Highroads Living 8.3

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A Lifestyle Resource for Adults 55+ Volume 8 • Issue 3

Next Level Gardening Bucket List Travel Destinations for 2019 Healthy Recipes & More Local Medical Directory Senior Housing & Independent Living

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Featuring health, fitness, nutrition and helpful information for outdoor & indoor activities.

Helpful Regional Resources Featured in Every Issue Articles for Health and Wellness from trusted medical sources that include fitness tips for a balanced lifestyle. Nutritional information for fresh markets, family regional farms, and healthy food sources. Regional recreational activity information for clubs and community outreach programs in your area.

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A Lifestyl

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Volume 8•

Issue 3

Next Level Gardening Bucket Lis t Travel Destination s for 2019 Healthy Rec ipes & More Local Med ical

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roadsLiving

act: Moun

tain Lake

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Let Us Help Promote Your Business & Services • Hospitals, Clinics, & Home Health • Drug Stores, Pharmacies • Doctor & Dentist Offices • Financial Institutions • Salons & Spas

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HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 3

Welcome to the Family

promoting community wellness

fostering psychological and emotional healing Newly Renovated Facility Offering: Acute Care, Intensive Care & Outpatient Services ICU/CCU

Pediatric Care Heart Center

Telemedicine Services Clinical Lab

Family Medicine

Internal Medicine

Radiology, Mammography, Nuclear Imaging, CT Scan, Ultrasound & Large Bore MRI Rehabilitation Services 10 Bed Senior Behavioral Health Unit

Offering Inpatient and Outpatient Behavioral Healthcare in a quiet, comfortable setting and fostering psychological and emotional healing from a variety of behavioral and mental health issues. We also offer continued care at our Board Certified Psychiatrist’s office with a team of professionals dedicated to improving patient health and making those years golden.

In our Inpatient Program we offer the following therapeutic services: • Psychiatric and Physical Evaluations • Medication Management and Education • Individualized Treatment Plan •F amily Education and Support Including Role Play

• Individual and Group Therapy • 24-Hour Professional Psychiatric Support • Reminiscence Therapy • Multidisciplinary Team Approach •P lanning and Discharge with Continued Care Planning

Clearview Senior Behaviorial Healthcare

24-Hour Physician Staffed Emergency Center with Helicopter transport Specialty Clinics Include: Psychiatry, Urology, Gastroenterology, Cardiology

110 S. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546

706-896-7180

One of Georgia’s top 10 Critical Access Hospitals Georgia Hospital Association Core Measure “Chairman’s Honor Roll”

In our Outpatient Psychiatric Center, Chatuge Behavioral Care, we offer psychiatric help and medication management to patients from adolescent to senior adults.

Chatuge Regional Hospital

Chatuge Behavioral Care

110 S. Main Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546

129 South Main Street, Suite C • Hiawassee, GA 30546

706-896-2222

706-896-7102

health care in a family environment

Optimum Care

Skilled Care For Up To 112 Residents Family Oriented Facility

Wide Variety Of Recreation & Leisure Programs Striving to Improve Quality Of Life

High Quality, Well-Balanced Meals

Holiday Parties, Family Cookouts, Singing

Chatuge Regional Nursing Home 386 Belaire Street, Hiawassee, GA 30546

706-896-2231

A Member of the Health Care System of Union General Hospital 35 Hospital Road, Blairsville, GA 30512 • (706) 745-2111

Nutritional Assessments

Tidy, Clean And Sanitary Facilities

Personalized Psychosocial Approach

www.chatugeregionalhospital.org

4 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

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BUCKET LIST

Travel Destinations FOR 2019

T

aking time to go on vacation or to just unplug from everyday life can be beneficial, and there’s certainly no lack of options when it comes to choosing an ideal vacation spot. The options for experiencing an amazing vacation are so plentiful, such as exploring a cruise port, eating and drinking your way around a city or simply visiting a new destination, you may find yourself struggling to narrow down the choices.

and sights you hope to experience can help ensure you plan a travel experience of a lifetime.”

