FREE
Volume 7 • Issue 4
Local Medical Directory Senior Housing & Independent Living
Quilts of Valor
Local Community Program (see inside)
www.HighroadsLiving.com
To Advertise, Please Contact: Mountain Lake Publishing 888-896-2412
2 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 7 • Issue 4 - Highroads Living 3
Welcome to A Community Lifestyle Resource for Adults 55+
Featuring health, fitness, nutrition and helpful information for outdoor & indoor activities.
Helpful Regional Resources Featured in Every Issue Articles for Health and Wellness from trusted medical sources that include fitness tips for a balanced lifestyle. Nutritional information for fresh markets, family regional farms, and healthy food sources. Regional recreational activity information for clubs and community outreach programs in your area.
Call to reserve space:
706.896.2412 1.888.896.2412
email: info@mtnlakepub.com
FREE
Volume 7•
Local Med ical
Directory Senior Hou sing & Indepen dent Living
Quilts of
Valor Local Comm unity Progra (see inside)
www.High
To Advertise,
Please Cont
m
roadsLiving
act: Moun
tain Lake
.com
Publishing
888-896-24
12
Let Us Help Promote Your Business & Services • Hospitals, Clinics, & Home Health • Drug Stores, Pharmacies • Doctor & Dentist Offices • Financial Institutions • Salons & Spas
• Health & Fitness • Health Food Stores • Professional Offices • Worship Centers • Variety & Specialty Stores • Regional Community Resource
www.HighroadsLiving.com
Complete Care Under One Roof Most Insurance Accepted An Entire Spectrum of medical care options.
Physical Therapy Immediate Care
Issue 4
Chiropractic Care Laser Lipolysis Massage Therapy Medical Weight Loss Pain Management Peripheral Neuropathy Spinal Decompression Supartz Knee Injections 186 Cannon Bridge Road + Suite B + Cornelia, GA 30531
706-778-0077 + habershamhealthcare.com
4 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com
MEDLINK... serving the community we call home. 15 Family Health Centers, including dental and pharmacies. Accepting all insurances including MEDICARE & MEDICAID.
HABERSHAM
RABUN
WHITE
Demorest, GA 30535
Clayton, GA 30525
Cleveland, GA 30528
706-754-4348
706-782-5991
706-969-7510
Visit medlinkga.org for other locations and information
Host a Better-for-You Barbecue
A traditional backyard barbecue is typically filled with a wide array of tempting foods that make it hard to keep a healthy eating plan on track. With a few simple modifications to your menu, you can transform your grilling party into a spread of better-for-you foods you can still enjoy. Get creative on the grill. An easy swap like chicken or pork instead of burgers and brats is an instant nutrition boost. Use wood chips or a marinade to create a main dish so tasty you’ll forget it’s a health-conscious choice.
Put produce front and center. There’s no time like summer to enjoy the bounty of the garden, so pile on the veggies in place of dense, calorie-laden sides. A crisp, refreshing salad, lightly seasoned veggies on the grill and even fresh raw veggies with a light yogurt dip can all be healthier additions to your barbecue menu. Make apps amazing. A health-conscious meal doesn’t have to mean eliminating entire courses. Appetizers while you wait for the grill to heat are practically a requirement, after all. Instead of the typical rich, creamy dips, try a lighter approach, like these cracker canapes. Add a special touch with Crunchmaster crackers, which are gluten-free, nonGMO and full of flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients from trusted sources and available in Sea Salt, Roasted Vegetable, Applewood Smoked BBQ and Aged White Cheddar flavors, these snacks are crafted to fit healthy lifestyles. Find more delicious ideas for summer entertaining at crunchmaster.com.
