Benefits of Red Wine

Fights Memory Lost: The resveratrol in red wine helps to protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Dementia and Alzheimer’s prevention is especially important to Dogwood Forest of Gainesville Assisted Living  in Gainesville, Ga.

Longevity: Not only does the resveratrol found in red wine help to protect against Alzheimer’s and dementia, but may also increase your life span. Researchers have conducted several animal studies and found that resveratrol extended the life of the animals.

Fights Cancer: Red wine has been shown to fight against cancers such as ovarian, prostate, lung and breast cancers. When consumed in moderation (one  glass of red wine per day), researchers have found that red wine reduced the risk of lung cancer by 13%, prostate cancer by 60%, and ovarian cancer by as much as 50%. However, moderation is key because researchers also found that women who consumed more than 1-2 alcoholic beverages a day increased their risk of breast cancer.

Heart Healthy: The benefits of red wine for the heart has been well documented. The resveratrol and antioxidants in red white helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

May Strengthen the Immune System: Researchers found that regular consumptions may help protect against colds and other infections.

Get More Sleep: Red wine has melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. This hormone controls your sleep patterns. The more melatonin, the better you sleep.

Regulates Blood Sugar and Cholesterol: It has been found, that one or two glasses of wine helps to decrease the chances of developing type 2 diabetes because red wine seems to reduce insulin resistance. Red wine also helps lower LDL cholesterol.

Fights Fat: Studies also found that alcohol may make your body work harder to burn calories.Studies have found that individuals who consumed wine moderately have slimmer waist lines than those who drink liquors.

Other ways red wine has healthful benefits include controlling inflammation and boost estrogen levels which slows the destruction of bone.

Our residents at Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga. know the health benefits of red wine. We often include red wine in our daily socials. The most popular red wines are Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Shiraz. Each wine pairs well with certain foods. Generally, red wine pairs well the red meats, and rich cheeses such as blue cheese. With a little experimenting, red wine also pairs well with chocalate.

Type 2 diabetes could lead to several other problems such as kidney failure, cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, and infections that could lead to limb amputations. Some have experienced a loss of vision.  Type 2 diabetes is challenging for younger adults, but can be particularly problematic for seniors.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors for type 2 diabetes:

• Overweight: People who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes because additional fatty tissue increases the the chances of resistance to insulin.
• Age: The risk seems to rise as we get older. This can be attributed to weight gain with age or less cell functionality.
• Stress: The body does not often respond well  to stress. One result of stress can be weight gain, which can raise the risk of  diabetes.
  
• Lack of exercise: Studies have shown that a regular exercise regime can help prevent diabetes. Conversely, a lack of exercise can increase type 2 diabetes due to an increase of weight and unhealthy lifestyle.
• Family history: A history of type 2 diabetes can increase the a person’s risk substantially. Diabetes is not predetermined by genes, but a person with a family history has a  predisposition to the disease.  People with a family history should monitor their diet and exercise regularly.

Symptoms for Diabetes

• Excessive thirst and urination: Excess sugar in the blood stream will increase  thirst due to fluids pulled from tissues. The additional thirst will lead to increase in fluid consumption which leads to more excretion of fluid.
• Numbness and tingling: Diabetes can decrease circulation which can lead to neuropathy.
• Blurred vision: Excessive sugar can pulled fluid from the the eyes affecting the ability to focus.
• Frequent infections
• Slow healing: This is linked to insulin resistance which slows the healing process.
• Gum disease: Gum disease can cause inflammation of the gums. This is especially an issue with seniors adults. Mouth infections should be monitored for this age group.
• Lethargy: When sugar is not used properly the body will feel it. Sugar to the body what batteries are to a remote. Once the batteries get low, the remote does not function properly. The body uses sugar in the same way. The body will become lethargic without its energy.
• Weight loss or gain

Prevention

Exercise is singularly the most important way to minimize the risk of diabetes. Having a regular exercise regimen consisting of a workout four days a week, would be a good start. Exercising could help  in maintaining a healthy weight. In addition, eating healthier can also will also get you on track to a healthier lifestyle. Seniors are especially at a higher risk of having serious complications from type 2 diabetes. But, with better lifestyle choices and a conscious effort one could certainly do so.

