Embrace Gut Health with Fermented Foods!

If you’re looking for a simple yet impactful way to boost your health this month, we’ve got just the suggestion for you—eat sauerkraut and yogurt, just not together 😊. Fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, among others we will explore shortly, have remarkable benefits for your well-being.

Fermented Foods for Gut Health

Fermented foods are foods and beverages that are produced through controlled microbial growth and have been shown to have a profound impact on our health. The magic behind these fermented wonders lies in the process of fermentation, where bacteria and yeast break down sugars into lactic acid. This lactic acid bacteria, often referred to as probiotics or “good bacteria,” do wonders for your gut health, and in turn, your overall health and wellness. These foods not only improve digestion and help maintain a healthy body weight but also play a vital role in reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways.

To highlight this, a recent study from Stanford Medical School discovered that consuming fermented foods can assist in weight loss and reduce the risk of diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. So, adding these probiotic-rich foods to your diet is a win-win for your taste buds and your health! Here are some examples of fermented foods that can help nurture your gut microbiome:

  • Yogurt
  • Kefir
  • Tempeh
  • Natto
  • Kombucha
  • Miso
  • Kimchi
  • Sauerkraut
  • Fermented pickles (made with salt instead of vinegar)
  • Olives

In the study highlighted above, the participants consumed up to 6 servings a day of fermented foods! Don’t worry, you do not need to go that far to experience the benefits. Aim for one serving of a fermented food per day. To help you get started, here’s a great recipe for Kimchi Egg Muffins – enjoy!

For More Information on Gut Health from RVNAhealth

If you’re interested in learning more or need help with gut health issues, our RVNAhealth Nutritionist, Monica Marcello, RD, regularly holds informational presentations and cooking classes out in the communities we serve. You can also connect with Monica by signing up for her monthly nutrition newsletter or by contacting her with questions at nutrition@rvnahealth.org.

Monica Marcello, RVNAhealth Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Educator

About Monica: Monica Marcello, MS, RD is RVNAhealth’s registered dietitian and nutrition educator who promotes holistic health, longevity, and quality of life. Monica’s areas of expertise include disease prevention and treatment for many chronic and acute conditions.

 

It Looks Like Winter Outside, But We’re Thinking Spring!

RVNAhealth will host its 23rd Annual Spring Breakfast on Friday, April 26, 2024 from 7:30am-9:00am at The Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. The Board of Directors, Spring Breakfast Committee, and friends of the organization look forward to celebrating the meaningful work of RVNAhealth and the continuum of care the agency provides throughout 35+ Connecticut communities.

Each year, the Spring Breakfast brings together 400 local business leaders, medical professionals, community groups, and RVNAhealth supporters to welcome spring and raise funds critical to patient care and program support. Funds raised allow RVNAhealth to care for patients and clients regardless of age, diagnosis, or financial circumstances and have a lasting impact on the lives of those served as well as their families. It is truly an inspiring morning and a great way to start the day!

We invite you to be moved by our impact speaker who will share insight into RVNAhealth’s dedication to providing exceptional care that has a lifechanging impact upon patients and their families. This firsthand account of an experience that any of us might find ourselves in is a true testament to the notion that we are all in this together, and we know we can’t do what we do without you!

You are invited to become a sponsor or host a table at this year’s event, which will include a delicious breakfast, live auction with travel and entertainment packages, and a raffle that includes dozens of prizes. You may purchase sponsorships or tables online at RVNAhealth.org or contact Debbie Campbell, Development Manager, at 203.438.5555, x1249 or dcampbell@rvnahealth.org.

The Wellness Academy – Oh My How We’ve Grown!

Have you participated in any of our RVNAhealth Wellness Academy offerings? If you have, fantastic! If you have not, let us take a moment to invite you to check it out!

RVNAhealth has always been deeply rooted in providing more than just healthcare to the communities we serve. For years we’ve provided various educational programming at our offices or out in the community. The COVID pandemic unfortunately put a significant pause to those efforts. But in the fall of 2022, educational efforts were revived under the leadership of Kim Cafiero, RVNAhealth Marketing Director, and Lisa Fleming, Marketing Community Outreach. With a new name, the RVNAhealth “Wellness Academy” was launched and, wow, how we’ve grown!

