The Role of Geriatric Care Managers in Navigating the Aging Process

Geriatric Care Manager at RVNAhealth

What is a Geriatric Care Manager and why would I need one? This is an important question many have, but few know much (or enough) about! So let’s set the stage…

  • Do you have a loved one who has experienced a recent health or cognition change that will affect their daily or future living?
  • Do you know someone who is living alone or might need more care?
  • Do your loved ones have advanced directives in place, and have you had end-of-life care and wish discussions?

These scenarios only skim the surface in the range of topics that a Geriatric Care Manager can assist with. Whether seeking help during a period of transition or simply planning for the future, RVNAhealth’s Geriatric Care Management team of licensed clinical social workers offers expert senior guidance, advocacy, and support.

Help Designed For Navigating The Aging Journey

Navigating the complex world of senior care and aging requires careful knowledge and time. As RVNAhealth’s Geriatric Care Manager, Amy Feder, LCSW, CDP, CCM, works to support and educate clients and family members through their unique aging journey.

“I consider a large part of my role as an educator. Often, when a loved one experiences a sudden health or cognitive change, the children or spouse are not prepared for what those changes mean. Most are not aware of critical resources and options available to them.  That’s where I come in. I am a passionate counselor and advocate for our senior population. And helping individuals and families navigate the aging process is an honor,” says Amy.

Amy spends much of her time meeting with clients to understand needs, developing a plan, and then getting to work in connecting them with relevant and available resources and options. That work can span a wide range of support depending on an individuals’ needs and circumstances. Support may come in the form of education or advocacy on health and medical resources, connection to legal or financial assistance, social services, living and caregiving options, end-of-life planning, and more. “It can be really hard to summarize the services of a Geriatric Care Manager,” says Amy. “But that’s the beauty and importance of what this role is all about – it’s about each individual client and family and assisting them with their own specific needs.”

Questions or Want to Discuss a Geriatric Care Management Need?

RVNAhealth’s Geriatric Care Managers are available to clients on a private-pay basis for as little as an hour or for as long as an individual or family would like for ongoing needs and oversight.  “A lot can be accomplished in a one hour conversation,” says Amy. If you have an inquiry or questions about Geriatric Care Management at RVNAhealth, please call us at 203.438.5555 option 2.

About Amy Feder, LCSW, CDP, CCM, RVNAhealth Geriatric Care Manager

Amy Feder, RVNAhealth Geriatric Care Manager, LCSW, CDP, CMCPrior to her new role, Amy worked as an RVNAhealth Hospice and Palliative Care Social Worker.  She has also worked for many years as a Geriatric Care Manager for the Senior Choice at Home program through Jewish Senior Services. Amy’s background as a Certified Dementia Practitioner/ Geriatric Case Manager has provided her a unique ability in supporting geriatric patients and their families.  Amy has facilitated caregiver support groups throughout assisted living facilities in Connecticut and has spoken on the importance of self-care for family members caring for elderly loved ones.

Amy received her Master’s in Social Work from NYU in 1994, and has worked at both NYU Medical Center and Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.  Amy is a member of the Alzheimer’s Association, NASW, a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP), and Certified Care Manager (CCM) through the National Academy of Certified Care Managers. She feels it is a privilege to provide care for the senior population.

 

 

About RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

Ridgefield Thrift Shop Awards Grant to RVNAhealth’s Hospice program

Ridgefield Thrift Shop grant award to RVNAhealth 2024

The Ridgefield Thrift Shop has generously awarded RVNAhealth with a grant to support the Ridgefield Thrift Shop Hospice Fund at RVNAhealth. Thrift Shop volunteers, Annette Robertson and Shirley VanDam, presented the grant check to Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth President & CEO, and MJ Heller, RVNAhealth Director of Philanthropy, at the Thrift Shop’s grant award reception on April 29, 2024.

The fund was initially established in 2019 to help sustain the critical services provided by RVNAhealth’s hospice program. The renewal of this grant will continue to offset many unreimbursed program costs, including bereavement support to patients and families, music and pet therapies, end-of-life wishes, and the annual memorial service to name a few.