Once you’ve determined how you’d like to spend your time, you can begin to explore some hot travel destinations, such as these:

CALIFORNIA: Rent a car and take a road trip down the California coast and experience sunshine, culture and more as you drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco. It may be one single coastline, but By focusing first on what type of vacation experience California is filled with scenic views of the Pacific you would enjoy most, the details of the location may Ocean and tourist attractions, such as the Golden more easily fall into place.

Gate Bridge and Hollywood sign.

“Often, would-be vacationers get so hung up on CARIBBEAN: There are few better ways to escape figuring out where they want to go, they forget the cold weather than with a Caribbean cruise, where to consider what they’ll do when they get there,” breathtaking excursions, first-rate cuisine, exciting said Matthew Phillips, director of travel for AARP nightlife and spectacular entertainment fill every day Services, Inc. “It makes sense to keep location in and night. There are dozens of cruise options available, mind when it comes to considerations like climate, so it’s a good idea to do plenty of research and look but knowing what types of activities, entertainment into special incentives and offers to complement the

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 5

experience. For example, the AARP Travel Center a step further and see the sights while feeling like a powered by Expedia provides exclusive offers to local by going on a spotlight tour, an intimate way to members on select cruises, including up to $1,000 in uncover hidden gems. onboard credit.

SINGAPORE: If you want to immerse yourself FLORIDA GULF COAST: The warmer seasons are into a completely new and unique culture, hop on perfect for unplugging and relaxing by the sand and a flight and explore Singapore, commonly referred water. Head to the beaches of Florida and get a room to as a “shopper’s paradise” for its emerging brands with a view so the water is never out of reach. For and bargains stores. Enjoy both the urban and natural example, Sarasota, Florida offers miles of beaches, attractions while indulging in the eclectic dining including Siesta Key, known for its majestic waters scene. Singaporean cuisine is full of diverse plates, and luxurious amenities. such as bak kut teh, laksa and fried carrot cake, derived from several ethnic groups.

SOUTHWEST FRANCE: Explore the beautiful wine-growing region of Southwest France through a If you’re ready to start planning a satisfying getaway, fascinatingly historical and invigorating river cruise. a resource like AARP Member Benefits can assist For example, the Uniworld Bordeaux river cruise with planning and saving money along the way. allows guests to sail three rivers: the Garonne, the Learn more at AARPBenefits.com/travel.

Dordogne and the Gironde. The experience blends land and water with archaeological and historical (Family Features) #14639 tours, artisanal wine tastings, sprawling gardens and Photo courtesy of Getty Images. Source: AARP Services, Inc. charming villages to explore. Take your experience

6 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

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Spruce Up for Summer Personal Training • Group Fitness • Zumba Yoga/Pilates • Spin • Tanning • Childcare Now Accepting

3 Locations / 24 Hours Cleveland, GA 868 S. Main St. 706-219-7690

NOW OPEN! Blairsville, GA Dawsonville, GA 1741 Blue Ridge Hwy. 749 Hwy 53 706-781-5320 706-265-7093

TheGymGA.com

M

ake the transition to summer season effortless. There may be some backyard upgrades and prep to be done to ensure your outdoor space is in tip-top shape.

From your pool and patio to the grill, these tips can help get your backyard summerready.

OVERHAUL THE PATIO Patios and decks are often considered the hub of the backyard, so consider sprucing yours up by powerwashing the stone to remove any winter buildup or use stain for a complete refresh. Adding a pergola or umbrellas can help protect you from the elements and, for added comfort, consider installing an outdoor ceiling fan for humid days and a fire pit or patio heater for cooler nights.

UPGRADE OUTDOOR FURNITURE To ensure your backyard furniture lasts, invest in materials such as teak wood, redwood, cedar or stainless steel, which are typically durable and lowmaintenance. If you want to add a personal touch, consider colorful cushions, throw pillows or an area rug made of weatherproof fabric.

