Coronavirus Information

Friday, May 29, 2020 – RVNAhealth has been monitoring news and updates on the COVID-19 front released by organizations including CDC, WHO, FDA, State of CT, and other news sources. Click the button below for the latest news and updates.

View Latest News and Updates ››

At RVNAhealth, the health and safety of our patients and team is always a top priority.  Amid the concerns around Coronavirus, we are ever-monitoring the situation, reinforcing our standard health care protocols both within the RVNAhealth building as well as with our field team, and taking additional steps for extra vigilance. 

Older adults and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. In additional to our internal measures, we remind all individuals of the following best practices to help keep yourself and others healthy: 

Learn more at CDC.gov
  • “Stay home, Stay safe,” per Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont’s executive order for non-essential workers to not report to their workplaces.
  • If you must leave your home, do not travel in groups.
  • Keep at least six feet away from others.
  • Cancel/avoid non-essential gatherings of any size.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after visiting the restroom; before eating; after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing or touching your face.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with your elbow or a tissue, then discard the tissue in the trash. Clean your hands AGAIN.
  • Use alcohol gel hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
  • Utilize disinfectant wipes to wipe down high-touch areas such as counters, keyboards, doorknobs and other areas with frequent hand exposure.
  • Keep hand cleansers with you.
  • If you are sick, stay home; call (do not immediately visit) your health care provider for next steps; limit visitors.
  • Create a household plan of action in case of household illness or disruption of daily activities due to COVID-19 in the community.
  • Minimize trips to stores and other public places by keeping an advance supply of medications and groceries on hand.

RVNAhealth COVID-19 Newsletter Updates

The Pulse: May, 2020 – Caring for a Loved One with COVID-19; Daily Living Tips from Our Team

The Pulse: April 23, 2020 – A Video Tribute; Recent Updates; Rehab Center News

The Pulse: April 15, 2020 – Tip of the Day; Recent Updates; Staff Spotlights;

April 2020: The People Edition

The Pulse: March 31, 2020 – RVNAhealth Offers Advanced Care Planning to the Community

The Pulse: March 24, 2020 – RVNAhealth Operations Update; Ask the Chief Clinical Officer; Request for iPads and IPhones

The Pulse: March 19, 2020 – Call for PPE; Additional Statewide Closures

The Pulse: March 9, 2020 – How Infections Occur; Standard Health Protocols; CDC Guidance

If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath) and feel you may have been exposed to the coronavirus, please stay home and call your health care provider or your local Health Department to discuss your options. The CDC provides guidance on symptoms and what to do if you feel sick. Download the CDC’s COVID-19 Fact Sheet from the CDC in English, Spanish, or Chinese.

Learn more at cdc.gov ››

Video: How to Wash Your Hands

This video is silent, but the messages are loud and clear. Here are valuable insights from the CDC into the hows and whys of proper hand washing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d914EnpU4Fo

For further information or with questions, please contact BeWELL@RVNAhealth.org.

Brand New Day. Brand New …

Happy Multigenerational Family

RVNAhealth logoEffective Saturday, October 5, 2019, the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (RVNA) has changed our name to RVNAhealth. The name change reflects our breadth of services and regional reach, both of which have expanded significantly in the last decades.

RVNAhealth currently serves 35+towns in Connecticut, and offers care and wellness services for all ages, stages and levels of health.  The name change is the culmination of a strategic Rebranding initiative that was launched in 2014. 

Explains Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, RVNAhealth President & CEO, “’Rebranding’ was identified at our 2014 strategic retreat when we recognized that there was an increasing disconnect between our direction – who we are, what we do, where we do it, and where we’re headed – and the name by which we call ourselves.  It warranted examination and action.”

The Evolution of RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth was founded in 1914 as the ‘District Nursing Association’ with a single nurse traveling by foot to serve Ridgefield families in their homes. Over the decades, the organization added community wellness services, as well as public health services for the town of Ridgefield.  Staff increased, offices moved, new towns were added to the service area, and the organization’s name was tweaked -– more than once.

The ‘District Nursing Association’ became the ‘Visiting Nurse Association of Ridgefield’ in 1994 and then the ‘Ridgefield Visiting Nursing Association’ in 2006.

The organization’s growth since 2006 has been particularly remarkable. 

Non-medical caregivers, an outpatient rehabilitation and wellness center, hospice services and an increasing wealth of prevention and wellness services have been added to the organization’s ‘continuum of care.’