RVNAhealth’s hospice program serves patients in their residences, including private homes, assisted living facilities, nursing homes or hospitals, and it addresses physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs to ensure quality of life and comfort in one’s final days. The program has grown exponentially since its inception in late 2018 and now serves more than 450 hospice patients and their families annually. In addition, dedicated agency volunteers provided 1,600 hospice volunteer hours to ensure patients and their loved ones received companionship and support at this difficult time.

The relationship between RVNAhealth and the Ridgefield Thrift Shop dates back to 1937, when the Thrift Shop was created to support and sustain the work of RVNAhealth, then known as the District Nursing Association.  “We are so thankful for this opportunity to continue to work together to ensure quality health care remains accessible to individuals throughout Connecticut,” says MJ Heller, Director of Philanthropy at RVNAhealth.

“This grant will provide essential funding to our hospice program, making sure that our patients and their families receive the full care and support they need during such a sensitive time in their lives.  We are grateful to have compassionate and dedicated community partners like the Ridgefield Thrift Shop who help bring our mission to life.”

If you are interested in supporting RVNAhealth or learning more about our hospice or grants programs, please visit rvnahealth.org/support-us or contact MJ Heller, Director of Philanthropy, at 203.438.5555, x1206, or email mjheller@rvnahealth.org.

Dynamic Duo: Volunteer Lead and Therapy Dog Win Hospice Award

Stephanie Peppe, Hospice Volunteer Manager, and our beloved hospice therapy dog Sophia won the 2024 Florence Wald Award for Excellence in End-of-Life Care – Volunteer Award.

Pictured: Stephanie Peppe, Hospice Volunteer Manager, and Sophia (Therapy Dog), along with Theresa Santoro, RVNAhealth President & CEO, and the RVNAhealth Hospice and Palliative Care teams.

We are incredibly proud to announce that our very own Stephanie Peppe, Hospice Volunteer Manager, and our beloved hospice therapy dog Sophia won the 2024 Florence Wald Award for Excellence in End-of-Life Care – Volunteer Award. The award was presented at the Connecticut Association for Healthcare at Home Statewide Hospice & Palliative Care Annual Summit.

About the Award

Stephanie Peppe, Hospice Volunteer Manager, and our beloved hospice therapy dog Sophia won the 2024 Florence Wald Award for Excellence in End-of-Life Care – Volunteer Award.
Stephanie and Sophia are pictured here with Florence Wald’s daughter, Shari Vogler

The award was established to honor Florence Wald, a pioneer in improving the care of dying patients worldwide. Florence Wald’s focus on an interdisciplinary approach to end-of-life care led her to open the first hospice in the United States (here in Connecticut!) in 1971. As a visionary leader with an unwavering commitment to social justice and reverence for life, she invited patient, family, and team participation. She truly listened to their input which ultimately started the hospice reform movement in this country.

A Passion for Hospice Volunteers

In her role as Hospice Volunteer Manager, Stephanie Peppe is crucial in recruiting, training, and overseeing volunteers who provide invaluable support to hospice patients and their loved ones. Stephanie manages a team of 70+ volunteers and in the past 12 months, they have provided over 1,600 hours of help in the office and the field visiting patients and their family members.  Stephanie is steadfast in her mission to educate and inspire others to recognize the value of hospice volunteerism. “People are usually drawn to hospice volunteer work because of a positive personal experience with a loved one,” she says. “But I encourage all to consider hospice as a volunteer path. It really doesn’t take much except being there — sitting with a patient, walking the dog, or providing respite for the family so they can run errands,” she says. “Presence means the absolute world to patients and their families.”

Welcoming our Therapy Dog

On June 8, 2021, RVNAhealth welcomed Sophia, RVNAhealth’s Hospice Therapy Dog. Sophia was trained at ECAD — Educated Canines Assisting with Disabilities and was originally intended to be a seeing-eye dog, but her calm demeanor and mild pace ultimately destined her to be the perfect facility/therapy dog. In addition to her hospice volunteer role, Stephanie took on the lead role for our pet therapy program.