From over 50 educational programming events and 1000 attendees in that first year, to now tracking towards 100+ events and doubling attendance in our second year back in full operation – the Wellness Academy has kept Cafiero’s and Fleming ‘s scheduling skills in top performing shape! “Ninety-five percent of our programming is offered free to the public and is delivered by RVNAhealth clinicians and health and wellness experts who willingly take time out of their day or evening schedules to present to the public. RVNAhealth is incredibly fortunate to have employees and relationships with other experts who are deeply passionate and educated in so many health and wellness areas. And we cannot go without recognizing our RVNAhealth donors, whose generosity also contributes greatly toward our ability to deliver this extensive amount of programming,” says Fleming.

What types of classes are offered?

The range of Wellness Academy topics provided are extensive and include topics such as: nutrition, exercise, osteoporosis prevention, medication management, brain health, fall prevention, Medicare enrollment, safety in the home, dementia, Parkinson’s disease management, and much more! In addition to educational classes, we also have an ongoing series of monthly support groups for bereavement, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and caregiver support. RVNAhealth Wellness Academy classes are offered year-round at our Ridgefield office and at select community locations across the various towns we serve.

How do I stay up to date with Wellness Academy offerings?

The Wellness Academy listing of available classes can be found at the RVNAhealth calendar page. When viewing events, we recommend that you follow any registration instructions in order to be kept informed of any further classes details or changes (e.g. for possible weather delays in the winter). Additionally, be sure to follow our monthly Wellness Academy article in the RVNAhealth Pulse newsletter, where we list out all classes and support groups along with registration links for the coming month.

Here’s to lifelong learning! We hope to see you soon!

The Wellness Academy can be found at the RVNAhealth Calendar site.

NEW! RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program

RVNAhealth is excited to announce the introduction of its new Dementia Education & Resources Program, launching officially in March! The new program is aimed at those diagnosed in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other dementias, and for family members or caregivers at any stage of caring for a loved one. With RVNAhealth’s extensive experience providing care and healthcare services for those with dementia, the new Dementia Education & Resources Program will introduce a robust calendar of educational, therapeutic and support components to our communities – all free of charge.

The Dementia Program “Why”

Many find the staggering statistics around dementia surprising. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors, ages 65+, dies with a form of dementia. And even more surprising, many facing the diagnosis of dementia disease find there are very few resources to turn to for education, care, and support.  Gigi Weiss, MSPT, RVNAhealth Senior Director of Rehabilitative Therapies and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) has witnessed the stories of dementia patients and their families firsthand. “Newly diagnosed dementia patients and their families often discover a harsh and frustrating reality of scattered resources. Many are left to face the battle on their own – one that can be frustrating, scary, and life-changing for both the individual and their loved ones and caregivers,” says Weiss. “This new program from RVNAhealth is intended to help fill that resources gap. We aim to provide regular education and therapeutic programs, and support groups to serve early to mid-stage dementia patients and loved ones and caregivers at all stages of the journey.”

RVNAhealth Dementia & Resources Program Formal Kickoff – March 7th

The RVNAhealth Dementia Education & Resources Program kicks off formally at our Ridgefield office event on March 7th from 1:00-2:30pm (in-person or via Zoom) with a presentation by guest physician, Dr. Alison McElhone, Gerontologist from Stamford Health, who will speak about the importance of early evaluation in cognitive decline and dementia. Also, during this event, Weiss and other RVNAhealth dementia experts will present introductory education and and an overview of our new resources program, including the calendar lineup of internal and external dementia experts scheduled to present on topics ranging from nutritional impacts, to understanding the linkage with hearing loss, recommended home modifications, and more (see details below). To register to attend this event in-person or virtually, please view our event and follow the registration link.