Grilled Watermelon, Feta and Balsamic Cracker Canapes
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 4 4 watermelon wedges (1/2-inch thick slices, 4 inches wide at base) 16 Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Sea Salt Crackers 1/4 cup finely crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup prepared balsamic reduction 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh mint Heat grill to medium-high; grease grate well. Grill watermelon wedges, turning once, 3-5 minutes, or until grill-marked on both sides. Cut each watermelon wedge into four smaller wedges. Top each cracker with watermelon wedge and sprinkle with feta. Drizzle with balsamic reduction. Garnish with fresh mint. Tip: Add finely chopped Kalamata olives for a tangy twist. (Family Features) #14375 Source: Crunchmaster
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Giving Back “ 25 AC TS O F SE RV I C E ”
georgiamountainshospice.org
Giving back to the community helps many people in the North Georgia area, although not all companies follow this philosophy. Non-profits need help in sustaining missions and that’s why this year is especially important for Georgia Mountains Hospice that will turn 25 years old on September 15th, 2018. This local non-profit hospice company has been serving ten North Georgia Counties since 1993 and feels honored and blessed to have helped families during the most difficult times of their lives. They understand that they would not have been able to continue the mission of “Quality End of Life Care” for all of these years without the support of the communities that they have served. Giving back will begin July – December to offer non profit agencies throughout the ten counties they serve in North Georgia. Wether it’s stocking up for food pantries, help to fill back packs for kids, making lunches, working yard sales, or whatever your group is doing, Georgia Mountains Hospice is offering “25 Acts of Service” to show appreciation back to our community! Pictured below was the first “Acts of Service” for the Appalachian Folk School in Jasper. Georgia Mountains Hospice staff members purchased pickets that they painted to be used at the school. This was a fundraiser to raise money for the school that not only staff members, but volunteers, children and grandchildren took part in.
Please be on the look-out for more “Acts of Service” that will be done throughout our North Georgia communities! To help, volunteer or for more information about “Acts of Service” please call 706-253-4100 or 800-692-7199. Georgia Mountains Hospice is a non-profit agency that specializes in the care of terminally ill patients in their homes or nursing homes.
Your local non-profit hospice Serving 10 North Georgia Counties since 1993 ph. 706.253.4100 • 800.692.7199 • fx. 706.253.4101
6 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com
Energy Savers that Make ‘Cents’
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home that operates efficiently isn’t just better for the environment. Ensuring your home systems are as efficient as possible can also help reduce the financial burden of maintaining your home throughout the year.
seasonal service like appropriately changing out the air filter can help ensure your system performs at its best, but once its life expectancy has passed, a new unit is usually the more cost-effective solution in the long run.
These tips from Gary White with JCPenney Home Services can serve as areas of focus for lowering your energy bills and lessening your appliances’ negative impact on the environment.
Understanding your options is important because these systems represent a meaningful investment. There are a lot of potentially overwhelming options and you want to be sure you get the right system for your home. A consultation with an expert, such as those you can find at JCPenney Home Services, can help you determine the proper size and functions necessary to effectively manage your home’s climate, as well as assist in exploring the latest technologies and products. For example, heat pumps, which were once reserved for more moderate climates, are now a costefficient solution for homes where temperatures dip lower.
WATER HEATERS The cost of heating water for bathing, laundry and kitchen use is a common home energy drain, so it’s an area that deserves attention when you’re looking to upgrade for efficiency. To reduce energy use from your hot water heater, try taking shorter showers and switching to cold water for some washing machine wash and rinse cycles. Other options include turning down the thermostat on your heater, adding insulation or purchasing a newer, more efficient model. HEATING AND COOLING According to the U.S. Department of Energy, as much as 40 percent of a home’s energy expenses come from the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, also known as the heating and cooling system. Like appliances and other mechanical features of your home, over time, the heating and cooling system becomes less efficient. Regular
