As the seasons change and the year begins to wind down, November brings a unique opportunity to pause and focus on awareness, understanding, and support. This month is filled with meaningful health and community observances, each one reminding us of the importance of compassion, education, and taking care of ourselves and the people we love. Here are some of the important awareness focuses recognized throughout November: 1. Diabetes Awareness Month Diabetes affects millions of individuals and families often in deeply personal ways. This month encourages education, early screening, and healthier habits that support long-term well-being. It also reminds us to stand beside those managing diabetes every day recognizing their strength and advocating for accessible resources and care. 2. Lung Cancer Awareness Month Lung cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers, and early detection is key. November encourages awareness of symptoms, screening options, and reducing risk factors. It is also a […]
What a beautiful Saturday in Iowa for a walk. Our nurse Tanya had fun with her family walking for Alzheimers, “The Kitterman Krew”. Alzheimer’s: A progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. Brain cell connections and the cells themselves degenerate and die, eventually destroying memory and other important mental functions. Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms. No cure exists, but medications and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms. Symptoms: Requires a medical diagnosis. Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms. People may experience: Cognitive: mental decline, difficulty thinking and understanding, confusion in the evening hours, delusion, disorientation, forgetfulness, making things up, mental confusion, difficulty concentrating, inability to create new memories, inability to do simple math, or inability to recognize common things. Behavioral: aggression, agitation, difficulty with self care, irritability, meaningless repetition of own words, personality changes, lack of restraint, or wandering and getting lost Mood: anger, […]
