Wellness Words October 2015 Posted on October 12, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Fall Risks For Seniors: Myths & RealitiesMany people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is they are not! Most falls can be prevented, and YOU have the power to reduce your risk. According to the National Council on Aging, there are a number of myths that prevent many people from being proactive in preventing falls. The following are the most common myths and realities:Myth: “Falling won’t happen to me.”Reality: 1 in 3 older adults fall every yearMyth: Falling is normal as we age.Reality: Falls are not an inevitable part of aging. Taking proactive steps to prevent falls can reduce your risk significantly.Myth: Limiting my activity will prevent a fall.Reality: Physical activity will actually improve your strength and range of motion, and help you remain independent.Myth: Staying at home and on one floor reduces my risk of falling.Reality: Over half of all falls take place at home. Ground level falls are the most common. To reduce your risk you should fix such hazards as clutter, loose throw rugs, and poor lighting. Make simple home modifications such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second hand rail on stairs, and non-slip treads in tubs and on stairs.Myth: At my age muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained.Reality: It’s never too late to start exercising. Even if you have been a “couch potato” most of your life, becoming more active now will benefit you in many ways including reducing your risk of falling.Myth: Medications, including over-the-counter medicines, won’t increase fall risk.Reality: Taking any medication can increase fall risk. We all react to medications differently. Be careful when starting any new medication. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about potential side effects or interactions for all your meds.Myth: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.Reality: Walking aids will assist you to maintain and even improve your mobility. However, to use these devices safely have a therapist fit the device to you and instruct you in use. Do not use someone else’s device.Myth: I don’t need to have my eyes checked annually.Reality: People with vision problems are twice as likely to fall as those who don’t. For those with extremely low vision there are assistive devices that can help. Ask your ophthalmologist for a referral.Fall prevention is everyone’s responsibility! Talk with your doctor, pharmacist or physical therapist about what you can do to reduce your risk of falling. Try one of the many exercise programs for seniors offered by HealthLink, senior centers, and organizations like the YMCA.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 on 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.
Wellness Words September 2015 Posted on September 8, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Do’s & Don’ts Of Medication SafetyAccording to the Institute for Safe Medicine Practices, 40% of adverse drug reactions requiring hospitalization occur in people over age 60. This is, in part, due to the facts that people in this age group use 30% of all prescription drugs and 40% of all over-the-counter (OTC) medication.Don’t gamble with your health! What you don’t know CAN hurt you. Every drug, whether prescribed or OTC, has potential side effects and may interact with other meds or food in a way that may not be safe. For example, antacids can affect blood thinner absorption as well as make some antibiotics ineffective.To keep safe when you are taking medication, you need to follow this simple list of do’s and don’ts to make sure your medication works safely to improve your health.Do’s:Do take each medication exactly as prescribed.Do make sure all of your doctors know about all of your medications.Do tell your doctor(s) about any OTC medications you are taking including vitamins and other supplements.Do use the same pharmacy so they can help you understand how to use all of your drugs safely and identify possible interactions.Do keep medications out of the reach of children and pets.Don’ts:Don’t change your medication dose or schedule unless you talk with your MD.Don’t use medication prescribed for someone else.Don’t crush or break pills unless your doctor or pharmacist advises you to.Don’t store your meds in locations that are humid, too hot or too cold. It is recommended that you don’t store medication in your bathroom, near your stove or in the refrigerator, unless the pharmacist indicates particular temperatures for the drug.Don’t use medication beyond its expiration date.Dispose of Medications SafelyWhen medications have passed their expiration dates, disposing of them safely will protect you and others, including children and pets, and anyone who might find these meds in your trash. Safe disposal of meds also protects the environment from toxic pollutants.The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recommends the following disposal guidelines:Remove drugs from their original containers and remove or scratch out identifying information from labels.Do NOT crush pills or capsules.Mix medications with kitty litter, coffee grounds, or another substance that will absorb them or make them undesirable.Put this mixture into a sealable plastic bag or a bottle with screw-on lid and place in trash.Check with your local police department or pharmacy for their drug take back plans.Prescription Drug Disposal DayLocally, the annual drug disposal day will occur at:All County Sheriff Departments & Many Local Police DepartmentsSaturday, September 26, 201510:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.For more information about prescription drug disposal, contact the HFM Prevention Council at 736-8188, check with your local police agency or pharmacy, or 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.
