See all the crazy new foods to enjoy at this year’s Big E, online at masslive.com
Better Health D |
TRAVEL: A Summer Camp for grown-ups in Scotland, D5 FALL MOVIES: Here’s what’s coming to a theater near you, D9 FALL NOVELS: Your “to be read” list just got bigger, D11
| SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026
Glenmeadow SPONSORED CONTENT BY ADVERTISING
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lenmeadow’s Vitality Hub is so named to highlight the culture of the long-established senior living community in Longmeadow that includes 113 independent living and 34 assisted living apartments for those 62 and older. The focus on wellness throughout the community is a feature that draws interest from potential residents and speaks to the priorities of the growing number of older adults who want to age in a community with others. The Vitality Hub was added two years ago as part of a $10.5 million renovation. The glassed-in extension includes a fitness center, warm-water pool, spa, and a group exercise studio. This is just one example of the focus on wellness and active engagement that is the foundation of Glenmeadow residents’ lifestyle. “The Vitality Hub and its name are an appropriate reflection of everything that happens at Glenmeadow,” said Glenmeadow President and Chief Executive Officer Kathy Martin. “This is an active community. Our common areas are well utilized. You might see residents hanging out in the Family Living Room, grabbing a drink with friends in the Doorstop Lounge or going to any of the dozens of programs we have going on during the day.” The breadth of programs is impressive. Fitness offerings range from chair yoga to aquatic exercise to flexibility and weight training. The Wellness Team organizes other programs like arts and crafts, book club, and watch parties for sporting events. Road trips to cultural attractions like the Bridge of Flowers and Tanglewood are also regular features of the programming calendar. “In addition to programs focused on exercise, socialization and hobbies, Glenmeadow’s residents craved more
intellectual engagement,” Martin said. “We launched ELEVATE, a new lifelong learning program featuring visiting lectures, facilitated discussion groups, cultural outings and experiential learning. It invites residents to explore new ideas, examine complex topics and stay intellectually sharp in the company of others who value learning.” Martin, who holds her doc-
(ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLENMEADOW)
said. “People want to live a less stressful lifestyle with less of what we refer to as life’s overhead, that is, the maintenance and upkeep of a home. But they also want to stay at home as long as possible. We respect that.” She said Glenmeadow At Home, the community’s home care agency that serves the Greater Springfield Area, can help with the desire to stay at home by providing “a range
daily activities, but with access to everything Glenmeadow has to offer. for those who may need it.” “Evolution is part of our story. We have grown from a 16-room mansion in Springfield to a 210,000-square-foot campus in Longmeadow,” Martin said. Founded as a nonprofit over 140 years ago as a retirement home for women, Glenmeadow began welcoming men in the 1980s,
said Martin when asked about other amenities. “We are also pet friendly and have a salon and library on campus. Plus, parking is included, and if you have an uncovered spot, snow removal is a perk.” The community has three dining venues including one that opens onto the terrace where residents enjoy outdoor seating and a lounge with full bar service that is open to residents and their guests.
their adult children with an understanding of the language of senior living as well so they can be more informed consumers.” Different motivations bring people to Glenmeadow. “Sometimes family members reach out during their initial research because they anticipate their loved ones might need to get some additional support,” Martin said. “We also have prospective residents who don’t want to live in a big home where they have to cook dinner every night and are proactively making a choice to move that will ensure they have support and people around them.” She added that “sometimes these decisions are made intentionally and proactively and sometimes they are made because a loved one has experienced something that impacted their mobility or their ability to live alone.” “We can be an option in either case,” Martin said. “Our goal is to help people understand their options and feel empowered in making this decision. Choosing to move to Glenmeadow should be happy occasion.” She said individuals interested in Glenmeadow can call for a tour or put a request for one on the community’s website. “We want people to see Glenmeadow as a resource for understanding and learning Glenmeadow President and Chief Officer - Kathy Martin as much as it is a decision about where they live,” Martin torate in physical education, of services 24/7 from licensed launched Glenmeadow At Not only are benefits offered said. is beginning her third year certified nursing assistants, Home in 2000 and opened on campus, but Martin sees She added there is an apas President and CEO, and is personal care assistants and the Vitality Hub in 2024.” Glenmeadow as a resource proximately 60-day turnupbeat about Glenmeadow’s home health aides.” The community offers one- for families within the greater around for people moving evolution and atmosphere. “Our goal is to help resand two-bedroom apartments Western Massachusetts com- into independent living and a shorter timeframe for assisted “We increasingly hear from idents through each stage that on the