A Dynamic Duo for RVNAhealth Hospice

Together, Stephanie and Sophia have helped pioneer a special approach to hospice care, bringing comfort and companionship to patients in a unique and meaningful way. Sophia’s presence has been a source of joy and comfort to many, embodying the spirit of compassion and companionship that is central to hospice care.

Stephanie’s tenacity in challenging misconceptions about hospice care, her dedication to educating and inspiring others, and her innovative use of animal-assisted therapy with Sophia truly set her apart as a leader in the field of end-of-life care. Sophia’s role as a therapy dog has brought comfort and joy to many patients and their families, highlighting the importance of companionship and emotional support in hospice care. Together, Stephanie and Sophia have touched the lives of countless individuals, embodying the spirit of Florence Wald’s interdisciplinary approach to end-of-life care. Congratulations to Stephanie and Sophia for embodying the spirit of excellence in hospice care!

For More Information About Volunteering at RVNAhealth

Watch Sophia, star in ‘A Day in the Life of a Hospice Volunteer”

RVNAhealth welcomes all inquiries for volunteer opportunities. The RVNAhealth volunteer program offers safe and diverse opportunities for donating time in a way that is purposeful and meaningful for everyday heroes of all ages. Share the gift of your time across our robust organization in an administrative role, or join our Hospice volunteer corps, dedicated to supporting patients and families at end-of-life. A little known fact specific to our hospice volunteers program — RVNAhealth, and all Medicare-certified hospice programs, are required by law to have 5% of service hours performed by volunteers.  Why?  Because hospice care in the U.S. was founded by volunteers, and the commitment to the power, beauty, and altruism of volunteering remains!

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at RVNAhealth, please visit us here and fill out our Volunteer Inquiry Form.

 

 

About RVNAhealth

 RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

Supporter Spotlight: Meadow Ridge

Meadow Ridge - RVNAhealth supporter

Meadow Ridge, the lifecare community situated on a hilltop in Redding, has been a supporter of RVNAhealth for 14 years, and the partnership keeps getting stronger.

RVNAhealth Case Manager Aaron Crook, RN, is a familiar face across campus. He works with residents in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and with those returning to their apartments after rehabilitation in Ridge Crest, their skilled nursing center.

Aaron is quick to share, “I love RVNAhealth because it is a stand-alone, community-based nonprofit that has been around for more than 100 years. We are here to serve and invest in the health of our community.”

“My philosophy of nursing is to facilitate patient’s independence and well-being. I do as much as possible to help them find their inner healing and strength. My job as a nurse is to make patients not need me anymore,” he said. “And of course, we share the same goal, which is to keep people out of the hospital if possible.”

Aaron Crook with Meadow Ridge resident
Aaron Crook, RN, with Meadow Ridge resident, Bernice

Laura Barbieri, Director of Resident and Family Services, notes the many benefits of partnering with RVNAhealth: “The agency services many residents at Meadow Ridge, at all levels of care. The organization is devoted to the people they serve.  I find the staff to be extremely attentive and caring. They are responsive to calls and emails, and always willing to help resolve any issues or concerns.  RN Case Manager Aaron Crook is on property often throughout the work week.  He communicates with our staff and maintains continuity.”

Meadow Ridge, developed by Senior Care Development, LLC and managed by Benchmark Senior Living, is one of Connecticut’s most comprehensive continuing care retirement communities. Located in the picturesque town of Redding and recognized for excellence by U.S. News and World Report, Meadow Ridge sits on 136 acres and offers 285 independent living apartment homes, as well as assisted living and memory care. The campus also features Ridge Crest, an award-winning, sub-acute rehabilitation and skilled nursing center.  For more information, visit www.MeadowRidge.com.

RVNAhealth’s Annual Spring Breakfast Was The Place to Be!

Energy and enthusiasm filled The Amber Room on April 26th when RVNAhealth hosted its 23rd Annual Spring Breakfast. More than 400 guests joined us for the early morning gathering that has become the place to be on the last Friday of April each year!

