American Heart Month

February is designated as American Heart Month. Heart disease is the number one killer of Americans. It contributes to 1 in every 5 deaths. President Lyndon B. Johnson was the first U.S. president to declare February as American Heart Month in 1964.

> There is no better time in the year to learn a little more about your heart and what it is capable of.

> Your heart beats about 100,000 times per day.

> Your heart pumps blood through about 60,000 miles (96,000 kilometers) of blood vessels.

> A typical heart pumps approximately 4 tablespoons of blood with each beat.

> Almost every cell in your body gets blood from your heart. The outliers can be found in the corneas of your eyes.

> A joke a day may help keep the heart doctor away, as laughing can improve heart health by lowering stress and relaxing blood vessels.

Sources: health.clevelandclinic.org/fun-facts-about-your-heart

www.heart.org/en/around-the-aha/february-is-american-heart-month

Posted in Fun Facts /General Information /Health Topics /Heart Health /

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 /

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 10th, 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 /

September Is Better Breakfast Month

Rise and Shine! Many Americans are in a time crunch in the morning or we have developed poor eating habits with our morning routine. With the change of season, September is a great month to spend time learning the importance of starting our day with breakfast.

Research has been conducted to show a substantial difference in the overall health and well-being of an individual who eats a balanced breakfast.

WHY BETTER BREAKFAST MONTH IS IMPORTANT

· Eating a healthy breakfast helps control your weight

· It helps you fit in all of your daily nutrients

· Breakfast is delicious

IDEAS OF HEALTHY BREAKFAST FOODS

· Scrambled Eggs: Include turkey bacon, fruit and whole grain toast to round out the meal.

· Whole-Grain Waffles: serve with fresh fruit.

· English Muffin Sandwich: Toast a whole-grain muffin. Add low-fat cheese and sliced deli ham.

· Breakfast Tacos: Scramble eggs with beans in tortilla. Add salsa and low fat cheese.

· Whole-Grain Cereal: Add fresh fruit to your unsweetened cereal.

· Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fresh or frozen fruit and granola.

· Smoothie: Blend low-fat milk, frozen strawberries and a banana. Enjoy with a bran muffin.

· Oatmeal: Eliminate the added sugar and add fresh fruit, dried cranberries and almonds.

Source: https://www.eatright.org/food/planning-and-prep/snack-and-meal-ideas/6-tips-for-better-breakfasts

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

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 /