Dance exercise programs have been around for some time now. I recall “Sweating to the Oldies” with the animated and zealous red head Richard Simmons. It was a absolute craze in the 80′s. Now ZUMBA, the Latin flavored dancing program, is taking fitness classes by storm.  Zumba is aerobic dance exercise that incorporates both resistance and interval training. But, you don’t have to do Zumba to get started. All you need is music. Turn on your favorite jam and get moving! Many people are getting healthy moving to the music including residents at Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga. Some of our residents are not able to dance on their feet, so they will work their upper bodies by doing chair exercises. Chair exercises are still affective for seniors all while having fun!

Why Cardiovascular is Important

Doctors recommend getting at least 30 minutes of exercise for seniors. For seniors, dancing is great for cardiovascular exercise as it helps with cardiovascular circulation. More blood circulation means more blood is pumped to the brain which is important for an older adult’s cognitive health. It has been proven that exercise stimulates the mind which could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Also, music has been known to have incredible affects on seniors including improving their moods and stimulating the brain. We have certainly seen this affect on our residents at Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga.

Take a note from this 97 year old and get moving!

Green St. Gainesville, GA.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

We use to play in the middle of Green St when we were little. You can’t do that now!! There were so many children that lived in those big houses on that street. We would ride our bikes down the sidewalks and in the street. I also was in ballet from the age 3 to college, I love to dance.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Thousands!! I’m a very spoiled girl! My husband and I had a farm, I raised donkeys. They are so precious.

Did you have a profession?

If so what industry were you in and what did you do. I a MED in psychology and used it to help with special needs children. This was during a time when there really wasn’t a program in place for them, the Junior league of Gainesville had a few members that had a need for this so they put a program in place. I also was a counselor at Brenau University.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII,Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?

YES! My father was a Dr. and he joined the Armt and was sent to Cape Landing, Fla. We all went to Florida with him until he was sent to Korea then we returned back to Gainesville.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?

Being able to be my happy self!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

To be kind and happy.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Be fair and be kind and to Love, love, love! My mother demanded respect and manners from us and that is a good thing to teach.

What brought you to Dogwood Forest’s senior living community in Gainesville, GA? Or why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

Because my mother lived here and Dogwood has a good reputation.

How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?

It’s a remarkable place for those (me) who have a need for it. It’s a special place.

What is your favorite part of senior living in Gainesville, GA, specifically at Dogwood?

The kindness of friends, the people that have entered into my life by being here (residents and employees).

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

I have lots of new best friends! We love each other, we appreciate each other, and we need each other!

In recent years, blueberries have become one of the many “it” fruits. But for good reason that scientific evidence can back up. Blueberries are  high in antioxidants which of course fights cancer causing free radicals.  They are great for the nervous system, and recent studies have shown they help to improve memory. That’s right, there is a mighty big punch packed in these tiny blue berries. Studies show blueberries contain flavonoids that help to improve memory and cognitive function. Researchers have found they help improve reasoning skills, verbal comprehension, decision making and numerical ability. Blueberries are a super food for the brain, which can slow cognitive decline and may even protect against disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

In addition, many might have heard about the benefits of unsweetened cranberry juice for urinary track infections. However, using this treatment comes with its own set of drawbacks. There is a aspirin like substance found in cranberries, which prevent those allergic to aspirin from using this remedy. Further, cranberries are not safe for children under the age of 3.  However, you can also use blueberries to clear up urinary tract infections in place of cranberries. Blueberries are also known to help eliminate the biofilms left behind after  microorganisms have traveled through the urinary system. In the past, Native Americans have even used blueberries to treat chronic cough.