Wellness Words August 2015 Posted on August 10, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Stand Up For Health!The studies just keep coming. Sitting for long periods may be very bad for your health and even your life expectancy. Sitting too much may cause health problems even if you exercise regularly.Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have found that the longer you sit, the higher your risk of developing such health issues as:High blood pressureHeart disease (increases nearly 125%)Type 2 diabetesWeight gainStress intoleranceMany of us sit about 8 hours a day in a vehicle, before the TV, doing crafts or puzzles, or other sedentary activities. Sitting for long periods is known to cause large muscles to burn less fat, blood sugars and triglycerides to rise, and blood to flow more sluggishly.Experts say that sitting can cause health problems even if you exercise regularly. So while a 30 minute swim or fast walk may be great for you, it may not undue 8 hours of sitting. If you do exercise for 30 minutes, remember your health is also affected by those other 23 ½ hours.So what can you do if you already have a health problem that limits your mobility? First, check with your doctor about what movements are best for you. He or she may even recommend a physical therapist to introduce you to safe exercises.But don’t stop there! You need to follow through and make a commitment to moving gently for a minute, or preferably two, each hour you are awake.Experts advise:Don’t sit if you can stand. And,Don’t stand if you can move.When you must sit for long periods, break it up with small active movements such as tapping your toes, seated heel or toe raises. Do lower leg raises or tighten muscles in your back, lower abdomen and/or buttocks.Other tips for being more active include:Stand or move around while on the phone.While watching TV, remind yourself to stretch, tighten and release your muscles or get up and walk around for the length of a commercial and or at the end of the show.Invite friends for a walk instead of a meal.Do ankle circles or shoulder roles while stopped at red lights.Park further away from the store you want to visit.Suggest breaks in long meetings or activities such as playing cards with friends, and especially while riding in a vehicle. Get up and stretch or walk around and encourage others to do the same.The impact of movement, even leisurely movement, can be profound for your health. The old adage, “move it or lose it,” is a valuable tool for a healthy life!For more information, visit mayoclinic.org, contact your healthcare provider or 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.
Wellness Words July 2015 Posted on July 14, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health Educator Protect Your Heart In The HeatWhatever brings you outside this summer, it’s important to stay safe and healthy as the heat rises. According to the American Heart Association, heat can be hard on your heart. If you are a heart patient older than 55, overweight, have high blood pressure, or are on certain medications, you may need to take special precautions in the heat.Certain medications such as beta blockers, ace inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics can exaggerate the body’s response to the heat. Even if you are not on medications, seniors need to take extra precautions in the heat. When the temperature rises, getting enough to drink is important even if you are just sitting outside…and it is critical to heart health.Staying hydrated helps the heart more easily pump blood through vessels to the muscles. This helps the muscles work more efficiently. Remember, if you are well hydrated your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Dehydration (lack of bodily fluids) can lead to problems ranging from swollen feet and ankles to headaches, and even life threatening illness such as heat stroke.A common misconception is that thirst is your best indicator that you need to drink. According to a study at the Mayo Clinic, if you are thirsty – you are already dehydrated. M. Batson, MD of this study says, “Drinking water before you go out in the heat is an important first step. Otherwise you are playing catch-up and your heart is straining to keep up.” It is also best to avoid drinks containing caffeine. Caffeine is a known diuretic which can cause you to lose fluids.Think you’re ready to brave the heat? Watch the clock and buddy-up are good pieces of advice. It is best to avoid the outdoors between 12-3 p.m. when the sun is usually the strongest. This time of day is the most likely to put you at risk for heat related illness. If possible, when you are going to be outside in the heat, take a friend or family member with you as a buddy…just to be on the safe side.Here are some other tips:Dress for the heat with lightweight, light-colored clothing in breathable fabrics.Wear a hat and sunglasses.Choose well ventilated shoes and socks that repel perspiration.Take regular breaks in some shade or go inside.Whatever you decide to do in the heat, keep in mind these symptoms of serious heat related illnesses.Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:HeadachesHeavy sweatingCold, moist skin, chillsDizziness or faintingA weak or rapid pulseMuscle crampsFast, shallow breathingNausea, vomiting or bothIf you experience these symptoms, move to a cooler place and cool down as soon as possible by dousing yourself with cool water and rehydrating.Symptoms of Heat Stroke:Warm, dry skinStrong, rapid pulseConfusion and/or unconsciousnessHigh feverThrobbing headacheNausea and/or vomitingIf you experience these symptoms seek medical attention immediately!For more information, visit heart.org, contact your healthcare provider or 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.
