What's New

Who's your valentine?

This Valentine's Day, give a gift to your own heart! When you see those red heart decorations, think about that splendid muscle that is sustaining the rhythm of your life. Give your heart the gift of eating better, exercising more often, reducing stress, controlling blood pressure and cholesterol – and feeling more peaceful and grateful. Do it for yourself and for those who love you: be good to your own sweet heart.

Health care at home

Did you know that, in all the discussions about changes in the health care system, care at home is getting renewed attention? Many proposals to lower costs, and increase quality, involve more attention to the benefits of bringing health care to patients in the context of their daily lives. This kind of health care offers treatment and teaching, one-on-one coaching, connections to community resources, caregiver support, convenience, coordination with the patient's physician, and a focus on the patient's own goals. We salute our founding mothers, who developed home health care - an ingenious and common-sense idea - 103 years ago!

Did you wash your hands? Really?

"Although many people claim they wash their hands regularly, the science proves otherwise," said Dr. Ron Cutler of Queen Mary University in London, where a study showed that one in six cell phones was contaminated with fecal matter than can spread E. coli. "Many people lie about their hygiene habits. They actually don't wash their hands properly after using the toilet," the study concluded. "Washing your hands with soap is such a simple thing to do, but there is no doubt it saves lives," say the researchers.

Stay active this winter

Want to exercise but discouraged by cold wet weather? Get a workout in your own home! The National Institute on Aging has published an easy-to-follow booklet, "Exercise and Physical Activity," and there's a DVD to pop in too! You'll learn everyday exercises to improve strength, balance, flexibility and endurance. We'll be happy to send you a copy of the booklet and DVD at no charge – just call Irene Egan at 978-805-2641, or email community@vnalowell.org and ask for the exercise booklet. The booklet is also available in Spanish.

Thank you, Aubert J. Fay Fund

We are grateful for a grant from the Aubert J. Fay Fund in support of our maternal child health program. This support brings our medical social services, and interpreter services as needed, to our most vulnerable families. For parents who are caring for an ill or disabled child, and who are facing other daunting challenges as well, we build on strengths and create connections. Thank you!