SMARTEN UP YOUR POOL AND BACKYARD With smart homes on the rise, today’s tech-savvy homeowners are not only looking to automate appliances and gadgets inside the home, but now

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 7

Make your backyard the perfect outdoor space!

HABERSHAM’S 1ST HEMP/CBD STORE

CBD from Hemp is legal in all 50 states CBD BENEFITS*: Reduces Blood Sugar Levels, Inflammation, Vomiting/Nausea, and Small Intestine Contractions Increases Immune Function Relieves Anxiety and Pain Supports Healthy Sleep Cycles Suppresses Seizure Activity *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

GREAT FOR PETS TOO!

Just off the square in Clarkesville 1386 Washington St., Clarkesville, GA 30523 www.SweetReleafStore.com • (706) 839-7225 Monday - Saturday 10am-6pm

want smart controls in their outdoor spaces, as well.

For example, Hayward’s OmniHub smart pool control offers pool owners the convenience and customization of complete pool, spa and backyard lighting automation from smart devices.

to fade. Designed to be a convenient alternative to conventional chlorine, Hayward’s AquaRite system gently dissolves salt into the perfect amount of chlorine to sanitize your pool without harsh chemicals while creating velvety-smooth water.

PREP YOUR GRILL Get ahead of barbecue season by building in ample time to prep your grill. Scrub or season your grill grates to avoid rust, stock up on charcoal and wood chips, check gas grills for leaks and fill up your propane tank. For safety, make sure your grill is at least 10 feet away from your home, outdoor structures and any trees or bushes.

KEEP THE BUGS AT BAY Mosquitos and other bugs can put a damper on outdoor entertaining, so be sure to stock up on repellents to ensure a bug-free backyard. Keep citronella or eucalyptus candles and torches on hand to maintain a pest-free space.

Whether you’re planning a family barbecue or pool CONVERT YOUR POOL TO SALT WATER party, or just want a space that offers the ultimate in For the ultimate in pool luxury, consider switching tranquility, visit hayward.com for more tips to help your traditional chlorine pool to salt water. It’s a jumpstart your home improvement project. surprisingly simple project that can transform your pool experience. Salt pools offer owners soft, clean and clear water that won’t irritate eyes, dry out skin (Family Features) #14748 and hair, give off harsh odors or cause bathing suits Source: Hayward

8 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

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What Secrets are your foot pain, knee pain or hip pain hiding?

OFFERING MEDICARE WELLNESS EXAMS & WELCOME TO MEDICARE EXAMS 15 Family Health Centers, including dental & pharmacies.

Find new ways to get quick pain relief and more stability in your feet with our computerized foot scan!

For a limited time $50 (includes a consultation)

64 Bracketts Way, Suite 9 * Blairsville, GA 30546

Please call for your appointment

Steven Senart, DC & Teri Stokes, ND

706-781-4048

Accepting all insurances including MEDICARE & MEDICAID.

RABUN - two locations - call 706-782-5991 (South) 896 Highway 441 S Clayton, GA. 30525

HABERSHAM

(North) 773 North Main Street Clayton, GA. 30525

BANKS

396 Historic Highway Demorest GA 30535

1244 Historic Homer Hwy Homer, Georgia 30547

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The MedLink Habersham Pharmacy is scheduled to open Summer 2019. Pharmacy open to the public, not just patients of MedLink.

More than just a magazine!

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FLU SHOTS - no appointment necessary

Visit medlinkga.org for other locations and information

DOWNSIZING AS YOU AGE: 8 smart organization tips and tricks

THINK ABOUT SAFETY: Clutter is a trip hazard for seniors, so keep this in mind as you go through items.

It’s easy to accumulate a lot of things throughout your life. From clothes and household goods to antiques and treasured keepsakes, decades of living often means decades of stuff. When you get to a certain age, it can be smart to start downsizing your belongings.