Upcoming lineup of events following our kickoff:

  • March 26th: Understanding the Cognitive Benefits of Exercise in Dementia Care
  • April 4th: The Impact of Nutrition on Dementia Care
  • April 9th: The Unheard Connection: Exploring the Link between Hearing Loss and Dementia
  • May 8th: Helping You Meet the Dementia Challenge
  • May 16th: Home Modifications for Dementia-Friendly Living
  • June 4th: Legal and Long-Term Financial Planning in Dementia Care
  • June 18th: Hospice Care and Comfort – End Stage Dementia: A Compassionate Approach
  • Plus ongoing support groups

Need Dementia Information or Support Sooner?

Leading up to our March 7th formal kickoff, we are excited to also offer an educational event, “Helping You Meet The Dementia Challenge,” at the Ridgefield Library on February 15th from 1:30-2:30pm.  Weiss and RVNAhealth’s Danielle Taibi, Home Health Aide Supervisor – both Certified Dementia Practitioners, will explain how to recognize the symptoms and stages of the condition, and discuss coping techniques that can be implemented during the early stages. The team will also discuss how to recognize when professional assistance and intervention may be necessary, along with strategies to make challenges and transitions more manageable. Please register HERE to attend this Feb 15th event.

RVNAhealth also continues its existing dedication to dementia support through its monthly Alzheimer’s Association-backed support groups.  RVNAhealth’s own Melissa Wutke, HHA Supervisor, Certified Dementia Practitioner, facilitates an Alzheimer’s Association monthly caregiver support group at RVNAhealth in Ridgefield.

Stay In Touch With Us

To stay in touch with us about details or to register for any of these or RVNAhealth’s other educational and program offerings, please check out our calendar of events regularly.  And if you would like to subscribe to our RVNAhealth Dementia-specific communications, please sign up HERE.

RVNAhealth’s First Annual Parkinson’s Symposium Recap

“Living Well With Parkinson’s” …a name apropos for RVNAhealth’s first annual Parkinson’s Symposium, was held at the RVNAhealth Ridgefield office on Friday, January 26th. With over 60 attendees and nearly 20 healthcare experts presenting or hosting information tables, the three hour event successfully delivered an agenda packed with information for both newly and existing diagnosed Parkinson’s patients, loved ones and care partners.

The Parkinson’s Symposium was the brainchild of Dr. Kate Campbell, Director of RVNAhealth’s Parkinson’s Center and Outpatient Rehabilitation. “After nearly a year since the launch of ourParkinson's Symposium Quote Parkinson’s Center, I wanted to create an opportunity to bring together some of the best local experts from within RVNAhealth and other healthcare institutions. Our goals was to give the Parkinson’s community an afternoon to gather in one place and immerse themselves in learning and helpful discussion,” said Campbell. Main stage presentations included topics on the benefits of exercise, awake versus asleep deep brain stimulation, the importance of Movement Disorder Specialists, and the role of sleep in Parkinson’s. Breakout sessions gave participants an opportunity to customize their afternoon of PD learning. These options ranged from exercise demos, and cooking and nutrition, to information on clinical trials, mental health tips, and an overview from an organization dedicated to hiking trips for people with PD.

RVNAhealth would like to thank our visiting presenters:  Dr. Zion Zibly and Dr. Sophie Holmes and Sophie Elliott, Yale School of Medicine, Dr. Sarah Buckingham, Stamford Health, and Dr. Leon Meytin, Hartford Healthcare. We would also like to add a tremendous thanks to our RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center staff who lead presentations, exercise classes, nutrition discussions, and more! Finally, we thank our sponsors who helped to make this event possible: Abbott, Abbvie, APDA of Connecticut, Medtronic, and Supernus.

With a successful first Parkinson’s Symposium complete, there is little downtime for Campbell as she continues with plans for the Parkinson’s Center’s second year in operation. “There’s a lot to be excited about at the Parkinson’s Center – we are taking more of our presentations out into the community, we are testing out new and more exercise class options, and we are soon kicking off our second Parkinson’s Bootcamp cohort, where we’ll work intensely with about 10 individuals over the course of 8 weeks. If you haven’t heard about Bootcamp, you should! We are making real life change and enabling individuals with powerful tools to take control of their Parkinson’s diagnosis–contact us to learn more!” says Campbell. “We are passionate about offering these resources to the Parkinson’s community – we are a place for community, compassion, health and wellness, and a partner in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.”

