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ASK THE EXPERT // CATARACT AWARENESS

Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in America. Cataracts cause cloudy or yellowed vision. They can obstruct night vision and cause double vision. The cataract stops light from properly passing through to the retina.

Risk factors for cataracts include:

· Long-term UV exposure from the sun

· Inflammation in the eye

· Heredity

· Eye injuries/diseases

· Smoking

Cataracts are not only a Senior Citizen concern either. Although most signs and symptoms of cataracts don’t show until at least age 40, cataracts can affect young adults and children on occasion.

Cataracts in a child can be present at time of birth or can develop after birth. Without proper treatment, children with cataracts could develop a poor visual pathway between their brain and their eyes, causing vision impairments.

There is no proven way to prevent cataracts from developing as we age. Luckily since they are so prevalent, they are easy to treat. The most common solution is cataract surgery. The doctor will remove the clouded lens of the eye and replace it with an intraocular lens. The surgery typically takes 20 minutes and most people are able to return to their normal life in a short period of time.

Sources: https://preventblindness.org/

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /

ASK THE EXPERT // TORNADO/SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY

As Spring brings the very welcome warmer weather, it also brings an increased risk of severe weather. Copperfield Hill has policies and procedures in place to ensure resident and staff safety in the event of severe weather. These policies and procedures can be found in your Resident Handbook. We strongly encourage you to read and review these so you are ready to go in the event of severe weather.

When there is a dramatic change in the weather conditions including: Dark skies, windy conditions, rapid drop in temperature TORNADOS MAY DEVELOP.

Severe Weather/Tornado WATCH means that there are conditions that are favorable to severe weather or a tornado developing.

Severe Weather/Tornado WARNING means that severe weather or a tornado has been spotted and immediate action must be taken to ensure your safety. Close your blinds and windows and stay away from windows. The safest place in your apartment is your bathroom, with the door shut. The safest common areas are the lowest levels of either building, away from windows.

During instances of severe weather, please remember to:

· Keep away from windows

· Keep your cell phone fully charged and nearby

· Wear your emergency pendant

· Locate a flashlight

· Keep a radio or television tuned to a station providing weather updates

Our staff receive regular training on emergency preparedness and response, so we can work together to ensure everyone’s safety. If you have any questions or concerns about any of our emergency preparedness policies and procedures please do not hesitate to contact the front desk. We are happy to help.

~Ashley Farr, Legal Counsel

Posted in General Information /Safety /Senior Living /Uncategorized /

APRIL IS NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH

The month of April is set aside to recognize volunteers and encourage others to offer their gifts. Thriving communities are comprised of a collective group of volunteers. Volunteers lend their time, talent and voice to support organizations they care about. Each and every act of volunteering is appreciated. Volunteers come in all ages. Those who give of their time in one hour increments or countless hours, each are appreciated.

Copperfield Hill is home to many individuals who have offered their time and talents. Some have provided their assistance inside our community and organizations that surround our home. Examples of volunteering have included: watering our poinsettias, leading activities, organizing the library, filling the in-house boxes with weekly calendars, NEAR food shelf, and the local church.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH

· Thank a volunteer.

· Volunteer! Giving of your time is a rewarding experience.

· Research opportunities to volunteer that fit your time, talent and interest level.

· Donate to an organization that aligns with your passion.

***pointsoflight.org/national-volunteer-week/

Posted in Fun Facts /General Information /

Won’t You Be My Neighbor?

On March 20^th, we set aside a day to remember and honor Fred Rogers. Fred Rogers was the host of a popular childhood show, Mr. Roger’s Neighborhood. The first episode aired on PBS on February 19, 1968, and ran until 2001. Mr. Rogers was iconic for his message on the importance of being a kind neighbor.

“All of us, at some time or other, need help. Whether we’re giving or receiving help, each one of us has something valuable to bring to this world. That’s one of the things that connects us as neighbors – in our own way, each one of us is a giver and a receiver.” Spoken by Fred Rogers.

