Health + Wellness Magazine Fall/Winter 2018-2019

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Health + Wellness

Living healthier together.

Fall/Winter 2018-19 | cheshiremed.org

N AV I G AT I N G

Changing Waters Caring for aging loved ones can be complex and challenging.

INSIDE: Strategies, resources, tips, and tools that can help you navigate the best options for you and your family.

Patient-Centered Care A collaborative approach to supporting patients’ mental and emotional needs

Making Healthy Choices Tips for healthy eating during the holidays and for preventing winter sports injuries

Health Education & Support Reserve your spot in one of our upcoming Health+Wellness programs

Making a Difference Working as a community to bring innovative care to our region

Cheshire Health Foundation cultivates and stewards charitable support to advance the health and wellness mission of Cheshire Medical Center.

Events like the CHF Annual Golf Tournament and the CHF Annual Appeal help fund valuable innovations and programs at Cheshire Medical Center, and inspire local residents to participate in supporting high quality healthcare in our region. Information about the foundation is available at cheshirehealthfoundation.org.

Community members and business leaders support local patients through participation in CHF events like the Annual Golf Tournament.

Scott Willis is one of about 150 volunteers serving his community at Cheshire Medical Center. Our volunteers represent generations of dedication and giving in a variety of roles to support patient care.

Living healthier together.

This community’s deep-rooted tradition of kindness, caring, and giving back is helping all of us to be our healthiest. We are grateful for the many ways your support is making a real difference in the Monadnock region.

Our volunteers are the helpful, friendly faces greeting patients and visitors and supporting clinical and business areas at Cheshire Medical Center. They are compassionate caregivers in our Doula program and advisors on our Patient and Family Advisory Council.

Whether it is gifts of time and talent, participation in awareness events, or investments in patient care and new technologies through the Cheshire Health Foundation, we are grateful for your support and proud of our legacy of partnership with members of our community to support health and wellness together.

Located in Keene, New Hampshire with satellite offices in Walpole and Winchester.

cheshiremed.org

FROM THE CHESHIRE MEDICAL CENTER CEO/PRESIDENT/CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

Together, we are innovating to provide supports to meet the needs of our community.

“Here at Cheshire, we’re taking a broader view of what it means to support our patients and their families, through clinical integration, innovative programs, and new partnerships.”

When speaking with community leaders, donors, and members of the media, I am often asked the question, What is Cheshire doing to address behavioral health needs in our community? Behavioral Health is a subject of widespread conversation at the local, state, and national levels. The growing shortage of psychiatrists across the U.S. has contributed to the challenges we face in serving behavioral health patients.

I am proud to share that we have developed some innovative strategies to support the behavioral health needs of the patients in our care. We have established partnerships, programs, and teams to support the behavioral health needs of our patients. Our Emergency Department renovation, completed in 2015, included an area specifically designed to support this patient population. The spring 2017 issue of Health + Wellness magazine featured the Mothers in Recovery prenatal-postpartum program for opioid use disorders providing psychological supports along with medication-assisted treatment. I invite you to read the Patient-Centered Care Spotlight on page 4 to learn about more of the partnerships across our campus that are supporting the behavioral health needs of our patients.

Another growing area of need in our community is support for caregivers of aging family members. This particularly hits home for us here in New Hampshire and in the Monadnock Region because the largest segment of our local population are statistically most likely to be caregivers, adults ages 45-65. This issue of Health + Wellness magazine is dedicated to the informal caregivers among us. The individuals giving of themselves to care for a loved one. With this issue, we sought to raise awareness of the supports and resources available through Cheshire Medical Center, our community partners and local agencies, and national organizations. Our feature article on pages 5-10 includes a resource guide for caregivers.

I am especially excited about a new collaborative in our community. The Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative is a partnership between Cheshire Medical Center and several local organizations to provide education and support for our aging population. Turn to page 13 to learn more.

As a nonprofit medical center, the innovative, high quality care we provide could not be possible without your support. We are proud to be serving a community invested in safe, quality healthcare. I am grateful every day for our volunteers who give of their time and talent to support our patients and our employees, and to our generous donors who invest in state-of-theart technologies to support the best in healthcare for our rural region.

Don Caruso, CEO/President/Chief Medical Officer

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 3

Patient-Centered Care SPOTLIGHT

Supporting the mental and emotional needs of patients using a collaborative approach.

Throughout New Hampshire, healthcare organizations, state agencies, and advocacy groups are working together to support the mental health needs of the state’s residents.

At Cheshire Medical Center, a Behavioral Health Team (BHT) provides healthcare plans that support patients’ mental health needs. The BHT serves as a network of specialized supports, woven throughout various areas of care. Together, with the “Cheshire Medical Center’s behavioral health professionals in patient commitment to serving the needs of care teams, the BHT is a component of serving the mental health needs of the our population led to the development patients of Cheshire Medical Center. of the Behavioral Health Team.”

Psychiatrist, Judith Olson, MD is the Medical Director of Cheshire’s Behavioral ―Judith Olson, MD, Medical Director of the Behavioral Health Team. In addition to providing Health Team at Cheshire Medical Center psychiatric consultation services to the primary care providers at Cheshire for directed counseling, helping them navigate children under 18 years of age, Dr. Olson the stress that can be associated with an illness oversees the BHT’s services on the inpatient or severe injury. “It’s stressful to be sick,” units of the medical center and in the notes Gilbert, “People may be dealing with a Emergency Department (ED). prolonged illness or terminal diagnosis. They Often times, emergency departments can feel powerless, depressed, or anxious. We serve as both a lifeline and an entry point help them and their family to address their to psychiatric care. The BHT works in immediate needs, and if necessary, set up partnership with Monadnock Family counseling supports after discharge.”

Services, a non-profit community mental In addition to the BHT, behavioral health center in Keene, and ED providers to health is integrated into Cheshire’s Primary evaluate patients in behavioral health crisis, Care‐Family Medicine teams and outpatient and provides continued support for patients services. Primary Care Providers (PCP) awaiting placement in an inpatient facility. who have identified behavioral health needs Injuries and medical illnesses can of a patient during an office visit receive exacerbate mental health concerns. Patients “at‐elbow” support from Behavioral Health with behavioral health needs admitted at Specialists. These Licensed Clinical Mental Cheshire receive compassionate support Health Counselors (LCMHC) screen throughout their journey. The BHT provides patients and initiate referrals to Psychiatric essential services to patients and their care Nurse Practitioner, Kevin Hannon. Hannon teams. “Our focus is on integrating care and collaborates as a psychiatric consultant with providing education to patients, families, PCPs and members of the BHT, working and staff,” explains Sara Gilbert, Psychiatric to ensure patients’ healthcare and treatment plans support their behavioral health needs, APRN and BHT Program Coordinator. and he provides referrals for outpatient Behavioral health conditions don’t go behavioral health treatment when needed. away when other medical conditions occur.

