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Blackberries – A Delicious Superfood!

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 6, 2020

We love blackberries at Private Home Care! They are packed with antioxidants (our favorite!) and have many other health benefits. Pretty cool for a little berry, huh?!

1. Packed with Vitamin C!

One cup of raw blackberries has half of the daily recommended value of Vitamin C! Vitamin C is integral to collagen formation in bones, connective tissue, and blood vessels. Vitamin C may also help heal wounds, regenerate the skin, battle free radicals (molecules released by toxins) in the body, absorb iron, shorten the common cold, and prevent scurvy.

2. High in Fiber

Blackberries are high in fiber, which helps to: reduce cholesterol,promote regular bowel movements, control blood sugar levels by slowing the rate of sugar absorption, lose weight by making you feel fuller longer, and provide fuel to nourish healthy gut bacteria.

3. Good Source of Vitamin K

Vitamin K is the reason why you don’t bleed profusely when you cut yourself: It helps your blood clot. Vitamin K also plays a role in bone metabolism. Vitamin K deficiency may lead to bone thinning and bone fractures. It may cause easy bruising, heavy menstrual bleeding, and blood in the stool or in the urine. Just one cup of raw blackberries provides almost 29 micrograms, which is over one-third of the daily recommended value of vitamin K.

4. High in Magnese

Magnese is vital to healthy bone development and a healthy immune system. It also helps your body metabolize carbs, amino acids, and cholesterol. Like vitamin C, manganese plays a key role in the formation of collagen. And the enzyme that helps manganese form collagen, prolidase, also helps wounds heal properly.Manganese may help prevent osteoporosis, manage blood sugar levels, and reduce epileptic seizures.One cup of raw blackberries contains 0.9 milligrams of manganese, almost half the daily recommended value.

5. Good For Your Brain!

Blackberries may improve brain health and help prevent memory loss caused by aging, according to a review of research in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. The review concluded that antioxidants in berry fruits help fight free radicals and alter how brain neurons communicate. This may help reduce brain inflammation, which can lead to cognitive and motor issues common with aging.

6. May Help Support Oral Health

Blackberry extract has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory abilities against some types of bacteria that cause oral disease, which suggests blackberry extract may help prevent and control gum disease and cavities.

A one cup serving of this delicious fruit provides over half of the recommended daily value of Vitamin C, K, and magnese. Blackberries also help boost brain health and oral health. Sounds like a perfect snack!

Posted in: Healthcare

Exercising in Hot Weather

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 6, 2020

Today we talk about how to keep yourself safe and healthy while exercising during the summer. Here in New England, we are lucky that we get to experience all four seasons. But, summer is typically shorter, and people may not be used to the heat. Now that gyms are closed, many of us are exercising outside when we are not used to the heat, let alone exercising.

1. Hydrate!

Hydration is always very important for exercising, but during the summer it is especially so. In hot weather we may start getting dehydrated unintentionally just sitting in the car waiting for the air conditioner to come on!

A good way to make sure to stay hydrated is to drink water before, during, and after your workout! If you are doing a tough workout, try diluting sports drink down with water, with 25% sports drink and 75% water. That way you receive the benefits of the sports drink but not all of the extra sugar that your body does not need! It is actually better to drink smaller amounts of water at more frequent intervals (such as every 20 minutes) because it helps keep the body more hydrated as you sweat.

2. Pick a time!

It is best to exercise in the morning or in the evening, when the sun is not strong and it is cooler outside. If you are exercising before or after the sun, wear reflective clothing and a headlight or small flashlight. Make sure to have your cell phone on you just in case!

3. Sun safety!

We have written about it many times – sunscreen, hat, clothing that covers, etc. Keep yourself healthy!

4. COVID Guidelines

Follow COVID guidelines appropriate to your situation. For example, if you have an at-risk loved one at home and you decide to walk on a busy beachside sidewalk where there are many people, it could be good idea to wear a mask. However, if you are walking in a park at 6 a.m. when it is silent and no one is there, there is not much of a need to wear a mask.