CONSIDER YOUR NEW SPACE: Smaller storage space might mean getting rid of clothing you haven’t worn for over a year or consolidating printed photographs by transferring them into digital files and storing online for easy access by family.

Sometimes downsizing is inspired by a move and other times it’s simply a proactive effort to keep a home clutter-free and make things easier for the next chapter of life. Although it can feel overwhelming, with a few smart steps, the process can be easy and even enjoyable. Use these eight tips to get started:

PERUSE PAPERWORK: Invest in a file cabinet and organize important documents, such as your will and advanced care directives. It’s also smart to have electronic records of these types of documents.

SORT IT OUT: Creating a system before organizing and downsizing can help the process go smoother.

ENLIST SOME HELP: Ask your spouse or kids to help you go through your items and decide what to keep and what to get rid of.

MEMORY CARE CONCERNS: If a loved one is moving into a memory care community you want the new space to be as comfortable and familiar as possible.

MAKE SOME MONEY: After you have sorted through all the rooms in your home, consider having a garage or estate sale.

SUPPORT A GOOD CAUSE: Take your unwanted items to a family in need or a local nonprofit.

No matter the specific reason, it can feel great to downsize and organize your belongings. To learn more about memory care and assisted living, visit Brookdale.com.

(BPT)

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 9

MedicalDirectory BLAIRSVILLE

DAHLONEGA

Blairsville’s most reliable Pharmacy for all your prescriptions, including hormone replacement therapy, vaccinations, & compounding for your specific needs. Firearms and ammunition plus parts or accessories.

Primary Care and Urgent Care services that include exams, sick visits, xrays, dot physicals, IV fluids, blood work, stitches, sports/school physicals, and more. Open Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm and Sat-Sun 9am2pm. Walk-ins Welcome

Brasstown Pharmacy Drug & Gun 23 B Murphy Hwy. 706-745-2303

brasstown.biz

Mountain Home Health 136 Hospital Dr Suite B

706-745-5101

See page 12

N. Georgia Hearing Aid Specialist, LLC 281-C Young Harris Street 706-745-1861 Connie Duncan hearing aid specialist serving the local area for over 25 years. All make repair, new digital technology, any brands except franchise. “Hearing Aid Specialist of the Year - 2012” Conviently located for over 15 years, next to the Blairsville Post Office.

Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N.

Award-winning medical facility located just 80 miles north of Atlanta. 53-bed not-for-profit acute care facility providing health care to residents of Habersham and adjoining counties. habershammedical.com

See page 5

Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N. Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid medlinkga.org

See page 8

ELLIJAY / JASPER

georgiamountainshospice.org

See page 8

HAYESVILLE

Chatuge Family Practice 241 Church Street

CLEVELAND

Med Link Georgia 706-754-4348 -Ext. 2018 396 Historic Highway 441 N. Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid

Elaine’s Care Home 828-321-9501 288 6th St. & 17 Moore Street Elaine’s Care has been licensed in NC since1998 and specializes in long-term care residence for the elderly. The home also provides hospice and respite care with an outstanding 4-star rating.

Amenities include medication management, personal care, home-cooked meals with private rooms, Wi-Fi, satellite TV and much more.

828-389-6383

Established 42 year Community medical practice that offers many services. Variety of Insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Assistant Payment programs available.

See page 8

ANDREWS

elainescare@outlook.com

DEMOREST

Serving 10 North Georgia Counties since 1993.

Medicare & Medicaid Certified, plus contracted with VA providing local non-profit hospice.

Your Link to Quality Medical Care, Accepting all insurances including Meicare & Medicaid

medlinkga.org

www.familycaredahlonega.com

Georgia Mountains Hospice 70 Caring Way 706-253-4100

CLAYTON

medlinkga.org

706-867-7666

Habersham Medical Center iCare Pharmacy 541 Historic Hwy 441 706-754-2273

Formerly Appalachian serving 25+ years uniting the best with MHHS. Serving SW North Carolina for over 40 years. Offering excellent nursing and rehabilitation services. Services covered

by Medicare, VA Benefits, Medicaid, & Private Insurance. We’re Here for You! MountainHHA.com

Family Care Dahlonega 400 Walmart Way Suite F

chatugefp.org

See page 15

Healthy Smiles 159 Hwy 64 West

Whether you need a complete dental rehabilitation, a mini cosmetic makeover, or a basic maintenance exam and cleaning, we can help you. healthysmilesbydrb.com

See page 13

Mountain Home Health 828-389-8106 115 Mountain Home Nursing Lane Serving SW North Carolina for over 40 years.

