COMMUNITY BLOG

Although we cannot be with every senior during this time or peoples with compromised health systems, we still want to be a resource. Our Corporate Registered Dietitian will be putting together some short video segments to provide nutrition tips and fun little recipes for people to try on their own. We are hopeful that with these precautions we will be able to move on to our “normal lives” soon.
Nutrients found in foods can help boost our immune systems and provide our bodies with extra protection. That being said, it is not guaranteed that any of the foods will actually prevent you from ever becoming sick. However, here are just a few foods that can give us a little help in staying healthy!

• Carrots, mangos, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes and sweet potatoes- all contain Beta Carotene, a naturally occurring retinol precursor that can help stimulate the release of natural killer cells, lymphocytes and monocytes while inhibiting free-radical damage to DNA.
• Citrus fruits, berries, melons, bell peppers, broccoli and tomatoes- contain Vitamin C which supports other cellular functions and has antioxidant properties. Vitamin C helps direct immune cells (neutrophils) to sites of infections.
• Fatty fish, eggs and fortified milks & juice- contain vitamin D which has anti-inflammatory properties that can counteract microbial infections in addition to inflammation.
• Beef, seafood, bean, tofu and nuts- good sources of Zinc that is critical for normal development and function of cells that can help fight infection & heal wounds. Zinc may also reduce the duration of the common cold and reduce risk of upper respiratory infections in children.
• Cultured dairy products and fermented foods- provide probiotics to promote good gut health
• Dairy products, eggs, beef, chicken, seafood, nuts, seeds, beans and lentils- great sources of protein which is crucial to build, maintain and repair body tissue. Antibodies that help fight disease are made of protein (amino-acids).

During these trying times, focus on having a healthy balance in your life including eating well, moving (as much as possible) and getting adequate sleep. Aim for 5-7 servings of fruits and veggies daily to get these immune boosting minerals, vitamins and antioxidants!
Of course, proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective way to help prevent the spread of germs. We would also like to remind everyone to properly clean utensils, glassware and other serving dishes. Refrain from sharing silverware, cups, bottles, etc… to avoid the spread of germs from on to another.
The recipe today is one that our Registered Dietitian Becca thinks we all deserve at this time because it features steak! Steak is a wonderful source of protein, zinc and iron. Pairing foods like steak with other foods containing vitamin C (strawberries) helps our bodies absorb iron more efficiently too!

For many of us, the best time of year is from the end of November to the end of December. Families from all around the world come together to celebrate different holidays and family traditions. Even though it's the time for giving and not as much receiving, sometimes people tend to forget all about what the holidays are.
 
Here are a few things worth remembering this holiday season:
 
- Staying humble is important. I've had the privilege and honor to have close personal relationships with some of the world's most influential, philanthropic and powerful people, from heads-of-state to major celebrities. Those who were most "established" were not (and still are not) impressed with their power or what they'd achieved. There were rather almost bashful about their standing in the world and were eager to shine the spotlight on the importance of others. It made them even MORE important to others, such as yours truly. I was grateful for them taking the time to include me in their personal lives.

- There are always people who are going to have more or less than you. As the saying (and even song title) goes, "The other man's grass is always greener." Another part of those lyrics is "Some are lucky, some are not. I'm so thankful for what I've got." In my opinion, that last line covers the subject completely, as there are times in our lives when there's no stress and other times when the stress is almost life threatening. I've been through both situations several times, but still consider myself much more blessed than not. I truly hope that's the case for YOU.

- Even if you're not happy with the gift someone got you, just remember it's the thought that counted. Indeed, some of the least expensive gifts I've ever received came from the kind hearts of those who did the giving. There were a few times in my own life when I couldn't afford to even buy Christmas cards but instead had to send cards that I'd been given me by organizations such as the DAV and American Legion. The recipients of the cards kindly acknowledged they appreciated the thought. 

- Be kind to others. This should be a common sense, year ‘round mantra, but it's even more significant during the holidays. One of the oldest sayings I can remember is: “If you just give a smile, that smile will almost always be returned." There's universal warmth established for both the kindness-giver and recipient. Practicing kindness all the time would be the ultimate desired behavior for each of us. 

- You never know what someone is going through. Most of us, or many, at least, don't totally share news of hardship in our lives. It's embarrassing to most and hurtful to admit life isn't always perfect. Before we admonish someone for possibly rude or less-than-kind behavior, it should be remembered we're not always aware they may be suffering on the inside while smiling on the outside. Again in my opinion, we should think twice before judging anyone, especially at this time of the year.

- If you know someone who doesn't have a family to go to during the holidays, invite them to wherever you're going. Indeed, if at all possible, again in the spirit of kindness, make someone happier at this season when they may not have a family or anyone who cares about their happiness. Sadly, there are too many people now who are experiencing loneliness and feelings of being abandoned by society.
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- Take advantage of quality family time. The length of our life is never guaranteed, thus we should always tell our families how much we love them and how grateful we are to have them in our life. In that regard, taking time to make or buy a thoughtful gift can sometimes be more meaningful than buying the most expensive present. Money does not buy happiness. Putting some thought and time into a gift tends to get a much more appreciative reaction.
 
I hope these thoughts, all truly common sense that sometimes need reminders, will help propel you to an even happier holiday season, fast approaching!
 
Thank you for reading, as always.

​Aging. It’s difficult to see—especially in those you love. Do you know the signs of normal aging . . . of Alzheimer’s and other dementia? Can your parents or loved ones care for themselves without help? What kind of help is best? Where can you go to get it? How can you tell if your loved ones need help (even when they insist they don’t)? And even more importantly, how can you talk to them about it?

Are you unsure about how to react to a parent who may be growing unable to care for themselves? The holidays are a great opportunity to spend more time with family. But it can also be a time when you notice subtle changes in an aging parent. Know the warning signs of a loved one who may need your help.   

Some indicators to look for:
1.  Weight loss
Has your loved one lost weight? It may mean they’re not eating well or getting proper nutrition. Check the refrigerator. Lacking healthy options and/or expired dates on food items are tip-offs to poor eating habits.

2.  Poor hygiene
Is your loved one’s appearance a bit disheveled? For someone who prided themselves in a neat appearance, it could be another troubling sign.

3.  Home appearance
Does your loved one’s home appear in disarray? Too much clutter can be dangerous and lead to a fall—the leading cause of injury for older adults.   

4. Forgetfulness
Does your loved one have memory problems? Mild forgetfulness is normal, but having trouble performing simple tasks, like paying bills and keeping appointments, could signal a problem.

5.  Medication management
Your loved one may need assistance with their medication. Do they lack an understanding of what medications to take and when to take them? Look for dates on prescriptions to be sure they are current.

6.  Mood
Does your loved one seem depressed? If their usually bubbly personality is replaced by depression or anger, this might be something that deserves attention.    

If you find yourself needing help with an aging loved one, you might want to consider an assisted living community.  Tinta Wita Tipi in Welch, MN provides meals, health and personal services in beautiful apartment homes. Call Mary at 651-385-3535 to find out more!