Another option that is relatively new but growing in popularity is known as a mini-split system. These systems let you customize the temperature settings in various spaces, enhancing personal comfort and allowing you to focus your energy use on the parts of your home that need it most. Learn more about these and other energy-efficient heating and cooling solutions at jcpenneyhomeservices.com. THERMOSTATS While servicing or replacing an HVAC system may be the obvious change when it comes to conserving energy, you
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 7 • Issue 4 - Highroads Living 7
can also see reductions by using an upgraded thermostat, such as a “smart” or connected model. These devices can help you monitor the temperature setting in your home while maximizing efficiency. For example, a connected thermostat that’s synced to your smartphone may allow you to adjust temperature settings when away from home. This way, if you forget to bump the air conditioner up a few degrees while you’re gone more than a few hours, you can log-in remotely and set an appropriate temperature. WEATHERPROOFING A great deal of energy is lost through cracks, holes and faulty seals. Take time to assess all windows, doors and openings for air leaks, adding caulking or weather stripping where needed. Don’t overlook culprits like openings around lighting and plumbing fixtures, switch plates and other electrical elements. Also assess potential losses from the fireplace, attic, garage and crawl spaces, where it’s common that less attention is given to thorough sealing, and determine whether additional insulation can help contain energy. TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR CLIMATE Managing your home’s climate control is typically no small task or small expense. These options offer flexibility and efficiency. Heat pumps pull from the ground or outside air temperature to both heat your home in the winter and cool it in the summer. Since heat pumps move heat instead of generating it, they’re energy-efficient yearround. Hybrid systems or combination systems combine elements of both a furnace and heat pump. The more efficient heat pump runs until the outside air temperature falls below a certain level, at which point the system automatically switches the heat source to the furnace. This option is more expensive up front, but can generate significant savings in terms of monthly utility bills longterm. Ductless systems are a flexible, efficient choice for homeowners looking for simple solutions. These systems can be easily mounted on the wall or ceiling, and don’t require ductwork, making them ideal for a converted attic space or room addition.
UNDERSTANDING HVAC EFFICIENCY RATINGS An HVAC system can be rated in a number of different ways. While some of these ratings may be confusing, it is helpful to understand what they mean. AFUE: An Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating is important if you are purchasing an oil or gas furnace. The AFUE rating measures the amount of fuel used to heat your home against the amount of fuel wasted. A higher rating indicates a more efficient system. The more efficient your system, the less fuel it takes to heat your home, which translates into lower heating bills during the winter. SEER: The higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER), the more efficient your system and the less it will cost to heat and cool your home. Federal regulations require all new HVAC systems to have a SEER rating of 13 or higher. HSPF: The Heating Seasonal Performance Factor (HSPF) measures the efficiency of a heat pump when it is used to heat a home. A higher rating indicates greater efficiency and greater monthly savings on energy bills. New HVAC units are required to have a rating of 7.7 or higher.
Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Large house) (Family Features) #14144 Source: JCPenney Home Services
8 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
InOur
Community
HighroadsLiving.com
Community Involvement, Activities and Volunteer Programs
SENIOR CENTERS
FOOD PANTRIES
HOSPITAL AUXILIARIES
Fannin County 440 W. First Street, Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-5438
Fannin County Food Pantry Family Connections 101 Industrial Park Road Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-6063
Gilmer County 111 Gilmer Street Ellijay, GA 30540 706-635-7688
Fannin County Fannin Regional Hospital 2855 Old Hwy 5 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-632-4278
Food Bank of NE GA 236 Level Grove Road, #D Cornelia, GA 30531 706-776-3337
Habersham County 217 Scoggins Drive NE, Demorest, GA 30535 706-776-7768
Gilmer Co. Community Food Pantry 1298 Old Hwy. 4 North Ellijay, GA 30513 706-273-3663
