Category Archives: Safety

October // Safety Article

The odds are very good that each and every person reading this article has received at least one (and more than likely, closer to a hundred) sets of manufacturer’s instructions for something.  It can be tempting to toss that paper aside, but DON’T! Manufacturer’s instructions contain detailed and valuable information on how a product should be used and maintained. 

This is especially important for items that can cause significant harm when manufacturer’s instructions are not followed, such as bed rails, mobility devices, and heat-generating devices.  Following manufacturer’s instructions reduces the risk of injury from use of the device. Many studies have found that failing to follow manufacturer’s instructions are a significant cause of preventable injuries.  It is always worth it to take the time to read them, and keep them handy in a designated spot, so you remember where you put them. 

In the words of Benjamin Franklin – “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!” 

Posted in General Information /Safety /

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 /

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.  

DO  

· 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 /

National Simplify Your Life Week

August 1-7, 2022

National Simplify Your Life Week is an opportunity to examine one’s life through physical and psychological clutter. Clutter through our home and personal commitments can bring stress and anxiety.

The history of National Simplify Your Life Week is unknown. However the purpose to promote a stress-free life is thought by many to be a beneficial observation.

Decreasing items from your home, calendar and energy will allow you space to breathe and focus on the areas that bring you joy. Below are four ways to simplify your life.

DECLUTTER YOUR HOUSE

Living in a home with stacks of papers, disorganized closets and heaps of clothes can provide a psychological feeling of being overwhelmed. Decluttering one room at a time is a suggested starting point. You will feel at peace once you have fewer items to worry about.

GET RID OF BAD MENTAL HABITS

Focusing on your past choices and self-pity are examples of unhealthy habits. Create an opportunity to increase your thoughts on gratitude and self-compassion. Arise each day by stating one item you are thankful for.

CUT OUT TOXIC PEOPLE

Negative people can take up extra space in your life by bringing your mental health down rather than being a positive influencer. This does not mean we eliminate people from our lives who are going through hard circumstances. Creating healthy boundaries is vital to an overall stable mental health.GAIN CONTROL OF YOUR TIME

Stop overcommitting your schedule. Allow space in your calendar to focus on the things that matter most to you. Your days and time are precious. Don’t focus on all your tasks and being busy. Allow space in your schedule to just “be”. Be in the moment. Read a book. Take a walk and have a conversation with those you love.

Sources: 

https://nationaltoday.com/national-simplify-your-life-week/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-mentally-strong-people-dont-do/201807/5-ways-simplify-your-life

Posted in Fun Facts /General Information /Health Topics /Safety /Uncategorized /

ASK THE EXPERT // Skin Cancer Awareness

Signs of Melanoma That Are Easy to Miss

One of the most common types of cancer in the U.S., especially among older adults, is melanoma. Roughly 100,000 Americans each year are diagnosed with melanoma.


Have you learned what to look for on your skin? Asymmetrical moles or spots on the skin that continue to grow are areas to keep an eye on. Completing a scan of our bodies to note changes is important to identify unusual signs.

“Melanoma is such a rule breaker,” says Elizabeth Buchbinder, M.D., an oncologist at DanaFarber Cancer Institute in Boston and an assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. Little moles can cause big trouble, and new spots can grow and spread quickly, she adds. “And so knowing what to look out for, it’s super important.”

1. The ‘ugly duckling’ – Men and women with a multitude of moles are noted to have an increased risk for melanoma. However, you should not panic and start counting each mole. Look for the ‘ugly duckling’. In a large group of moles, make note of the mole with an odd shape.

2. ‘Where the sun doesn’t shine’ – Ultraviolet (UV) lights are a cause for melanomas, and not all come from sun exposure. Look for dark streaks under your fingernail or toenail that don’t grow out.

3. Red, white and blue hues – Dark-brown moles are the common color for melanomas, however they can also present in other colors. For example, melanomas can take on a pink hue and be mistreated as a skin rash.

4. Spots on the skin that bleed or itch – Seek a doctor for consultation with a mole that becomes tender or itchy.

Skin cancer is preventable. “People need to really be aware of their skin,” Quigley says. “And if there’s anything that seems abnormal, it’s not the time to wait – it needs to be evaluated.”

Learn more at: www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-2021/melanoma-skin-cancer-risk.html

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /Safety /

February is…

NATIONAL HEART HEALTH MONTH

heart

In 2010, the American Heart Association presented a strategic plan to reduce cardiovascular disease in the United States. It identified seven of the most important behaviors people can follow to protect their cardiovascular health.

Exercise: Regular exercise improves nearly every aspect of your health.

Eat right: Seek out foods such as nuts, whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, seafood, yogurt, and healthy fats.

Blood Pressure: Get your blood pressure checked, make sure your heart isn’t working harder than it should be.

Cholesterol: Know your cholesterol level and keep it low.

Keep blood sugar levels down: Exercise and diet help keep blood sugar levels in check.