5. Fitness Fashion

Wear loose, breathable, light colored clothing because it allows more air to pass over the body, which keeps you cool. And, as we mentioned above, wear a hat to beat the heat!

6. Don’t Push It

When you are exercising outside in warmer weather, your body is working harder. Don’t try to push it to achieve the same workout that you would normally be able to in a highly air conditioned gym. Wearing a fitbit or similar device can be helpful for monitoring your movement while keeping track of your heartbeat to make sure you do not push it too much.

7. Stop Immediately At Any Signs of Illness

Make sure to monitor for signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration, including headache, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, tingling, confusion, change to heartbeat, seeing spots, or confusion.

*Please note – may of these tips apply for swimming as well! Even though you are surrounded by water, that does not mean that your body cannot overheat or become dehydrated!

Posted in: Healthcare

National ‘Fried’ Chicken Day

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 6, 2020

Today is National Fried Chicken Day! (Or, for health-conscious people, it is National Oven-Fried Chicken Day!)In the United States, July 6th chicken lovers across the country recognize National Fried Chicken Day.

Scottish immigrants brought their tradition of deep-frying chicken in fat to the southern United States. After its introduction to the American South, fried chicken soon became a staple. Over time, cooks added seasonings and spices to enrich the flavor of the chicken. Traditional fried chicken is a dish consisting of chicken pieces floured or battered, then pan-fried, deep-fried or pressure-fried. The breading adds a crisp coating to the exterior of the chicken. Knowing how to get a good crisp on the chicken may seem elusive to some. However, some of the best cooks will tell you the keys to achieving the crispiest fried chicken involves seasoning well and early in the process, adding starch to your flour and frying your chicken at the right temperature. The oil should be 300°F. Finally, let the chicken rest before serving to allow the juices to be absorbed back into the meat.

Let’s be honest – fried chicken is not the healthiest food. Private Home Care is passionate about nutrition, that is why we are here to show healthy alternatives! Here is a recipe for healthy ‘fried’ chicken, that is actually oven baked and not deep fried! Eliminating oil eliminates a lot of calories, saturated fat, and using skinless chicken breast lowers that even more! Enjoy this delicious recipe!

Posted in: Healthcare

National Sushi Handroll Day!

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 6, 2020

July 6th ushers in National Sushi Hand Roll Day with the freshest flavors! The day encourages us to explore our senses by experiencing one of sushi’s most popular forms – the sushi handroll.

Japanese sushi hand rolls delight the senses with vibrant color, taste, and texture. Since every delicate hand roll is masterfully designed, the chef presents each one as a work of art. A delicious dip into soy enhances the perfect bite, too. Whether it’s spicy or sweet, or a combination of both, we delight in eating hand rolls with friends over sake, wine, or a Japanese beer.Ideally, a hand roll is eaten right away and consists of the freshest fish. Hand rolls also include specially harvested seaweed, house-made sauces, and warm rice. When everything comes together, the final result is not only beautiful but incredibly delicious.

Traditional sushi hand rolls come in 6-8 pieces and they are made with fish, veggies, sushi rice (high in iron because of the extra vinegar added!), wrapped up in dried seaweed. Not only are sushi handrolls very, very healthy, they are also delicious and so much fun to eat! Enjoy!

Posted in: Healthcare

National Workaholic Day

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 6, 2020

National Workaholics Day on July 5th reminds us to balance our work and home life. Work isn’t everything! Do you come in early, skip your lunch and stay late or know someone who does? This day is dedicated to the people who fit that description – the workaholics.

A workaholic feels the need to be busy at all times which may cause problems. They might perform tasks they are not required to do or are unnecessary for project completion. These unnecessary tasks cause inefficiency where the focus should be on production. Workaholics may have trouble delegating or entrusting co-workers with tasks. They struggle with organizational skills due to taking on too much work at one time. The solution for workaholics is to step back, regroup, and slow down a little bit.