Offering excellent nursing and rehabilitation services. Services covered by Medicare, VA Benefits, Medicaid, & Private Insurance. We’re Here for You! MountainHHA.com

See page 12

MURPHY Murphy Dental Center 119 Natural Springs Drive

828-837-5911

Modern Dentistry in a caring, home-like atmosphere including General Dentistry, CEREC Dentistry, and Oral Conscious and IV Sedation. murphydentalcenter.com

HIAWASSEE Chatuge Regional Hospital 110 S. Main Street

706-896-2222

Health Care at it’s Best! Full service hospital, 24hour Physician staffed for emergencies and patient care. Specialized care include Clearview Senior Behavioral Healthcare & Chatuge Regional Nursing Home. uniongeneralhospital.com

Regency Hospice 236 S. Main Street

See page 3

706-896-1251

When Life matters most… why not get the best local care? Serving North Georgia for over 14 years with hospice care. regencyhospice.com

SeniorLiving BLAIRSVILLE

HAYESVILLE

Wesley Mountain Village / Simpson Estates

Clay County Care Center

706-745-5565

828-360-3999

See page 15

828-389-9941

493 Wesley Mountain Drive The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for!

86 Valley Hideaway Drive

Enjoy your own home in the mountains without

Skilled Nursing Facility providing rehabilitation,

the burden of lawn care and maintenance (for those 55+) simpsonestates.org / wesleywoods.org

long term care, respite care, Alzheimer’s and dementia secured care.

See page 11

claycountycarecenter.com

10 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

Enjoy the

HighroadsLiving.com

Trout with Grape and Lentil Salad

GOODNESS OF GRAPES for Healthy Snacks & Meals Establishing a regular pattern of healthy snacks and meals made from fresh, whole foods is essential to promoting good health. Fresh grapes always make a great snack because they are tasty, healthy and portable. Yet grapes can also be used as an ingredient to make good-for-you dishes that are just as satisfying as they are healthy.

According to an IFIC Food and Health survey, consumers are looking more and more to foods for health benefits, with cardiovascular health topping the list as the leading benefit sought. Grapes of all colors - red, green and black - are a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols. Plus, they are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and low in sodium. Pairing heart-healthy grapes with other healthy ingredients - including fish, legumes, whole grains and vegetables - offers a vast array of options for nutritious make-at-home dishes.

In these recipes for Chicken Larb with Grapes, Trout with Grape and Lentil Salad, and Smashed Cucumber and Grape Salad, grapes add a juicy burst of flavor, vibrant color and crunch to deliver wholesome meals with bold flavors and fresh textures.

For more meal inspiration for healthy eating, visit GrapesfromCalifornia.com.

GO FOR A GRAPE SNACK Snacking, for many people, is a significant part of daily food consumption, thus making smart snack choices a vital part of promoting good health.

According to a study conducted by Mintel, 94 percent of adults snack daily, and 55 percent of people said they snack 2-3 times per day. Grapes are a healthy and hydrating choice without the added fat, salt and sugar found in many processed snacks.

(Family Features) #14738 Source: California Table Grape Commission

Servings: 4 3/4 cup green lentils, uncooked 2 1/2 cups water 2 tablespoons minced shallot 1 1/2 cups halved red California grapes 1/4 cup fresh chopped dill 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 tablespoon white balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, olive oil, divided 1 cup arugula 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional, to taste, divided 4 trout fillets (4-6 ounces each), skin on 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest - In medium saucepan, combine lentils with water. Bring to boil then reduce heat to simmer; cover and cook 15 minutes. Turn off heat and allow lentils to steam 5 minutes; drain and let cool.