independent-livmunity on several levels. living. prospective residents how of aging — from an inspired ing side measure up to 1,500 “The language of senior kinetic Glenmeadow is. There retirement to supportive care square feet and include a full living - assisted living, Glenmeadow is private pay and uses an entrance fee modis so much fun here.” as needed,” Martin said. Glen- kitchen and generous closet independent living, respite el for its independent units She noted that Glenmeadmeadow’s independent living space. Many units have an care - is not something the ow offers programming that community offers a beautiful, outdoor area and residents general population needs to along with a monthly service current residents are looking maintenance-free home for moving in can customize know, until they need to know fee. Long-term care insurance for while also planning for the those ready to leave behind some features such as paint about it,” she said. “Part of is accepted for assisted living. next generation of residents. the demands of homeowncolor, flooring and cabinets. our responsibility is to ensure For more information, “Aging often comes with ership, while assisted living “Our residents particularly that we are doing all we can visit Glenmeadow.org. competing priorities,” Martin provides additional help with enjoy our beautiful terrace,” to provide older adults and
“This is an active community. Our common areas are well utilized. You might see residents hanging out in the Family Living Room, grabbing a drink with friends in the Doorstop Lounge or going to any of the dozens of programs we have going on during the day.”
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D2 | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
How to make
mental health
matter How to recognize
mental fatigue
fatigue may struggle to wind erwise be considered out of Everyone character. Increased irritabil- down and stop thinking about ity, a shortened temper, a lack work- or school-related tasks come bedtime. That can patience for others, and feels tired at ofincreased trigger insomnia. One of the instances of snapping at people are some mood dangers associated with this side effect of mental fatigue is that indicate the some point. changes that lack of sleep can worsen presence of mental fatigue. The signs of physical fatigue are often easily recognizable. Slower movements, heavy eyes, achy muscles, and even frequent yawning are some telltales signs that a body is tired. But what about mental fatigue? WebMD notes that mental fatigue affects the mind instead of the muscles. That can make mental fatigue difficult to spot. But identifying the presence of mental fatigue is important, as untreated mental fatigue can affect decision-making and performance at work and in the classroom. Anyone can develop mental fatigue, but those who find themselves frequently overwhelmed by work, school or personal obligations may be particularly vulnerable. Recognition of the following signs of mental fatigue may compel those dealing with such exhaustion to take a break and seek help.
Loss of productivity
A noticeable dip in productivity is another sign of mental fatigue. WebMD notes that a loss of productivity induced by mental fatigue occurs because the feeling of tiredness compromises a person’s ability to concentrate. Mental fatigue also can drain a person’s motivation. Distractions become harder to ignore when suffering from mental fatigue, which in turn diminishes productivity.
feelings of exhaustion.
Increased anxiety
WebMD notes that mental fatigue triggers the sympathetic nervous system, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and panic. These feelings may be ever-present.
Physical side effects
Some people find it harder to exercise when their minds are fatigued. A 2017 study published in the journal Sports Medicine found that the duration and intensity of Instances a physical task are important of zoning out variables when considering Mental fatigue can get in the the potential effects of mental way of a person’s ability to fo- fatigue on physical perforcus on what he or she is doing. mance. Researchers identified a decreased time to physical This sense of zoning out can be particularly dangerous, as exhaustion, and a resulting it can strike even when drivdecline in endurance pering a vehicle. In fact, WebMD formance, as a side effect of notes a link between mental mental fatigue. fatigue and car accidents. Mental fatigue can take Inability to sleep a serious toll. Anyone who Mood changes suspects they are suffering It may seem counterintuiPeople suffering from men- tive that mental fatigue would from mental fatigue is urged to contact a health care make it difficult to sleep, but tal fatigue may experience provider. mood changes that would oth- it can. People with mental
M
ental health is now discussed more openly than it once was. Mental illness or issues that affected mental health used to be stigmatized, and many people suffered in silence and might not have gotten the help they needed. The National Institute of Mental Health reports more than one in five adults in the United States lives with a mental illness. Mental illnesses include many different conditions that may vary in degree of severity, from very mild to severe. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health advises that, in any given year, one in five Canadians experiences a mental illness as well. Such statistics highlight just how common mental illnesses are. The NIMH notes self-care plays a significant role in maintaining mental health and supporting recovery. People can safeguard their mental health in many ways, and doing so will
improve their overall health as well.
