words of wisdom

By Walter Eugene Davis Senior Helpers – Stratham, NH

February is a wonderful month (my great Nana was born on February 25th). As the start of Spring is just a mere 47 days away. As the days in the Northeast begin to get longer, there is a spirit that begins to enter into our day and our heart. It is not just about St. Valentine. LOVE IS IN THE AIR

Walter Eugene Davis

As history tells it, there are three St. Valentines that were either celebrated, “The Feast of St. Valentine” scourged or martyred. Dating back to the Middle Ages and commonly celebrated in England and France was February 14th which began the mating season of birds. The birds were “love struck.” St. Valentine was named the patron saint of lovers, couples and happy friendships and marriages. A time to favor hearts, love notes, flowers, holding hands and ah, yes…cherishing memories. That is where we begin.

Being a caregiver is a labor of love. Whether you are a family member, a friend or a professional. You cannot teach people to care; caring comes straight from the heart. There are many ways to show love, not just a box of chocolates or a bouquet of flowers – folks, those are too easy. Put some thought into it. Your actions will go a long way! You will create a memory and show your loved one or friend that you truly care.

Valentine’s Day is indeed a time to show that you care and to express your love. Here are a few ways that you can making a lasting impact and create a wonderful memory.

Make a favorite meal or dessert. Food evokes fond memories. Childhood meals on Sunday, sitting around the table with extended family, vacations at the beach or movie nights. According to Susan Whitborne, professor of psychological and brain sciences at the University of Massachusetts, “Food memories are more sensory than other memories as they involve really all five senses, so when you’re that thoroughly engaged with the stimulus it has a more powerful effect.” (For me, I like to lay on the kitchen rug when my Dad puts my chicken in the oven to bake. Oh, the smell)

Record your voice. Whether you are simply expressing how much you love them, sharing a memory or reading a poem – the sound of a familiar voice is soothing. The cool part is that every time they are lonely or missing you, they can play your message. (If you are not sure how to do this, I have a great tip. Check out The Voice Library (www.thevoicelibrary.net).

Frame a picture or make a collage. Photos make us feel nostalgic, connected, they make us smile or even cry. They bring the past back to the present. If your loved one is having a difficult time remembering names, take a moment to label each picture. A helpful hint, don’t say “Don’t you remember who this is?” That is more hurtful than you think!

Give them something to cuddle with. On February 2nd we have no idea if Punxsutawney Phil will see his shadow or not. But a cozy blanket, shawl, pillow or stuffed animal (they have black labs too!) would be just the thing to get someone you care about through until Spring arrives.

Go for a ride. Change the scenery! This stimulates the brain which spikes serotonin, the “happy hormone.” A drive along the ocean, or past a familiar neighborhood, or even a stop at a favorite landmark. This, plus some great conversation while listening to favorite music, is great for the soul. You will both benefit.

Just a little hint in closing, people that feel loved are happier and live longer! So, not just on Valentine’s Day…every day…show some love. It will make you feel pretty good too.

A big thanks to Dwight & Gayle Davis, owners of Senior Helpers, for encouraging Walter Eugene to write this new column! Walter is a 6-year-old Lab mix rescue. They all found each other via New England Lab Rescue. Walter came from Hartsville, SC, and ended up hitting the jackpot with his new family! He participates in the family business providing love and comfort to many, with his official title being “Director of Security & Pet Relations.” Walter is also an active member of the welcoming committee!

Senior Helpers provides in-home, non-medical care offering tailored services ranging from companion care for those who need daily assistance to in-depth specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s and other chronic diseases. They’ve worked with clients ranging in age from 25 to 104. Senior Helpers was voted “Best of the Seacoast” in home health care and received the “Business Excellence Award” and “Top 200 Most Influential Business Leaders in New Hampshire” from the New Hampshire Business Review.