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.
Wellness Words November 2016 Posted on November 14, 2016 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorAlzheimer’s Vs. Typical Age-Related Changes November is Alzheimer’s disease awareness month. According to the National Institute on Aging, there are approximately 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s and over 15 million people serve as their caregivers. For reasons that are not clear, about two-thirds of those living with this disease are women and Alzheimer’s is more prevalent in those over 65. Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. There are early warning signs but they are often confused with typical age related changes and not reported to a physician. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the following are some of the early signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias versus typical age related changes. Alzheimer’s Signs/Symptoms:Repeated poor judgment and decision makingMemory loss that disrupts daily lifeDifficulty completing familiar tasksChallenges in planning and problem solvingMisplacing frequently used things and inability to retrace steps to locate themConfusion with time or placeWithdrawal from normal activitiesNew problems with words in speaking or writingChanges in mood or personalityTypical age related changes may include but are not limited to:Forgetting what day it is but remembering laterMissing a monthly payment occasionallySometimes forgetting which word to useLosing things from time to timeMaking a poor choice once in a whileFeeling weary of social obligations and sometimes staying home It is normal to fear that any of these normal changes means something worse. If you are wondering if you have a problem, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. Write down your questions and take a friend or family member with you to discuss your concerns. The Alzheimer’s Association is an excellent resource for information about the disease. They operate a 24/7 Helpline for people seeking information and support. If you call 800-272-3900 you can speak confidently with a care consultant that can help with:Information about the signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementiasFind out about local programs and servicesDecision making support, crisis assistance and education on issues faced every dayGet general information about medications, other treatment options, legal, financial and care decisionsInformation on safety services such as Lifeline and the Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return program. Safe Return provides assistance when someone with the disease wanders or has a medical emergency.Support and education for caregivers HealthLink, in conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Association, offers free monthly education programs. This month’s program will be held on November 22 entitled “Alzheimer’s: Managing Behaviors” from 1 to 2 p.m. and again from 6 to 7 p.m. We also offer monthly support group meetings held on the second Thursday of each month from 4 to 5 p.m. For more information or to attend one of these programs, 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 October 2016 Posted on October 11, 2016 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Carol Tomlinson, RN BSCommunity Health EducatorFall 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! To learn more, attend a free program on how to “Improve Balance & Prevent Falls” on Tuesday, October 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Fulton County YMCA by calling Office For Aging at 736-5650 (transportation available).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.
Littauer now offers dialysis for hospitalized patients Posted on September 26, 2016 by Dakota PikeNathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home is now offering in-house dialysis to patients that are hospitalized. Friday, Sept 2, Littauer was approved by the New York State department of Health to provide inpatient dialysis. Four new dialysis suites have been equipped with the latest technology for dialysis treatment. All pertinent Littauer staff has received training.1. Nephrologists Dr. Ayman Morgan, left, and Dr. Soo Lee, both of American Renal Associates are now seeing patients at Nathan Littauer Hospital inhpatient dialysis suites“This is a huge hurdle to overcome,” said Litterer Vice President Marketing and Community Relations, Cheryl McGrattan. “Local dialysis patients can now seek medical treatment close to home in a familiar setting with people they recognize and trust.” of American Renal Associates together with his partners Dr. Hani Shahata, and Dr. Ayman Morgan are now working with Littauer, offering the very best of nephrology to Fulton County. “This inpatient service will provide great continuity of care to our patients,” said Dr. Lee. “As I have said before, we are very excited to be working Littauer.” Littauer recently partnered with American Renal Associates announcing to open a new state-of-the-art dialysis center in Gloversville. The new facility in Fulton County will offer the latest technology for the care and comfort of patients suffering from kidney disease. The center is slated to open in December.2. Nephrologist Dr. Ayman Morgan exhibits one of Natha Littauer Hospitals’s newest dialysis systems. Littauer began inpatient dialysis in September
