 400 Walmart Way Suite F
See pg 11
MedLink GA 706-754-4348 ext 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N. Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See pg 11
HAYESVILLE
Chatuge Family Practice 241 Church Street
828-389-6383
Established 42 year Community medical practice that offers many services. Variety of Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Assistant Payment programs available. chatugefp.org See pg 3
JASPER
Georgia Mountains Hospice 70 Caring Way 706-253-4100 800-692-7199 Life with Care & Compassion! Local non profit hospice serving 10 north GA counties since 1993 including Pickens, Gilmer, Union, Fannin, Dawson ,Forsyth, Murray ,Bartow, Gordon, & Cherokee County. Providing Home Care, Nursing Home, & Assisted Living support. www.georgiamountainshospice.org
MURPHY
Mims Family Dentistry 96 Central St • Ste 201
828-837-3577
We want you to keep your teeth happy & healthy for a lifetime. Services include braces to implants. Open 8am-5pm daily. mimsfamilydentistry.com See page 7
Murphy Dental Center 828-837-5911 119 Natural Springs Drive Modern Dentistry in a caring, home-like atmosphere including General Dentistry, CEREC Dentistry, and Oral Conscious and IV Sedation. murphydentalcenter.com
Peachtree Community Health Center 4048 E US 64 ALT, Suite 1 828-837-8131 Providing whole person care by integrating primary care and behavioral health at one location, during one visit. Our services encompass individualized treatment, health education, and community assistance from a team of providers that include physicians, nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), community health workers, and peer support specialists. M-F | 7:30 am - 5:30 pm amchc.org See pg 16
Pro Motion Rehab 2810 W US-64 Suite 1
828-837-0400
You will feel right at home here where our state-of-the-art facilities feature advanced cardiovascular, stabilization and strength stimulating technology to provide the greatest impact for accelerated recovery and relief from pain. promotionrehab.com See pg 5
ROBBINSVILLE Tallulah Community Health Center 409 Tallulah Rd. 828-479-6434 Providing whole person care by integrating primary care and behavioral health at one location, during one visit. Our services encompass individualized treatment, health education, and community assistance from a team of providers that include physicians, nurses, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), community health workers, and peer support specialists. M-F| 7 am - 6 pm amchc.org See pg 16
SeniorLiving BLAIRSVILLE
Wesley Mountain Village / Simpson Estates 493 Wesley Mountain Drive
706-745-5565
The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for! Enjoy your own home in the mountains without the burden of lawn care and maintenance (for those 55+) simpsonestates.org / wesleywoods.org See pg 8
HAYESVILLE
Clay County Care Center 86 Valley Hideaway Drive
828-389-9941
Skilled Nursing Facility providing rehabilitation, long term care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and dementia secured care. Clay County Care Center is a place to get better, a place for living. centers.consulatehealthcare.com See pg 3
10 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
Health Store & Smoothie Bar • All-Natural Smoothies • Vitamins • Bulk Herbs • Supplements • Ionic Foot Bath • Essential Oils • CBD/Hemp Oil • Local Baked Goods • Kombucha • Honey • Skincare • Teas & Spices • Milk & Meat
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Planning a spring break?
Open 7 Days a Week • FREE WiFi
204 E Louise St • Clarkesville (across from Ingles)
AtoZincHealth.com • 706-754-0247
W
arm sand between your toes, a cool drink in your hand, the sun setting over the beautiful ocean ... these are the dreams of an ideal spring break. After what feels like years of video calls with friends, it’s time to re-connect and take that much-needed tropical vacation where bare feet, hammocks under palm trees and swim-up bars are just what you need to make new memories. With an all-inclusive getaway, planning is minimal so you can focus on enjoying what matters most - your vacation. The best resorts have something for everyone: mom relaxing at the spa, dad having a cocktail poolside, kids playing all day and adventurous friends seeking beachfront activities and entertainment. And while today’s all-inclusive resorts deliver elevated experiences and offerings for every age and interest, not all are alike. For example, some all-inclusive resorts offer enhanced food and beverage options such as ceviche and handmade empanadas alfresco served in a seaside lounge, while others may offer mojito and tequila lounges or unforgettable views with customized drinks prepared by expert mixologists. But not all resorts offer this level of service. Before you book your all-inclusive spring break, make sure your resort has the following five items:
1. Look for a variety of cuisine, and then some A vacation means a break from cooking and meal planning, so when looking to book an all-inclusive resort, make sure they offer multiple onsite restaurants to remove the hassle of deciding where to eat with your group, while giving a chance to try various cuisines. Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort, offers numerous restaurants and dining experiences. For example, you can savor the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine at Maxal, while Auma, the experiential restaurant, prepares meals with ritualistic theater in full view of fire and flame. The resort also features a trattoria serving Mediterranean classics, a Southeast Asian concept, a high-energy all-day lounge, an ice cream and churro shop and a taqueria with a mezcal and tequila bar. 2. Find all the fun in the sun Second to plentiful food and drink at hand, the best thing about an all-inclusive resort is all the activities included in your stay. Be sure to find a resort that offers everything you want. For instance, most Mexican and Caribbean resorts have pools and beaches. But if you need adventure, seek resorts that also include water sports equipment for snorkeling
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Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 11
5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR RESORT
and kayaking. The fun should continue when the sun goes down. Look for resorts offering live music, dazzling shows and dancing. 3. Privacy by the sea Hilton’s All-Inclusive Resorts offer a range of breathtaking beachfront resorts in highly coveted locales for families with kids of all ages, and couples. If your spring break vacation is a romantic getaway, you’ll want seclusion and serenity. All-inclusive hotels often cater to couples’ needs by offering privacy options including adult pools, private swim-out suites and jetted tubs, plus romantic restaurants, world-class spas and casinos. Or, choose an all-inclusive resort with a kids’ club, which offer supervised and fun programs for children while giving mom and dad some space to hit the links or enjoy a quiet meal. 4. Education destination via culture The best all-inclusive resorts integrate local culture into food and beverage, activities and hotel design. According to a recent travel trends report travelers are “looking for unique experiences to immerse themselves in, seeking meaningful ways to connect with the different cultures and destinations whilst discovering something new.”
Learning about and enjoying new cultures stimulates the mind and satisfies the curious soul, without leaving the resort. Great all-inclusive resorts integrate the local culture with engaging programs, classes and experiences that will enhance your vacation, such as salsa and merengue lessons, tequila tastings and local crafts. 5. Above and beyond hospitality A final box every traveler should check is a place that spoils you yet feels like home. The right all-inclusive resort will have more than beachfront accommodations. Seek world-class spas, personalized concierge, friendly team members and high-end offerings. While looking to experience new places and cultures, you also want the trust and reliability that comes from a well-respected company. The best brands offer loyalty programs with earned Points to help book that special vacation. Once you have selected your resort, book, pay and go. All you need to do is have fun. The all-inclusive resort handles the rest. (BPT)
12 Highroads Living - Volume 11 • Issue 1
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3 ways to stay active & keep your mind in shape Aging brings about many changes. Beyond graying hair and wrinkles, your brain is also changing as you grow older and wiser. According to McKnight Brain Research Foundation, 87% of people 65 and older experience cognitive changes associated with normal aging. The good news is that these changes don’t have to be a normal passage of aging. You may find that you can combat some cognitive decline through exercise.
TAKE A WALK Daily walks are incredibly beneficial and easy to incorporate into your routine. You can start small by taking a walk around your block or going to a local park for a short circuit. As you continue to build your walking stamina, you may find that you can go farther and farther.
While walking, you can also enjoy listening to an audiobook or podcast. Learning about new subjects Beyond staying physically fit and healthy, exercise is another excellent way to keep your mind healthy can benefit your mental health. Physical activity as you age. You can also listen to music or simply improves cognitive function as people age enjoy the ambient sounds of nature. through neuroplasticity, which allows the brain to compensate for injury and disease and adjust Walking doesn’t have to be a solitary activity. Ask in response to new situations. Exercise also helps a friend or family member to come along on your alleviate stress and depression. daily walk. Your neighborhood may have local walking groups. Joining a group allows you to stay Here are three ways you can stay physically active active, provides community and allows you to make and reap the mental benefits. new friends.
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JOIN A FITNESS CLASS Group exercise is a great way to stay active. Your local gym or community center is likely to have group fitness classes like SilverSneakers several days a week at various times, so you can easily find one that fits your schedule.
Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 13
Yes, we are OPEN. Exercise is GOOD for you!
