Stroke PreventionA stroke occurs

when blood vessels carrying oxygen and other nutrients to the brain suddenly burst or become blocked. Blood fails to get through to that part of the brain, which causes brain cells to die. There are warning signs of an impending stroke including: Sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg; trouble speaking; sudden loss of vision in one eye; and sudden, severe headache for no apparent cause. Other symptoms may be unexplained dizziness or loss of coordination with all the above symptoms. Risk factors for stroke depend upon your age, family medical history and high blood pressure. Experts now believe that strokes are as preventable as heart attacks. Basic primary prevention include quitting smoking, proper exercise and taking prescribed blood pressure medications. Some doctors recommend aspirin therapy. Limiting sodium intake is suggested, since salt may raise blood pressure. And remember to exercise, it is a great stress reliever!

Wellness Corner Mother’s Day is May 12. We will be hosting a traditional English Tea with all the trimmings, honoring

all mothers at Heathwood on Saturday, May 11. There will even be a roaming magician courtesy of our friends at Family Choice. Reservations are required. Our volunteers will be holding a Yard Sale on June 7 and 8. The proceeds benefit resident activities. Donations of items (please, no clothes) would be greatly appreciated. Contact the Wellness Department to make arrangements. We are finalizing plans for our Summer Concert Series. Our first one is scheduled for June 26 and will feature the Lancaster High School Steel Drums.

The St. Christopher’s Caring Clowns were a huge hit!

Record setting crowd at our exercise class!

health cornerMay 2019

Healthy Living

Employee ProfileJeffrey Laruffa, who started working at Heathwood

11 years ago, is a Dining Aid who works the morning shift. Jeffrey was born in Lockport where he still calls home. Jeffrey, a bachelor, enjoys working here because “of the many happy people who he encounters on a daily basis.” He also added that, “It is a safe, secure and clean environment.” Director of Dining Services, Cathy Duszynski, appreciates his cooperation and stated, “When we are short staffed, Jeffrey is always willing to help out.” He fondly recalls going on camping trips with his family. His most memorable adventure was visiting Calaveras Big Trees State Park in California. Some of Jeffrey’s hobbies include: Fishing, watching television, bowling and playing video games.

Jeffrey Laruffa

Forest Stream Garden Club Visit

Staff Birthdays and Anniversaries

staff spotlightMAY 2019

Happy BirthdayMay 11: Stacey Brown

May 16: Resurreccion Rondina

May 19: Esther Hogues

May 27: Li Rui

Happy Anniversary27 years

Kamaljit Mathaun

19 yearsNancy Mauerman

16 yearsCurtis Quarles

13 yearsSamina Gill

7 years Donald Brownschidle

1 yearNicole Savage