Lumpkin County 266 Mechanicsville Road Dahlonega, GA 30533 706-864-2358
Lumpkin County Food Bank Community Helping Place 2030 North Grove Street Dahlonega, GA 30533 706-867-9621
Rabun County 2832 Old 441 South Tiger, GA 30576 706-782-3853 Towns County 954 Main Street North Hiawassee, GA 30546 706-896-3138
Rabun County Food Bank Food Bank of Northeast Georgia 5312 Highway 441 South Tiger, GA 30576 706-782-0780 Towns County Food Pantry 1294 Jack Dayton Circle Hiawassee, GA 30546 706-896-4783
Union County 95 Senior Center Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512 706-439-6105
Union County Cottage Food Bank 1441 Pat Colwell Road Blairsville, GA 30512 706-835-1630
White County 1239 Helen Highway Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-4097
White County Food Pantry 1236 Logans Ridge Road Cleveland, GA 30528 706-348-6225
Clay County 196 Ritter Road Hayesville, NC 28904 828-389-9271
Clay County Food Pantry 2278 Hinton Center Road Hayesville, NC 28904 828-389-1657
Cherokee County 69 Alpine Street Murphy, NC 28906
Cherokee County Food Pantry First United Methodist Church 73 Valley River Avenue Murphy, NC 28906
828-837-2467
828-837-2718
Gilmer County North Georgia Medical Center 1362 South Main Street Ellijay, GA 30540 706-276-4741 Habersham County Habersham County Medical Center 541 US 441 Business Demorest, GA 30535 706-754-2161 ask for Jewell Lumpkin County Chestatee Regional Hospital 227 Mountain Drive Dahlonega, GA 30533 706-864-6136 Rabun County Rabun County Hospital 2855 Old Hwy 5 Blue Ridge, GA 30513 706-782-4233 Towns County Chatuge Regional Hospital 110 S. Main St Hiawassee, GA 30546 706-896-2222 (ask for Auxiliary) Union County Union General Hospital 35 Hospital Rd Blairsville, GA 30512 706-745-2111 (ask for Auxiliary) Cherokee Co., NC Murphy Medical Center 3990 E US Hwy 64 Alt Murphy, NC 28906 828-835-3667
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MedicalDirectory BLAIRSVILLE
CORNELIA
MURPHY
Brasstown Pharmacy Drug & Gun 706-745-2303 23 B Murphy Hwy.
Spectrum Healthcare 706-778-0077 186 Cannon Bridge Rd., Suite B
Murphy Dental Center
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.
MHHS. Serving SW North Carolina for over 40 years. Offering excellent nursing and rehabilitation services. Services covered by Medicare, VA Benefits, Medicaid, & Private Insurance. We’re Here for You! See page 12
ELLIJAY / JASPER
HAYESVILLE
Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N. Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org
See page 4
CLEVELAND
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org
See page 4
Encompass Home Health
706-896-5037
349 Towne Plaza
area of Rabun, Towns, Union, White, Habersham, Lumpkin, Stephens
See page 13
Clay County Care Center 828-389-9941 86 Valley Hideaway Drive
Counties, we offer skilled nursing, physical and occupational therapies in the patient’s residence for many health issues, after a fall or surgery for a joint replacement, as well as, management of medications, diabetes, cardiopulmonary diseases and much more. Medicare pays 100% of your qualified home health needs. Encompass is rapidly becoming the standard for patients who need
Skilled Nursing Facility providing rehabilitation, long term care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and dementia secured care. claycountycarecenter.com
Serving SW North Carolina for over 40 years. Offering excellent nursing and rehabilitation services. Services covered by Medicare, VA Benefits, Medicaid, & Private Insurance. We’re Here for You! MountainHHA.com See page 12
superior home care. ehhi.com
Regency Hospice 706-896-1251 236 S. Main Street When Life matters most… why not get the best local care? Serving North Georgia for over 14 years with hospice care. regencyhospice.com
SeniorLiving BLAIRSVILLE
HIAWASSEE
Wesley Mountain Village Simpson Estates 706-745-5565 493 Wesley Mountain Drive
Hiawassee Park Baptist Retirement 762-500-2021 89 Hiawassee Park Drive
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 page 15
See page 16
competent staff to provide “A Better Way to Care.” Serving the N.GA
Mountain Home Health 828-389-8106 115 Mountain Home Nursing Lane
Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N.
uniongeneralhospital.com
individualized patient care pathways, patient education and a highly
Chatuge Family Practice 828-389-6383 241 Church Street
chatugefp.org
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including
Health Care at it’s Best! Full service hospital, 24-hour Physician
At Encompass Home Health, we provide quality care, including
Established 42 year Community medical practice that offers many services. Variety of Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Assistant Payment programs available.
CLAYTON
110 S. Main Street
Home.
Connie Duncan hearing aid specialist serving the local area for over
located for over 15 years, next to the Blairsville Post Office.
