National Heart Month

Donna Nichols • February 9, 2024
A heart with the words `` heart month '' written on it.

February is national heart month and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, causing one in four deaths a year.

 

Those are odds not worth messing with, so how do you reduce your risk of heart disease? Let us look at some of the factors of heart disease first.

 

Your age and family history can increase your risk for heart disease. With age, our arteries narrow and harden which causes fats, cholesterol, and other substances to build up on the artery walls; this is called cholesterol. Family history can increase your risk if your family members have or have had heart disease.

 

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking can cause heart disease. Obesity is another factor that can lead not only to heart disease, but to high blood pressure and diabetes. So, what do I do to reduce my risk?

 

Exercise is especially important to reducing your risk for heart disease. Try to get at least two (2) of physical exercise a week. This could be any kind of physical exercise, walking, chair yoga, cycling, knee lifts, working with resistance bands, any kind of exercise that gets your heart pumping.

 

Eat a diet low in sodium and saturated fats. Eating foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole-grains, vegetable oils, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products will help. Stay away from sweet foods and sweeteners and limit your alcohol intake. Alcohol raises your blood pressure which in turn leads to heart disease.

 

If you are overweight, try to lose the extra pounds. Obesity increases not only your risk of heart disease, but also can cause a stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Eating heart-healthy foods and getting regular exercise will help you maintain a healthy weight.

 

If you smoke, quit now; it is never too late to quit and reduce your risk of heart disease. There are many free resources out there to help you quit.

 

Stress is another contributor to heart disease as it leads to high blood pressure. Reduce your stress by exercising, finding something you enjoy and doing it, talking to someone about what is going on, listening to music, dancing, thinking positively and just breathing.

 

Make sure you get enough sleep, and quality sleep. You need around 7 – 9 hours a night. Poor sleep habits can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure and to other medical conditions. Again, exercising will ensure you sleep better along with making sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a relaxing temperature. Do not have any TV’s, smart phones, or computers in your bedroom; screen time disrupts sleep time. Do not have anything heavy to eat before bed and avoid caffeine a few hours prior to bedtime.

 

Taking care of your heart is easier than you think, small things can make big differences in reducing your risk of heart disease. Make sure you exercise, eat healthier, maintain a health weight, get enough sleep, and quit smoking. Not only will making these changes reduce your risk of heart disease, but they will also improve your overall health and well-being. Start today.

 


February is heart month and a man is holding a large red heart.

Beating the Florida Summer Heat

By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
Florida summers come in three flavors: hot, hotter, and what fresh hell is this? Whether you're a lifelong local or newly initiated into the Sunshine Sweat Fest, you know it’s more survival sport than season. So, how do we stay cool without losing our cool? Here’s your sun-savvy guide to getting through it. Make hydration a hobby Not just water, electrolytes are your best friends when you're sweaty. Coconut water, cucumber-mint spritzers, watermelon slices. If your drink doesn’t sparkle, chill, or drip condensation like a rom-com montage, it’s not summer-ready. Dress for success and summertime Loose, light, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or the holy grail: moisture-wicking. Bonus points for sun hats and SPF clothing that make you look like a beach detective on vacation. Fans ARE your best friends Table fans, ceiling fans, handheld fans—the whole rotation. Keep them oscillating like your thoughts during a political debate. And if you’ve got a cooling towel? You’re royalty. Avoid the “Roasting Hours” From 11 AM to 4 PM, Florida turns into a convection oven. Errands, walks, and yard work? Schedule them early or late. Unless you’re trying to get baked like a Publix cookie—then by all means. Sunscreen is a lifestyle Apply, reapply, then pretend  you're an influencer and do it again. Because nothing says “I’m melting” like a shoulder burn shaped like your purse strap. Eat lightly Cold meals can be your best friend—salads, chilled pasta, and fruit-forward lunches are all options. Bonus points if you serve them on plates fresh from the fridge like the true champion you are. Rest, reset, repeat If the heat’s making you crankier than a mosquito at a citronella convention, take breaks: shade, air conditioning, quiet corners. Recharge without guilt—you’re surviving a sauna with its own zip code. Florida heat might be relentless, but so are we. With humor, hydration, and a healthy dose of stubborn grace, we ride the wave and keep the ice cubes coming. Stay cool out there, friends. You’ve got this.

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.

Hurricane Season in Florida

By Donna Nichols • June 4, 2025
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key.  Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
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