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Volume 8 • Issue 1
5 Steps to the Retirement of Your Dreams Gardening Tips for Azaleas Healthy Recipes & More Local Medical Directory Senior Housing & Independent Living
www.HighroadsLiving.com
To Advertise, Please Contact: Mountain Lake Publishing 888-896-2412
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Understanding
INSURANCE BENEFITS
N
o matter where you are in life, whether you’re just starting your career or nearing retirement, it’s important to understand the voluntary benefits available to you that can complement traditional health insurance.
While health insurance can help cover medical costs in the event of injury or illness, sometimes there are additional expenses your health care plan doesn’t cover. Voluntary benefits, such as life insurance, disability insurance and dental insurance, offered by your employer or as portable options through a company like Colonial Life can help bridge the gap should an unexpected event occur. “Even if an employee has to pay a nominal sum for a voluntary benefit like disability insurance or dental coverage, it can be well worth it,” said Sharlyn Lauby, president of ITM Group Inc., creator of the HR Bartender blog and contributor to Colonial Life’s WorkLife blog. “Think of voluntary benefits as those specialized, personalized extras that make your overall benefits package exactly what you’d like it to be.” Benefits can be complex, but with the right information about the options available you can make choices that best fit
your lifestyle and budget. Consider these common voluntary options:
LIFE INSURANCE
While almost nine out of 10 Americans agree most people need life insurance, just 60 percent said they have it, according to LIMRA’s Trends in Life Insurance Ownership study. With benefits typically paid tax-free to your beneficiary, life insurance can provide peace of mind and help loved ones pay for funeral costs, cover living expenses, pay off debt, finance future needs and protect retirement plans. Policies are often available through employers, but you may lose the coverage if you change jobs. However, portable policies are also available that allow you to maintain coverage even if you change jobs or retire. To learn how much life insurance protection your family needs, visit worklife.coloniallife. com/calculator.
DISABILITY INSURANCE
No one usually expects to get sick or injured, however, disability insurance can help protect your income and maintain your lifestyle if a physician determines you’re unable to work due to a covered accident or illness. Common conditions such as pregnancy and childbirth, heart attacks,
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strokes, cancer and accidents make up the majority of disabilities that lead to an inability to work. With shortterm disability benefits, you receive financial support for a predetermined amount of time to cover expenses such as a mortgage or rent, car payments, utilities and more so you can focus on recovery.
DENTAL INSURANCE
Daily brushing and flossing can help keep your mouth healthy, but that’s not always enough as dental problems can lead to other health problems if left unattended. When you see a dentist for routine appointments and necessary procedures, dental insurance can help reduce the outof-pocket expense. In fact, among insurance benefits typically provided to employees, 61 percent of workers view dental benefits as important, ranking second after medical insurance, according to LIMRA. Dental insurance provides coverage for regular cleanings and more extensive procedures like fillings, crowns, dentures and tooth removal. Some plans even offer allowances for orthodontic work like braces and retainers.
ACCIDENT INSURANCE
When an accident happens, one of the last things many people want to think about is how they’re going to pay the bills. You can prepare for the unexpected with accident insurance, which provides a lump-sum benefit - based on the injury suffered and treatment received - that can be used to help pay for expenses following an accidental injury, such as doctor bills, co-pays, emergency room fees, transportation, lodging and follow-up care.
CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE
No matter your age or health status, a sudden illness could significantly impact your financial well-being, and health insurance may not cover everything. When a critical illness such as a heart attack, stroke or major organ failure occurs, major expenses often follow, and critical illness insurance can help off-set costs. In addition to your dayto-day bills, the lump-sum benefit can be used to pay for treatment- and recovery-related expenses including deductibles and co-pays, child care, travel and lodging, gym memberships and out-of-network treatment facilities and procedures. Learn more about how you can live healthier, enjoy more success at work and take full advantage of your benefits at worklife.coloniallife.com. Family Features Photo courtesy of Getty Images #14583 Source: Colonial Life
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
Sports Physicals Acute & Chronic Disease Management
Acupuncture Dermatology/Skin Checks Medication & Medical Assistance Programs
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“A” = Anti-Aging Why Vitamin A is Beneficial
T
he foods you eat every day must provide the nutrients you need to thrive and Vitamin A is one of those essential nutrients. Vitamin A is needed for eye health and good vision plus maintaining healthy teeth, skeletal, tissue, mucus membranes, and skin.
Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant. As it moves through your body it scavenges damaging free radicals and fights inflammation. It’s wide reaching influences on your overall health have earned it the reputation of being an anti-aging vitamin. Common signs of vitamin A deficiency include dry or scaling skin, weak fingernails, chronic intestinal issues, low Vitamin D levels, respiratory infections, and eye problems that can lead to Macular degeneration.
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• Partial Dentures
• Dentures
• Children 6 & up
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin and it’s found in plenty of foods including plants and foods of animal origin. It’s not too difficult to get enough vitamin A as long as you have a varied and balanced diet. There are some key differences between animal and plant sources of vitamin A.
Beta-carotene is an antioxidant and can protect the cells from damage caused by substances called free radicals. Free radicals are believed to contribute to certain chronic diseases and play a role in the aging process. Food sources of carotenoids such as beta carotene may reduce the risk for cancer although Beta-carotene supplements do not seem to reduce Animal-derived foods are called retinol. This cancer risk. Vitamin A is also available in dietary “pre-formed” vitamin A can be used directly by supplements. the body. Good food sources of retinol vitamin A include beef and chicken liver, whole milk and The recommended daily amount of vitamin A is 900 cheese. micrograms (mcg) for adult men and 700 mcg for adult women according to Mayo Clinical studies Plant sources are obtained from colorful fruits and and too much Vitamin A can be harmful. Checking vegetables in the form carotenoids include carrots, with your doctor is also recommended to not have sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and cantaloupes. interactions of other prescriptions you may be taking, including Anticoagulants, Retinoids, Hepatoxic drugs, Carotenoids are dark-colored dyes or pigments found Bexarotene, or Orlistats. in plant foods that turn into a form of vitamin A. There are more than 500 known carotenoids. One such To help in feeling your best and to reduce premature carotenoid is beta-carotene. aging signs remember the old adage of Vitamin “A” (for apple) keeps the Dr. away.
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ABE’S SHUTTLE SERVICE
steps to the retirement of your dreams
Patients to Doctors Shuttle 706-994-4010 abesshuttle.com
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recent study finds that 52 percent of American households are at risk of not being able to carry their current lifestyle into retirement. This is an increase from an estimated 45 percent of households in a 2004 study. The estimated retirement savings shortfall amounts to roughly $6.4 trillion. In many cases, this dramatic number is the result of a lack of financial education. Many adults today know little about retirement planning because they weren’t educated on the topic during high school or college. For example, many people don’t realize that an individual retirement account, continuously funded at $3,000 per year - starting at age 20 and based on an estimated rate of return of 8 percent - will yield $1.16 million when they retire at age 65. That same account - started at age 30 instead - will only yield $517,000 at age 65. All of this underscores the importance of being smart with your retirement planning and adjusting your strategy based on your age. A good financial planner can help you do all of that. To find the right financial planner to help you prepare for retirement, the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors (NAPFA) offers these tips. 1. Look for a planner who is a fiduciary. Planners who are fiduciaries have a duty of loyalty to their clients and a duty of care. The duty of loyalty means they must always consider their clients’ interests above their own, even if that negatively impacts their own income. The duty of care means an advisor must care for clients as though they were loved ones and provide them with prudent advice. Look for a planner who is a fiduciary and put that duty of care to work for you. You can learn more about how to find a fiduciary advisor at napfa.org/financial-planning/ fiduciary-101. 2. Focus on experience. Your retirement future isn’t something you want to leave to someone without the proper credentials. There are more than 100 professional designations in the financial services industry, but only a few of them truly indicate a professional’s ability to do holistic financial planning. Look for
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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.)
planners with the CFP(R) certification. This certification means a financial planner has met rigorous professional standards and has agreed to adhere to the principles of integrity, objectivity, fairness, confidentiality, professionalism and diligence. 3. Focus on financial planning. Your financial future will be dependent on a sound financial plan, so look for a professional who focuses on true financial planning. Ask your planner if they have ever written a financial plan and what the plan might look like for you. Holistic financial planning includes tax planning, education planning, estate planning, retirement advice and more.