“This collaboration supports treatment using The BHT works with inpatient physicians all resources, including psychotherapy and and care teams to provide medication not just medications,” says Hannon. consultations and recommendations for the Outpatient behavioral health supports at treatment of patients displaying symptoms Cheshire are not limited to Primary Care. of dementia or mental illness. For some Amanda Hitchings, PsyD supports multiple patients, the BHT provides acute, goal

4 Fall/Winter 2018 | Health + Wellness

Members of the Behavioral Health Team gather for a weekly team meeting: (L to R) Dolores Mahoney, MSW, LICSW, Behavioral Health Social Worker; Judith Olson, MD, Medical Director of Behavioral Health Team; Heidemarie Gauvin, RN, Behavioral Health Resource Nurse; Kevin Hannon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner; Janyne Eisner, MSW, LICSW, Behavioral Health Social Worker; Sara Gilbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Behavioral Health Team Program Coordinator.

Behavioral Health Team members not pictured: Lisa Wirth-Budzik, MSW, Behavioral Health Social Worker; Behavioral Health Resource Nurses— Sue Sweeney, RN; Mary Tighe, RN; Kim Vickery, RN; Pamela Grandmaison, RN.

outpatient programs at Cheshire, including the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program and the Mothers in Recovery program through Women’s Health, which provides medication‐assisted treatment for opioid use disorders with social and psychological supports during prenatal‐postpartum care.

Many patients and visitors are able to find comfort and emotional wellbeing through spiritual care in a time of crisis.

The Pastoral Ministry department provides services to patients upon request, 24/7. The Pastoral Ministry team is led by Director of Pastoral Care, Interfaith Chaplain Bob Ritchie, and includes several clergy from various churches and faiths. Through the ministry’s partnerships with local clergy in the community, the team works to meet the spiritual and religious needs of each individual seeking this support.

SPECIAL FEATURE

Caring for aging loved ones can be complex and challenging.

N AV I G AT I N G

Changing Waters When it comes to finding the best resources, options, and support, you don't have to go it alone. n paper, it might be reasonable to assume for Owen Houghton of Jaffrey, New Hampshire and his family, that caring for his wife after her diagnosis of Alzheimer’s would be a straightforward transition. After all, Houghton is a retired professor and aging wellness educator, and his eldest child, Kim, is an eldercare attorney in the state. Certainly, these two professionals knew all they needed to navigate this change in their lives and in their roles.

However, these moments do not play out on paper. They occur in places like our living rooms, at the grocery store, and at the doctor’s office. Accepting these moments as signs of an uncertain future for an aging loved one is daunting—and something that most of us will eventually experience.

Houghton’s daughter, Kimberly J.H. Memmesheimer, Esquire, recalls discussions she had with her brothers when they first noted changes in their mother’s behavior and the debate over who should be the one to talk to their father about their concerns.

“My parents were very active, known members of the Jaffrey community. So to acknowledge this at first was a challenge for

him, I think,” recalls Memmesheimer, “We would compare notes after visits [with our parents], looking for each other’s perspective.”

Houghton soon came to recognize his wife’s changing behaviors. After doctor visits and trips to specialists at DartmouthHitchcock Medical Center, in 2010, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and he officially embarked on his new journey as a caregiver for his wife.

Houghton and his wife, Norma, have three adult children, two sons living in Colorado and in Michigan, and their daughter, Kim, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Distance often makes communication a challenge, but updates to his concerned children were simplified by the journal related to Norma’s health and behaviors that Houghton kept for her physicians. This journal was equally useful in recalling and sharing information with his children.

As an attorney specializing in eldercare, Memmesheimer was conscious of needing to have the hard conversations and to support her parent’s decisions, “A lot times kids think they know what’s best for their parents, but you don’t necessarily. They lived

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 5

FEATURE: NAVIGATING CHANGING WATERS a long time before us kids. You need to find out what it is they want to see in their lives at the end, and help them get there.

Part of helping them get there is making sure they’ve got the legal documents in place.”

For many, having these conversations is uncomfortable, even upsetting. “I can’t tell you how many people come into my office frightened to talk about this idea of aging and death,” shares Memmesheimer, “I’ve heard clients say ‘I don’t want my kids to deal with those kinds of decisions’. I wouldn’t want anyone but my husband or my child to help with those decisions!”

Houghton and Norma also understood the importance of having these conversations with each other and their children.

He shares this advice, “You can’t put your head in the sand. To make the things happen that you need to happen, make sure you have your documentation in place so that somebody can

Talking it over.

Talking with loved ones about their care can be a very difficult conversation. It involves tackling tough topics, including what they want if they are unable to make medical decisions for themselves; what options they would prefer if home care or transferring to assisted living becomes necessary; and if their will and financial power of attorney are in place.

Generally, the earlier you have conversations, the better. When entering these uncharted waters, it's a good idea to remain compassionate while expressing concern, and most importantly, listen. Here are a few additional tips that can help:

Talk early and often Begin the conversation when your loved ones are alert and can make decisions from a competent place.

Your loved ones may get overwhelmed if you try to cover too much in one long sit-down conversation. Try working your concerns into everyday exchanges in preparation for a series of sit-down discussions.

Returning from a doctor visit can be a natural place to begin addressing questions about health concerns. As an entry point for a talk about finances, you could mention your own retirement planning. Noticing that your loved one is having difficulty with stairs could open the subject of home solutions and lead to a broader talk about future housing options.

Timing is everything Pick a time when there are no distractions or other obligations so you can give the conversation your undivided attention.

Explicitly state that you want them to be safe and cared for, that you want to understand all available options, and that you need their help to make the right decisions.

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If you stall for the perfect opportunity, an emergency may catch you unprepared. Start researching early with the thought that care may likely be phased over time.

You may want to organize a meeting of family members to talk about your loved ones’ caregiving plans. Prepare a list of questions or concerns about housing, health care, transportation, etc.

When possible, let your loved ones lead Pick topics that you believe are most relevant to them at the given time. Be straightforward while keeping in mind this conversation has to be a collaboration.

It can be frustrating if your loved ones don’t want to engage in the conversation, but you should respect that. Be patient; take notes; and keep trying at different times and with different approaches.