Additionally, the RVNAhealth Center for Exceptional Care in Ridgefield CT opened in 2016, offering rehabilitation, nursing services, nutritional counseling and educational programs all on-premises – not to mention housing the administrative staff.

“Our growth has been very organic, in that we have added services in direct response to patient needs and natural evolutions in the landscape of healthcare,” says Santoro. “We have bolstered and refined our services that aid recovery and recuperation, plus added services that focus on prevention, independence, comfort and end-of-life care.” 

It was during this growth spurt that the Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association ‘outgrew’ our name. “As we examined the name, through internal analysis, focus groups, ideation sessions and competitive analysis,” explains Santoro, “it was clear that the geographic and service limitations of the name made it very confusing to the very people we were aiming to serve. It was time for another change.”

Onward Ho!

The new RVNAhealth name and brand are less a shift in direction, and more a formalization of the direction and course the agency has already taken. The new name retains the RVNA legacy and reputation, while expressing the umbrella under which all services reside: Health.  

In addition to the name change, the organization has redefined our overall brand to convey the comprehensive and integrated approach that RVNAhealth brings to care and wellness services.  A new tagline, For Lifelong Care and Wellness, has been added; the look and feel have been updated; and services have been re-categorized to represent the continuum of care that is unique to RVNAhealth. 

The new categories, the WELLs, include:

BEWELL:                     Services to Keep You Healthy

GETWELL:                  Services to Recover your Best Health

STAYWELL:                 Services to Remain Safely in Your Home

COMFORTWELL:       Hospice Care to Provide Comfort and Peace

All current RVNAhealth services reside under these categories. 

No Item Unturned …

The name change announcement was made at the annual RVNAhealth Autumn Dinner on Saturday, October 5, 2019 to an audience of over 200 close friends and supporters.  Following the announcement, the rollout of the brand new name and identify begins with a new website, social media sites, clinical apparel; building signage; printed materials, email addresses, stationery …. You name it, it needs to be updated!

Enjoy the video and let us know what you think!

I

How Friendships Improve Your Health: The Science Behind Strong Social Connections

Friendships

How Love and Connection Boost Your Well-Being

February has always been the month that celebrates romance, but in this month of love, let’s not forget how important the love of friendships can be, too. Many studies confirm that love and health are intertwined, and that “love” in this scenario does not have to be romantic love. Human interaction, strong positive relationships, satisfying connections with others, and relationships that leave us feeling valued and respected have all been shown to result in better health outcomes.

Romantic partners may come and go, but true friends are there for life. Long-standing friendships are the constants in our lives; there for us as we weather storms and to share in the celebrations of life’s blessings, too. They are the solid foundation upon which we can rest when we need to.

Friendships are a reflection of ourselves and offer us a mirror into our lives, allowing for self-reflection and increased self-awareness. The safety net true friendship provides allows for the leaps of faith that bring growth and the opportunity to become the very best version of ourselves.

Take Time to Socialize and Strengthen Your Connections

Have you ever wondered why you often feel better when you get together with friends, enjoy a change of scenery, or share some laughs? It isn’t an accident and you can almost always rely on it. It’s easy to think of socializing as trivial or unimportant, but it’s really one of the simplest and most valuable tools available for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. According to a study by the National Institutes of Health, strong social connections can significantly improve mental and physical health.

Laughter Enhances Your Health and Happiness Naturally

One of the natural by-products of spending time with others is laughter. There is truth in the old saying “Laughter is the best medicine.” Many studies can be cited which demonstrate the physiological impact and benefits of laughter, but common sense tells it all: laughing makes you feel good, brightens your day, and gives you a breather that can carry you through whatever comes your way.

Give Your Mind a Break for Better Mental Clarity and Relaxation

Even when laughter isn’t part of the equation, just being with others makes a difference. Studies suggest that people generally feel better when they take time out to engage with others. The simplest social interactions can distract you from whatever is on your mind and give you a “vacation” from day-to-day worries. Those issues may not go away, but after a break from them, they somehow feel lighter and more manageable.

Making Time for Yourself to Prioritize Self-Care and Mental Health

Taking advantage of socialization can be a challenge. It’s natural to struggle with putting yourself at the top of your “to do” list. We might feel guilty if we take time for ourselves. We can’t be convinced that doing something we want to do is just as important and valuable as doing something we have to do, but prioritizing self-care is some of the best healthcare advice anyone can embrace. Socialization is a meaningful form of self-care.