Indeed, blueberries have several benefits that should be important us all. They are cancer fighting superheros with more antioxidants than any fruit. Also, the discovery of blueberries cognitive health benefits is great find for research in aging, Alzheimer’s and other cognitive disorders.  This of course is important to the population we serve here at Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga.  There is no doubt, that folks including a senior living in Gainesville, Ga and people around the world at every age should add these little blue guys into their diets.

How to Add Blueberries in the your Diet

• Blueberries are great by themselves: Grab about a cup of these little guys and get plenty of antioxidants that will fight off cancer causing free radicals.
• Add blueberries them to smoothies: There are plenty of great smoothie recipes that include blueberries. Blueberry and banana smoothies is my personal favorite. Here is a link to a great recipe Blueberry Monstrosity Fruit Smoothie
• Add blueberries to your breakfast cereal, yogurt or pancakes
• Add blueberries to a summer fruit salad: Use Spinach and throw in some feta, strawberries and toss with a vinaigrette. Yum!
• Puree blueberries into cream cheese to make a great spread

Look for more articles on blueberries and its wonderful benefits. In the meantime, go to your local grocer and stock up on blueberries. Guess what? you can freeze them too.

Yes, there are financial options out there,  and one that is often forgotten about is Veterans Benefits. Our Veterans have served their country well and should certainly be recognized for their sacrifice in service. While there are several benefits offered to veterans, the Aid and Attendance pension is one that is often overlooked. This pension gives additional monetary assistance to veterans and their spouses who are in need of care or assistance in activities of daily living (grooming, bathing, all bathroom assistance, medication management). This also covers individuals who are incapacitated either mentally or physically, or legally blind among other ailments. Many families do not realize that spouses of veterans also qualify for this pension. This means if a veteran is completely independent and their spouse is not, monetary aid for care may be available for the spouse.

Of course, assisted living communities such as Dogwood Forest of Gainesville Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga. specialize in assisting people with care needs.  So, assisted living communities would be covered by the VA Aid and Attendance pension. There are eligibility requirements for specific monetary allowances, so speaking with a VA Benefits specialist would be necessary. Visit our Financial Options page on our website for more information on VA specialist who can help or give us a call at  Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Gainesville, Ga. and we will point you in the right direction.

I grew up in Monticello, Ga. And Jasper Co. 1917.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood? 

My father was a doctor and I can remember my mother and siblings going along in the car with my father as he tended to his patients at their homes. Mother loved riding in the car and going for rides even if it was going with father as he worked!!

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

My friend Martha and and I use to go to her parents home on the Bayou for fishing trips, we loved to fish!!

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

I worked for the Dept of Family and Children Services. I started  when it first began,  I remember filling the application out  and taking the tests in the basement of the courthouse.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?

I remember my Uncle coming home from the war and had what they called,“shell shock”.  We had to recycle everything back then and had to ration just about everything!!

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?

(Very humbling she said) All the children and families I was able to help.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

To be interested in service organizations, for work or just to help

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

How am I supposed to know!!!  Mary never married or had children, but she says she has seen good families and families that failed, but as children don’t let your past dictate your future!!

What brought you to assisted living here at Dogwood Forest’s Gainesville, GA community? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

I chose Dogwood Forest because it is close to my church! That gives me comfort.

How do you enjoy assisted living here at Dogwood Forest in Gainesville GA as your new home?  

Yes I like it, it is my home away from home!

What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

Kathy and our outings, cultural outings and friends!  I love the Devotions and the church services.

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

Irene (my care giver) has kept me going, and I love Kathy!

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

Ice skating on ponds, sled riding, roller skating, swimming even in the ice cold! Getting ice cream was a real treat back then.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Getting married and traveling, also we liked to camp (in a motor home). We had 2 tents one for my mom and one for the dog!

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

I worked in the garment industry. I was a Model in New York, I did runway modeling and I also did private showings for buyers buying from certain companies. The buyers came from all over the world.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?