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
4. Ask how your planner will minimize and disclose conflicts. Your planner is not just a professional entity, but also a person with personal interests and business dealings. This means that no matter which planner you select, there is a chance that your planner’s personal dealings could create a conflict with your financial decisions. That’s OK and normal. The key is to find a planner that will minimize conflicts and disclose any conflicts to you ahead of time. Ask potential planners how they will handle such a situation and don’t take “It won’t happen” for an answer. 5. Are they compatible with you? This last quality is certainly one of the most important. How comfortable does the planner make you feel? As you speak, do you feel the planner understands your goals and is a person you could trust long-term? Over the course of your relationship you will share plenty of personal information with your planner, and entrust them with your financial future. Listen to your gut and choose a planner you feel comfortable with. Start your planner search today Living the life you want in retirement is possible if you start planning for it now. The right financial planner can help you realize your goals, so don’t delay in finding the right planner for you. Visit NAFPA for more consumer resources on how to find the right planner for you today. (BPT)
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
NOW OPEN! Blairsville, GA Dawsonville, GA 1741 Blue Ridge Hwy. 749 Hwy 53 706-781-5320 706-265-7093
TheGymGA.com
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TIPS
for reducing your out-of-pocket medication costs
W
hen you’re sick, the last thing that you want to worry about is how you’re going to pay for your critical medical treatment. Even if you have health insurance, you may find that the prescription drugs you need the most are out of reach due to high out-of-pocket costs - the deductibles, copays or coinsurance that are not reimbursed by insurance. Many people find themselves choosing between paying bills and buying essential prescription medications. Nonprofit organizations like the Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, an independent charitable organization dedicated to helping people with the out-of-pocket costs for their prescribed medications, can help alleviate some of that pressure. Dan Klein, president and CEO of the PAN Foundation, offers the following tips for relieving some of the stress and financial burden for people struggling to afford their prescription medications. 1. TALK TO YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST Your healthcare team can help you find ways to manage your outof-pocket costs. Skipping doses of medication or failing to fill prescriptions because they’re too expensive can make your treatment less effective. Doctors, pharmacists and other healthcare providers often have access to drug samples, coupons and information about organizations that can help you get the medication that you need at a price you can afford. While it can be hard to discuss your finances with your healthcare team, being clear about what you can afford can help them tailor your treatment plan effectively. 2. ASK YOUR DOCTOR TO PRESCRIBE GENERIC DRUGS Generic drugs can be a great way to reduce your out-of-pocket prescription costs. Many name-brand drugs that are used to treat common conditions have a generic equivalent that is significantly cheaper, especially if the name-brand medication is an older drug. Generic drugs are safe and effective and are rigorously tested by the FDA to ensure that they are just as good as the brand-name versions. 3. START USING FUNDFINDER Sign up for FundFinder. This free web-based app developed by the PAN Foundation connects you with a charitable patient assistance
foundation that can help pay the out-of-pocket costs for your prescription medications. Rather than having to monitor multiple charitable patient assistance foundations to see if they’re offering funding, the app checks for you and alerts you through email or text when the financial help that you need is available at PAN or another charitable foundation. 4. SHOP AROUND AND USE COUPONS If your medication is more than you can afford at your usual pharmacy, check with other pharmacies in your area to compare outof-pocket costs. For those with commercial insurance, don’t forget to ask your doctor or pharmacist if there are any coupons or moneysaving offers available for your prescription. 5. LEARN MORE ABOUT ASSISTANCE FROM YOUR STATE Many states offer pharmaceutical assistance programs or other health programs to help pay for the out-of-pocket costs of prescription medications. Contact your state’s department of health to find out about any assistance programs that are available and if you qualify. Your state’s health department can also guide you to other state and charitable resources that can help you access your medication. 6. REVIEW YOUR MEDICARE COVERAGE OPTIONS If you have health coverage through Medicare, make sure that your plan meets your health and financial needs. There may be other options that will help you better manage your out-of-pocket drug costs. Find out from an expert if your current plan includes the prescription drug coverage that you need and how to search for a new drug plan if it doesn’t. You may also be eligible for other Medicare programs - like a Low-Income Subsidy or Extra Help - that can lower your out-of-pocket costs. Living with an illness is stressful enough without the added worries about how to afford the out-of-pocket costs for your medication. You can learn more about patient assistance charities like PAN and the ways you can get help paying for your prescription medical treatments at panfoundation.org. (BPT)
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 9
MedicalDirectory BLAIRSVILLE
CLEVELAND
Brasstown Pharmacy Drug & Gun 706-745-2303 23 B Murphy Hwy.
Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N.
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
Mountain Home Health 706-745-5101 136 Hospital Dr Suite B Formerly Appalachian serving 25+ years uniting the best with 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! MountainHHA.com See page 3
N. Georgia Hearing Aid Specialist, LLC 706-745-1861 281-C Young Harris Street Connie Duncan hearing aid specialist serving the local area for over 25 years. All make repair, new digital technology, any brands except franchise. “Hearing Aid Specialist of the Year - 2012” Conviently located for over 15 years, next to the Blairsville Post Office.
CLAYTON
Med Link Georgia 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 page 13
ANDREWS
Mountain Home Health 828-389-8106 115 Mountain Home Nursing Lane
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See page 13
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 3
DEMOREST
MURPHY
Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N.
Murphy Dental Center 828-837-5911 119 Natural Springs Drive
Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org See page 13
HAYESVILLE Chatuge Family Practice 828-389-6383 241 Church Street Established 42 year Community medical practice that offers many services. Variety of Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Assistant Payment programs available. chatugefp.org See page 3
Healthy Smiles 828-360-3999 159 Hwy 64 West Whether you need a complete dental rehabilitation, a mini cosmetic makeover, or a basic maintenance exam and cleaning, we can help you. healthysmilesbydrb.com See page 5
Modern Dentistry in a caring, home-like atmosphere including General Dentistry, CEREC Dentistry, Sedation, Fast Braces. murphydentalcenter.com
HIAWASSEE Chatuge Regional Hospital 706-896-2222 110 S. Main Street Health Care at it’s Best! Full service hospital, 24hour Physician staffed for emergencies and patient care. Specialized care include Clearview Senior Behavioral Healthcare & Chatuge Regional Nursing Home. uniongeneralhospital.com See page 16
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 See page 12
SeniorLiving
Elaine’s Care Home 828-321-9501 288 6th St. & 17 Moore Street Elaine’s Care has been licensed in NC since1998 and specializes in long-term care residence for the elderly. The home also provides hospice and respite care with an outstanding 4-star rating. Amenities include medication management, personal care, home-cooked meals with private rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV and much more. elainescare@outlook.com
BLAIRSVILLE
Wesley Mountain Village / Simpson Estates 706-745-5565 493 Wesley Mountain 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 7
HIAWASSEE
Hiawassee Park Baptist Retirement 762-500-2021 89 Hiawassee Park Drive 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 11
HAYESVILLE Clay County Care Center 828-389-9941 86 Valley Hideaway Drive Skilled Nursing Facility providing rehabilitation, long term care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and dementia secured care. claycountycarecenter.com
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Gardening Tips for your
Azaleas
A
s winter’s cold continues in the beginning of the year, many people look forward to the “Spring Season” especially gardeners who plan to landscape their homes or create unique gardens for their property. Among the most popular garden shrubs are azaleas and rhododendrons that are known for their spectacular spring flowers. In winter some stand out with large evergreen leaves, then spring shows beautiful flower blooms and in fall the leaves add a pleasing, deep green color to the garden.
botanical legacy garden for the education and enjoyment of all who visit.”
