January is Thyroid Awareness Month
The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the base of the neck just below the Adam's apple. Although relatively small, the thyroid gland plays a huge role in our body, influencing the function of many of the body’s most important organs, including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys and skin. Ensuring that the thyroid gland is healthy and functioning properly is vitally important to the body's overall well-being.

Patients with thyroid disorders (knowingly or unknowingly) can experience frustrating symptoms, such as gaining weight, feeling sad, or not getting enough sleep.

To learn more, click here.
COVID-19: What's the Latest?
Facts about COVID-19 Vaccines from the CDC

Now that there is an authorized and recommended COVID-19 vaccine in the United States, accurate vaccine information is critical.

Here are the facts:
  • COVID-19 vaccines will not give you COVID-19.
  • People who have gotten sick with COVID-19 may still benefit from getting vaccinated.
  • Getting vaccinated can help prevent getting sick with COVID-19.
  • Receiving an mRNA vaccine will not alter your DNA.

To learn more, click here.
COVID-19 cases and deaths are rising across the United States. We all must remain vigilant. The changes we have had to make to routines and daily life are extremely hard, but these changes are even more important now and in the future. We must stop the spread of this new and dangerous virus. The more steps you and your family can take to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the safer you will be.​

To see all the latest updates from the CDC, click here.
Get The Help You Need at Home
January Recipe of the Month:
Healthy Breakfast Burrito
Ingredients:
  • 2 teaspoons canola oil
  • 1/2 small red onion, diced (1 cup)
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
  • 1 cup drained, rinsed canned black beans, preferably low-sodium
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 eggs and 4 egg whites
  • 1/3 cup (about 1 1/2 ounce) shredded pepper Jack cheese
  • Nonstick cooking spray
  • 4 (10 inch) whole wheat tortillas (burrito size)
  • 1/4 cup reduced fat-free sour cream or 2% plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 1 large tomato, (4 ounces) seeded and diced
  • 1 small avocado (4 ounces), cubed
  • Hot sauce

Directions:
Heat the canola oil in a large nonstick skillet over a medium-high heat. Cook the onions and peppers until onions are softened and peppers are slightly charred, about 8 minutes. Add black beans and red pepper flakes and cook until warmed through, another 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and transfer to a dish.

Whisk together the eggs and egg whites then stir in the cheese. Spray the skillet with cooking spray, and reheat the skillet over a medium heat. Reduce heat to low and add eggs, scrambling until cooked through, about 3 minutes. Spread each tortilla with 1 tablespoon each sour cream (or yogurt) and salsa, then layer with 1/4 of the black bean mixture, 1/4 of the scrambled eggs, some diced tomato and 1/4 of the avocado. Season, to taste, with hot sauce. Roll up burrito-style and serve.

Content Credit: Food Network
Tips for a Healthier Year Ahead
Lower Valley Care Advocates
is Hiring!
Lower Valley Care Advocates (LVCA), a subsidiary of Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley, is now hiring for the following positions:

  • Home Health Aides
  • Personal Care Aides
  • Companions
  • Homemakers

LVCA offers competitive rates and will train new hires.

For more information, call 860-767-2695 or email info@lowervalleycareadvocates.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