706-896-2222
Clearview Senior Behavioral Healthcare & Chatuge Regional Nursing
Serving 10 North Georgia Counties since 1993. Medicare & Medicaid Certified, plus contracted with VA providing local nonprofit hospice. georgiamountainshospice.org See page 5
franchise. “Hearing Aid Specialist of the Year - 2012” Conviently
General Dentistry, CEREC Dentistry, Sedation, Fast Braces.
staffed for emergencies and patient care. Specialized care include
Georgia Mountains Hospice 706-253-4100 70 Caring Way
North Georgia Hearing Aid Specialist, LLC 706-745-1861 281-C Young Harris Street 25 years. All make repair, new digital technology, any brands except
Modern Dentistry in a caring, home-like atmosphere including
Chatuge Regional Hospital
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See page 4
Formerly Appalachian serving 25+ years uniting the best with
119 Natural Springs Drive
HIAWASSEE
Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N.
Mountain Home Health 706-745-5101 136 Hospital Dr Suite B
828-837-5911
murphydentalcenter.com
DEMOREST
brasstown.biz
MountainHHA.com
Complete care under one roof, Immediate Care Chiropractic Care, Laser Lipolysis, Massage Therapy Medical Weight Loss, Pain Management,Peripheral Neuropathy, Spinal Decompression, Supartz Injections. Most Insurance Accepted. habershamhealthcare.com See page 3
Independent living units overlooking Lake Chatuge and North Georgia mountains. 1700 sq.ft 2 BR/ 2 BA, full kitchen, dining, LR, sunroom, 2-car attached garage, Clubhouse, and more! brcga.org See page 10
See page 10
10 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com We Put the in Senior Living
Coming Soon 2019 • The Lodge Senior Apartment Living Independent living units overlooking Lake Chatuge and surrounding north Georgia mountains. Over 1700sq ft, 2BR/2BA, Living room, Sunroom, Full kitchen & Dining, 2 car attached garage, Clubhouse, and more!
89 Hiawassee Park Dr. Hiawassee, GA 30546 | brcga.org/hiawassee-park/ Call 762.500.2021 For More Information on Pricing and Availability
When LIFE matters most... why not get the best LOCAL care? Your local hospice with local staff caring for our community for over 15 years.
5 Ways to Step Up Date Night
Without Breaking the Bank Most relationship experts agree that making time for date night is important, whether it’s the early days of a blossoming romance or decades into a comfortable marriage. Spending that valuable time together doesn’t have to be expensive as long as you take the time to make it special. Plan your next date with these ideas for low-cost experiences with the one you love: SHARE TIME OUTDOORS. Except in the most extreme conditions, there’s always something to do outside and most of those activities are either free or relatively inexpensive. Whether it’s taking a stroll handin-hand or planning a picnic at a scenic location, the exercise and fresh air can be good for your body and mind, for both you and your beloved. DINE ON A DIME. Although the days of a nickel burger are long gone, there are ways to curb your spending when you eat out. For example, many restaurants offer menus with smaller portions as well as promotional nights with discounts geared toward certain audiences. Some restaurants even offer daily discounts, as high as 10 percent off your total bill for AARP members. If you are not a member, it’s simple to sign up online. Membership is just $16 a year, so it can practically pay for itself with the use of just one of the dining offers. SIMPLY STAY IN. When you’re conflicted between going out on a date or settling for a night on the couch, it’s possible to have both. Order takeout from a favorite spot and bring it to the comfort of your home for the best of both worlds. It allows you to avoid kitchen cleanup and simply commit to enjoying one another’s company without interruption.
706-896-1251 www.regencyhospice.com
MASTER THE MOVIE SCHEDULE. Prime time at the theater can be pricey, but if your calendar is flexible, you can catch a show earlier in the day for a steep discount. Some theaters also offer special discounts for ordering tickets online. An added bonus: taking in an early movie with a snack may help save money on dinner later. ENJOY SPECIAL ENGAGEMENTS. Whether it’s a local sporting event or a musical performance by a group visiting your town, sharing a pastime that you’re passionate about is a good way to share a piece of your life and interests to help establish a deeper connection with a loved one. Conversely, if it’s a new experience for you both, it may establish a newfound bond that you can explore together over time. Don’t let ticket prices dissuade you. Take advantage of offers that may be available to you, special showings or even a ticket discount with your AARP membership. Explore more tips and ideas to make the most of your relationships and everyday life, too, at AARPAdvantages.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images (Family Features) #14211 Source: AARP
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Quilts of Valor
Quilting Made Easy * Friendly Service * Free Classes * Machine Sales & Service * Quilting Kits * 1 Day Projects making Quilt Tops * Long Arm Service * Pre-Cuts, Fabric, Batting, & all your Supplies
828-644-3368 • just-stitchin.com 321 Hwy 64 West • Hayesville, NC 28904 juststichin1@gmail.com
People are recognizing the program to get brand awareness out and many people in our community are are happy to have the opportunity to volunteer. A special reward for veterans is built from seeing a quilt start from pieces of fabric to being presented to our service men & woman. Many stories from veterans that say that no one ever thanked them for their service, until an honor gift is made.