You may want to include a trusted family member, friend, doctor, or clergy to address these sensitive topics with your loved ones. Rehearse what you want to say and try to anticipate their responses.

Close with an agreed-upon plan Be sure everyone is clear about the details of the agreed-upon plan and there are shared expectations around next steps.

some hesitancy about ‘giving up’ “myI had caregiver role. Visits to my wife and her friends bring me joy to see her happiness ―she is at peace, safe and secure.

”

―Owen R. Houghton

Owen Houghton visits with his wife, Norma, at Summerhill Assisted Living during the holiday season last year.

Considering the U.S. Census predicts that 20 percent of New step in and act for you. Let people know where those documents Hampshire’s residents will be 65 years or older by 2020, this is a are, and talk to people about what you want the end of your life to subject we cannot ignore. look like.”

Caring for an aging loved one can be a joy, even a privilege. It In January of 2016, for her safety, Houghton made the difficult can also be very hard— both physically and emotionally. Many decision that Norma would live at Summerhill Assisted Living family members providing care do so almost unseen; with friends in Peterborough, New Hampshire. After almost fifty-six years of and community unaware of the amount living together, and after caring for her of time they spend as a caregiver. They daily needs for over six years, Houghton find themselves managing tasks for their struggled with grief.

“A lot times kids think they Houghton now recognizes that this loved one for which they feel completely transition in her care has actually given unprepared, such as healthcare decisions, know what’s best for their Norma even greater quality of life. He legal documents, and finances. himself enjoys being more refreshed Caregivers often set aside their own parents, but you don’t necessarily. and upbeat when he visits his wife and health and wellness, overwhelmed with continues to be her advocate. Houghton the needs of their loved one. Physicals They lived a long time before us recalled the statement of a friend, “You and healthcare appointments are put are still a caregiver—just in a different off—when early detection of illnesses kids. You need to find out what it could be caught at an early stage. Many way. You’ve done a wonderful job and it adults caring for a loved one sacrifice is time to let others help you.” is they want to see in their lives at career opportunities in order to maintain Caregivers, also known as informal availability as a caregiver, or lose social caregivers, are unpaid individuals the end, and help them get there.” involved in assisting others with the connections. Stress and depression in activities of daily living and/or medical caregivers is a growing health concern. ―Kimberly J.H. Messesheimer, Esquire tasks. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics So what can caregivers do to maintain reported that 41.3 million people their own health, sanity, and stamina? provided unpaid eldercare during 2015-16.

There are support resources and tools available to empower you in Almost half of these eldercare providers had children under the your role as a caregiver. age of 18 while also providing care for their own parent. This Most caregiver support networks agree, start having population is sometimes described as the “sandwich generation” conversations early and often. Do not wait for a crisis. Cheshire because they are in between two generations that require care.

Medical Center offers free workshops to help prepare you for Statistics from the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP in conversations with your loved ones and resources for establishing 2015 indicate that 34% of caregivers are 65 years of age or older.

Advanced Care Plans.

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 7

FEATURE : NAVIGATING CHANGING WATERS

NATIONAL LEVEL RESOURCES There are numerous online resources for caregivers.

Here's a list of some you may find useful.

Connecting with local services and support.

AARP www.aarp.org/caregiving

Finding information about services and resources can feel overwhelming― especially if you don't quite know where to begin. A great place to start is ServiceLink Aging and Disability Resource Center, a one-stop connector to all the services and supports New Hampshire caregivers need.

ServiceLink is a program of the NH Department of Health and Human Services.

Aging Care www.agingcare.com

“We service all populations, and within that is the caregiver population,” said Maryanne Ferguson, executive director of the Keene (Cheshire County) ServiceLink office, where caregivers are connected to those services in the Monadnock Region.

“We’re the resource hub in terms of federal, state and community-based programs and resources. A caregiver can visit [the ServiceLink office] with any question and we’ll help to guide that process. We don’t make decisions about programs and services. We employ a person-centered approach to options counseling.”

Services and resources regarding all matters related to aging including housing and in-home services, transportation, healthcare benefits, prescription assistance, mental health services, understanding accessing Medicare/Medicaid, veterans’ programs, community involvement opportunities, events and training, guides and publications for caregivers can be accessed through ServiceLink. The ServiceLink website also has a searchable database for services.

ServiceLink Aging and Disability Resource Center www.servicelink.nh.gov | 603-357-1922 Cheshire County office: 105 Castle Street, Keene, NH

NHCarePath www.nhcarepath.dhhs.nh.gov NHCarePath, a partner program of ServiceLink, is also a connector to information, assistance and care throughout the state, with a special emphasis on resources for caregivers. Resources for caregivers of adults linked on the site include information on Alzheimer’s support groups, caregivers of veterans, family supports services, home health agencies, and respite care.

The New Hampshire Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/beas | (603) 271-7014

Provides a variety of social and long-term supports to adults age 60 and older and to adults between the ages of 18 and 60 who have a chronic illness or disability. They also investigate reports of abuse, neglect, self neglect or exploitation of incapacitated adults.

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Contains articles, tools and forums to assist caregivers in navigating the "labyrinth of caregiving". Features articles and videos by best-selling author Gail Sheehy.

An online community that connects people caring for elderly parents to other caregivers, personalized information, and local resources. A trusted resource for exchanging ideas, sharing conversations and finding credible information for those seeking elder care solutions.

Aging Life Care Association www.aginglifecare.org

Non-profit association with over 2,000 members.

Although this is an professional organization, the website has some helpful information and resources for caregivers.

American Cancer Society www.cancer.org/treatment/caregivers

An online, interactive guide with resources and information for caregivers.

Alzheimer’s Association www.alz.org | 800-272-3900

Information and support for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers. Operates a 24/7 helpline and care navigator tools.

Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance for Education & Support www.adaesinc.org 352-671-9600

ADAES, Inc. is a non-profit corporation providing comprehensive education for caregivers and professionals on a variety of relevant subjects; communication, behaviors, activities, wandering, safety, and others.

Alzheimers.gov www.alzheimers.gov

Information resource about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

American Red Cross www.redcross.org

Information and tools for emergency preparedness making a family disaster plan. Also, through the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign, the Red Cross will install a FREE smoke alarm within your home. Go to the regional site to make a request. www.redcross.org/local/new-hampshire-vermont

American Society on Aging www.asaging.org

An association of diverse individuals bound by a common goal: to support the commitment and enhance the knowledge and skills of those who seek to improve the quality of life of older adults and their families.

ARCH Respite Network www.archrespite.org

Find programs and services that allow caregivers to get a break from caring for a loved one.