Having to work from home because of COVID may be especially challenging for a workaholic. A workaholic may feel pressure to work even longer hours because they cannot be in the office. Other stressors related with COVID, such as childcare, or concern about a loved one’s health, can exacerbate levels of stress. This kind of negative stress is bad for the body, and can negatively impact health. At Private Home Health Care we value health and well being. We encourage everyone to live a healthy lifestyle and when stress levels get a bit too high, you should take a step back, take a breath, and drink some water. Remember, health is wealth!

Posted in: Healthcare

How to Celebrate 4th of July with Seniors

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 3, 2020

How to Celebrate 4th of July with Seniors

Parade or Concert!

Even though this year seniors may not be able to go to in-person parades or concerts, there are still ways to enjoy! There are many concerts for 4th of July being shown on TV, like the Boston Pops Orchestra!

Fireworks!

Fireworks are a 4th of July favorite for all! Fireworks are displayed in places where they can be seen from far away, so a senior does not have to be in the middle of a crowd to watch fireworks! They can watch from a secluded spot outdoors, or from a car. If your loved one can watch fireworks from their own home, that would be wonderful!

Eat Traditional Fourth of July Foods!

Food can evoke wonderful memories. Include your loved one with mealtime (or prep if they feel up to it!), and ask them if they would like to eat anything in particular to celebrate the 4th of July.

Some seniors may have difficulties with eating or swallowing, but they can still enjoy foods like ice cream, pasta salad, lemonade, shredded chicken or beef, and (my favorite) shortcake with strawberries, blueberries and whipped cream – yum!

Honor veterans

Take time to remember veterans by visiting a memorial, donating to charity, reflecting on memories with loved ones, looking at family pictures of servicemembers or writing a thank you note to a member of the military.

Bring the Celebration to Them!

If your loved one has mobility issues, bring the celebration to them! Celebrate 4th of July by helping decorate their yard or house with an American flag or red, white, and blue flowers. Another good idea is to watch a patriotic movie to celebrate American Independence!

Posted in: Healthcare

Private Home Care and 4th of July!

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 3, 2020

Tomorrow is July 4th, Independence Day!

July Fourth is one of our favorite holidays at Private Home Care! We love the fireworks, barbecues, and fun times where we celebrate American freedom and independence.Private Home Care values freedom and independence for all, especially for your loved ones. Aging in place allows for seniors to maintain the liberty and independence of living in their own beloved and comfortable homes.

Our expert caregivers support your loved ones so they can maintain their freedom and live life to the fullest. Home truly is where the heart is, and at Private Home Care, ‘Compassion is at the Heart of Our Care’.

We embrace American values every day by helping seniors maintain independence and freedom at home. We wish you a Happy 4th of July and God Bless America!

Posted in: Healthcare

National Stay Out of the Sun Day!

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 3, 2020

Today is National Stay Out of the Sun Day!

National Stay Out of the Sun Day encourages us to give our skin a much-needed break from the sweltering heat. Although one doesn’t technically need to be indoors to avoid the sun, any excuse to lounge around the house for a lengthy period of time can (and should) be taken full advantage of. For those with a shady porch, that is also a great way to enjoy a beautiful summer day while staying out of the sun.

Moderate sun exposure will provide you with a healthy, all-natural dose of Vitamin D, but spending too much time basking in the sun speeds up the aging process and can cause skin cancer. Vitamin D is very important because it helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. These nutrients are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.

To safely expose yourself to the sun, make sure to avoid being out between 11a-2p, when the sun is most strong. If you are going to be out during those hours, try to only be out for 10-15 minutes, and take proper precautions such as wearing a hat, applying 30+SPF, wearing clothing that covers, and staying hydrated!

Whether you opt to spend this holiday relishing in the great indoors, or relaxing in a hammock in the shade — enjoy Stay Out of the Sun Day!

Posted in: Healthcare

Happy Fourth of July!

Posted by Mary Demakes on July 2, 2020

Each year on July 4th, the United States celebrates Independence Day. This federal holiday commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain.

On July 2, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of Lee’s resolution for independence in a near-unanimous vote. On that day, John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail that July 2 “will be celebrated, by succeeding Generations, as the great anniversary Festival” and that celebration should include “Pomp and Parade…Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other.”