One of the area local experts on how to care for these magnificent blooms is Hamilton Gardens at Lake Chatuge in Hiawassee, GA. Hamilton Gardens is an official State botanical garden with the largest collection of rhododendrons and native azaleas in the Southeast. The Gardens have approximately 33 acres, 1.5 miles of mulched trails that include more than 2,000 rhododendrons and native azaleas and is open to the public year-round.
Some very important tips include:
In early 2016, a nonprofit group of volunteers took over the management and operation of this garden with a mission to “restore, preserve, and enhance this public
One of many events for Hamilton Gardens is a program called “Let’s Get Growing” that conducts public lectures in the summer. Additional projects include area schools and colleges to developing plans with Horticulture students and creating volunteer work programs. Educational programs help the community preserve flowering shrubs, wildflowers and hardwoods indigenous to the Appalachian Mountains.
• Azaleas need to planted in partial shade and do best with morning sun and afternoon shade. A site sloping to the north or east is usually best to protect from drying south and east winds, and from rapid temperature changes in late fall or early spring. • Spacing needs to be factored in when deciding where to plant azaleas. If the mature plant will grow to under 3 feet tall, space the plants 2 feet apart. If over 3 - 5 feet tall, leave at least 30 inches between each plant.
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 11 We Put the in Senior 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 • Companion plants, whether bulbs, shrubs or perennials, should be selected to require the same growing conditions as the azaleas. • While it is possible to prune these plants anytime from early spring to early summer it is recommended to prune is immediately after blooming. This is because the plants begin to form next year’s blooms soon after shedding the current year’s flowers.
A Blooming Affair
• Mulch plants every spring with 2 to 5 inches of pine bark chips or pine needles to protect shallow roots, retain soil moisture, and keep the soil damp. • Established azaleas typically do well without additional fertilizer if azaleas are kept well mulched. If you do fertilize, it is best to apply it between late fall and early spring when plants are dormant. To get more tips attend the annual event at Hamilton Gardens called “A Blooming Affair,” held during the bloom period in early April and continues through late May. Various activities and plant sales will be held during this time. Proceeds go toward the restoration of this magnificent heritage garden and donations are kindly accepted by “Mr. Rhodie.” A donation box located at the entrance to the gardens. Hamilton Gardens is a 501©3 non-profit organization.
Come visit!
A walk through Hamilton Gardens will leave you breathless and inspired. The Gardens are open year round and are located at 96 Pavilion Road in Hiawassee, Ga. For more information call (706) 970-0011, email info@hamiltongarden.org, or visit our website at www.hamiltongardens.org
Peak Season begins Mid-April Weekend Plant Sales OPEN YEAR ROUND 8AM - 8PM
(706) 970-0011 hamiltongardens.org
96 Pavilion Road, Hiawassee GA 501 (c) 3 non-profit Available whenever you want, wherever you happen to be ...
web • tablet • print
www.highroadsliving.com
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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.
706-896-1251 www.regencyhospice.com
W
hen it comes to vaccines this time of year, influenza is often top-of-mind and it should be, with as many as 35 million cases expected this flu season. But as you age, don’t neglect the shingles vaccine.
50 or over? Why you may want to consider new shingles vaccine Cause and complications of shingles
Shingles isn’t contagious in the way we think of the cold or flu. Instead, shingles erupts from the same virus that causes chickenpox, the varicella zoster virus (VZV). After a chickenpox infection ends, this virus becomes dormant or inactive within the body. Imagine if the slightest breeze or the touch of a bed Anyone who has had chickenpox can later get shingles sheet caused excruciating pain on your head, shoulder if the virus reactivates. Scientists are unclear why this or side. What if you also had a fever, chills or an upset happens. stomach? That’s what shingles, a painful, blistering rash, can be like for some people. A bout of shingles typically occurs in a single stripe on one side of the body, often the torso and less often Nearly one out of every three people in the United the face region, and generally lasts from two to four States will develop the disease in their lifetime, weeks. Around 10 to 13 percent of people who develop according to the Centers for Disease Control and shingles continue to suffer for many years from the Prevention (CDC). The risk for people over 50 is debilitating nerve pain of post-herpetic neuralgia especially high, and it goes up with increasing age. (PHN), according to the CDC. The good news is there is a way to reduce your risk Other potential shingles complications include of shingles. The CDC now recommends that healthy vision loss, hearing problems and even, in rare cases, adults 50 years and older receive Shingrix, a vaccine blindness or death, the CDC said. approved by the FDA in 2017.
