Wellness Words January 2017 Posted on January 16, 2017 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Preventing The “Tin Man” EffectThe less you move physically the more you lose in health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Like the tin man in the Wizard of Oz, when inactivity becomes a habit we “rust-up” in a sense, slow down and become less vital.As “older model human beings” like myself, we undoubtedly have either experienced or witnessed the tin man effect that often sneaks up on us as we age. The less we move the harder it is to move, and before we know it “bam” (or rather creak, creak). It becomes harder to get up from a chair or bed or in and out of a car.When the tin man effect happens, an oil can won’t fix the ills of our inertia. Negative consequences of our inactivity may include high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, respiratory conditions, depression and fatigue, among others.The good news is that you don’t need magical instructions or a wizards blessing because it is never too late to “shake off the rust” and return to being active. The following are guidelines for becoming healthier by being active that come from the Academy of Preventive Medicine:Make small activity promises that you can keep … then do them (e.g. I will walk around the block 2X this week or in case of icy sidewalks I will get up and walk around inside with every commercial while I am watching TV).Keep in mind that small activity is always better than no activity!Increase the amount of activity slowly over time.Team up with a friend or family member to support each other and keep moving forward.Keep it feeling fresh by mixing up activities and exploring new options.Balance exercise and other activity with sufficient rest.Be good to yourself and others by praising successes and forgiving mistakes.Don’t give up … you are worth it!As you become more active, you may find you have more energy and that your mood improves. Regular activity will strengthen your bones and muscles and help you to be healthier overall. Whatever you do, don’t give up and hibernate for the winter. Maybe you can get a friend to take a class with you.There are a number of local facilities and groups that offer a variety of classes for all levels of ability and interest such as the Senior Centers and YMCA. HealthLink offers several classes including Tai Chi For Arthritis, Gentle Yoga, Chair Yoga and Gypsy Dancing, as well as snowshoe hikes and winter fun days for the outdoor enthusiasts or one who has “cabin fever.”For more information, call HealthLink Littauer at 736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our NEW wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
American Renal Associates and Nathan Littauer Hospital announce the opening of the Gloversville Dialysis Center Posted on January 13, 2017 by Dakota PikeLittauer President and CEO Laurence Kelly, left, Dr. Ahman Morgan Dr. Soo Gil Lee, and Dr. Hani ShahataGLOVERSVILLE, NEW YORK (January 12, 2017) – American Renal Associates, a leading national provider of outpatient dialysis services, and Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home are proud to announce the opening of Fulton County’s only dialysis center. The Gloversville Dialysis Center is located adjacent to Littauer, with easy access off Easterly Street on the hospital campus.“Opening this dialysis center is a significant milestone for this community,” said Dr. Soo Gil Lee, medical director and co-owner of the Gloversville Dialysis Clinic. “American Renal Associates has always based its Core Values upon putting patient care first. The opening of the Gloversville Dialysis Center illustrates that ARA will continue to successfully build upon its physician-driven partnerships to bring quality dialysis care to local communities like Fulton County. We are proud to serve dialysis patients on Littauer’s campus, and we look forward to developing strong ties to this community.”The new Gloversville Dialysis Center is a state-of-the-art facility that has the capability to offer patients a variety of treatment modalities including in-center hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) and home hemodialysis. The facility will operate under the direction of Dr. Soo Gil Lee.The new dialysis center in Fulton County is a 7,000 square foot facility with the latest in technology in a comfortable, modern setting. Adirondack photos taken by local photographers are permanently exhibited in the center. There are 12 patient stations and one isolation unit. In addition, there are four in-patient dialysis rooms available at Littauer. The new center will employ 14 additional staff and treat approximately 60 patients when it reaches capacity.“We are fortunate to welcome ARA, a leading dialysis services operator, into our community. They have an extensive track record of delivering quality care and operate over 200 dialysis facilities across the U.S.,” said Littauer President and CEO, Laurence E. Kelly. “The opening of the Gloversville Dialysis Center gives patients in our community an option for high-quality dialysis care in a modern facility staffed with dedicated caregivers. We look forward to seeing ARA and its physician partners grow their presence in this region. As I had said when we broke ground, ‘this is the right relationship at the right time’.”Please call the Gloversville Dialysis Center, Easterly Street, Gloversville at (518) 725-9925 for any further information.About American Renal AssociatesAmerican Renal Associates Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ARA) is a leading provider of outpatient dialysis services in the United States serving over 14,400 patients with end stage renal disease in 25 states and the District of Columbia. ARA operates exclusively through a physician partnership model, in which it partners with approximately 370 local nephrologists to develop, own and operate dialysis clinics. ARA’s Core Values emphasize taking good care of patients, providing physicians with clinical autonomy and operational support, hiring and retaining the best possible staff and providing best practices management services. For more information about American Renal Associates, visit www.americanrenal.com.About Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing HomeNathan Littauer Hospital and Family of Health Services serves Fulton, Montgomery, and Hamilton counties in upstate New York with a full-service, 74-bed acute care hospital, nine primary care centers, a nursing home and a community education center. The hospital was founded in 1894 and has 1,000 employees. Littauer’s medical staff provides well over 100,000 patient encounters each year. For more information, please visit www.nlh.org.