Take Action to Enhance Your Life and Find Balance

Make a vow to yourself: Spend time with family, friends, and peers with common interests. Give yourself a chance to be with others so you can share joys, struggles and laughter. Get out of the house and away from your desk. Socialize. It’s good for your health.

Join our next community event to build connections and support your well-being. Find out more here.

Medicare Advantage: Is It Really the Advantage You Need?

Your Medicare Options

As we step into a new year, it’s time to reassess our health coverage and ensure it meets our needs. If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have discovered that it doesn’t provide the comprehensive coverage you expected. Fortunately, the first three months of the year—January, February, and March—offer a critical window to make changes to your Medicare coverage.

During this Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period, you can switch from your current Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare. Here’s why you might want to consider making this change:

What is Medicare Advantage, Really?

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are not part of traditional Medicare. Instead, they are run by private insurance companies that contract with Medicare. While these plans often advertise low premiums and additional benefits like dental or vision coverage, they come with significant trade-offs:

  • Restricted Networks: You may find that your preferred doctors, specialists, or hospitals are not included in the plan’s network.
  • Service Denials: Private insurers running these plans often use a third party to determine patient eligibility and require prior authorizations for services, leaving you at the whim of their approval process. Delays or denials can significantly impact your health and well-being.
  • Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs: Copays, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket expenses can add up quickly, sometimes exceeding what you’d pay with Original Medicare combined with a Medigap supplemental policy.
  • Limited Coverage for Specialized Care: If you need specialized treatments or access to certain resources, you may find gaps in coverage that Medicare Advantage doesn’t fill.

Why Switch to Original Medicare?

Unlike Medicare Advantage, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is directly managed by the federal government and offers broad access to healthcare providers nationwide. You won’t be limited to specific networks or require approvals for most services. Pairing Original Medicare with a Medigap policy can help cover out-of-pocket expenses, giving you peace of mind and predictable costs.

Who Should Consider Switching?

If you’ve experienced any of the following with your Medicare Advantage plan, it might be time to switch:

  • Your preferred doctors or specialists are no longer accessible.
  • You’ve faced unexpected out-of-pocket expenses that strain your budget.
  • You’ve encountered delays or denials for treatments or procedures.
  • Your plan doesn’t cover necessary care or resources for your condition.

Act Before March 31

The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 to March 31. During this time, you can:

  • Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare.
  • Add a Part D prescription drug plan to your Original Medicare coverage.

Making this change ensures you have coverage that works for you, without the restrictions and surprises associated with Medicare Advantage.

How to Get Started

To make the switch, contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or visit www.medicare.gov. If you need help navigating your options, consider speaking with a licensed insurance agent or a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor for unbiased advice.

Your health is your greatest asset, and your medical coverage should reflect that. Don’t wait until it’s too late—take control of your Medicare coverage today.

Understanding Home Health Services: What You Should Know and How to Ask for Them

nursing home

Managing your care after an acute diagnosis, injury or hospital stay can be challenging, but home health services provide essential medical care and support at home, promoting faster recovery and convenience for patients and families.

What Are Home Health Services?

Home health services deliver professional care at home through licensed providers like nurses, physical therapists, and other specialists. Common services include:

  • Wound Care: Dressing changes and infection monitoring.
  • Medication Management: Correct administration and dosages.
  • Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy for mobility, independence, and communication.
  • Post-Surgical Care: Recovery support, including pain management and mobility.

These services help patients regain independence and reduce hospital readmissions.

Why Are Home Health Services Important for Your Recovery?

  • Faster Recovery at Home: Patients heal better in familiar surroundings.
  • Personalized Care: Tailored plans to meet your recovery goals.
  • Convenience & Safety: Reduces trips to facilities and limits exposure to infections.
  • Preventing Readmissions: Early monitoring addresses complications before they worsen.

Why RVNAhealth?

RVNAhealth is a trusted provider of home health services, known for its experienced and compassionate team. Here’s why RVNAhealth is an excellent choice:

  • Comprehensive Care: Offering a wide range of services, including nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and more.
  • Personalized Support: RVNAhealth works closely with your physician to create a customized care plan tailored to your needs.
  • Experienced Professionals: Licensed clinicians with expertise in post-hospital recovery, chronic condition management, and rehabilitation.
  • Focus on Wellness: Dedicated to helping you regain independence, mobility, and overall well-being.
  • Local Commitment: As a community-based organization, RVNAhealth takes pride in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care to individuals and families in your area.

