March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancers that affect both men and women. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most common in people ages 50 and older.

The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer – that’s why it’s so important to get screened.

People over age 50 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. You may also be at higher risk if you smoke, are African American, or have a family history of colorectal cancer.

Everyone can take these healthy steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
  •    Get screened starting at age 50.
  •    Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
  •    Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
  •    Get plenty of physical activity and eat a healthy diet.

For more information, click here.
Nutrition Tips for Seniors
We’ve all heard heaps of information about nutrition and, the fact is, eating well is one of the most basic practices we can do to give ourselves vitality, strength and continuing health.

Balanced and mindful eating leads to better sleep, more energy for everyday activities, proper digestion and healthy weight, and improves our ability to fend off illnesses with a strong immune system. But what if you don’t feel like eating? What if you have a hard time shopping and cooking those healthy foods? What if nothing tastes the way it used to because your taste buds are older and less sensitive!

To read the full article, click here.
Flu Prevention: Steps to Take
First and foremost, CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against influenza and its potentially serious complications.Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

Other preventive steps include:
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
  • If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  •  Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
  •  Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like flu.

For more information, click here. Content credit: CDC
It's not too late to get the Flu shot! Stop in VNLV's office in Centerbrook Monday - Friday anytime between 8am - 4pm to receive your shot.
Proper Hand-Washing Technique
  • Wet your hands with running water — either warm or cold.
  • Apply liquid, bar or powder soap to a cupped hand.
  • Lather well.
  • Rub your hands, palm to palm, vigorously for at least 20 seconds. ...
  • Rinse well.
  • Dry your hands with a clean towel.
  •  Use the towel to turn off the faucet.

Learn this technique and help prevent the spread of germs!

For more information, click here.
A Little Humor Goes a Long Way
We're Hiring: RN + LPN Per Diem Positions
Registered Nurses and Licensed Practicing Nurses to work per diem weekdays. Must be a graduate of an accredited or approved school of nursing, licensed to practice in the state of CT, and have a minimum of one year med-surg clinical experience. Home healthcare and OASIS experience preferred.

Please submit resume to: info@visitingnurses.org .
Let's Stay Connected!
To learn more about Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley, click here .
To learn more about Lower Valley Care Advocates, click here.
  Questions? Call Us! 860-767-0186