Nathan Littauer Hospital & New York Oncology Hematology Join Forces for First-Ever Salon Strong Event Posted on January 4, 2017January 4, 2017 by Dakota PikeFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 4, 2017 “Salon Strong” Recognizes Hair Stylists’ Role in Caring for Cancer Patients New York Oncology Hematology & Nathan Littauer Hospital Join Forces for First-Ever Event on January 9th at Johnstown Holiday InnJOHNSTOWN, NY – A woman depends on her hair stylist to look her best, but when she is diagnosed with cancer the relationship takes on even greater significance. Losing hair, or experiencing changes because of treatment, can be one of the toughest parts of a cancer journey.Women have questions – and so do their stylists. That’s why New York Oncology Hematology and Nathan Littauer Hospital have teamed up to create “Salon Strong,” a first of its kind event that will bring together the region’s salon community for a free cocktail reception and education session on Monday, January 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at the Johnstown Holiday Inn.“This is an opportunity to thank our local hair stylists and recognize them as critical partners in caring for our cancer patients,” said Arsyl De Jesus, MD, a radiation oncologist at New York Oncology Hematology’s Amsterdam office at Riverfront Center. She is speaking at the event. “We want to create a fun evening, share important information and answer questions. We also want everyone to walk away knowing they have resources they can turn to when a client comes to them with concerns.”The cocktail reception is free, but registration is required by calling Nathan Littauer Hospital at 518-736-1120.In addition to Dr. De Jesus, speakers at the event include:Amy Karas, breast cancer survivor and patient of Dr. De Jesus. Karas, co-owner of Ruby & Quiry Carpet One Floor & Home, wore a series of wigs during her own treatment. She now coordinates gift bag donations to NYOH patients.Tammy Merendo, RN, Director of Healthlink Community Education at Nathan Littauer HospitalJessica Bump, Hair Stylist, CW Hair Salon, Johnstown Cheryl McGrattan, Vice-President, Marketing/Public Relations/Community Relations at Nathan Littauer Hospital, said the event idea followed a conversation with Bump, her own stylist. One important part of the evening is a “Salon Strong” decal that each stylist will receive to place on the mirror at their station in the salon.“We want this beautiful ‘Salon Strong’ logo to spark a conversation,” McGrattan explains. “Whether it is for themselves, a friend or family member, we hope it will create a network women can turn to. At Nathan Littauer, we are deeply committed to community education. We work closely with New York Oncology Hematology and are pleased to be partnering on this new initiative to help patients during cancer treatment.”***SALON STRONG LOGO AND PHOTO OF DR. DE JESUS AVAILABLE***About New York Oncology Hematology New York Oncology Hematology (NYOH) is the region’s largest provider of cancer treatment, serving Fulton and Montgomery County for more than 30 years. We offer seven convenient locations, a team of 30 physicians, and more than 350 cancer care specialists. Through our affiliation with The US Oncology Network, one of the nation’s largest cancer treatment and research networks, NYOH offers the latest clinical trials, treatments, and technologies. World class care. Close to home.About Nathan Littauer HospitalNathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home is a full-service, 74 bed acute care hospital with an 84 bed skilled nursing home in Gloversville, NY. Littauer provides the finest in state-of-the-art technology and a caring, dedicated staff of health care professionals. Over the years, the hospital has expanded its services in order offer health care that is comprehensive, accessible, and relevant to the needs of the communities we serve. The Littauer medical staff brings amazing technical expertise and competence to the residents of Fulton County and the surrounding communities.