Spend time out in nature Nature can have a calming effect on people. Going for a walk can help tame stress and break patterns of negative thinking. In Japan, the concept of forest bathing is said to improve mental health. Forest bathing involves spending time in a forest or another green area experiencing the different sounds, sights and smells that nature offers.
Set boundaries
B2B Reviews says 12 percent of U.S. workers were fully remote in August 2023. Estimates suggest that number may have increased to around 14 percent by 2025. Working from home can make it more challenging to set firm divisions on time spent working and for home life. Establishing boundaries means not being available 24/7 for calls or emails and not feeling guilty about taking time away from work.
Get regular exercise
Mental Health Tip
Just 30 minutes of exercise each day can get
Ass S A Seasons easons C Change, hange, C heck In In With With Yourself. Yo Y oursellfff.. Check
Why Wait?
People who have trouble hearing often wait several years before they decide to get help. But life is happening now! Hearing loss affects your work, your family and your social life. Don’t let a hearing problem keep you from enjoying life.
Fall brings new routines, busy schedules, and shorter days. Take a moment to check in with yourself and make space for what helps you feel your best. Small steps, like connecting with others, getting outside, or taking time to recharge, can make a big difference.
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feel-good endorphins flowing through the body to boost mood and bodily health.
Get more sleep
Adults generally need between seven and nine hours of sleep for optimal health and reaching deep sleep phases, says the Mental Health Foundation. Creating consistent sleep routines that include going to bed and waking at the same time each day; avoiding screens before bed; and avoiding caffeine or vigorous exercise late in the day can help improve sleep.
Try relaxing activities Relaxing activities can include reading, listening to music, meditation, or lowstress crafts and hobbies. Make time each week for these calming pursuits.
Socialize with others Socialization provides opportunities to see others and talk about anything you want to get off your chest. People feeling stress or anxiety might think they are alone. But having conversations with others can illustrate that these are common problems and there are solutions. Sometimes just talking about an issue can help you overcome it.
Use your vacation time Too many people are not using enough of their deserved and accrued time off. A survey from the financial services company Sorbet found that 62 percent of Americans don’t use all of their paid time off. A Pew Research Center survey found that nearly half of U.S. employees with paid time off take less time than their employers offer. Failure to take time off is a recipe for burnout. Mental health should be a priority. Safeguarding mental health can involve various self-care techniques that anyone can employ.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026 | D3
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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Activities that promote
Cognitive Health M
What to know about
aintaining physical health as a body ages is an important consideration, and often one of the first things that comes to mind when people think about being healthy. Yet physical health is only one component of a healthy lifestyle; individuals also must pay attention to what they do to promote cognitive health. A recent study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information at the National Institutes of Health indicated that some decline in cognitive abilities is a natural part of the aging process. Attention, memory, executive cognitive function, language, and visuospatial abilities all exhibit measurable declines with age, according to the study. Just because some measure of cognitive impairment occurs as the years march on doesn’t mean that seniors are powerless against Father Time. Certain behaviors and activities can help improve cognition.
Physical activity It is important to stay physically active, not only for the body, but also for the brain. Harvard Health says research
he World Health Organization reports that tens of millions of individuals across the globe are living with bipolar disorder. Despite that prevalence, many people still have misconceptions about bipolar disorder, including the notable but false notion that the condition and schizophrenia are one and the same. A greater understanding of bipolar disorder can help the millions of people who have it and may compel others to seek treatment that can be highly effective.