Wrapped in their very own Quilt of Valor, veterans across the nation have been receiving gifts of love and appreciation from quilters since this nationwide grassroots program started in 2003. Patriotic quilts representing the prayers, healing thoughts and gratefulness of their makers, have been presented to veterans who have fought for the nation in World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm/Shield, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and other conflicts around the world. The mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation is to “cover service members and veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.” Quilts are awarded at many different levels: they may go to military hospitals where chaplains award them to service members; they may be awarded to entire service units returning from deployments; they may be awarded at veterans homes or they may be awarded individually. The North Georgia & SW North Carolina area has brought together groups of ladies and gentlemen all across the region from local organizations, churches, and businesses to recognize it’s local service men & women to spread the message.
Local Just Stitchin located in Hayesville, N.C. presented a quilt recently to Raymond “Bud” Gainsway who served in Korea, (then PFC) laid down suppressing fire and took out several enemy positions while his unit was engaged with an assault. Due to his actions, he protected many young American men, but was severely wounded with a leg injury. Today, he is an active volunteer in his community and a member of the Lions Club. Shown in the photo, the ladies of Just Stitchin presenting his beautiful bedspread with an eagle that he loves. Many local quilting associations in our beautiful mountain region help with these projects weekly including Misty Mountain Quilters Guild of Towns, Union, & Fannin Counties in GA plus Clay/Cherokee Co. N.C. The Smoky Mountain Quilters Guild in Franklin N.C., Town Square Quilters in Hayesville & Gathering of Quilters in Murphy, NC. These are just a few of the many groups and volunteers that bring joy and recognition to our honorable veterans who have served proudly.
For more information about quilting call 828-644-3368 - Just Stitchin is located at 321 Hwy. 64 West Hayesville, N.C. and can help with any of your quilting needs.
12 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
“Your Home Recovery”
in Southwest NC & North GA
828.389.8106 706-745-5101
Serving Clay, Cherokee, Graham, Macon, Towns and Union Counties
Services paid 100% by Medicare and Medicaid. Also accept Medicare Advantage, VA, and other major health insurances.
HighroadsLiving.com
Remodeling to age in place? MAKE CHANGES WHERE IT MATTERS MOST
www.mountainhha.com
Mountain Home Health Services does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability or age in admission, treatment, services and or in employment. License GA# 144-132 NC# HC0104
A
merican household demographics constantly change. With kids grown and moved out, many adults are considering remodeling to meet their future needs. This has inspired the idea of aging in place, meaning the desire to have a high quality of life in your home as you get older. In the United States, it’s a desire shared by many. According to the AARP, 87 percent of adults age 65 and older want to stay in their current home and community as they age. Furthermore, among people age 50 to 64, 71 percent of people want to age in place. The desire to age in place typically requires making thoughtful updates to a home to accommodate senior needs. Multigenerational households are also changing for older family members. Sometimes it’s necessary to have elderly relatives move in to your home for them to thrive. Adult children will opt to make remodeling updates so spaces are safe, comfortable and accessible for all. Whether you’re remodeling for yourself or a family member, there are many things to consider. Making changes where it matters most will help transform the household into a secure space for aging adults.