Each one of us has a role to play in our communities. Our places of worship, business, our towns and places we live such as Copperfield Hill, are all opportunities to be givers and receivers of kindness. Each of us are created with unique gifts. We are all important. Every person has a role to play in keeping our communities safe, loving and a special place to call “home”.

At Copperfield Hill we are all part of a family. Neighbors are family. Join me in seeking ways to do something nice for others. Take a moment to appreciate the little things or think about how something you take for granted was made. These are ways we can be a great neighbor.

Sources: nationaltoday.com and inspirekindness.com/blog/mr-rogers-kindness

Posted in About Us /Community Living /General Information /

ASK THE EXPERT // Life Without Loneliness

This month focuses on physical and mental health, because when we are healthier, we are safer! I recently read a US-based study that concluded older adults who are lonely and/or socially isolated have a significantly higher risk of developing dementia. The study concluded that enhancing social engagement and reducing loneliness had a number of significant health benefits, including reducing the risk of developing dementia.

One of the key factors that went into the design of Copperfield Hill was to have our residents live a “Life Without Loneliness.” My grandmother, who was one of Copperfield Hill’s very first residents, was THE social butterfly! She was sharp as a tack and always had a big smile on her face. The health benefits of her social life were very clear! So, this month, I encourage you to take advantage of the MANY opportunities here in our community to engage with others. Check out the activity calendar, or talk to someone you haven’t before, you might make a new friend.

If you have a suggestion for an activity, please contact your community’s Activity/Recreation Specialist. They love suggestions and ideas. This month set a goal to get more involved in our fun and friendly community. Remember, science shows you will be happier, healthier, and of course, safer, as a result!

~Ashley Farr Fjelstad

Legal Counsel & Compliance

Posted in About Us /Activities /Community Amenities /General Information /Senior Living /

ASK THE EXPERT // Fire Safety and Prevention

As we head into what can be the coldest months of the season, we wanted to provide a few reminders about fire prevention and safety.

► Please keep all items away from the floorboard heat registers – especially oxygen containers, paper and cardboard.

► If your apartment is too cold please contact maintenance so they can resolve the problem for you quickly.

► NEVER store things in your oven or on top of your stove.

► If you use oxygen, you must store the containers in a well-ventilated area, with containers secured in a stand or cart so they cannot be easily knocked over. Oxygen containers must never be stored near heat generating sources.

► Do not keep candles in your apartment.

► Remember, if you have a device that is used to generate heat such as a space heater, electric fireplace, etc.you must have it approved by management. If you have such a device, please contact the Front Desk to schedule an inspection from Maintenance to ensure it is safe to use in our setting.

► Ensure all your electric plug ins/cords are in good condition and are not tearing or frayed.

► When using your oven or microwave, make sure you are using the correct temperature and time settings, and have removed any packaging, following the food product’s cooking/heating instructions.

Maintenance routinely tests apartment smoke alarms and the smoke alarms we use are designed to have a 10 year battery life. However, if you hear a chirping/beeping coming from your apartment smoke alarm, please report it to Maintenance right away.

Review the fire emergency portion of your Resident Handbook. Our building is equipped with a fully automated fire sprinkler system, making the risk of widespread fire very low, but it is still good to review that information.

If you have questions about any of our safety or emergency preparedness policies, please contact the Assistant Manager.

Posted in General Information /Safety /

ASK THE EXPERT // Winter Weather Safety

We are happy to announce a new, regular safety column in the newsletter. Please take time to read, they contain useful information and reminders. We hope you find it beneficial! Here are a few things to keep in mind as the snow continues to fall and the temperatures keep us guessing.

As snow gets tracked inside, it increases the risk of wet floors. Watch for wet floors and wet floor warning signs and avoid those areas. Please wipe/remove as much snow as possible from your feet and any mobility device before entering the building. Staff work hard to ensure sidewalks and parking areas around the building are free from snow and ice. However, please remember icy conditions can develop very quickly, so there may be ice on sidewalks and parking areas.