Whether you’re going back to a familiar activity like swimming and water aerobics or learning a new form of exercise like yoga and dance, a fitness class allows you to have a repeating, consistent physical activity in your weekly schedule. “I encourage seniors who are new to exercise to try a class like SilverSneakers that is designed specifically for older adults,” said Richard Ashworth, president and CEO of Tivity Health, the company that delivers SilverSneakers. “We also have a wide variety of live virtual classes through SilverSneakers.com with trainers who guide participants every step of the way. These classes are a great way to get moving from the comfort of your home.” Keeping your mind as active as your body is vital to healthy aging. SilverSneakers has added mental enrichment to the experiences available to members by joining forces with GetSetUp, a virtual learning platform designed specifically for seniors. The program offers a wide range of classes through a senior-specific video platform optimized for ease of activation, user engagement and social connection. These online classes allow older adults to learn new skills, combat social isolation and unlock new life experiences. The program also encourages seniors to become instructors and share their skills and knowledge with their peers. KEEP STRETCHING As you age, you tend to lose some muscle strength and elasticity and your joints weaken. A gentle way to incorporate movement into your life is to do daily stretches. Stretching provides several
Heart Rate Technology • Personal Training Group Fitness • Zumba • Yoga/Pilates • Spin Tanning • Childcare Now Accepting
3 Locations / 24 Hours Cleveland, GA 868 S. Main St. 706-219-7690
Dawsonville, GA Blairsville, GA 749 Hwy 53 1741 Blue Ridge Hwy. 706-265-7093 706-781-5320
TheGymGA.com
benefits, including increased circulation and blood flow, enhanced muscle strength and improved range of motion and flexibility. You may also find that stretching relieves lower back pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Low-intensity stretching - such as lunges, squats and shoulder circles - can also improve your mood and energy. You can incorporate these and other stretches into your routine by starting your day with some light stretches after your morning cup of coffee or doing a few dynamic yoga stretches before turning in for the night. No matter what type of physical activity you decide to do, invest in your mind and body and get moving today.
(BPT)
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Health Resolutions Simplified
thanks to these expert tips
A new year is a time of reflection and opportunity to focus on gratitude and goals for the future. Resolutions can be anything that you desire, but with health and wellness top of mind for so many people, two of the most popular are eating healthier and getting fit. The problem with resolutions is that everyone starts with good intentions, but few succeed. Research shows only 8% of people actually achieve their New Year’s resolutions. If you want to be part of the successful 8%, it’s time to shift your mindset and start with small steps that are maintainable. Colette Heimowitz, vice president, Nutrition & Education, Simply Good Foods says,
“You can set yourself up for success by making meaningful changes and shifting your thinking.”
Heimowitz shares the following strategies to help you stick to your resolutions to eat healthier with a low-carb lifestyle and make lasting positive changes: PLAN AHEAD FOR SUCCESS Going cold turkey on low fiber/high sugar carbs and favorite treats may be a challenge if your fridge and pantry are still stuffed with leftover goodies. For a fresh start, consider organizing your kitchen, tossing out or giving away excessive unhealthy temptations, and stocking up on good-for-you foods that fuel your body. Some ideas for low-carb foods include cheese, eggs, tofu, rotisserie chicken, fresh baked ham and or turkey, frozen hamburger patties, pork chops, shrimp, and chicken breasts or thighs. In the pantry, stock canned or vacuum packs of tuna, salmon, sardines, crabmeat or clams, plus marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers and jars of olives. Lots of colorful vegetables for salad fixings and cut-up vegetables are a must-have for the fridge.
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Volume 11 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 15
Cathy Jarrett
Serving Blairsville, Hiawassee, Clayton, & Surrounding Areas
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STICK WITH YOUR SCHEDULE Whenever possible, try to be consistent with your low-carb snacks and meals, aiming for three meals and two snacks a day. This should keep your appetite under control, even when faced with tempting treats.
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prefer white wine, pinot grigio and sauvignon blanc are your best choices. If you’re into red, try pinot noir.
ADD SOME STEPS Moving your body regularly is essential to health and wellness, but it’s not always about working out. Sometimes it’s about adjusting your days to add ENJOY A TREAT movement whenever possible. For example, get up Eating well is a balance and everyone wants to enjoy every hour from your desk and sneak in some squats, a treat now and then. You can keep your goals and sit-ups or push-ups. Or, park farther away from your enjoy something sweet like the Atkins Keto Peanut destination. Take a walk during lunch or after dinner. Butter Cups. This decadent treat is made with real peanut butter and a delicious chocolaty coating, has “When you can sneak in a workout, consider popular 2 grams net carbs, 6 grams of fiber and less than 1 techniques like circuit or high-intensity interval gram of sugar. training,” said Heimowitz. “Tabata workouts, for example, are short intervals such as 20 seconds of If you prefer a cocktail or glass of wine, there are intense, all-out work followed by a brief recovery of thoughtful low carb options from Atkins to help you 10 seconds, for a total of eight rounds, with the total stick to your goals. Certain spirits, such as scotch, workout lasting about four minutes.” vodka and gin are naturally low in carbs, just avoid mixing them with juice, tonic water or non-diet soda. (BPT) Go for seltzer, diet tonic or diet soda instead. If you’d
Peachtree Community Health Center 16 Highroads Living - Volume 10 • Issue 1
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