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 /

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 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.  

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 /

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 // Headaches  

June is National Migraine and Headache Awareness Month

Headaches are common.  It is very likely that each of us has experienced one in the last few weeks.  They can come and go, be minor or major, but what are some of the things that cause our heads to hurt?

Headache is one of the most common types of pain in the world.  Three quarters of the world’s population annually suffers from a headache.  Headaches can cause us to miss out on a family function or miss a day of work or school.  For some continually battling headaches can cause one to feel anxious and depressed.

There are more than 150 types of headaches.  They fall into two main categories:  primary and secondary headaches. 

Primary headaches are headaches that are not due to another medical condition.  Examples include:  Migraine, Cluster headaches, Daily persistent headaches and Tension headaches.

Secondary headaches are related to another medical condition, such as:  Disease of blood vessels in the brain, Head injury, High blood pressure, Infection, Medication misuse, Sinus congestion, Tumor or Trauma. 

A key ingredient to treating headache is figuring out what causes the headache.  Finding out what causes the headache leads to treatment.  There are many components that add up to what type, how often and how severe a headache can be.  Consulting your healthcare provider is the best way to begin to figure out the cause, management and treatment of headaches.  Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing future headaches.

It is important to consult your medical provider with questions about headaches.  Often times they don’t pose a serious threat, but sometimes can be a symptom of something greater. 

For more information on headaches see:  my.clevelandclinic.org, mayoclinic.org, medlineplus.gov

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /

May is… National Moving Month

May is traditionally the busiest month of the year when it comes to moving.  Right now, home sales continue to be brisk.  The summer months are a popular time to move, especially in Minnesota! 

Moving is always a big task and one which takes some effort and planning.  It is also an adventure with new places, people and possibilities. 

Many of our residents have made the move to Copperfield Hill after downsizing or when they want to have other services available to them.  Transportation, meals, activities, housekeeping and nursing services are just a few things that can be customized for each individual here at Copperfield Hill. 

Many of our residents have moved to Copperfield Hill because a family member or friend lives here.  We also would like to remind you of the “Friends and Family” referral program at Copperfield Hill.  Residents referring new residents will receive a referral gift.

Posted in About Us /Assisted Living /General Information /Independent Living /Memory Care /Senior Living /

What is Podiatry??

April is National Foot Health Awareness Month

Taking care of your feet has an impact on your health.  So when we need care for our feet, why should one seek the help of a Podiatrist?  First of all, feet are a very complex part of the body.  They carry us throughout our day, while acting as shock absorbers and balance for our bodies.  Our feet require good care.  A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine or DPM, is a medical expert that has spent many years and countless hours training in the care of the foot and ankle.  DPM’s are uniquely qualified to take care of this part of the body.  Podiatrists have many fields of specialty, such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics and diabetic care. 

At Copperfield Hill there is a monthly podiatry clinic.  Podiatry visits can include: 

~ Comprehensive foot evaluations

~ Nail and callous management

~ Diabetic foot exams

~ Medical equipment evaluations (braces, shoe inserts, diabetic shoes)

These visits are billed to insurance and are routinely covered as office visits by Medicare.

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /Nursing /Senior Living /