Wellness Words December 2016 Posted on December 13, 2016 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator A Healthy Start To A New YearThe holiday season is upon us with its many traditions, often including lots of food and quite a bit of stress. As we look forward to a new year, many of us will make resolutions to get and stay healthier in 2017.The first promises often include changes in diet and upping our exercise. Diet programs and gyms will soon be offering incentives for their programs. However, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), between 15-50% of those who start new programs will give them up during the third week of January through the end of February.It’s not that these people are simply ‘weak-willed.’ According to NIH, the fact is that we often have unrealistic goals and expectations. Those who share their goals with others, and make plans that include accountability, are far more likely to succeed than those whose intents remain private.There are no foods or pills that magically burn fat, and no product will miraculously make you slim and fit while you watch TV or sleep. Some supplements and OTC diet products can actually be harmful to your health.Steer clear of any plans, pills or products that make the following claims:Rapid weight lossSpecific food combinations for healthRigid menusUnlimited quantities or severe restrictions in certain foodsNo need to exerciseIf 2017 is the year you really want to set a routine that will improve your health and fitness, then some of the keys to succeeding include, but are not limited to:Setting realistic goals with a competent professionalMeeting regularly in groups or 1:1 with someone who you will be accountable toLearning to make better choices from a reliable, evidence based programA Sodexo program approved by the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics, among other national organizations, is called CORE 4 ADULT WEIGHT MANAGEMENT. This program encompasses nutrition education, physical activity, and the role of behavioral therapy in weight management.Nutrition education focuses on the macro and micro nutrients, calorie composition, food portions, fad diets, food preparation, dining out, food labels and shopping tips. The physical activity module addresses the benefits of exercise, fitness components and the basics of planning a personal exercise program. Behavior modification consists of weekly assignments and discussion under the guidance of professionals. A workbook is included which addresses how to listen to your body and overcome overeating, and obsessions with food.There are individual meetings with a dietitian that focus on your personal needs, developing a treatment plan and individual goal setting. Classes meet for an hour once each week for 12 weeks. The program then goes to monthly meetings for a minimum of another 12 weeks, but may be extended as the needs of the group dictate.HealthLink, and Registered Dietitians of Littauer’s Nutritional Services trained in Sodexo’s CORE 4, will be offering this program on Wednesdays beginning January 18, 2017. For more information or to attend this program, call HealthLink Littauer at 736-1120. You can e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at nlh.org, or visit our NEW wellness center at 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
2016 ARHN Rural Health Community Wellness Champion Margaret “Maggie” Luck of NLH Posted on November 17, 2016 by Dakota Pike2016 ARHN Rural Health Community Wellness Champion Margaret “Maggie” Luck! Maggie, at center. Littauer VP Communications, Cheryl McGrattan, left, Littauer CEO and President, Laurence Kelly, AHI Executive Director Community Assessment & Prevention, Nancy Gildersleeve, and Littauer Director of Community Education, Tammy MerendoIt’s National Rural Health Day and Littauer’s own Maggie Luck is recognized as a 2016 ARHN Rural Health Community Wellness Champion. This is what the Adirondack Health Institute has to say: AHI celebrates NATIONAL rural health day, announces 2016 rural health champions[Glens Falls, NY] – In recognition of National Rural Health Day, November 17, AHI – Adirondack Health Institute announces five 2016 Rural Health Champions. The annual Rural Health Champion recognition is a collaborative effort of the North Country’s seven Rural Health Networks, including the Adirondack Rural Health Network (ARHN), a program of AHI, supported with funds from the NYS Department of Health Charles D. Cook Office of Rural Health.2016 Rural Health Champions:Rural Health EMS Champion: Vicky Campbell, Salem Rescue Squad Captain (Washington County), nominated by Kathy Jo McIntyre, fellow member of the Southern