For more information about the RVNAhealth Parkinson’s Center, check out our webpage, call 203-438-5555 ext 1082 or email ParkinsonsCenterLeaders@rvnahealth.org.

Visiting physician speakers in the main hall
Breakout session on Gut Health
Our sponsor and PD experts informational hall
Lunch and time to speak with PD experts
Our sponsor and PD experts informational hall
Visiting physician speakers in the main hall
Breakout session – Demo boxing class
Dr. Kate Campbell, RVNAhealth Director of Outpatient Rehabilitation and Parkinson’s Center

 

RVNAhealth Partner in Care – Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale

RVNAhealth has partnered with Wilton Meadows and The Greens at Cannondale for twenty-five years, since The Greens opened its 142-bed assisted living and memory care community in nearby Wilton.

Anna Mae S., a resident of The Greens, is building strength following a fall thanks to the help of RVNAhealth Physical Therapist Jennifer Cangialosi PT, DPT, LSVT BIG, CDP, who works on-site in the RVNAhealth Therapy Gym.

The privately owned assisted living facility has sponsored our Wellness Fair since the beginning, enabling RVNAhealth to provide area seniors with free health screenings and vaccinations. Over time, The Greens/Wilton Meadows increased their support of our events and programs; they are now a member of RVNAhealth’s Governor Society of dedicated partners who commit $1,000 or more in annual support.

RVNAhealth caregivers spend a lot of time on the beautiful Cannondale Campus. Our agency provides skilled nursing, private-duty nursing, home health aides, and hospice care. We also manage an on-site physical therapy clinic to help residents maintain their strength and balance. We offer wellness programs for residents and this year we’ll be providing Dementia Caregiver Training and certification for staff at The Greens, too.

Ellen Casey, Senior Executive Director of The Greens is a firm believer in the many benefits of working with RVNAhealth: “Like The Greens, RVNAhealth is a private care provider that emphasizes quality and personal attention. Their excellent communication across levels of care helps our staff provide the highest quality, personalized services to our residents, even as their needs change,” she said. “RVNAhealth is truly part of our care team.”

The award-winning Cannondale Campus consists of The Greens at Cannondale Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, Wilton Meadows Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, and Nuvance Health’s Geriatric Assessment Program.

For more information about becoming a member of the RVNAhealth Governor Society, contact Jennifer Christensen, Donor Engagement Officer, at jchristensen@rvnahealth.org, or (203) 856-5137. For more information about the Greens, visit their website.

One Nutrition Habit For Your New Year!

Nutrition - About Soy

If you could adopt just one nutrition habit for a lifetime of wellness, what would it be? The answer may surprise you—it’s regular soy consumption.

Tell Me More.

Soy contains phytoestrogens—plant hormones with a unique way of supporting your health. When you consume soy, these phytoestrogens gently bind to your estrogen receptors, effectively blocking more potent and potentially harmful forms of estrogen encountered in our environment (such as endocrine disruptors found in our cookware and products). Simultaneously, they may have mildly estrogen-stimulating effects, particularly beneficial for individuals with low estrogen levels, like those going through menopause. This dual action makes soy a potent ally in promoting your well-being.

What does the research say?

Numerous studies support the remarkable effects of soy phytoestrogens. Research indicates that regular consumption of 20-60 grams of soy isoflavones (equivalent to about 1/4 block of firm tofu) can significantly reduce hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women. Additionally, evidence suggests that diets rich in natural sources of phytoestrogens, like soy, may lead to a reduction in osteoporosis, cognitive decline, and the risk of breast and colon cancers. Notably, soy is a staple in the Mediterranean diet, one of the most widely studied and supported diets worldwide.

What foods contain phytoestrogens?

Enjoying soy is both easy and delicious. You can savor it in various forms, including tofu, tempeh, edamame, and soy milk.

How Often?