Your Rights as a Patient

  • Choose Your Provider: Select the home health agency you want regardless of doctor or hospital recommendations.
  • Quality Care: Agencies must adhere to professional standards.
  • Involvement in Care Plans: Actively participate in setting goals and treatment decisions.

Advocating for Home Health Services

If home health isn’t mentioned during your doctor visit or hospital discharge, ask your doctor or case manager. Ensure your care plan includes contact information for home health services and guidance on how they can aid in your recovery.

By choosing RVNAhealth, you can trust in our comprehensive, personalized and collaborative home health care.

Visit RVNAhealth.org or call 203.438.5555 to learn more or request services today.

Delicious Low-Sodium Chili Recipe: Expert Tips from Our New Nutritionist

Bowl of Chili

Carmen’s Simple Turkey Chili Recipe

We’re thrilled to introduce Carmen Weber, RVNAhealth’s new registered dietitian nutritionist, who specializes in helping individuals and families achieve their health goals through personalized nutrition advice. Carmen is also passionate about creating recipes that are both nutritious and delicious, such as chili.

Chili is a warm, hearty, and satisfying meal that’s easy to make, reheats beautifully, and can be frozen in smaller portions for later. It’s a fantastic source of both animal and plant protein, fiber, and iron—but it can also be high in sodium. To keep your chili healthy, Carmen suggests always opting for low-sodium or no-salt-added canned goods, and rinsing canned beans under cold running water before using them.

If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Carmen, you can reach her at nutrition@rvnahealth.org or visit our website at rvnahealth.org/nutrition.

Enjoy Carmen’s Simple Low Sodium Turkey Veggie Chili recipe below!

Ingredients:

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 (28 oz) can no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added petite diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added or lower-sodium black beans, rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added or lower-sodium small red kidney beans, rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added or lower-sodium garbanzo beans, rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can no-salt-added or lower-sodium corn, rinsed
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the ground turkey. Cook the turkey, draining off the fat partway through. Return the pot to the heat and continue cooking until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
  2. While the turkey cooks, drain and rinse all the beans and corn in a colander under cold running water.
  3. Once the turkey is cooked, stir in all the spices and seasonings. Add the tomatoes and stir to combine. Cook over medium heat for approximately 10 minutes.
  4. If needed, add water to reach the desired consistency, then stir in the diced zucchini and corn.
  5. Allow the chili to cook for another 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. If the chili becomes too thick, add water until the desired consistency is reached.
  7. Serve immediately, or for enhanced flavor, simmer until ready to serve. To ensure food safety, keep the chili’s temperature above 140°F and do not let it drop below this temperature for more than 2 hours.
  8. Serve as-is or with toppings such as reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese, reduced-fat sour cream, brown rice, or hot sauce for added heat.

Excite the Senses – Mulligatawny Soup, Shiitakes with Baby Bok Choy, Ganache with Berries – Ridgefield

Excite the Senses – Mulligatawny Soup, Shiitakes with Baby Bok Choy, Ganache with Berries

Thursday, April 17, 2025
6:00pm – 8:00pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield CT

 

Join us in April 2025 for the final session of our culinary series in the RVNAhealth teaching kitchen, led by local chef Cathy Katin-Grazzini.
Celebrate spring with a vibrant menu of dishes bursting with flavor. Begin with mulligatawny soup—a rich, fragrant blend of puréed red lentils, lemon, and spices. Next, enjoy a simple yet elegant sauté of shiitake mushrooms and baby bok choy in a light Chinese glaze. For dessert, indulge in a luscious yet low-fat chocolate ganache with fresh berries, infused with your choice of almond, vanilla, or mint.
Don’t miss this opportunity to spark your culinary creativity and embrace the joys of plant-based eating!
Cooking, hands-on demos, and sampling.
Class limit:12 people.
Class: $55

REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT <<HERE>>

Restore: Soothing Split Pea Soup, Bengali Cauliflower with Yogurt Sauce, Plum Chia Parfaits – Ridgefield


Restore: Soothing Split Pea Soup, Bengali Cauliflower with Yogurt Sauce,

Plum Chia Parfaits

Wednesday, March 19, 2025
6:00pm – 8:00pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield CT

Join us this March and April 2025 for the remaining sessions of our culinary series in the RVNAhealth teaching kitchen, led by local chef Cathy Katin-Grazzini.