The event is held to raise critical funds to support nursing, rehabilitation and hospice care in the home, as well as our mission-driven community programs like Well-Child Clinics for uninsured children, Chronic Care for vulnerable elderly or disabled individuals, and the Nurse Family Partnership. This year’s Spring Breakfast was a record breaker in attendance for RVNAhealth as business partners, health care professionals, civic leaders, donors and friends came together over breakfast to learn about the breadth of RVNAhealth services and their impact across 35+ communities in the area.

Our Impact Speaker, Anne Mead, Ed. D., Director of Family, School and Community Partnerships for the Danbury Public Schools, shared insight into the partnership between RVNAhealth and the Danbury Schools, explaining that this partnership is invaluable to ensure health and access to education for our most vulnerable students and their families. Ms. Mead described the profound impact RVNAhealth’s Well-Child Program in Danbury has had, emphasizing the long-term, often life-changing, benefits the program provides to the families it serves and to the community as a whole.

We were thrilled to welcome Danbury Mayor Robert Alves, New Milford Mayor Pete Bass, Newtown First Selectman Jeff Capeci, Bethel First Selectman and RVNAhealth Board member Dan Carter, Kent First Selectman Marty Lindenmeyer, Ridgefield First Selectman Rudy Marconi, and Roxbury First Selectman Patrick Roy. Also in attendance was Connecticut State Senator Julie Kushner, who presented a proclamation to the RVNAhealth Well-Child team in recognition of their collaboration with the Danbury Public Schools to provide medical care, immunizations, translation services, and access to social services to students in need. More than 500 Danbury children have benefitted from the program.

RVNAhealth is grateful to our many sponsors, guests, and supporters for hosting tables, buying raffle tickets, tipping their hosts, and bidding on auction items. Enjoy our event photo gallery below! Photos courtesy of Deborah K. O’Brien Photography   www.deborahobrien.com.

Journey Essentials: Ready, Set, Road Trip!

Road trips and safe driving tips

RVNAhealth is pleased to offer the AARP Safe Driver Course at its Ridgefield offices on Monday, May 6th. Registration details can be found at the end of this article on safe senior road tripping.

The Lure of the Wide Open Road

According to a recent report from AARP, three out of five Americans aged 50 and older will plan a trip this year, with road trips emerging as the preferred mode of travel. Road trips offer distinct advantages, including the opportunity to explore local attractions en route, savor regional cuisine and culture, and be in control of your own agenda. But, like all travel trips, proper planning and preparation is essential to being able to enjoy those moments on the road!

Planning Ahead for Road Trips

For older adults planning a road trip, here are some essential packing items and planning considerations:

  • Pack all prescription and over-the-counter medications. Consider if any refrigeration or cooling mechanisms will be required and plan in advance.
  • Pack supportive footwear and clothing. Consider comfortable shoes with good support and tread, compression socks, and clothing that can be layered for all temperatures.
  • Pack any comfort aid items. Travel pillows, blankets, and seat cushions can help reduce fatigue and support relaxation during rest stops or overnight stays. A massage ball or exercise band are great small tools to pack and can help loosen sore or stiff muscles on the road.
  • Know your way. Carry a reliable GPS device or use navigation apps on smartphones.
  • Pack car emergency supplies. Have a flashlight, extra batteries, a multipurpose tool, and a roadside emergency kit in your car. Be mindful of maintaining a fully charged mobile phone and a car charger for communication in case of emergencies.
  • Stay in communication. In addition to a smartphone, bring a backup battery and charging cords. And don’t forget to have all important contact numbers (family, physicians, etc.) easily available.
  • Stay active and hydrated. Maintain your health by staying hydrated and engaging in light physical activity during rest stops. Stretching or taking short walks can help alleviate stiffness and improve circulation.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance that provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. This can offer financial protection and assistance in case of unexpected situations.
  • Brush up on your driving know-how and rules of the road…speaking of which, read on for RVNAhealth’s hosting of the AARP Safe Driver course next week!