- In medium bowl, combine lentils, shallot, grapes, dill, walnuts, lemon juice, lemon zest, vinegar, 1 tablespoon olive oil, arugula, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pepper, to taste; set aside.

- Heat oven to broil. Move rack to highest position.

- Sprinkle trout fillets with lemon zest, remaining salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; brush with remaining olive oil. Broil trout 4-5 minutes. Serve with lentil salad.

Nutritional information per serving: 480 calories; 40 g protein; 36 g carbohydrates; 20 g fat (38% calories from fat); 3 g saturated fat (4% calories from saturated fat); 80 mg cholesterol; 380 mg sodium; 10 g fiber.

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 11

Chicken Larb with Grapes

Smashed Cucumber and Grape Salad

Prep time: 20 minutes Servings: 6 1 1/4 pounds English or Persian cucumbers, ends trimmed 1 teaspoon kosher salt 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce 2 teaspoons granulated sugar 1-2 teaspoons chili oil 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil 1 cup halved California grapes 2 scallions, thinly sliced 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds - Using rolling pin, smash whole cucumbers lightly, just enough to break open. Tear or cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces and season with salt. Transfer to sieve and let drain 10 minutes.

- In large bowl, whisk vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, chili oil and sesame oil; stir in grapes and scallions. When cucumbers finish draining, add to bowl with grape mixture and stir to combine.

- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 2 cups halved red California grapes 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 pound ground chicken 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1-2 Thai chilies, thinly sliced 2 teaspoons fish sauce 3 tablespoons lime juice 1/4 cup coarsely chopped cilantro 3 tablespoons coarsely chopped mint leaves 4 cups steamed jasmine rice 2 cups shredded green cabbage 2 tablespoons chopped roasted and salted peanuts - In medium bowl, combine onion, grapes and rice vinegar; set aside.

- In large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook, stirring frequently until just cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Stir in chilies, fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro and mint.

- Divide rice between four serving dishes and top with chicken, cabbage, marinated onions and grapes; sprinkle with peanuts.

Nutritional information per serving: 540 calories; 26 g protein; 65 g carbohydrates; 19 g fat (32% calories from fat); 3.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 100 mg cholesterol; 480 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

Nutritional information per serving: 70 calories; 1 g protein; 11 g carbohydrates; 2.5 g fat (32% calories from fat); 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 170 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

Senior Living in the North Georgia Mountains

BRANAN LODGE

An affordable community of apartments in a beautiful mountain setting.

(Federal rental assistance for those 62+ or mobility impaired.)

SIMPSON ESTATES

The independent lifestyle you’ve been looking for! Enjoy your own home in the mountains without the burden of lawn care and maintenance. (for those 55+)

leaders in senior living

493 Wesley Mountain Drive, Blairsville, GA 30512 www.wesleywoods.org 706-745-5565

12 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

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Integrity | Professionalism Custom Artificial Limbs & Orthopedic Braces

2 Locations to Serve You! 178 Bracketts Way, Suite 3 Blairsville, GA 30512 706-400-5750 5425 Appalachian Highway Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513 706-946-8009 Email: peachpror@hotmail.com

Susan G. Semmes, LCPO

Certified Prosthetist/Orthitist by American Board for Orthotics and Prosthetics and Licensed

by Composite State Board of Medical Examiners of Georgia

A Veteran Owned Business.

Certified Vendor for the Veteran’s Administration.

We fabricate our own prosthetics & orthotics. Made in the USA.

ASK THE EXPERT:

Oral health as you age

W

e all know brushing our teeth twice a day is crucial to keeping our smile bright, but most of us probably don’t understand how dental hygiene can impact our overall health, especially as we age. Going to the dentist is one of the most important things we can do for our health.