SINGLE-STORY LIVING Having all rooms on a single story is the ideal layout for senior living. That means the bedroom, bathroom and kitchen can be accessed without having to travel to different levels of the home. Keep in mind, open-concept designs can be beneficial for seniors, but if you are updating hallways, make sure they are at least 36 inches wide for easy maneuverability. BATHROOM ADDITIONS Adding a bathroom to facilitate single-story living might seem impossible if you don’t have existing drainage. However, it is feasible and doesn’t require costly demolition. With Saniflo, you can add a complete bathroom where no drainage existed before, thanks to above-floor plumbing features like a macerating toilet and drain pumps. The Saniaccess2 is ideal for powder rooms and the Saniaccess3 is a smart choice for full baths. BATHROOM SAFETY Bathrooms are one of the most dangerous rooms in a home,
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 7 • Issue 4 - Highroads Living 13
Live Well Chatuge Family Practice A non-profit organization
828.389.6383 Teresa A. Heavner, M.D.
241 Church Street, Hayesville, NC 28904
Jill M. Brinke, M.D.
www.chatugefp.org William Kyle Cody, PA-C
Sally Cody, FNP-C
Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8 am - 6 pm Wed and Fri: 8 am - 4:30pm
Services Offered CDL Exams Preventative Care Laboratory Work Minor Surgery
particularly for those age 65 and older who are more prone to falls. When remodeling, add wall supports such as grab bars in the bath, shower and by the toilet. For showers, a fold-down seat and handheld showerhead can add comfort. A wall-hung sink adds space below and can make it easier to clean and move around. Avoid using rugs and instead install slip-resistant flooring. KITCHEN ADDITIONS Redesigning your home with a mother-in-law suite for aging relatives can be a nice way to provide them with everything they need. It will also ensure that everyone has their desired privacy in the home. Again, don’t let drainage limit your remodel plans. Add a modest kitchen setup using Saniflo Sanivite technology. It will pump wastewater away from a variety of sources, such as a kitchen sink, laundry sink and washing machine. Learn more at go.saniflo.com. RAMPS AND STAIRS There may be spaces in a home where you can’t avoid
Sports Physicals Acute & Chronic Disease Management
Acupuncture Dermatology/Skin Checks Medication & Medical Assistance Programs
installing a ramp or stairs. The entryway is one such area. For stairways, install handrails on both sides and add contrast strips to prevent tripping and stumbling hazards. For ramps, the National Association of Home Builders recommends slopes no greater than 1-inch rise for each 12 inches in length, a 2-inch curb for safety and a 5-foot landing at the entrance. All ramps or stairs should have adequate lighting for easy visibility. AMPLE LIGHTING As vision decreases with age, lighting becomes a critical element throughout a home. Consider adding windows and skylights for plenty of natural light. Swap in brighter bulbs and add adjustable features that allow you to customize settings for frequently used spaces. Finally, add motion lights to hallways and bathrooms for easy evening use. Hard-wired lights are preferred to plug-in options, but if you must have cords, make sure they are hidden or secured to the ground. When aging in place matters to you or your family members, these guidelines can help you remodel wisely. Smart updates will help you enjoy your home today and thrive in the future.
(BPT)
14 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com
5 TIPS
for towing trailers, boats and campers
A
ccording to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 20,000 people require medical attention every year because of crashes involving trailers towed by passenger vehicles. These recreational outings don’t need to go sideways - nor does whatever you may be towing. Here’s a safety checklist to ensure you are towing trailers, boats and campers the right way:
too much weight can cause a load of problems, no matter how much power your engine has. On the towing vehicle, avoid using a ball mount and hitch that is rusted, cracked, corroded or poorly designed - anything that can compromise its integrity. A safe answer is applying a new hitch, like the Ultra-Tow Complete Tow Kit from Northern Tool + Equipment, which is a durable and easy solution to pull whatever you’re towing.
FEEL THE (TIRE) PRESSURE: An often-forgotten element on the trailer towing checklist is making sure the trailer’s tire pressure is at the right level. In addition, inspect tires for wear or trauma - and be sure to have a spare.
BOTTOM LINE: Always reference the “coupling to tow vehicle” section of your vehicle manual to make sure it is done right.