Caregiver Action Network www.caregiveraction.org

The National Family Caregivers Association is a non-profit organization providing education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the country.

Caregivers Briefcase www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/ caregivers

Resource to help psychologists and other health and social service professionals assist family caregivers through individual and organizational practice, research, teaching and community service. Caregivers will also find useful information in the resources section.

Caring Today www.caringtoday.com

Expertise, understanding and answers for family caregivers through its quarterly national magazine and website.

Easter Seals www.easterseals.com/our-programs/ senior-services

Offering programs such as adult day services, in-home support and services, community mobility options, wellness programs and support for family caregivers.

eCare Diary www.ecarediary.com

Provides information, tools and resources to help those seeking or providing long term care. Features include online tools to make coordination of care and sharing of information easy amongst family members and other caregivers, a database of nursing home and home care services, and guides on long-term care financing and important health care documents everyone should have.

Elder Law Answers www.elderlawanswers.com

Next Step in Care www.nextstepincare.org

Provides information and advice to help family caregivers and health care providers plan safe and smooth transitions for patients. Materials now available in Spanish and Chinese.

Supports seniors, their families and their attorneys in achieving their goals by providing the most comprehensive information on the Internet about crucial legal issues facing seniors, a network of highly qualified elder law attorneys nationwide, and online practice tools for elder law attorneys.

Mather LifeWays Institute on Aging www.matherlifewaysinstituteonaging.com Provide practical solutions and evidence-based education programs for professional and family caregivers who serve older adults.

Eldercare Locator www.eldercare.gov | 800-677-1116

Connects caregivers to local services and resources for older adults and adults with disabilities across the United States.

Medicare www.medicare.gov 800-Medicare

Family Caregiver Alliance www.caregiver.org | 800-445-8106 Information, education and services for family caregivers, including the Family Care Navigator, a state-by-state list of services and assistance.

National Association of Home Care & Hospice Agency Location Service agencylocator.nahc.org

A searchable database of more than 33,000 home care and hospice agencies.

National Alliance for Caregiving www.caregiving.org

A coalition of national organizations focused on family caregiving issues.

National Council on Aging www.ncoa.org

Information about the parts of Medicare, what’s new and how to find Medicare plans, facilities or providers.

www.mmlearn.org Provide caregivers with online training and education that improve the quality of care received by older adults.

Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers rosalynncarter.org

Establishes local, state, national, and international partnerships committed to building quality, long-term, home and community-based services centered around providing caregivers with effective supports to promote caregiver health, skills and resilience.

SeniorLiving.Org

Partners with nonprofit organizations, government, and business to provide innovative community programs and services, online help, and advocacy.

A directory of senior living options. Does does not accept paid advertising, and strives to provide complete, up-to-date, and unbiased information based on a geographical search.

Also, the Senior Living Library contains authoritative articles on a variety of topics.

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization www.caringinfo.org

Social Security Administration www.socialsecurity.gov | 800-772-1213

Provides free resources to help people make decisions about end-of-life care and services before a crisis.

The National Clearinghouse for Long-term Care Information www.longtermcare.gov

Information on retirement and disability benefits, including how to sign up.

Veterans Administration www.caregiver.va.gov | 855-260-3274

Support and services for families caring for veterans, including a VA caregiver support line.

Information and tools to plan for future longterm care needs.

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 9

FEATURE: NAVIGATING CHANGING WATERS

Taking care of you.

Caregiving can be all-consuming. But the best way to care for a loved one is to make sure that you aren’t frazzled and running on empty.

Paying attention to our own health and wellbeing pays off for our whole family. Many of the resources listed on pages 8-9 provide information and suggestions for self-care. Here are four basics that can help you maintain the wellness and resilience you need and deserve.

Ask for help. Step back and assess what can be done only by you and what can be done by someone else. Be prepared with specifics when others ask what they can do to help you. Keep lines of communication open and ongoing with your loved one, healthcare providers, aides, and especially your family members and friends. Don’t downplay your needs or leave them out of the discussion.

Refuel. Self-care essentials such as eating well, staying hydrated, sleeping, and exercising can be supplemented with stress-reducing activities such as getting out in nature, getting a massage, or having a yoga, meditation, or other spiritual practice.

Whether you’re planning ahead or in the thick of it, local and national organizations offer valuable resources and supports for caregivers. Pages 8-9 of this issue are comprehensive lists and contact information for many of these organizations. Education, self-care tips, access to support groups, and free technologies to help you manage caring for your aging loved one are all available online. In addition to the services they provide, agencies in the local listing can help connect you with the New Hampshire chapters of the national organizations for more robust support.

Look for events and education opportunities being offered throughout the state. On November 3, individuals in the Greater Monadnock Region can participate in a unique summit providing education and tips to support caregivers of aging loved ones.

Learn more about the Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones on page 11. The event is made possible by the Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative, a group of local organizations focused on providing education and support for our aging population in the Monadnock Region.

The Farnum Rehabilitation Center at Cheshire Medical Center offers safe driving evaluations, a Fall-Risk and Balance Retraining Program, and the GEM Program—designed to help people maintain their independence and live at home. A Balance Screening clinic will be hosted by Farnum Rehabilitation Physical Therapists on October 25. Find details in the programs listing on page 15.

Making time for self-care ensures you are able to provide care

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Take respite breaks. Resiliency—be it physical, mental, or emotional—requires taking time for yourself. When planning your schedule, make space to regularly connect with your personal interests and with friends.

Don’t go it alone. This unique role is often difficult, bringing with it feelings of being overwhelmed, in despair, or racked with guilt. And it is not at all uncommon for caregivers to experience depression. Talk with someone about how you are feeling. Watch for signs of depression and don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Explore online resources with advice and support for caregivers (see listing on pages 8-9).

for your loved one to the best of your ability. We are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful regions on the planet. Take brief walks as often as you can and make plans to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. Look through the program listing in this issue for resiliency-focused events like Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice, Writing into Wholeheartedness, or the Resilient Living Book Group.

Your frontline of support for healthcare related questions, information, and resources is your Primary Care Provider (PCP).

Your Cheshire Medical Center PCP (including Walpole and Winchester satellites) can connect you with resources to establish Advanced Care Plans, answer questions about advance directives, refer you to financial and medication assistance resources, and provide specialist referrals. Talk to your PCP if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Cheshire Medical Center offers a broad range of resources to support your health and wellbeing through your primary care team. Ask your PCP about Prescribe for Health, a unique program through Cheshire’s Center for Population Health that connects patients to resources in the community that can address the barriers to living healthier.