Each year more than 2 million people visit the emergency room because of oral health complications, due to things like cavities or gum disease. Many of those cases could have been prevented through routine dental care and exams.

Alison Komarek, DDS, with UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement, answers some of the most pressing questions older adults have regarding their oral health.

Q: How often do I need to go to the dentist?

A: Adults, especially those 65 and older, should get to the dentist every six months to one year. Routine dental exams are critical, as they allow your dental team to develop a baseline for your overall oral health, so they can spot changes as you age.

Dental X-rays may be taken, which give your dentist a more comprehensive view of your teeth, gums and bones. These are useful in helping to detect cavities or other areas of concern that are not noticeable by looking in the mouth. Even if you have no remaining teeth, routine X-rays are helpful to evaluate the remaining bone and soft tissues.

A head and neck screening for oral cancers is also recommended. Oral cancer primarily affects older adults and routine screenings are the best way to help ensure early detection.

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 13

• Partial Dentures

• Dentures

• Children 6 & up

Q: What is gum disease and is it treatable?

A: Gum disease, an infection of tissues that surround and support teeth, is one of the most common oral health issues facing older adults.

In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control, 68 percent of adults age 65 and older have some form of gum disease, one of the major contributors to tooth loss. Not removing plaque buildup from teeth, including between teeth, can play a role in the disease.

Gum disease can be hard to detect, as it is often painless. Signs of gum disease include: * Gums that bleed easily, or are red and swollen * Receding gum line * Loose or sensitive teeth The earlier your dentist can catch this manageable disease, the better.

Early-stage gum disease is generally straightforward to manage through professional cleanings, while late-stage gum disease can be more complex.

Stay on top of your gum health by maintaining a good dental hygiene routine and getting X-rays taken as your dentist recommends.

Q: My mouth has gotten drier as I age, what is that all about?

A: You’re not alone here - dry mouth, or xerostomia, affects 30 percent of adults age 65 and older, according to the American Dental Association. Dry mouth is often caused by medication you may be taking; ask your doctor or pharmacist if xerostomia is a side effect of one or more of your medications.

If you are taking a medication at the direction of your medical doctor for which dry mouth is a side effect, there are some things you can do, like drinking water more frequently throughout the day or using a mouth moisturizing agent. Talk to your dentist if you are experiencing dry mouth, as it can be caused by an underlying health issue.

Q: What are some considerations for my dental hygiene routine as I age?

A: Keeping up a good dental hygiene routine is one of the most important things you can do to ensure your teeth and mouth stay healthy. Here are some practices you can implement daily: * Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Soft bristles are the safest and most comfortable choice. * Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or another flossing tool. If you have not flossed in a while, you might notice some bleeding the first few times you start - this is normal and should go away as you floss more regularly. * If you wear full or partial dentures, clean them daily.

Bottom line: Adhering to a consistent dental hygiene routine and seeing the dentist regularly are some of the best things you can do for your oral health. In addition, if you see or feel something out of the ordinary in your mouth, call your dentist and make a dental appointment as soon as possible.

(BPT)

14 Highroads Living - Volume 8 • Issue 3

HighroadsLiving.com

TAKE YOUR TO THE NEXT LEVEL

F

or both novice gardeners and those with years of experience, there are always ways to improve the gardening experience and the results with innovative techniques, approaches and products. From choosing eco-friendly plant food to updating the containers used for planting, here are a few tips and products gardeners can use to up their gardening game this year, no matter what or where they want to grow.

and different plant nutrition options. Gardeners now have an organic solution that achieves results on par with - or better than - conventional products.