or extremely irritable or touchy
· Inability to perform even simple tasks
· Feeling wired and more active than usual
· Feeling hopeless or worth less or thinking about death or suicide
· Racing thoughts · Feeling a decreased need for sleep
The NIMH notes that symptoms of bipolar disorder may be milder for some than others. That’s an important distinction, particularly for · Excessive appetite for food, people with a family history of bipolar disorder. The NIMH drinking, sex, or other notes that the exact cause of pleasurable activities bipolar disorder is unknown, · A feeling that one can do but research has shown that many things at once without people with certain genes are growing tired more likely to develop the The WHO notes bipolar · Feeling unusually important, condition than others. But just because a relative exhibited disorder is a mental health talented or powerful symptoms in a certain way condition in which mood does not mean an individual swings from one extreme to will show signs in the same another are the primary charway. acteristic. Bipolar episodes The WHO notes that a may be manic or depressive, and each has its own unique depressive episode is contrary to a manic episode and characteristics. In addition, marked by a depressed mood the National Institute of A health care provider that makes people feel sad, Mental Health reports that a will consider the severity, person with bipolar disorder irritable and/or empty. People length and frequency of an experiencing a depressive may experience “mixed” individual’s symptoms and episode may lack interest in or experiences after conducting episodes, which include symptoms of both manic and get little pleasure from activa physical exam to rule out depressive episodes. When a ities they previously enjoyed. other illnesses. A referral to According to the NIMH, addi- a mental health professional person is having an episode, tional symptoms of a depres- also is standard before a the symptoms last a week or two, or even longer, and are diagnosis of bipolar disorder sive episode include: present every day for most of · Difficulty concentrating or is made. the day. Bipolar disorder affects tens making decisions of millions of people across the globe. Treatment for the · Changes in sleep patterns, condition is highly effective, including difficulty falling A manic episode is characand individuals exhibiting asleep, waking up too early, symptoms of bipolar disorder terized by a person experienc- or sleeping too much are urged to speak with a ing an extremely high mood. · Speaking slowly, feeling health care professional. The NIMH notes that sympunable to find anything to toms of a manic episode may say, or frequent bouts of include: forgetfulness · Feeling very up, high, elated,
3218227-01
· Speaking rapidly about various subjects, which the NIMH notes can be characterized as “flight of ideas”
shows when animals exercise regularly, the number of tiny blood vessels that bring oxygen-rich blood to the brain increase. More oxygen can reach an area of the brain that is responsible for thought and help improve brain function. Exercise also lowers blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar, all of which can be beneficial to the brain.
Engage in relaxing activities
People who are depressed, sleep-deprived or anxious tend to score poorly on cognitive function tests. While this may not be an indicator of cognitive decline, it is important to engage in behaviors that promote happiness and restfulnesss for mental health. Meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and activities that help a person smile and laugh can be good for the brain.
Participate in stimulating activities
Stimulating activities, like word games, gardening, dancing, or playing a musical instrument, can help maintain cognitive function and enhance memory, says Healthline. Doing things that
require mental effort can help stimulate and maintain cognitive function and also may improve emotional wellbeing.
Read more often Various studies indicate that reading can promote strong mental health. In addition to keeping a person entertained or informed, reading exercises the brain. There are new words to learn, new scenarios to imagine and locations to envision. Sharing a summary of what was read with others also helps work the brain in different ways, all of which are good for cognitive health.
Make new recipes Browsing through a recipe, shopping for the ingredients, putting the ingredients together, and producing the finished product all can work the brain. A person is reading, engaging in math, predicting the results, and utilizing the senses during the process of cooking. Various activities can promote strong cognitive health and may help to reduce or delay cognitive decline through the years.
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D4 | SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20, 2026
THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM
Recognize the gut-brain
Connection
M
ood and well-being are not governed exclusively by the brain. Some may be surprised to learn that the gut plays an integral role in how one feels both mentally and physically. According to the National Institutes of Health, the close connection between the central nervous system and the gut explains why emotional stress can cause stomach pains, and why an imbalance in gut health can directly affect mood and cognition.
in the gut than anywhere in the body outside of the brain. Scientists call these nerves the “little brain” or the enteric nervous system (ENS). The main link between the big brain and little brain is the vagus nerve.
What does the gut’s brain control?
The main role of the ENS is to control digestion. However, the ENS also may trigger big emotional shifts, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. People with irritable What is the bowel syndrome (IBS) and gut-brain axis? functional bowel problems The Cleveland Clinic notes like constipation can expethe gut-brain axis is a tworience all sorts of emotional issues. For decades, researchway biochemical and neural communication network ers and doctors thought that linking the gastrointestinal anxiety and depression contributed to these problems. tract and the central nervous system. Signals pass both Now, studies show that it actually may be the other way ways between the digestive system and the CNS, and around. Signals sent to the health or disease in one can brain from the gut can trigger affect the other. Anyone who mood changes that make a has experienced butterflies in person feel anxious or conthe stomach when nervous is tribute to low mood. In fact, experiencing this connection. a vast majority of the body’s More information passes be- serotonin, a neurotransmitter tween the brain and gut than responsible for feelings of any other systems in the body, happiness and well-being, is and there are more nerve cells produced in the gut.