On July 4th, the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, from then on the 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence.

For nearly 250 years, the country has been celebrating a day in history that inspires us still today. On July 4th, communities host speeches and ceremonies across the nation. Across the country, people crowd cities for parades and festivals. Cities deck the streets in red, white, and blue bunting and flags.

Festivities including concerts, bonfires, parades and the firing of cannons and muskets usually accompanied the first public readings of the Declaration of Independence, beginning immediately after its adoption. Philadelphia held the first annual commemoration of independence on July 4, 1777, while Congress was still occupied with the ongoing war.

After the Revolutionary War, Americans continues to commemorate Independence Day every year, in celebrations that allowed the new nation’s emerging political leaders to address citizens and create a feeling of unity.

Today, many communities hold spectacular fireworks displays re-enacting moments of victory. Patriotic music accompanies the performance while spectators view the show from blankets strewn along capital lawns or from boats floating in bays. In some parts of the country, people will shot their own fireworks while children delight in the bright colors and sparklers.

The tradition of setting off fireworks on the 4 of July began in Philadelphia on July 4, 1777, during the first organized celebration of Independence Day. Ship’s cannon fired a 13-gun salute in honor of the 13 colonies. The Pennsylvania Evening Post reported: “at night there was a grand exhibition of fireworks (which began and concluded with thirteen rockets) on the Commons, and the city was beautifully illuminated.” That same night, the Sons of Liberty set off fireworks over Boston Common.

Families and friends also gather for some of the most mouthwatering food – large picnics and barbecues, local fairs provide a taste of culture and mom’s home cooking, too. With so many converging on their hometowns, family and school reunions take place.

The tradition of patriotic celebration became even more widespread after the War of 1812, in which the United States again faced Great Britain. In 1870, the U.S, Congress made July 4th a federal holiday; in 1941, the provision was expanded to grant paid holiday to all federal employees.

Over the years, the political importance of the holiday would decline, but Independence Day remained an important national holiday and a symbol of patriotism.

Falling in mid-summer, the Fourth of July has since the late 19th century become a major focus of leisure activities and a common occasion for family get-togethers, often involving fireworks and outdoor barbecues.

Spend this weekend celebration independence. Attend any social distanced local events or celebrate with your family at home! Have a Happy Fourth of July!

Posted in: Healthcare

National Postal Stamp Day – How Stamps Can Help with Dementia!

Posted by Mary Demakes on June 30, 2020

Tomorrow, July 1, is National Postal Stamp Day!

On July 1st, National US Postage Stamp Day recognizes the ease and simplicity with which we can send and receive mail. A stamp represents payment for the delivery of a letter or a package.

Did you know that stamp collecting can help those with dementia and Alzheimer’s?! Stamp collecting provides mental exercise, stamp collecting focuses your loved ones on good memories, and it allows seniors to socialize! https://stamps.org/news/c/collecting-insights/cat/opinion/post/can-stamps-help-with-dementia

The United States issued its first postage stamp on July 1, 1847. At that time, stamps were not required. A letter could be mailed without a stamp and delivery paid for by the recipient. In 1855, the postage stamp became mandatory.

Philately is the study of stamps and postal history. Stamps often have a fascinating history. Everything from the inspiration and the artist to the postal rate in a given year affects the value of a stamp. Collectors look at quality and rarity as well.

Now I will never look at stamps the same way again!

Fun facts:

-Benjamin Franklin was appointed as the first postmaster General in the year 1775 and there by post office was established. The Position “Postmaster General” was included in the Cabinet Ministry in the year 1829.Postage stamp is embedded in American History during the civil war times where letters are used for Communication specialty by the prisoners.

-Inverted Jenny is one of the most valuable U.S postage Stamps. It became famous due to wrong depiction of the image of Curtiss JN-4.1. It was printed inversely and the mistake was not recognized at that time of selling by the postal clerk since he had not seen any airplane. He sold nearly more than 100 erroneous stamps and almost all were claimed to be recollected and shredded. However, one such stamp was sold for 135 million dollars at auction in the year 2016 in New York City.

Posted in: Healthcare