Maintain a healthy weight: Fat cells release many substances that increase inflammation, promote insulin resistance, and contribute to atherosclerosis.

Don’t smoke: Smoking and the use of tobacco products isn’t just bad for your lungs, it is bad for your heart too.

Posted in General Information /global interest /Health Topics /Heart Health /History /Human Interest /Independent Living /Nursing /Safety /Senior Living /

Life is a Series of Experiences…

A Timely Message – January 22, 2021

This vaccine will change the world and because of residency in a high priority community, we will be fortunate enough to receive the vaccine sooner than most. I expect that this will bring back normalcy to our lives.

As the founder of Copperfield Hill, and a proud member of our generation, I will be on hand when the providers come to administer the vaccine at Copperfield Hill and be the first to be vaccinated. I have full faith and confidence in the sciences and doctors who have developed this life saving vaccine and want to demonstrate my commitment to you that it is safe and life giving for all the residents of Copperfield Hill. You have shown your faith in our staff and our community by choosing to let us provide for your safety, comfort, wellness and well-being. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

~ Darrel Farr

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Life is a series of experiences and at Copperfield Hill we want you to enjoy them.

It is a great feeling to be able to continue to be the warmth, joy and hope for our residents.  Human connection is one of our most valuable resources.  Each day our residents share connections with friends, family and our staff.  Right now, we know the care, comfort and connection we share is more important than ever.  Each day our Copperfield Hill Family makes sure the needs of all are being met.  Whether it be personal care, meal preparation, pastoral care or medication management, we are here to make sure you and your loved ones are provided with the attention and care that will provide a warm and thriving environment to call home.  Because each person has different needs, our services and programs are tailored for each individual.

Led by the family that founded Copperfield Hill, each member of our staff is dedicated to the health and wellbeing of our residents.  Our promise is to provide the services that make Copperfield Hill a tremendous place to call home.

 

Each day we provide:

Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care

Our Recreation Wellness Director plans an array of socialization opportunities (small groups at this time)

Certified Nursing Assistants on-site 24 hours a day

RN and LPN team on-site to coordinate care

PT/OT works with clients in their homes

Three meals a day served in our dining rooms or delivered

Transportation for medical appointments

Salon on-site, open Mondays and Thursdays

 

Posted in About Us /Activities /Assisted Living /Community Living /General Information /Health Topics /Independent Living /Safety /Senior Living /

National Police Week, May 10-16, 2020

In 1962, President Kennedy proclaimed the calendar week in which May 15th falls, as National Police Week.  This special week honors those who serve in our national law enforcement community.

We at Copperfield Hill are grateful for the outstanding police force here in Robbinsdale, MN.  We depend on their efforts every day to keep our community safe and secure.

Normally, each spring we have the Robbinsdale Police Department come and speak to our community about scams and fraud. Due to our current visiting restrictions, our presentation has been postponed. So, in place here are six scams to watch out for currently. Some of this information you have heard before, but it is always good to be reminded.

Election Scams: Yes, we are in an election year. Scammers are posing as political groups representing one candidate or another. They will call, email, or come door to door asking for contributions. Never give out your credit card or financial information to an unsolicited person pitching for a candidate or cause. Reach out on your own to those you support.

Census Scams: It is also the year that the US is performing the 2020 Census. Never give your social security or financial information to anyone who claims to be a census worker. The census will never ask for your social security number or for donations.

Job Fraud: Scammers are finding online resumes and contacting job seekers. They offer the “job of a lifetime” even offering a sign on bonus. These “bonus checks” come with strings attached, administration fees that need to be paid by the job seeker. It’s too late after the job seeker has wired money for these fees – only to find out the promised check is bogus. It should never cost you to get a job. A professional recruiter is paid by the business that is looking for employees.

Medicare Scams: These are frequent. New scams occur every year. Scammers offer free health care, free cancer screening tests, free genetic tests or free medical devices. Never give out your Medicare number over the phone.

Delivery Scams: Scammers are posing as package delivery representatives. This could be Amazon, UPS, Fedex or others. They ask you to confirm your credit card number in order to confirm your delivery. This can be communicated via phone or email. Never give out your credit card via a link on an email. This can quickly compromise your computer with software that can harvest information for the scammer. If you have a question about a delivery, go directly to the company.

Covid-19 Cons: Unfortunately, scammers are taking advantage of individuals at a time of unprecedented anxiety and uncertainty in our country. Scammers are sending out mail and email advertising virus vaccines and medical treatments. They may ask for credit card information to receive the treatment. Then they bill you for products that never arrive. Be wary of offers during a crisis. Many scammers will take advantage of the heightened sense of anxiety that is present.

These are just a handful of scams. There are many more. However, one thing that all scams have in common: the scammer is trying to get personal, financial or medical information from you. Never give out your personal or financial information to someone that you do not know. The safest thing to do is just hang up the phone.

*You can find out more information at: AARP.ORG, USA.GOV, MNSCAMS.ORG or AG.STATE.MN.US

Posted in Financial /Privacy/security /Safety /