AARP Safe Driver Course at RVNAhealth

RVNAhealth is proud to host the AARP Safe Driver Course at our 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield office on Monday May 6th from 9:00am – 1:30pm. Take the AARP Smart Driver classroom course and you could save money on your auto insurance. Learn techniques for handling left turns, right-of-way and roundabouts. Understand how to reduce traffic violations, crashes, and risk of injury and discover proven driving methods to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road! You must register in advance and there is a fee payable to the instructor on the day of the class.

See AARP’s website for more information and tips on driver safety. We wish you safe and healthy travels on the open road!

 

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

Living LOUD Classes

Living LOUD class for Parkinson's disease

Living LOUD – Starting June 4th
1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month 11:45am – 12:45pm
RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield
$30 per drop in class

Living LOUD tackles the soft voice, mumbled speech, monotone speech and hoarse voice that often afflict Parkinson’s patients. Structured activities that continue to work the patient’s vocal range maintain the progress made after the LSVT LOUD treatment. Weekly activities will include group work as well as individual exercises with other participants facilitated by an LSVT LOUD speech therapist. The ultimate goal is to improve loudness, improve speech intelligibility, increase facial expression, and improve confidence.

Cost is $30 per class and we do not require a registration for each class, but please call our office 203.438.7862 or email (rehabcenter@rvnahealth.org) before attending your first class so that we can discuss your specific needs.

To see class schedule, visit our calendar here

To learn more about the Living Loud program, please call (203) 438-7862   or email rehabcenter@rvnahealth.org.

 

About Susan DiGregorio, SLP

Susan DiGregorio, Speech TherapistSusan DiGregorio, SLP, is a Speech-Language Pathologist who works with our adult patients at the RVNAhealth Rehabilitation & Wellness Center. Susan specializes in the rehabilitation of swallowing, speech, language, cognition and voice following neurological, traumatic injuries and treatment for head and neck cancers.

Susan joined RVNAhealth in 2017 as a therapist in both in-home and outpatient settings. She then pursued in-home therapy full time before returning to outpatient therapy, where she enjoys the opportunity to help her motivated clients set and achieve their goals. Prior to RVNAhealth, Susan worked for eight years in a sub-acute setting.

Susan earned her B.A in psychology from SUNY New Paltz in 2004, and her M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from CUNY Lehman in 2011. She holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner.

Susan lives in Danbury with her husband, daughter, cat and dog. They love to stay active as a family with hikes, bike rides and catching live music whenever they can.

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

A 21st Century Pain in the Neck

Text Neck and therapy at RVNAhealth

Technology is a regular part of modern daily life and has, for many, become a literal pain in the neck. The hours spent hunched over technology—cell phones, tablets, and computers—can result in a condition coined Text Neck Syndrome, a stress injury to the neck, shoulders, and cervical spine. Text neck, also known as tech neck or forward head posture, is a modern condition characterized by neck pain and stiffness resulting from excessive or prolonged use of electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. When using these devices, especially for extended periods, people often crane their neck forward and downward, which can strain the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck and upper back.

Physical therapists are inundated with complaints of the syndrome. RVNAhealth Director of Outpatient Rehabilitation Services, Kate Campbell, DPT, provided insight into the phenomenon increasingly seen in patients at the Rehabilitation & Wellness Center.

What are the symptoms of Text Neck Syndrome?

  • Nagging or sharp pain in the upper back or neck that is often triggered when bending the neck in a downward forward motion
  • Excessive discomfort and stiffness in the shoulders, neck, and upper back, particularly at the end of the day
  • Headaches, often frequent, exacerbated by screen time
  • Decreased or painful head mobility

How are symptoms assessed?

A physical examination and medical history are part of evaluating patients with the symptoms of Text Neck Syndrome. Review of discomfort, mobility limitations, and lifestyle are all relevant factors in comprehensive assessment and if more serious injury or diagnoses are suspected, a referral for imaging could be recommended. A treatment plan developed by a physical therapist is often the appropriate course of action for many patients.

How is Text Neck Syndrome treated?

All RVNAhealth patients receive personal assessments and treatment programs to address individual presentation of symptoms. There are strengthening exercises and posture adjustments that can mitigate the discomfort and physical misalignments that accompany the syndrome.