The good news is that you can incorporate soy into your daily diet! With its versatile options and proven benefits, it’s a choice that promises a lifetime of radiant health.

As you ponder your lifelong nutrition choices, consider the incredible benefits of soy. It’s a simple yet impactful choice for your long-term well-being. If you have questions or need personalized advice on incorporating soy into your diet, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your health is our priority.

RVNAhealth Nutrition Resources

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Email Us With Any Questions

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Want to Subscribe to Our Monthly Nutrition Newsletter?

Fairfield County Bank ’23 Nursing Scholarships Announced

2023 Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarship Winners at RVNAhealth

Pictured left to right: Lauren Messina, Hospice RN; Keri Linardi, RVNAhealth Chief Clinical Officer; Dan Berta, President of Fairfield County Bank; Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth President & CEO; Jennifer Christensen, RVNAhealth Donor Engagement Officer; Missing: Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN

The gift of education is an investment in an individual, unlocking their potential, providing knowledge, and wielding the power to shape the trajectory of their life. Each year since 2019, a fortunate few RVNAhealth staff members have been recipients of this invaluable gift, made possible by scholarships generously provided by Fairfield County Bank—a steadfast supporter and believer in the mission of RVNAhealth.

The 2023 recipients of the Fairfield County Bank Nursing Scholarships include:

Elaine Leitao, QAPI RN, HCS-D, started with RVNAhealth in 2018 as a field nurse, left the agency for a brief time, and returned in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. She is working on her MSN at Chamberlain University. “The significance of this scholarship in shaping my journey and guiding me to my present position cannot be overstated. The support from Fairfield County Bank and RVNAhealth has empowered me to strive for excellence in both personal and professional aspects. I look forward to my continued future career growth with RVNAhealth!”

Lauren Messina, RVNAhealth Hospice RN with client
Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, with client

Lauren Messina, Hospice RN, recently completed her APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse) with the help of the scholarship. Joining RVNAhealth during the pandemic, she echoed similar appreciation. “I feel extremely fortunate to have been a beneficiary of the scholarship granted by Fairfield County Bank. My interest in advancing my education and returning for my APRN occurred during COVID, as I was encouraged and inspired by those around me.  The scholarship allowed me financial assistance while also providing me with a sense of support from the RVNAhealth community. I am looking forward to utilizing this advanced certification to improve the quality of the lives of those individuals we are dedicated to caring for.”

Keri Linardi, Chief Clinical Officer, RN, BSN, PHN, CHPCA is attending Central Connecticut State University to complete her Master of Science in Nursing. As both a recipient of this scholarship and clinical leader at RVNAhealth, Keri added, “These annual awards have impacted so many in the RVNAhealth organization. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Fairfield County Bank for investing in the education of our employees and not only broadening the horizons of our staff but also contributing to the strength of our team as a whole.”

A True Partner, Mentor, and Friend

Fairfield County Bank sponsorship of RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast
Fairfield County Bank table at RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast 2023
Thank you to Fairfield County Bank for donation of their billboard space to RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth billboard on I-95 in Norwalk, thanks to Fairfield County Bank!

Fairfield County Bank has been a steadfast partner of RVNAhealth for nearly three decades. Through lead sponsorships at fundraising events, serving on our Board of Directors, the Nursing Scholarship Program, donating space on their I-95 billboard in Norwalk, and through their dedicated employees who have supported us with invaluable guidance, advice, and unwavering support through numerous volunteer hours — Fairfield County Bank’s influence on RVNAhealth is beyond measure. As summarized by Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA, President & CEO of RVNAhealth, “They stand as not just a sponsor, but a true partner, mentor, and friend. We are profoundly appreciative.”

 

Thank You from RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy

RVNAhealth donor giving

In my role as RVNAhealth’s Director of Philanthropy, I work with my team to raise funds and awareness to support our mission of delivering unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed.

It is never lost on me that no matter what I or my team does in pursuit of that mission, it would not exist without you, our donors, sponsors, and volunteers. You make all the difference to us and to the many who would not otherwise have access to healthcare.