My family was from Germany and we spoke it and English but during WWll the town people called us Nazi’s, which was very painful during that time of my life.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?

Working in New York as a Model and meeting very interesting people. I also learned to sew at that time so I made some of my clothes and hats.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Pursue your career and be persistent in what you do. Keep going forward and have confidence in yourself.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Love your children dearly, but don’t spoil them. Give them little jobs!

What brought you to Dogwood Forest’s assisted living community here in Gainesville, GA? Or, why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

The need for myself to have more care than I could do. I looked into other places and the others couldn’t provide for my need. Dogwood won out!

How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?

I love not having to cook or to clean!!

What is your favorite part of living in assisted living here at Dogwood Forest in Gainesville, GA?

Kathy and our outings, cultural outings and friends!

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

I have a lot of different friends, but we do need more men!

I grew up in Gainesville, GA.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?  

Working at Piedmont Drugstore as a child. I used to ride my bicycle to deliver medicine for people that needed it.  We laughed and said he was like George in the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life!  They also had an Ice Cream Counter in the drug store.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Meeting my wife in Lula at a friend’s house. A friend sent Nell outside to my car to meet me and I asked her to marry me!  I wanted to get married before I left for the Marines!

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

I was a cook!  I was a cook in the Marines for 22yrs. I used to bake all the birthday cakes and I even made the roses on them! I had 2 restaurants in Gainesville called, “Jake’s” and I made the best SOS and that  was what everyone wanted!  We fed everyone in Gainesville, even our now Governor.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?  

I was serving in the Marines in Vietnam during the war. Nell’s brother was in Vietnam with me.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud of when you look back on your life from your home in assisted living here in Gainesville, GA?

I am proud of everything I have done! No regrets! I have enjoyed every minute of life!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Be good to everyone and treat them right. Love everyone, and trust in the Good Lord and He will see you through!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Love them. I love my wife, my children and grandchildren.  You can’t go wrong!!

What brought you to assisted living in Gainesville, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

Our daughter chose the Holbrook where we lived for a while, but we needed more help so we moved to Dogwood.

How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?

We really enjoy it, we get lots of help and we love going on the bus to lunch and other places.

What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

Our friends!  We make friends everywhere we go.

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

Kathy!!

DeKalb County in Atlanta, Georgia.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

School activities and summer play time with friends. Also writing about things that happened during those times.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Serving in WWII was very important to me. I got out in 1944 and had to adjust to civilian life in 1945.

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

Yes! I was a professional local Chamber of Commerce Manager in 3 states, Ga., S.C., and Fla., I would recruit employers to come to these states to add to the economics of these places.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?

Yes, I was in the Philippines awaiting the invasion of Japan during WWII which was aborted by President Truman because of the dropping of the A-Bomb.

Of which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?

Helping to build a family with my wife and children, who have all loved each other all our lives. I was married in 1942, the day after payday(HA) . My wife’s name was Etrulia but I always called her Trulie.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Yes, be prepared to work hard for what you hope to gain! There are no short cuts for living a successful and enjoyable life. Absolutely none!

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Yes, learn that giving discipline will determine what type of child you rear if you remember it is the child’s life and not yours. There will be problems for parents that can’t say no.

What brought you to assisted living here in Gainesville, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

An Ambulance!! (Ha) The climax of living in another assisted living facility where they were good but could not meet my needs.

How do you enjoy Dogwood Forest as your new home?

I enjoy the friendship of the staff, the good food, and the ability of Dogwood Forest Gainesville to be able to deliver all my needs. They do a beautiful job!  Myself and the other 2 gentlemen at my dining table believe that Dogwood Forest Gainesville is the most fortunate thing to happen to us at this time in our life.
What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

The variety available in eating, sleeping, and socializing with those of my age!

Who is your best friend at Dogwood’s assisted living facility in Gainesville, GA?

The well trained and caring staff!