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OFFERING MEDICARE WELLNESS EXAMS & WELCOME TO MEDICARE EXAMS 15 Family Health Centers, including dental & pharmacies. Accepting all insurances including MEDICARE & MEDICAID.
RABUN - two locations - call 706-782-5991 (South) 896 Highway 441 S Clayton, GA. 30525
HABERSHAM
(North) 773 North Main Street Clayton, GA. 30525
BANKS
396 Historic Highway Demorest GA 30535
1244 Historic Homer Hwy Homer, Georgia 30547
706-754-4348
706-677-4568
FLU SHOTS - no appointment necessary
Visit medlinkga.org for other locations and information
The only way to reduce your risk of developing supply. You may be placed on a waiting list. shingles and its aftereffects is to get vaccinated. * Shingrix comes in two doses, spaced two to six months apart.
What’s different now?
The CDC describes Shingrix as the preferred shingles vaccine. Its protection has been shown to last longer than the older shingles vaccine. It also can be administered as early as age 50. The other shingles vaccine, an older version called Zostavax, may still be administered to healthy people 60 and older.
* If you’ve already had shingles or received the Zostavax vaccination previously, you should still consider getting vaccinated to help prevent another bout of shingles and its complications, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
* Check with your health insurance provider or Shingrix is more than 90 percent effective at preventing Medicare about whether the cost of this new vaccine shingles, and effectiveness stays above 85 percent is covered under your plan. Whether it’s helping to for at least the first four years after you receive the schedule routine care appointments or checkups, UnitedHealthcare can help you navigate the health vaccine, according to the CDC. care system to get the care you need as soon as you need it.
What else to know about the vaccine
* There is a high demand for Shingrix, so check with your pharmacy or doctor’s office to see if they have a
(BPT)
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Exquisite Eating SMALL PLATES TO MAKE FOR APPEALING DISHES
Imagine treating yourself and your dinner guests to a delicious, restaurant-caliber meal without leaving you r dining room or hiring a per sonal chef. Small plates, als o known as tapas, are lighter, bite-sized indulgences that you can prepare and style seamless ly. By putting your own artful , unique spin on small plates, you can indulge in a meal tha t appeals to the senses and con veys sophistication. It can be easy to create delicio us small plates: all you need are wholesome, seasonal ing redients to pair with an artisa ncrafted, quality olive oil suc h as Carapelli. The line, wit h three varieties to explore, bri ngs a renaissance to the moder n kitchen and is ideal for endeav oring chefs looking to try new flavors and experiment with tastes or recipes. It embodies a true passion for the art of creatin g extra-virgin olive oils and is designed to lift cooks out of the everyday cooking experience. Keep in mind that when it comes to small plates, what’s important isn’t just the recipe , but the plate - and plating - of the cuisine itself. Foods that app eal to the eye are likely to tem pt the taste buds as well. Invest in appropriate-sized dishware for small plates that allows the foo d to take center-stage. For a true multi-sensory indulg ence, also take time to garnis h your dishes, big and small, wit h edible enhancements that len d a subtle complement to the ma in attraction. A selection of fre sh greens, sprinkling of herbs and even a light drizzle of olive oil can do the trick. Plan how you’ll adapt your fav orite dishes for size - and sea son - with more tips and recipes at carapelliusa.com. Family Features #14451 Source: Carapelli Olive Oil
Olive Oil Drizzled Pecorino Popcorn
Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 4 Ingredients: 1/2 cup grated pecorino, plus more for garnish 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more for garnish 3 tablespoons Carapelli Unfiltered Extra Virgin Olive Oil, divided 1/3 cup yellow popcorn kernels In bowl, combine pecorino and pepper; mix until well combined and there are no cheese clumps. In small saucepan over low flame, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil; keep warm. Add remaining olive oil and popcorn to large Dutch oven. Stir until all popcorn kernels are coated in oil. Cover Dutch oven with lid and cook over medium-high heat, shaking pot periodically. Once popcorn begins to pop, lower heat to medium and continue to shake pot approximately every 15 seconds. When popping slows considerably, remove Dutch oven from heat and allow to rest until popping ceases, about 30 seconds. Remove lid and transfer popcorn to large mixing bowl. Drizzle warm olive oil over popcorn; toss to coat. Sprinkle cheese mixture over popcorn; toss to coat. Divide popcorn into bowls. Sprinkle some freshly grated pecorino and dash of freshly ground black pepper over top; serve.
HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 1 - Highroads Living 15
Carrots and Fresh Herbs with Champagne-Dijon Vinaigrette
Prep time: 10 minutes Servings: 6 Champagne-Dijon Vinaigrette: 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard 1 tablespoon clover honey 1/2 cup Carapelli Organic Olive Oil 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped 1 teaspoon basil, finely chopped 1 pound carrots, peeled and finely shredded 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons chives, thinly sliced, plus more cut into 3/4-inch pieces, for garnish 1/3 cup Champagne Vinaigrette fine sea salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste chive sticks, for garnish In medium mixing bowl, combine champagne vinegar, Dijon and honey. Whisk constantly until well combined. While whisking, slowly drizzle in olive oil to emulsify. Add garlic, salt, pepper, parsley and basil: whisk to combine. In mixing bowl, toss carrots, parsley and chives. Add dressing. Season, to taste, with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Garnish with chive sticks. Notes: Vinaigrette can be stored in refrigerator up to five days. For zestier salad, add additional 2 tablespoons vinaigrette to carrots; serve with crusty bread.
Whipped Ricotta and Goat Cheese Beet Skewers
Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 3 hours, plus cooling time Servings: 42 skewers Beets: 2 beets (about 1 pound), 3 inches in diameter, peeled and sliced into 3/4-inch chunks 1 tablespoon Carapelli Oro Verde Extra Virgin Olive Oil, plus more for drizzling 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon sea salt arugula, for garnish flaked sea salt, for garnish Whipped Ricotta and Goat Cheese: 4 ounces goat cheese 1/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese 1 tablespoon Carapelli Oro Verde Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest 1/8 teaspoon sea salt 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Heat sous vide water bath to 185 F. In mixing bowl, combine beets, olive oil, thyme and salt; toss to coat. Remove beets from liquid and divide, placing them in single layer into two quart-sized vacuum-seal bags, leaving any excess liquid behind. Use vacuum sealer to remove air and double-seal bag. To use zip-top bags instead, slowly dip slightly open bags into large container filled with water, allowing water to displace air. Seal bags when air is removed. Place vacuum-sealed bag into prepared water bath, placing heavy, heat-resistant bowl on top of beets to keep them submerged, if necessary. Cook 3 hours. If you do not have a sous vide machine, bring large stock pot filled with water to rolling boil. Place vacuum-sealed bags in water. Reduce to gentle simmer, cover and cook 1 hour. Carefully remove beets from water bath and cool in sealed bag until they reach room temperature, about 30 minutes. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes more before serving. In mini food processor, cream goat cheese, ricotta and olive oil until smooth. Add zest, salt and pepper: stir to combine. Transfer cheese mixture to piping bag fitted with star tip and refrigerate until ready to use. To serve, remove beets from bag and arrange on serving platter. Pipe dollop of Whipped Ricotta and Goat Cheese onto each beet. Drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with arugula and pinch of flaked sea salt; place skewer through each beet to serve.
16 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 1
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