This is the best part of my job … my favorite part … saying thank you. Thank you for your support, whether it is given in time, expertise, financial gifts, or helping to raise awareness of our incredibly impactful organization.  Together, we are making our communities stronger and healthier.

This past year, with your help …

  • 62,461 healthcare visits were made to patients in their homes.
  • 454 hospice patients received compassionate end-of-life care, including 1,400 hospice volunteer hours.
  • 362 children with limited access to basic, preventive healthcare received school-required physicals and immunizations at no cost.
  • 7,835 visits to our outpatient Rehabilitation & Wellness Center helped patients recover strength and mobility.
  • 64 new moms and 52 babies were served by our Nurse Family Partnership program.
  • 350,630 hours of non-medical assistance with daily living needs helped people remain safe and independent at home.

While “thank you” is just two little words, they reflect a huge dose of gratitude for the powerful impact your support has had on the lives of so many.

Best wishes from RVNAhealth to you and yours for a wonderful new year filled with health and happiness.

With sincere appreciation,

Mary Jean Heller
Director of Philanthropy

Patient Provider Choice Matters & It’s Your Right!

Patient rights in choosing a health care provider

While no one likes to think about health-related “what ifs,” the unexpected does happen. For individuals that experience injury or illness resulting in a hospital stay, the road to recovery can sometimes take a while. And in some cases, a doctor will recommend continued recovery at home under the care and oversight of a home health agency, like RVNAhealth. When faced with the need for home health care, it is important to know your rights in choosing who provides that care.

The Patient’s Right to Choose

The right to choose who provides your health care is protected under federal law and it is fundamental to patient autonomy and the principle of person-centered care. Hospitals requiring discharge to home health care must inform their patients of their right and option to choose a provider.

How Should the Choice Process Work?

The process of being assigned to a home health agency should ideally involve collaboration between you or family, hospital staff (such as a Case Manager), healthcare providers, and sometimes social workers. However, due to the nation-wide shortage of healthcare workers, we often hear stories of hospital patients being preemptively assigned to a home health agency and asked if they are okay with it, or if they would like to choose another agency. While this might seem like helpful and proactive action from hospital staff, this can be ‘putting the cart before the horse’ if you just accept what has been assigned.  It’s important to empower yourself with the knowledge of what home health care is out there and what you need.

What are Some Factors I Should Use in Choosing a Home Health Agency?

  • Have you used service with a Home Health Agency in the past? If yes, it is beneficial to consider using that same agency again (assuming your prior experience was good). Returning to the same agency can offer a more seamless experience – considering the agency’s familiarity with your medical history, and your familiarity with them. Be sure to speak up and let hospital staff know what agency you used before and that you want to use them again.
  • What services do you need now and possibly need in the near term future? It is recommended that you think about services you need now as well as possible services you might need in the future. Does the agency you are considering offer all these services? For example, maybe you are a cardiac patient that needs skilled nursing and physical therapy now, but you may possibly need Palliative care in the future. Find out if the agency you choose can serve your evolving future needs. As discussed above, continuity of service with the same agency can be a tremendous asset to both you and your overall care.
  • What insurance do you have? Be very careful with this one as you don’t want a huge bill or a lack of coverage: If you have a Medicare Advantage plan or Medicaid plan, you need to validate insurance coverage before finalizing your home health agency choice. But with straight Medicare coverage you should not have insurance acceptance concerns with well-established agencies.
  • What if you have no preference or time to do your research? Ask questions! Ask your hospital Case Manager for two or three recommended choices. Ask who might serve your specific health needs (and potential future needs) best and why. Ask what geographic area they serve. Ask if their staffing is solid or if they have trouble with cancellation of visits.

As the demand for home health care continues to grow, advocating for and protecting a patient’s right to choose ensures that the evolving healthcare landscape remains centered on the needs and preferences of the individuals it serves. It’s important to communicate openly with your healthcare team, express your preferences, and ask any questions you may have about the transition to home health care. They are there to support you through the process and ensure that you receive the appropriate care tailored to your needs. If you have any questions regarding RVNAhealth services, please contact us at 203.438.5555 or visit our website at rvnahealth.org.