RAISE YOUR GARDEN. Gardeners with yards that have persistent pests and critters, or that have problems with excessive weeds, soil compaction and drainage, should consider using a raised garden bed to elevate it off the ground. This simple solution can be built to any size or height, as GO ORGANIC. long as there is at least 6-12 inches of soil depth for The 21st century consumer is demanding new ways root growth, depending on the plants (more is better). to grow plants. At the same time, research shows that Redwood and cedar are the best types of wood for performance is more important than ever for organic building a raised bed, according to gardening experts. solutions. Miracle-Gro(R) Performance Organic(TM) solves this consumer pain point: no compromise, GROW VERTICALLY. just results - guaranteed. This line of soils and plant Especially with limited space, a trellis, fence or other foods features a revolutionary blend of natural and strong support structure allows a gardener to grow organic materials and locally sourced, specially aged upwards with ferns, bromeliads, vines or begonias as compost and includes a container mix, in-ground soil well as edible plants like tomatoes, peas, pole beans

HighroadsLiving.com Volume 8 • Issue 3 - Highroads Living 15

and some types of squash. This approach can also provide a beautiful aesthetic to a home’s landscape.

Choose the vine varieties (not bush varieties) of vegetables when growing vertically. The structure can be built from a raised garden bed, patio or terrace, or directly from the ground, and must be strong enough to withstand the weight of mature fruits and vegetables.

When LIFE matters most... why not get the best LOCAL care?

Your local hospice with local staff caring for our community for over 15 years.

GROW INDOORS. For those with insufficient space for outdoor gardening or who have challenges such as poor climate or pesky critters, the answer is simple: indoor gardening. Gone are the days when a garden must grow outdoors. With the right equipment, a gardener can grow indoors year-round with little space, and feel empowered by knowing where their food came from.

The Miracle-Gro(R) Twelve(TM) Indoor Growing System is an easy-to-use, hydroponic system that is designed to blend in with home decor, while providing ideal growing conditions for plants to thrive indoors. The growing system connects to the Miracle-Gro(R) Twelve(TM) App via Bluetooth technology to monitor the water level, control the light, set a growing schedule and receive nutrient reminders.

The system is specially designed to grow a wide variety of leafy greens like kale, arugula, leaf lettuce or mustard greens, and/or fresh herbs like basil, oregano, cilantro, mint or rosemary. It can fit up to four plants at once, and it’s stackable so indoor gardeners can grow twice as many plants in the same footprint by using the Miracle-Gro(R) Twelve(TM) Stacking Kit (sold separately).

Gardeners today can take advantage of all the latest technology and products, maximizing their output and enjoying the entire gardening process, whether indoors or out. For additional gardening tips, visit www.miraclegro.com.

(BPT)

706-896-1251 www.regencyhospice.com

Live Well Chatuge Family Practice A non-profit organization

828.389.6383 Teresa A. Heavner, M.D.

241 Church Street, Hayesville, NC 28904

Jill M. Brinke, M.D.

www.chatugefp.org William Kyle Cody, PA-C

Sally Cody, FNP-C

Hours: Mon, Tues, Thurs: 8 am - 6 pm Wed and Fri: 8 am - 4:30pm

Services Offered CDL Exams Preventative Care Laboratory Work Minor Surgery

Sports Physicals Acute & Chronic Disease Management

Acupuncture Dermatology/Skin Checks Medication & Medical Assistance Programs

OPEN 7 YEARS!

The Highest Level of Compassion

678-524-4112

& Successful Care You can Measure

Our goal is to provide exceptional care and daily living assistance to our residents in a family style setting.

From your home to our home, Rebecca Manor offers both private and semi-private accommodations where residents will enjoy wide hallways, spacious rooms, and a great caregiver to resident ratio.

Our individualized Personal Care services are tailored to meet the needs of each resident.

A BIGGER COST DOES NOT MEAN BETTER CARE No UTI’s in 6 years • No Bed Sores 6 years • No 4 hour waits to have your needs met

Call Jill Cremens 678-524-4112 to Reserve Your Spot!

Care Fee Includes:

Family Setting Private/Semi-Private Rooms Medication Management 24 Hour Supervision Home-Cooked Meals Activities Personalized Care Adult Day Care & Respite Available Memory Care

3038 Hwy 115 East • Cleveland, GA, 30528 • 678-524-4112