To others navigating the caregiver journey, Houghton gives these final words of advice, “Don’t hide your concerns. Seek others.

Support groups tend to take away the fear and the denial. The ‘ah-ha’ moments that come in these support groups, the ‘oh, I didn’t know anybody else had that problem’, makes it less of a burden sometimes. Being a caregiver is a big job: let people help you.”

When aging loved ones need special care, you need special information and support.

Caring for an aging family member is one of the most important—and complicated—jobs. And while every situation is unique, one thing is clear, family caregivers are committed to finding the support and resources their loved ones need and helping in any way they can.

The Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones will offer information and insight for those caring for their aging parents or families.

Please join us for a day packed with strategies, tips and tools, along with a wide range of local resources in our region and opportunities for connection and support.

Covering a range of topics including:

The Monadnock Summit for

CAREGIVERS of

AGING LOVED ONES A day packed with strategies, resources, tips & tools

● Caring for people with memory loss

Saturday, November 3 8:30 am - 2:30 pm Keene Middle School

● Coping strategies for stress

(8:30-9:00 is registration and breakfast)

● Navigating the financial and legal aspects of estate planning and long-term care

● Tips and tools for advocating for your loved ones Event brought to you by the Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative: Alzheimer’s Association (MA/NH Chapter), Cheshire Medical Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock - Honoring Care Decisions, Keene Family YMCA, Keene Senior Center, KSC Cheshire Academy for Lifelong Learning, Monadnock Collaborative/Servicelink, Home Healthcare, Hospice and Community Services.

For more information and to register visit: caregiversummit.eventbrite.com or call (603)354-546o.

Fee $15 (Includes continental breakfast and lunch.)

Scholarships available.

Making Healthy Choices

TIPS & TOOLS

Being prepared and supported gives you a healthy advantage. out later often means cutting back on sleep.

Sleep loss can make it harder to control your blood sugar, and when you’re sleep deprived you’ll tend to eat more and prefer high-fat, high-sugar food. Aim for 7-8 hours per night.

Winter Sports Injury Prevention

Make a plan for healthy eating during the holidays During the holidays, you may not always be able to control what food you’re served, and you’re bound to see other people eating a lot of tempting treats. When it comes to healthy eating, taking a mindful approach ahead of time and meeting the challenges armed with a plan can really help. Here’s a few tips: • Eat close to your usual times to keep your blood sugar steady. If your meal is served later than normal, eat a small snack at your usual mealtime and eat a little less when dinner is served.

• Before going out to an event or dinner party, have a healthy snack to curb your appetite.

• Stand more than an arm’s length away from munchies, like a bowl of nuts or chips, while you chat so you’re not tempted to raise your hand to your mouth every few seconds.

• Pop a sugar-free mint in your mouth when you’ve had enough and don’t want to eat more. The feeling of a fresh palate can curb additional noshing.

• If you have a sweet treat, cut back on other carbs during a meal.

From the Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: More than 246,000 people were treated at hospitals, doctors’ offices, and emergency rooms for injuries related to winter sports in 2015, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

A majority of common winter sports injuries can be prevented if participants prepare for their sport by keeping in good physical condition, staying alert, and stopping when they are tired or in pain. Here are a few things you can do to help prevent injury during your favorite winter activities: • Never participate alone in a winter sport.

• Keep in shape and condition muscles before participating in winter activities.

• Warm up thoroughly before playing or participating. Cold muscles, tendons, and ligaments are vulnerable to injury.

• Wear appropriate protective gear, including goggles, helmets, gloves, and padding.

• Check that equipment is working properly prior to use.

• Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast. It will be harder to keep your blood sugar in control, and you’ll be really hungry and more likely to overeat.

• When you’re cooking, you can cut down on salt and boost savory flavors by substituting garlic or herbs such as basil, rosemary, sage, tarragon, thyme, or turmeric. If you and your guests enjoy spicy food, try adding hot sauce.

• Eat slowly. It takes at least 20 minutes for your brain to realize you’re full.

• Avoid or limit alcohol.

Want to stop smoking?

If you do have an There's a free app to help with that! alcoholic drink, have it quitSTART is a free smartphone app that helps you quit with food. Alcohol can smoking with tailored tips, inspiration, and challenges. lower blood sugar and The app is a product of Smokefree.gov, a smoking cessation interact with diabetes resource created by the Tobacco Control Research Branch at medicines. the National Cancer Institute in collaboration with the U.S. • Don’t go holiday Food and Drug Administration and input from tobacco control shopping hungry. professionals, smoking cessation experts, and ex-smokers.

To cut down on the lure of the food court, To learn more and find a link to download the app, go to: never go to the mall on smokefree.gov/tools-tips/apps/quitstart. an empty stomach.

Don't miss the FREE information session about nicotine addiction • Get Your Zzz’s. Going offered this November by the Center for Population Heath at Cheshire Medical Center. See page 16 for details. out more and staying

12 Fall/Winter 2018 | Health + Wellness

Healthier Together SPOTLIGHT

The Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative:

Focusing on education and support for the aging population.

• Wear several layers of light, loose, and waterand wind-resistant clothing for warmth and protection.

• Wear proper footwear that provides warmth and dryness, as well as ample ankle support.

• Know and abide by all rules of the sport in which you are participating.

• Take a lesson (or several) from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing and snowboarding. Learning how to fall correctly and safely can reduce the risk of injury.

• Pay attention to warnings about upcoming storms and severe drops in temperature.

• Seek shelter and medical attention immediately if you, or anyone with you, is experiencing hypothermia or frostbite.

• Make sure everyone is aware of proper procedures for getting help if injuries occur.

• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities.

• Avoid participating in sports when you are in pain or exhausted.

Caring for the needs of our senior population has been an important and ongoing topic of conversation among support service agencies in the region. Now the newlyformed Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative will provide education and support for the region's aging population and their families.

While each of these individual agencies provide services, the collaborative will be focusing on providing our community with education and information about resources and support.

“There are times we can leverage each other’s knowledge and insight” Jennifer Begley, Center for Population Health’s Director of Resiliency and Wellbeing at Cheshire Medical Center said of the agencies that make up the evolving model of a collaborative.

The first of the collaborative’s offerings will be the day-long Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones on Nov. 3. (Turn to page 11 for more details.)

“When deciding our first big project to work on, the caregiving piece just bubbled to the top for all the collaborative members as a need in our region." said Begley.

The summit will cover a range of topics important to caregivers including navigating the financial and legal aspects of estate planning and long-term care, caring for people with memory loss, coping strategies for stress, and tips and tools for advocating for your loved ones.