March’s bluster and chill are no match for the warmth of a delectable pea soup, paired with fragrant Bengali cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, and peas in a luscious yogurt sauce. To top it off, we’ll indulge in creamy chia parfaits layered with roasted plums and their sweet, syrupy goodness.

Come for one session or both—each is an opportunity to spark your culinary creativity and embrace the joys of healthier, plant-based eating.

Cooking, hands-on demos, and sampling.

Class limit: 12 people.

Attend one session or both sessions—each promises to inspire your culinary creativity and support your health journey.

Single class = $55 each
Buy 2 classes upfront = $100  ($50 each)

REGISTRATION AND PAYMENT <<HERE>>

24th Annual Spring Breakfast

Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
Time: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Location: The Amber Room Colonnade, Danbury, CT

Join us for the 24th Annual Spring Breakfast, a morning dedicated to celebrating RVNAhealth’s mission and the amazing community that supports us. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, hear inspiring stories, and learn more about the vital programs we offer—from home care to hospice and community services.

Your support helps us continue providing exceptional care to those in need.

Save the Date!

A Heartfelt Thank You from RVNAhealth – Reflecting on a Year of Impact and Gratitude

Thank You

As the Director of Philanthropy at RVNAhealth, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to lead a team in raising funds and awareness for an organization that provides essential healthcare when and where it is needed throughout 35+ western Connecticut communities. Every step we take toward fulfilling our mission is powered by a simple, undeniable truth:  none of this would be possible without you – our generous donors, sponsors, and volunteers.

You are the heart and soul of RVNAhealth. Whether you’ve donated your time, your expertise, your financial gifts, or helped spread the word about our work, your support is what makes our impact possible. It is because of you that we can continue to offer top-notch and innovative healthcare to those who might otherwise not have access to it.

Reflecting on this past year, I am in awe of what we have achieved together. Thanks to you, we have been able to make a significant difference in the lives of countless individuals. Here are just a few of the accomplishments made possible by your generosity:

  • 62,461 healthcare visits made to patients in their homes, ensuring care reaches those who need it most.
  • 488 hospice patients received compassionate, end-of-life care, including 1,975 volunteer hours dedicated to supporting their families.
  • 203 children with limited access to preventive healthcare received school-required physicals and immunizations, at no cost to their families.
  • 7,328 visits to our outpatient Rehabilitation & Wellness Center helped patients recover strength, mobility, and independence.
  • 84 new moms and 69 babies received vital support through our Nurse-Family Partnership program.
  • 421,180 hours of non-medical assistance helped individuals remain safe and independent at home, enhancing their quality of life.

Your support has touched lives in ways that words cannot fully capture, and we are so fortunate to have you by our side. Thank you for your belief in our mission. Thank you for your dedication. Thank you for helping us build stronger, healthier communities.

As we enter a new year, RVNAhealth wishes you and your loved ones good health, happiness, and joy. Thank you for being a part of our journey, and for helping us continue to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed most.

With sincere gratitude,

Mary Jean Heller
Director of Philanthropy

How to Stay Active Indoors: Exercise Ideas for Seniors During Colder Months

indoor exercises for seniors

As the weather cools, staying active indoors becomes more important to maintain strength, mobility, and overall well-being. Here are some effective and enjoyable exercise ideas for seniors to stay active during winter—right from the comfort of home!

Chair Exercises

Chair exercises are fantastic for maintaining mobility and flexibility. Try seated leg lifts, arm raises, and ankle rotations to improve circulation. For an added challenge, use resistance bands.

Looking for a guided option? Join RVNAhealth’s Chair Fit class, offered every Tuesday from 10:30 AM to 11:15 AM. This engaging program is perfect for improving strength and flexibility in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more and sign up here.

Indoor Walking

Walking indoors is an excellent low-impact exercise. Use YouTube walking videos to add variety or simply pace around the house. This keeps the body moving and the heart pumping, even on the coldest days.

Stretching and Flexibility

Stretching keeps muscles flexible and helps prevent stiffness. Gentle yoga or tai chi can also improve balance and reduce stress. Not sure where to start? Join one of RVNAhealth’s programs or reach out to our Therapy Center for a custom exercise plan.

Sit-to-Stands: A Simple Yet Powerful Exercise

Kate Campbell, DPT, at RVNAhealth, highlights sit-to-stands as one of the most functional and effective exercises seniors can do daily. This move mirrors the action of standing up from a chair, making it highly practical:

  • Stand up from a chair, sit back down, and repeat.
  • The lower the chair, the harder the challenge!
  • Aim for 10, 20, or even 30 repetitions—go until you’re tired.
  • If 30 feels easy, hug a heavy object or present for added resistance.
  • Want to challenge your balance? Try it with your eyes closed.