A customized plan is developed to address the needs of each patient based on individual lifestyle and ability which can include time working with a physical therapist at the Rehabilitation & Wellness Center and at-home exercises.

Physical therapy can be accessed through a doctor referral or, for Connecticut residents, through the statewide Direct Access program which enables CT residents to see a physical therapist without doctor referral for up to six visits.

Are there ways to prevent neck strain?

Yes! Starting with proper posture is key. And make sure to align technology with eye level to help alleviate neck pressure. Since the average human head weighs around eleven pounds, a downward and forward-positioned head puts significant strain on the neck, spine, and supporting muscles.

Regular stretching can also help to release muscle strain and strengthen stabilizing muscle groups. We recommend chin tucks and gentle arching/backbends while seated to help. You can view some of these recommended stretches in video included here.

Finally, take frequent breaks from technology whenever possible. Take deep breaths while going on a short walk and remember to stand straight with the shoulders back. Practicing good posture is a worthwhile habit!

Since society’s reliance on technology is not likely to dissipate, mindfulness of body position during use can minimize the negative physical consequences of excessive screen time. If you feel you may suffer from Text Neck Syndrome, or any similar ailment causing discomfort, contact the RVNAhealth Rehabilitation & Wellness Center team at 203.438.7862. For more information about our RVNAhealth Rehabilitation & Wellness Center visit www.rvnahealth.org/rehab.

 

RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.

2024 RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast Live Auction Preview

Here is a preview of the exciting live auction items that will be up for bid at the 23rd Annual RVNAhealth Spring Breakfast on Friday, April 26, 2024 at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury, 7:30am. Funds raised will support our home health services, hospice care, and community health and wellness programs across 35+ towns in the region.

 

BROADWAY YOUR WAY  

A car service will whisk you away to the bright lights of the big city! Enjoy your Broadway show of choice with your $500 Broadway.com gift certificate. Dine at your restaurant of choice with your $250 American Express gift card, before or after the show.
Gift of John & Lori Berisford and George Earl, Jr.

 

 

 

FOUR FOR FORE – GOLF FOURSOMES

Can you ever have too much golf?!  Hit the links with three friends and enjoy some of the nicest courses around. This golfer’s package includes a round for four at each of these great area clubs: Ridgewood Country Club, Salem Golf Club, Silver Spring Country Club, and The Club at River Oaks — all with lunch and carts. Time to play hooky!
Gift of Bob Rossman/The Club at River Oaks, Dan LeBlanc/Ridgewood Country Club, Bill Hecht/Salem Golf Club, Karl Habib/Silver Spring Country Club

 

 

 

FAMILY FUN IN FALMOUTH – ENJOY A SUMMER WEEK ON CAPE COD

Relax with a summer escape to the Cape, July 26 – August 2. Enjoy spacious, 2-bedroom accommodations at InnSeasons HarborWalk in Falmouth, MA.  Overlooking Falmouth Harbor, this resort is minutes from the beach, downtown and the island ferries making it ideal for exploring the Cape. The newly renovated suite sleeps eight, with a queen-sized bed in bedroom #1, two full-sized beds in bedroom #2, a full-sized pull-out sofa in the living room and a full kitchen.  Head off to Martha’s Vineyard with two roundtrip tickets on the Island Queen and enjoy a sail {for two} on the Black Dog Tall Ship, Alabama.
Gift of The Couri Family and Christopher & Mary Joyce  

 

 

 

BE THE HOST WITH THE MOST!

Gourmet dinner for 6, professionally prepared and served in the intimacy of your home, by À Table/S+B catering. Includes a generously donated charcuterie board and a $200 VISA gift card to purchase wine pairings of your choice to complement your meal.  A beautiful flower arrangement will complete the evening’s presentation.
Gift of Sarah and Bernard Bouissou of À Table, 109 Cheese & Wine, Rodier Flowers, Diane Minck, Debbie & Peter Hayes

 

 

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF AFRICA – ZULA NYALA PHOTO SAFARI