GET HITCHED: A starting point to towing is knowing the pulling capacity of your vehicle, as
BE A CHAIN AGENT: The next step is applying the safety chains, which need to be rigged to the
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 7 • Issue 4 - Highroads Living 15
Senior Living in the North Georgia Mountains
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+)
Personal Training • Group Fitness • Zumba Yoga/Pilates • Spin • Tanning • Childcare Now Accepting
3 Locations / 24 Hours leaders in senior living
493 Wesley Mountain Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512 www.wesleywoods.org 706-745-5565
Cleveland, GA 868 S. Main St. 706-219-7690
NOW OPEN! Blairsville, GA Dawsonville, GA 1741 Blue Ridge Hwy. 749 Hwy 53 706-781-5320 706-265-7093
TheGymGA.com LIGHT IT UP: No matter what you’re driving, communicating with other vehicles is paramount to safety - and that means having properly working brake, tail and turn signal lights. Before departing, sync up the trailer lights with the tow vehicle and test it so that other motorists will know your actions. LOCKED DOWN AND LOADED: Once everything is hitched, it’s time to load up the cargo. It’s best to be balanced with weight distribution, but put heavier cargo in the front of the trailer. And of course, do not overload. This pre-departure checklist is only a start. Once on the road, remember the basic safe driving practices when towing a trailer: Drive at moderate speeds, avoid sudden stops, don’t use cruise control and allow more distance for stopping.
tow vehicle. Avoid the common mistake of rigging the safety chains to the hitch or ball mount itself. Safety chains are federal law and will keep the trailer from drifting in the event the trailer coupling separates from the ball mount.
No matter how much of a rush you are in to hit the road, don’t take any shortcuts when it comes to towing safely. (BPT)
16 Highroads Living - Volume 7 • Issue 4
HighroadsLiving.com
Welcome to the Family
promoting community wellness
fostering psychological and emotional healing Newly Renovated Facility Offering: Acute Care, Intensive Care & Outpatient Services ICU/CCU Pediatric Care Heart Center Telemedicine Services Clinical Lab
Family Medicine Internal Medicine Radiology, Mammography, Nuclear Imaging, CT Scan, Ultrasound & Large Bore MRI Rehabilitation Services 10 Bed Senior Behavioral Health Unit
Offering Inpatient and Outpatient Behavioral Healthcare in a quiet, comfortable setting and fostering psychological and emotional healing from a variety of behavioral and mental health issues. We also offer continued care at our Board Certified Psychiatrist’s office with a team of professionals dedicated to improving patient health and making those years golden. In our Inpatient Program we offer the following therapeutic services: • Psychiatric and Physical Evaluations • Medication Management and Education • Individualized Treatment Plan •F amily Education and Support Including Role Play
• Individual and Group Therapy • 24-Hour Professional Psychiatric Support • Reminiscence Therapy • Multidisciplinary Team Approach •P lanning and Discharge with Continued Care Planning
Clearview Senior Behaviorial Healthcare
24-Hour Physician Staffed Emergency Center with Helicopter transport Specialty Clinics Include: Psychiatry, Urology, Gastroenterology, Cardiology
110 S. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546
706-896-7180
One of Georgia’s top 10 Critical Access Hospitals Georgia Hospital Association Core Measure “Chairman’s Honor Roll”
In our Outpatient Psychiatric Center, Chatuge Behavioral Care, we offer psychiatric help and medication management to patients from adolescent to senior adults.
Chatuge Regional Hospital
Chatuge Behavioral Care
110 S. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546
129 South Main Street, Suite C • Hiawassee, GA 30546
706-896-2222
706-896-7102
health care in a family environment
Optimum Care Skilled Care For Up To 112 Residents Family Oriented Facility Wide Variety Of Recreation & Leisure Programs Striving to Improve Quality Of Life High Quality, Well-Balanced Meals Holiday Parties, Family Cookouts, Singing
Chatuge Regional Nursing Home 386 Belaire Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546
706-896-2231
A Member of the Health Care System of Union General Hospital 35 Hospital Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 • (706) 745-2111
Nutritional Assessments Tidy, Clean And Sanitary Facilities Personalized Psychosocial Approach
www.chatugeregionalhospital.org