· Make sure you know the weather beforehand

· Dress appropriately in layers, insulated water resistant footwear with non-skid soles, with exposed skin covered

· Stick to flat, even, clear, plowed sidewalks and areas

· Keep an eye out for ice, which can be hard to see

· Use extra caution if you are using a mobility device, and make sure canes and walkers have been adapted for the weather

· Carry your phone with you

DON’T

· Go out if the temperature is very cold or in inclement weather

· Go out at night

· Go out alone

· Stay outside too long

· Go near, and never go out on bodies of water, such as the nearby Crystal Lake – they are not safe in winter

Cheers to a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season!

Posted in General Information /Safety /

ASK THE EXPERTS // COPD AWARENESS MONTH

November provides awareness for the millions of people who have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or known as COPD. This is an umbrella term for emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Over 24 million Americans are affected by COPD. This is a startling number of those who have difficulties with a disease that creates a shortness of breath. Almost half of the adults living with COPD are undiagnosed.

WHAT CAUSES COPD?

COPD is a preventable disease. Smoking cigarettes is the main culprit. If you are currently a smoker, it is not too late to stop smoking. A reduction in the progression of the disease has resulted in those who have quit smoking cigarettes.

HOW CAN I MAKE A SAFER HOME?

This is a question many caregivers have sought answers to assist those who are affected by COPD. Managing indoor triggers is one area to begin.

Below are five suggestions:

1. Avoid using tobacco in your home.

2. Avoid using products with strong odors. Such as: bleach, cleaning products, air fresheners, and perfumes.

3. Keep windows closed during high allergen days.

4. Keep pets out of sleeping areas.

5. Avoid using items that produce smoke. Such as: fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and candles.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute provides a wealth of tools and resources for those either with COPD or caregivers. Information can be found – https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/copd-learn-more-breathe-better/copd-caregivers-toolkit

Sources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/stories/november_copd_awareness_month.html

https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/education/copd-learn-more-breathe-better/copd-caregivers-toolkit

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /Uncategorized /

WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY – OCTOBER 10th

“Make Mental Health & Well-Being for All a Global Priority”

The date October 10^th, was set aside in the early nineties by the World Federation of Mental Health (WFMH). The intention is to raise awareness and open the conversation of the importance for funding and education for those with mental health and society at large.

Those who experience mental illness live in an unequal world. Stigma. Discrimination. Lack of support. These are some of the realities. The good news for those with mental health, the awareness campaigns have started to create traction with change in support systems and stigma in society.

The goal of World Mental Health Day is to create awareness so that people living with mental illness can live better lives with dignity.

HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD MENTAL HEALTH DAY

Do group therapy in the workplace or community groups –

Creating a space to allow for people to openly express themselves and talk through emotions is beneficial.

Practice self-care –

Create regular sleep routines, implement healthy food choices, exercise. Find time for yourself.

Follow the theme –

Research the subject. Awareness provides information for oneself and provides tools for empathy towards others. Ask yourself, how can I assist family members or friends who have mental illness?

Sources:

https://nationaltoday.com/world-mental-health-day

https://www.rethink.org/get-involved/awareness-days-and-events/world-mental-health-day

Posted in General Information /global interest /Health Topics /Human Interest /

BETTER BREAKFAST MONTH: Diabetes – Friendly Options

Creating a healthy breakfast each morning is an important way to start your day. This can improve your energy levels and cognition.

Patients with diabetes find it imperative to start their day with a healthy breakfast. Glucose levels will regulate with breakfast, following a fast through the overnight hours.

Not all breakfast food are great options to consume. Diabetics should focus on meals with fiber, healthy fats and lean protein.

DIABETES – FRIENDLY BREAKFAST OPTIONS

Eggs: Eggs are high in protein but low in carbs and calories, making them a perfect choice for people with diabetes.

Greek Yogurt: Contains less sugar and more protein than the regular kind.

Oatmeal: Oatmeal is full of fiber that helps you feel full and stabilizes your blood sugar.

Whole Grains: Whole-grain breads and cereals are also great sources of fiber.

Source: September is Better Breakfast Month: Diabetes-Friendly Options – America’s Best Care Plus (americasbestcareplus.com)

Posted in Health Topics /Uncategorized /

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