Washington/Northeastern Rensselaer County Mobile Health Steering Committee. “Vicky’s dedication to her community and the surrounding communities to provide care, safety and programs in a rural setting is commendable,” wrote McIntyre.Rural Health Public Health Champion: Jessica Darney Buehler, Senior Health Educator, Essex County Public Health (Essex County), nominated by colleague, Linda Beers, and Josy Delaney, The University of Vermont Health Network – Alice Hyde Medical Center. “Jessica personifies ‘leadership’ and ‘collaboration’ and is dedicated to approaches that positively influence health behaviors and outcomes,” wrote Beers and Delaney.Rural Health Community Wellness Champion: Margaret “Maggie” Luck, Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home Lifeline Services (Fulton County), nominated by colleagues Cheryl McGrattan and Tammy Merendo. “The most amazing thing about Maggie is how kind and willing she is to help anyone. She sets an excellent example in her work ethic and loyalty to the community,” wrote McGrattan and Merendo.Rural Health Leadership Champion: Stephens Mundy, President & CEO, The University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (Clinton County), nominated by colleague Karen Ashline, Adirondacks ACO. “Through partnerships, Stephens has been instrumental in creating real, practical and meaningful health care programs for those who have traditionally been underserved, demonstrating that patient-centered care can be both high-quality and cost-efficient. He has made far-reaching contributions to rural health care in the Adirondack region,” wrote Ashline.Rural Health Behavioral Health Champion: Robert Ross, CEO, St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment and Recovery Centers (Essex County), nominated by colleague Tina Buckley. “He (Robert) is a forward thinker who is constantly advocating for rural health care needs and looking to improve access to care for all those who live and work in our rural communities,” wrote Buckley.“From accessibility issues and health care provider shortages, to aging populations and a higher rate of uninsured and underinsured citizens, rural communities are facing more challenges than ever,” stated Courtney Shaler Smith, ARHN Manager. “Today we have an opportunity to both raise public awareness of rural health care and celebrate the unsung heroes in our region who are making a lasting contribution to the rural health care system.” According to Shaler Smith, nominees can be providers or non-providers who deliver or promote outstanding care and make significant personal and professional contributions to their community.“This region is extremely fortunate to have so many talented individuals dedicated to creating a more efficient and effective rural health care system that is easily accessible, affordable, and provides a better overall patient experience,” said Margaret Vosburgh, CEO, AHI. “Each of our five honorees has had a profoundly positive impact on improving the lives of people in their respective communities and we’re so pleased to recognize their contributions.”Created by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), National Rural Health Day showcases the work being done to address the unique health care needs of rural communities. For more information, please visit www.nosorh.org/nrhd.The Adirondack Rural Health Network (ARHN) is a multi-stakeholder, regional coalition that informs on planning assessment, provides education and training to further the NYS DOH Prevention Agenda, and offers other resources that support the development of the regional health care system. The ARHN includes members from New York’s Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Warren, and Washington counties. For more information, please visit www.ahihealth.org/arhn.AHI – Adirondack Health Institute is an independent 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization licensed under the New York State Public Health Law as an Article 28 Central Services Facility. Since 1987, AHI has supported hospitals, physician practices, behavioral health providers, community-based organizations and others in the region in sharing our vision and mission of transforming health care and improving population health. A joint venture of Adirondack Health, Glens Falls Hospital, Hudson Headwaters Health Network, St. Lawrence Health System, and the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital, AHI’s mission is to create transformative initiatives to improve access to health care services allowing the residents of the Adirondack region to realize their full potential and live a healthy life. For more information, please visit www.ahihealth.org.