Begley stresses that understanding and support are so important. “With this event, we wanted to say to caregivers, ‘We see you and we get it. We know what you’re doing is hard and we want to help you find the information and resources you need.’ ”

Don’t miss the FREE education class, Knees and Skis, offered to the community November 1 by Dr. Mark Silbey, MD and Cheshire Medical Center Sports Medicine Physical Therapists. Turn to page 16 to learn more and find out how to reserve your spot.

The Monadnock Aging Resource Collaborative circles together at least monthly to discuss current topics and needs of the regions aging population and their families. Pictured are representatives from: The Alzheimer’s Association (MA/NH Chapter), Cheshire Medical Center, Dartmouth-Hitchcock - Honoring Care Decisions, Keene Family YMCA, Keene Senior Center, Home Healthcare, and Hospice and Community Services.

Missing from the photo are representatives from: KSC Cheshire Academy for Lifelong Learning, Monadnock Collaborative/Servicelink.

For more information and to register for the upcoming Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones, visit:caregiversummit.eventbrite.com or call (603)354-5460.

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 13

Upcoming Programs Mindfulness-Based Strengths Practice

Jennifer Begley, Director of Resiliency and Wellbeing, Center for Population Health at Cheshire Medical Center

Health Education and Support for the Monadnock Region.

Please join us for one or more of the upcoming programs designed to provide learning opportunities and supportive connections with others on similar paths to optimal wellbeing.

These classes and programs are brought to you by the Center for Population Health at Cheshire Medical Center and are part of the many ways we are working to help our community be one of the nation’s healthiest.

Cheshire Medical Center established the Center for Population Health as a department dedicated to guiding and facilitating the implementation of community-based health and wellness projects and policies, integrating our clinical care into these efforts, and providing resources for education, outreach, and support to individuals, families, work-sites, schools, and the community.

All programs are held at Cheshire Medical Center, 580 Court St., Keene, NH unless otherwise noted.

All programs require registration and are free, unless otherwise noted.

If special accommodations are required for you to attend any of our programs, please call the Center for Population Health at (603) 354-5460.

REGISTER TODAY!

Reserve your place by calling (603) 354-5460 or visiting health-wellness.cheshiremed.org/ events.

14 Fall/Winter 2018 | Health + Wellness

This 6-week program combines the practice of mindfulness with the development of our personal strengths.

Throughout the program, we will blend ‘strong mindfulness’ in which strengths such as curiosity, self-regulation and gratitude are utilized to establish mindful practice, and ‘mindful strengths’ wherein mindful practice is used to enhance awareness and development of personal strengths. Preregistration is required.

Tuesdays, October 16-November 27 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Central Conference Room 6

Preventing Substance Misuse in Our Community Jane Skantze, Certified Prevention Specialist, Substance Misuse Prevention Coordinator, Center for Population Health at Cheshire Medical Center Come and learn more about substance abuse disorder, prevention, and treatment. National drug use surveys indicate some children are using drugs by age 12 or 13. Preventing substance abuse disorders and related problems in children, adolescents, and young adults is critical to our overall health as a community. This workshop will be particularly helpful to parents of children of all ages and young adults, but everyone is welcome to learn more about how we can reduce the impact of substance misuse in our community.

Tuesday, October 16 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Auditorium A & B

Advance Care Planning: It’s About the Conversation!

Jennifer McCalley, MSW, ACHP-SW Program Coordinator, Honoring Care Decisions or Nicole Boudle, RN, and Lori Guyette, RN, Collaborative Care Nurses, Cheshire Medical Center What if a sudden illness or injury left you unable to speak for yourself? Who would you want to speak for you? What would you want them to know about your values and wishes? Advance care planning is a process that helps any adult at any state of health think about your values and goals; consider health care choices you may have to make in the future; talk about your choices with your doctor and your loved ones; and make or update a written plan for the future (advance directive). Join us in a thought-provoking conversation to help make your wishes known. Learn vocabulary, reflect on your values, choose a healthcare agent, explore goals for treatment, and take the first steps toward completing an advance directive. You will have the

Thursday, October 18 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Auditorium B Wednesday, November 14 3:00-4:30 p.m.

Auditorium B Thursday, December 13 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Auditorium B

Learn How to Navigate Cheshire Medical Center’s Patient Portal, myD-H

Dana Carley, Patient Portal Concierge, Cheshire Medical Center Cheshire Medical Center has an online patient portal that makes managing your health information and communicating with your doctor and health care team easy and convenient. In this information session we will answer questions about our recent electronic health record transition in relation to myD-H. We will also walk you through how to: 1) request a myD-H account, 2) access your information, and 3) use the features within the portal.

If you already have an account bring a laptop or tablet to have hands on experience navigating your portal. You will see that viewing your records, requesting appointments and medication refills, asking questions of your healthcare team, receiving appointment reminders, and viewing test and lab results are just a few of the features you’ll enjoy as a myD-H portal user.

Choose a date: Thursday, October 18 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Central Conference Room 6 Wednesday, November 14 3:00-4:30 p.m.

North Conference Room 1 Thursday, December 6 5:00-6:30 p.m.

Central Conference Room 6

Writing into Wholeheartedness Leaf Seligman, Writing Guide Brené Brown writes, "Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity,” yet often we armor ourselves to feel safe even though it is counterproductive. With a few thoughtful writing prompts and a pressure-free space to explore the authentic self, this writing session will help identify the ways we restrain

ourselves, and offer alternatives for more wholehearted living. This session is accessible for all and requires no reading aloud—just openness.

Wednesday, October 24 6:15-7:30 p.m.

Central Conference Room 6

Green Dot Overview Training

Carolyn Crane, Vicky Pitman, D’Vorah Kelley and Lesley Johnson, Green Dot Trainers Imagine a map of your community where each red dot on this map represents an act of power-based personal violence (physical or sexual violence, stalking, bullying, child abuse, or elder abuse).

Now imagine adding a green dot in the middle of all those red dots on your map.

A green dot is any action that promotes safety for all our citizens and communicates utter intolerance for violence. A green dot is pulling a friend out of a high risk situation, displaying an awareness poster in your room or office, or striking up a conversation with a friend or family member. A green dot is simply your individual choice at any given moment to make our world safer.

What can you do to end violence in our community? We all play a role in preventing personal violence. Join us for this overview of the Green Dot Program to learn more about how you can become part of the solution and how to recognize the behaviors that may constitute sexual assault, dating violence, or stalking as well as how to effectively intervene.