Wellness Words June 2015 Posted on June 9, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorSummer Health & SafetyWe all have memories of fun-filled summer days when school was out and we could swim, ride our bikes, camp out and enjoy the beautiful Adirondack weather. Summer in Fulton County is still a beautiful time of year most of us look forward to, but we also need to be prepared for the unique health and safety issues of our warmer months.Every summer, many people end up in the Emergency Department for treatment of any one of a number of summer ailments…burns, cuts, food poisoning, heat exhaustion and of course pesky mosquito and tick ailments, to name a few. Here are some suggestions to make your summer safer and more enjoyable!Drink plenty of cool, not ice-cold (non-alcoholic) fluids, especially on hot days. Many medications can contribute to dehydration. Check with your doctor on the amounts of fluid you should be drinking if you are on medication.Protect yourself from the sun and be sure to wear a hat. Avoid the midday sun, apply sunscreen frequently on all exposed skin and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if any of the medications you use should restrict your time in the sun.Be careful of the foods you eat, how they are prepared and how they have been stored…BEWARE of undercooked meats and foods left outside or not refrigerated.Restrict your activity on very hot and humid days. As we age our bodies do not adjust as well to extremes in temperature and/or humidity, and some medications can impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.Treat equipment with respect – lawn mowers, weed eaters, saws and ladders, etc. Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes, shut off engines before refueling and clean the work area of debris.Take care to use insect repellents safely. Remember to spray outdoors or in a well ventilated area.Be prepared for summer storms and power outages. Flash lights with working batteries are a must and a battery operated radio will help keep you aware of emergency information. Don’t forget to have a reserve supply of drinking water and food supplies to last from 1-3 days.If you live alone make sure a neighbor, friend or relative knows where you are when a storm approaches. Set up a plan to alert someone if you need assistance should phones not work.Ticks and mosquitoes can cause major health issues. Keep lawns mowed, litter picked up and objects that can hold rain water clean and dry. The ground area under bird feeders should be kept clean so it won’t attract small animals that can carry ticks.Make sure to carry a small emergency first aid kit with you.HealthLink, your community health and wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home, wants to wish you and your loved ones a safe and healthy summer!For more information, you may call us at 736-1120, e-mail us at healthlink@nlh.org, see our website at www.nlh.org, or visit our NEW wellness center on 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown, Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Wellness Words May 2015 Posted on May 28, 2015 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Wendy Chirieleison, MS EdCommunity Health EducatorDo You Know The Signs Of A Stroke? Think F.A.S.T.!May is American Stroke Month, the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association’s annual campaign to increase awareness of warning signs, and what to do should you or someone you know have a stroke.Stroke is the number four cause of death and leading cause of disability in the U.S. Many Americans do not think of stroke as a major health concern, even though every forty seconds someone in America has a stroke. The damaging effects of a stroke may be prevented if you know how to act upon the warning signs. Thinking F.A.S.T. can mean the difference between recovery and disability, or even death!WARNING SIGNSA stroke happens when a blood vessel is blocked or bursts and blood flow to the brain is stopped. Within just a few minutes of a stroke, brain cells begin to die. The most common sign of stroke is sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg, most often on one side of the body.Other warning signs include:Sudden numbness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body.Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.Sudden severe headache with no known cause.THINK F.A.S.T. AND ACT F.A.S.T.F.A.S.T. is an acronym used to help people recognize and remember the common stroke symptoms:F = FACEAsk the person to smile. Does one side of the face or mouth droop?A = ARMAsk the person to raise both arms. Does one drift downward?S = SPEECHAsk the person to repeat a simple phrase, such as ‘the sky is blue.’Does the speech sound slurred or strange?T = TIMEIf you observe any of these signs, it is time to Call 911!STROKE PREVENTIONKnow your numbers – Check your blood pressure regularly and talk to your doctor about your progress.Maintain a healthy weight – Get plenty of exercise and eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting salt and foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol.Keep diabetes under control with a proper diet and medication if necessary.Talk to your doctor before making any diet and/or exercise changes.Quit smoking – Need help? Call the NYS Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS or visit nysmokefree.comKeep your total cholesterol below 200.Limit your alcohol intake.REMEMBER…A stroke is mostly preventable and treatable. Knowing the risks and thinking F.A.S.T are important, but taking steps to prevent a stroke are just as important.For more information, visit strokeassociation.org, contact your healthcare provider or 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.