New treatments
Understanding that many historically classified mental health conditions actually may have origins in the stomach opens up new treatment options. Doctors may work together to help soothe the gut and the mind in concert. It’s not unheard of for gastroenterologists to prescribe treatments like antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy in addition to acid-blocking medications and specialized diets.
Supporting the axis
People can take steps to ensure their gut is healthy and promote general well-being. Focusing on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is essential. Foods like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi can help populate the gut with beneficial bacteria. In addition, practices like yoga, therapy and mindfulness can calm the ENS and reduce GI distress. The dynamic between the gut and brain is complex and can affect both physical and mental health.
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Risk factors for
depression Adverse life events take steps that can reduce Depression No one’s life goes smoothly their risk of developing the from start to finish. Adverse is among condition. With that in mind, events affect everyone, and the following are some addipeople are more likely to the most tional risk factors for depresdevelop depression after sion as noted by the National going through events like Institute of Mental Health. significant unemployment or the loss of a loved one. Though a certain mental health Gender measure of sadness is to be The NIMH notes that when losing one’s issues affecting women are diagnosed with expected job or confronting the death depression more often than of a friend of family people across men. However, that should if such feelings persistmember, then a not give men a false sense of person might be developing security regarding depresthe globe. or in the throes of depression. as it may compel people to
People from all walks of life can suffer from depression, which the World Health Organization reports affects an estimated 5 percent of the global adult population. A host of variables can affect the likelihood a person will get depression. For example, the Cleveland Clinic notes that some people develop depression in late fall and early winter and experience it until the return of spring. This form of depression, often referred to as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), has been linked to fewer opportunities to get outdoors when the temperature drops and fewer hours of daylight, a shift in sunlight patterns that becomes most noticeable when fall begins to transition into winter. Seasonal changes in weather are beyond individuals’ control, which underscores how vulnerable people can be to depression, even when they are fully cognizant of that vulnerability. But recognition of vulnerability to depression is significant,
sion, as the NIMH reports that men may be less likely to recognize, discuss or seek help for their emotional problems, a sentiment echoed by the Anxiety & Depression Association of America. Even if men are less likely to report mental health issues, the Mayo Clinic reports women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression. That’s a notable distinction women must recognize.
Sexual orientation
The NIMH reports that rates of depression are elevated among members of the LGBTQI+ community. According to the American Psychiatric Association, LGBTQ individuals are 2.5 times more likely to experience various mental health issues, including depression, compared to heterosexual individuals. In addition, Mental Health America reports that LGBTQIA+ teens are six times more likely to experience symptoms of depression than non-LGBTQIA+-identifying teens.
Family history Stanford Medicine notes there seems to be a genetic influence in regard to depression. Though the experts at Stanford note researchers have yet to identify how many genes are involved in depression, they assert that there seem to be combinations of genetic changes that predispose some people to developing depression. A study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry indicated biological offspring of parents with depression are two to five times as likely to develop major depressive disorder compared to individuals with no such family history. It’s important to note that these are just risk factors for depression. Neither the presence nor the absence of any of these factors guarantees a person will or will not develop depression. More information about depression can be found at nimh.nih.gov/ health/topics/depression.
For example, small dog licking a toy or at paws. But Did you know? tions. breeds generally are more these behaviors can become Pets generally may seem like carefree animals with nary a worry, but the truth is that companion animals may suffer from many of the same mental health issues that affect humans. ASPCA® Pet Insurance says that pets experience certain mental health issues, including anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviors and fears or phobias. Some pets also experience depression, with similar symptoms of social withdrawal, lethargy, loss of interest in food or activities, and more. Some animals are predisposed to mental health condi-
inclined to exhibit signs of anxiety. Other pets develop mental health issues over time. Compulsive behaviors may start out as a way for an animal to self-soothe during a fearful event or trauma, such as
harmful, repetitive actions that may cause physical health problems. If a pet is acting out of character or is displaying behaviors that are concerning, pet owners should seek the advice of the animal’s veterinarian.