What's New at
Giving Thanks
November is a time for reflection and giving thanks for all of the wonderful things in our lives that matter most. As we move from day-to-day in our hectic routines, we tend to lose site of the things that are the most important. Whether its family, friends, relationships, health or special times, we need to be grateful for the multitude of blessings we receive each year. At Poet's Seat Health Care Center, we are thankful for our dedicated staff. Without their hard, tireless work, we would not be able to provide the exceptional care that has been the cornerstone of our success. We are also thankful for the continued encouragement of all of our residents and their families, who's on-going support allows us to continually improve our facility.
Preparing for flu season
With Fall now in full swing, it is that time of year for shorter days, colder weather and increased potential for sickness. Although flu season doesn't tend to peak until late January or early February, it's never too early to begin preparing.
Flu vaccines can be obtained through your doctor's office, some pharmacies, or possibly even your place of employment. Two new versions of the shot are available this year, including a tiny needle version of the shot that injects the vaccine into the skin, rather than the muscle like the standard shot. A high-dose version of the vaccine, containing four times the immune-triggering viral protein as the regular shot, is also available. A nasal spray flu vaccine was introduced in 2003. However, it is not recommended for adults over 50 years old.
Another way to give your immune system a boost is through good nutrition. A healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy will help your body fight viruses effectively. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that are found in yogurt and other fermented foods, and also help strengthen the immune system and help prevent flu and other illness.
Last, and possibly most important, be sure to keep your hands washed regularly. We are constantly touching door knobs, handles, railings and other objects shared by the public, which are undoubtedly covered with germs that are easily transferred on contact. One simple rub of your eye or mouth with your hand is all that it takes to contract a virus.
Calling all chefs
Poet's Seat Health Care Center is
putting together a cookbook of recipes submitted by staff, residents and residents' family members. We're planning to have it available for the holidays, to benefit the residents' activity fund. We already have some great recipes, but we are continuing to collect more.
The deadline to submit recipes is Nov.18. To submit, simply e-mail it to inquiries@pshcc.com, or mail it to us at:
Poet's Seat Health Care Center
Attn. Activities Director
359 High Street
Greenfield, MA 01301
Halloween treats
The residents of Poet's Seat Health Care Center enjoyed special activities this year for Halloween, including an annual costume party and a pumpkin decorating contest. The pumpkins shown here are some of the imaginative creations of our talented residents.
New electric beds
As you may recall, earlier this year in March, Poet's Seat Health Care Center began replacing all resident beds with new electric beds. The remaining beds are scheduled to be replaced at the end of November. The beds allow the residents to personally adjust their head and leg positioning. We feel this will benefit the residents by providing them the independence of controlling their own comfort. Maintaining resident independence-in any way possible-has a positive impact on their health and self-esteem. We thank you for your continuing support and cooperation as we complete the last phase of this installation process.
"It's not just about the care...it's about the caring."
Poet's Seat Health Care Center is managed by
Somerset Health Care Management Group.