Additional presentations can be arranged upon request at greendot@mcvprevention.org.

Choose a date: Wednesday October 24 5:30-7:00 p.m.

North Conference Room 1

Health Education & Support | Upcoming Programs

opportunity to complete or update your advance directive if you are ready or sign up for a 1:1 meeting with a trained Honoring Care Decisions facilitator for a more in depth conversation.

Choose a date:

Thursday November 15 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Auditorium B Tuesday December 4 5:30-7:00 p.m.

North Conference Room 1

Balance Screening

Farnum Rehabilitation Physical Therapists Studies have shown that between 28-45% of independent older adults fall each year. Of these falls, 5-15 result in fractures or soft tissue injury leading to loss of function or immobility. Learn from Farnum Rehabilitation Physical Therapists what your fall risk is and options for reducing your risk. Stop by between 2:00 and 4:00 for your personal consultation.

Thursday, October 25 2:00-4:00 p.m.

North Conference Room 1

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 15

Upcoming Programs Know the 10 Signs of Memory Loss: Early Detection Matters

The Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones

As we age, there can be changes to our memory. Yet memory loss or behavior changes severe enough to disrupt daily life are not a typical part of aging. Knowing the 10 Warning Signs can help determine if it’s important to speak to your doctor and get a diagnosis for yourself or someone you care about. Join us to learn the “10 signs” because early detection matters!

Thursday, October 25 3:30-5:00 p.m.

Auditorium A & B

Caring for an aging family member is one of the most important—and complicated— jobs. And while every situation is unique, one thing is clear, family caregivers are committed to finding the support and resources their loved ones need and helping in any way they can.

Staying Connected with Your Teen

The Monadnock Summit for Caregivers of Aging Loved Ones will offer information and insight for those caring for their aging parents or families.

Please join us or a day packed with strategies, tips and tools, along with a wide range of local resources in our region and opportunities for connection and support.

This event will cover a range of topics important to caregivers including: navigating the financial and legal aspects of estate planning and long-term care, caring for people with memory loss, coping strategies for stress, and tips and tools for advocating for your loved ones.

Fee $15 (Includes continental breakfast and lunch.

Scholarships available.)

Carrie Amorim, Alzheimer's Association, Massachusetts/ New Hampshire Chapter

Julie Yerkes, Parent Education Coordinator, New Hampshire Teen Institute Are you worried about keeping your teen safe as s/he gains more independence? Are you unsure how to talk about what lies ahead and how to keep the bond that you have with your tween into the teen years? Do you think your teen is not listening—or does not care what you have to say about the risks that they face? This 10 hour workshop for parents and caregivers of teens age 12-17 is a sciencebased, interactive workshop that provides tools to enhance communication and family management practices and decrease conflict in order to maintain bonds and help prevent youth from taking unhealthy risks.

5-week series: Mondays, October 29-December 3 6:00-8:00 p.m.

North Conference Room 1 (Note: no class on November 12—Veteran’s Day)

Knees and Skis Mark Silbey, MD and Sports Medicine Physical Therapists, Cheshire Medical Center Knee injuries are one of the most common ski injuries.

Learn about how you can prepare your body to prevent injuries as well as tips on what to do if you experience an injury/have knee pain after skiing or other sports-related injury. We will also talk about different types of ski equipment, and our physical therapists and athletic trainers will demonstrate some helpful strengthbuilding exercises.

Thursday, November 1 6:30-8:00 p.m.

North Conference Rooms 1 & 2

16 Fall/Winter 2018 | Health + Wellness

See page 11 for list of sponsoring organizations

The Monadnock Summit for

CAREGIVERS of

AGING LOVED ONES A day packed with strategies, resources, tips & tools

Saturday, November 3 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Keene Middle School (Registration and continental breakfast from 8:30-9:00 a.m.)

The Butt Stops Here!

Kate McNally, Substance Misuse Manager, Center for Population Health at Cheshire Medical Center Nicotine addiction is one of the hardest addictions to conquer, but you can do it. This session will give participants an opportunity to learn tools for addressing nicotine addiction. Whether it’s to stop vaping, juuling, smoking, or chewing, we can help!

Wednesday, November 14 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Auditorium A

REGISTER TODAY!

Reserve your place by calling (603) 354-5460 or visiting health-wellness.cheshiremed.org/ events.

Decluttering and Downsizing: Let’s Get Started!

Keene State College Dietetic Interns Herbs and spices have been used for medicinal, culinary, and other functional purposes for multiple centuries.

They not only pack a powerful antioxidant punch, but also mouth-watering flavors. Keene State Dietetic Interns will cover the history and health benefits of a few herbs and spices commonly used to flavor traditional holiday dishes and introduce a few new ones you may not regularly consume.

Lora A. Gerard, MPA, Aging Resource Center, DartmouthHitchcock Thinking of downsizing as preparation for a move or just to enjoy your current space more? Join us to learn basic strategies for reducing clutter or for downsizing. We will discuss how to find time and stay motivated; how to make decisions about what to keep; and how to effectively use online resources to sell or give away unwanted items.

Thursday, November 15 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Auditorium A

Leaning into Retirement: Resilience and Well-being Tools for the Journey Tom Stearns, Ph.D., Cheshire Medical Center Resilient Living Team All stages of a person’s life present challenges as well as opportunities. With awareness, support, dedication, and probably some luck we gather resiliency skills that help us prepare for the next stages. In this two-session workshop we will illuminate both the challenges as well as the skills that can help us ease into retirement. We will: • Connect with and learn from fellow travelers • Understand the challenges associated with retirement • Understand the core components of resilience and wellbeing and how they specifically apply to retirement • Develop a Well-being Plan and identify the resources necessary for successful implementation.

This program is open to anyone interested in the topic of retirement.

Thursday, November 29 and December 6 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Auditorium A & B

Kids in the Kitchen: Edible Holiday Gifts Keene State College Dietetic Interns Who wouldn’t be excited to receive food this holiday season? Give the gift of nutrition to your family with these fun, kid-friendly treats that double as gifts. We will sample the goodies and wrap them up to take home and share.

Please bring Tupperware, Mason jars or plastic Zip Lock bags to take home your goodies.

Thursday, December 6 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Joslin Foods Lab, Keene State College

Wednesday, December 12 1:00-3:00 p.m.