To learn more about why this exercise is so important, read Kate Campbell’s full article: “If I Could Pick an Exercise to Do Every Day”.

Kate Campbell, DPT, is a highly experienced physical therapist at RVNAhealth who specializes in helping individuals of all ages maintain and improve their mobility, strength, and overall wellness. Her practical and effective exercise recommendations are tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors.

Step-Ups: Build Strength and Cardio

For a simple exercise that strengthens the legs, improves balance, and gets the heart rate up, Kate Campbell recommends step-ups:

  • Use stairs or a step stool, stepping up and balancing at the top before stepping down.
  • This combines strength, balance, and light cardio in one effective move.

Push-Ups: Strength at Any Level

Push-ups are a versatile exercise that can be adjusted for any ability level:

  • Try them on the floor, on your knees, or with your hands elevated on a counter, bed, or armrest.
  • Focus on going deep and moving slowly for the best results.

The Key to Progress: Make It Harder as You Go

According to Kate Campbell, the key to building strength and burning calories is increasing the challenge over time. While more repetitions help build endurance, if you can easily complete 20 reps, it’s time to add resistance, increase the depth, or try balance challenges.

RVNAhealth: Here to Help

Staying active indoors helps seniors maintain independence and enjoy better health year-round. For personalized guidance or tailored exercise plans, contact RVNAhealth’s Therapy Center at 203.438.7862. And if you’re ready to get out and move, join one of our exercise programs!

Pickleball: Benefits, Injuries & How to Stay in the Game

pickleball

Pickleball, a sport blending elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has become a nationwide sensation. Its accessibility and social nature have made it a favorite pastime for players of all ages. But as participation grows, so does the need to understand its benefits, common injuries, and the essential role physical therapy plays in maintaining optimal performance and preventing setbacks. 

The Benefits of Pickleball 

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or picking up a paddle for the first time, pickleball offers a wide range of health advantages, including: 

  • Cardiovascular Fitness: Engage your heart and improve endurance with the sport’s quick-paced movements. 
  • Enhanced Balance and Coordination: The agility required strengthens reflexes and stability. 
  • Mental Wellness: Enjoy a boost in mood and cognitive function while connecting with friends and fellow players. 
  • Muscle Strength and Flexibility: With regular play, you’ll notice improved strength in your legs, arms, and core. 

Common Pickleball Injuries

As with any sport, pickleball carries its share of injury risks, particularly if players don’t prepare properly. Frequent injuries include: 

  • Tennis Elbow: Repeated swinging can strain the elbow tendons. 
  • Shoulder Strains: Overhead serves and smashes can lead to rotator cuff issues. 
  • Ankle Sprains: Rapid side-to-side movement can result in rolled ankles. 
  • Plantar Fasciitis: Stress on the feet from improper footwear or prolonged play. 

The Role of Physical Therapy 

Physical therapy can be a game-changer for pickleball enthusiasts, offering: 

  • Injury Prevention Programs: Targeted strength and flexibility exercises to minimize risks. 
  • Rehabilitation Plans: Speedy and safe recovery for players sidelined by injury. 
  • Performance Optimization: Improve form, endurance, and agility to elevate your game. 

Upcoming Event: Step Up Your Pickleball Game 

For those passionate about pickleball or curious to try it, RVNAhealth invites you to:

Step Up Your Pickleball Game: Injury Prevention & Performance Tips

Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Time: 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Location: Mark Twain Library, 439 Redding Road, Redding

Join Sports Podiatrist Dr. Allan Rosenthal, affectionately called “Dr. Pickleball,” and RVNAhealth’s Senior Director of Community Rehabilitative Services, Gigi Weiss, MSPT, for an engaging and educational session. Topics include: 

  • Preventing common injuries and selecting proper footwear. 
  • Exercises to enhance strength and agility. 
  • Tips for skill development and game improvement. 

Dr. Rosenthal, a certified pickleball instructor and podiatric sports medicine expert, has extensive experience helping athletes optimize their performance while staying injury-free. Gigi Weiss brings decades of rehabilitative expertise, ensuring participants walk away with actionable tips to stay at the top of their game. 

<<CLICK HERE TO REGISTER>> 

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and connect with other pickleball enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this event will provide invaluable insights to keep you healthy and thriving on the court.