Here’s your chance for that bucket list trip to South Africa! Capture your own award-winning photographs of elephants, giraffes, hippos, leopards, zebra and many more plains wildlife in the heart of one of Africa’s richest conservation regions. This Photo Safari for two includes 6 days/6 nights luxury accommodations, including 3 delicious meals daily and 2 daily open Land Rover excursions with experienced guides. Before you depart, come to RVNAhealth for a complimentary travel health consultation to make sure you are prepared for your adventure. (NOTE: This trip does not include cost of vaccinations, airfare, airport transfers, personal beverages, side trips or phone calls. Trip must be used within two years of auction date.)
Gift of Zulu Nyala Group and RVNAhealth

 

 

BATTER UP YANKEES FANS

You, your friends, and the Yanks! Win four tickets to Yankee Stadium with seats in a prime location: 12th row, field level behind on-deck circle (you pick the date, based on selection and availability). Use a $200 gift card to dine at The Audi Club. In-seat wait service is available too!
Gift of Marci & Ted Tregurtha and Patti & Steve Ross

 

 

 

THE METS & YOU!                                                 

Sit back at Citi Field, enjoy the Mets, a little batting practice, and dine before the game using a $200 gift card. Four tickets to a game (you pick the date, based on selection and availability). Prime location—15th row, field level behind home plate. In-seat wait service available!
Gift of Marci & Ted Tregurtha and Patti & Steve Ross

 

 

Want to Reach the Milestone of 100 Years Old?

nutrition and longevity

Nutrition for Quality of Life and Longevity

One of the key strategies to optimize your chances of living to 100 lies in the realm of nutrition. Our health is influenced by a myriad of factors, some within our control and some beyond it. Lifestyle factors and choices we make day-to-day exert a significant influence on our overall health and longevity. Thus, it’s crucial to maximize control over these modifiable aspects of our lives.

Longevity, in this context, encompasses not only the length of life but also its qualitative aspects, emphasizing the importance of maximizing both longevity and health span.

Among lifestyle factors, nutrition stands out as perhaps the most influential. What we eat has a profound impact on various aspects of our health, including gene expression, inflammation, and mental well-being. The cumulative effect of our dietary choices over time significantly shapes our longevity, either positively or negatively.

Navigating what constitutes a truly nourishing diet can be daunting. However, certain principles are true for everyone. Highly regarded diets such as the MIND diet, DASH diet, and various other diets that target specific diseases all seem to follow patterns in the types of foods, plant-rich, unprocessed, whole foods. Perhaps the most well-known and effective longevity diet – the Mediterranean emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats like fish and olive oil. It is associated with increased life expectancy and improvements in various diseases, including heart disease, a leading cause of mortality in the United States.

The Mediterranean diet checklist:

  • Daily intake:
    • Berries
    • Dark chocolate
    • Green tea
    • Leafy greens
    • Olive oil
  • Weekly intake:
    • Beans
    • Flaxseeds
    • Soy
    • Salmon

Energy and Cognitive Benefits

Moreover, energy levels are among the most noticeable aspects of our health affected by nutrition as we age. Balanced meals comprising fiber, healthy fats, and protein, as advocated by the Mediterranean diet, contribute to stable blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes and promoting sustained energy throughout the day. For instance, a meal like grilled salmon (protein + healthy fat) with vegetables (fiber)  cooked in quinoa (fiber + protein) provides protein, healthy fats, and fiber, offering a balanced nutritional profile.

Cognitive health is another area profoundly influenced by nutrition, particularly as we age. While some cognitive decline is inevitable with aging, certain nutrients have been associated with preserving cognitive function in older adults. These include omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon and tuna, flavonoids/anthocyanins abundant in berries, and choline present in eggs and fatty fish.

In summary, incorporating fiber, healthy fats, and protein into each meal, with an emphasis on Mediterranean diet principles, can mitigate the impact of age-related diseases, bolstering energy levels and cognitive function, and supporting overall bone and muscle health.

For More Information on Nutrition from RVNAhealth

Monica Marcello, RVNAhealth Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Educator. Available for Osteoporosis consultations.

If you’re interested in learning more or need help with osteoporosis and nutrition, 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.

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.