North Conference Rooms 1 & 2

Resilient Living Book Group Jennifer Begley and Tom Stearns, Cheshire Medical Center Resilient Living Team Book Selection: The How of Happiness

by Sonja Lyubomirsky The How of Happiness is a different kind of happiness book, one that offers a comprehensive guide to understanding what happiness is, and isn’t, and what can be done to bring us all closer to the happy life we envision for ourselves. Using more than a dozen uniquely formulated happiness-increasing strategies; The How of Happiness offers a new and potentially life-changing way to understand our innate potential for joy and happiness as well as our ability to sustain it in our lives. Please come prepared having read the book.

Health Education & Support | Upcoming Programs

Holiday Herbs and Spices

Wednesday, December 12 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Auditorium A & B

Omega Fatty Acids Keene State College Dietetic Interns Are you curious which foods have Omega-3’s? Seafood is not the only option you have; there are nuts, seeds, vegetables, plant oils, and more! We’ll discuss sources of this essential nutrient, its benefits to our bodies, and how to incorporate more into your routine.

Thursday, December 13 4:30-5:30 p.m.

North Conference Room 1

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 17

Making a Difference NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS

Together, we are bringing the best technology to support high quality care for our patients.

We are excited to share that the Cheshire Health Foundation Board of Trustees, following discussions with Cheshire Medical Center board members and senior leaders, have launched their annual appeal to fund a much needed new CT scanner at Cheshire Medical Center.

CT (computed tomography) scanners are vital imaging devices for any hospital– perhaps the most important diagnostic tool.

Over 12,000 CT scans were performed at Cheshire Medical Center last year.

The proposed new scanner will provide state-of-the-art CT scanning for the Greater Monadnock Region, to detect and help diagnose, or rule out, a wide variety of diseases and conditions–quickly, accurately, and painlessly.

We are grateful for the over 125 years of partnership with our community to support our healthcare mission. The collaboration between Cheshire Health Foundation and Cheshire Medical Center helps ensure valuable innovations, services, and programs for patients at Cheshire Medical Center.

Cheshire Health Foundation cultivates and stewards charitable support and inspires local residents to participate in supporting healthcare in our region. Our community’s contributions through the Foundation stay local, ensuring that quality healthcare close to home in the Monadnock Region will remain strong at our non-profit medical center for generations to come.

“A picture is worth a thousand words” doesn’t come close to capturing the value of the images in a CT scan. High-resolution CT scan images can show that a headache was just a headache, or that a personalized treatment plan needs to get underway. For our patients and their loved ones, experiencing moments like these close to home can make a world of difference.

Please consider making a gift to our Annual Appeal to fund the new CT scanner at Cheshire Medical Center.

To make a donation to the Cheshire Health Foundation’s Annual Appeal, visit cheshirehealthfoundation.org, or call (603) 354-6800.

Thank you for helping us care for our community.

Together, we are making a difference.

18 Fall/Winter 2018 | Health + Wellness

Your support has enabled the purchase of a new patient chair lift.

We are fortunate to be caring for a community of individuals who give of their time and talent, and who invest in patient care and new technologies.

Your generous support through the Cheshire Health Foundation has enabled Cheshire Medical Center to purchase a patient care lift, benefiting our patients and our staff. The new lift, to be installed this fall, will ensure our patients and nursing staff are safer, reducing the potential for injury.

Healthier Together SPOTLIGHT

For Walpole resident, Scott Willis, volunteerism is more than an activity—it’s a calling.

Meredith Lynch, Director of Volunteer Services pauses to talk with volunteer, Scott Willis.

The Cheshire Health Foundation’s 7th Annual Golf Tournament raised over $52,000—launching the campaign to help fund a new CT scanner. Pictured above are: Top - Savings Bank of Walpole team: Christine Salema, Julie Tewksbury, Linda Thomas, and Pam Kinyon Bottom - ARC Mechanical team: Jody Perkins, Ray Croteau, Andrew Courchesne, and Tony Pagano

To learn more about the Cheshire Health Foundation and the many ways you can get involved in caring for the health and wellness of our community, visit cheshirehealthfoundation.org.

Visitors and staff at Cheshire Medical Center know Scott Willis as the friendly “host” in the Art Nichols Café, moving through the Café ensuring that tables are clean and ready for patients, visitors, and busy staff.

Scott became a volunteer almost immediately after he first came to Cheshire Medical Center in the summer of 2016 when he moved to Walpole, New Hampshire. As an individual living with multiple physical disabilities, including cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and scoliosis, Scott’s first order of business was establishing primary care. Scott credits his care team at Cheshire as his inspiration for becoming a volunteer, “I found [a primary care physician] that listened to me and took the time to get me the physical therapists I needed, a neurologist who listened to me, a nutritionist, and a nurse collaborator to put everything together. I was so impressed with how they took care of me and cared for me, I wanted to do something to help back. That’s when I came down to the Volunteer Office.”

Physical activity is essential for Scott in maintaining his mobility. Meredith Lynch, Director, Volunteer Services, worked with Colleen Barry, Director, Nutrition Services to develop Scott’s volunteer assignment, stocking condiments and maintaining the environment in the Café to keep him moving.

In the warmer months, Scott splits his time volunteering with working as a cashier at Homestead Farms in Walpole. When the cooler months arrive, Scott volunteers at Cheshire four days a week, weather permitting. Scott also volunteers the first Thursday of every month with his church group serving meals at the Keene Community Kitchen.

We are grateful to Scott for giving of his time and talent to make a difference for our patients and our community, and for generously participating on our Living Healthier Together awareness campaign.

To learn how you can become a volunteer at Cheshire Medical Center, contact our volunteer office at (603) 354-5499.

Health + Wellness | Fall/Winter 2018 19

With over 1,500 employees, Cheshire Medical Center is proud to be the Monadnock Region’s largest employer. And because our employees and their loved ones are also patients and community members, our commitment to the health and wellness of this region isn’t just professional-it’s personal.

Allergist David Nash, MD, enjoys the region’s natural beauty from his home in Cheshire County. Dr. Nash relocated from Pittsburgh, PA in November 2017, when he joined the Allergy and Immunology Department at Cheshire Medical Center.

We love living in the Monadnock Region and we’re passionate about caring for those who live here too.

At Cheshire Medical Center, we live here on purpose and we work here with one primary purpose-to provide high quality, compassionate care to the communities we serve.

Cheshire Medical Center has a long-standing tradition of high standards in patient-centered care. Our physicians and providers go through Dartmouth-Hitchcock Health system’s rigorous credentialing process, and our nursing staff represent professionals with specialized skills, degrees, and certifications.

We are honored to have them here in our rural region, providing world-class healthcare every day.

Located in Keene, New Hampshire with satellite offices in Walpole and Winchester.

cheshiremed.org

cheshiremed.org