Resources
Seasonal Information
COVID-19 Information
Learn about getting the COVID-19 vaccine
Summer Safety Tips
Summer sunshine and summer fun! Swimming in the pool, walking with a friend, fishing in the lakes, going on a picnic, or just being lazy in the sunshine, we all need to use a year round sun protection. Brief exposure to the sun (approximately 15mins) causes your skin to produce the vitamin D necessary for the healthy formation of bones. Long exposure to sun can cause problems such as sunburn, dehydration, skin cancer, and early aging of the skin, WRINKLES!
The sunscreen we choose should include a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has evaluated SPF readings and recognizes values between 2 and 15. It has not been determined whether sunscreens with ratings over 15 offer additional protection. Commercial sunscreens come in a variety of choices. Helpful guidelines to consider when choosing the right sunscreen product are:
Purchase a sunscreen that claims to protect against both UVB and UVA rays.
SPF minimum should be 15.
Apply sunscreen as directed! You should apply 15 to 30 minutes before exposure to the sun and reapply often (every hour).
Swimmers should use water-resistant sunscreen and reapply as directed on the label.
Sunscreen is essential for safe skin care, but, not the only preventive action we need to incorporate into our outdoor activities. Some suggestions are:
Avoid going out in the sun between 10am and 2pm. Ultra Violet rays are strongest at this time.
Protect your eyes from the sun. Ophthalmologists recommend sunglasses that have UV absorption of at least 90%.
Wear a hat with a brim. This assists in keeping the head cool, and protects the eyes and face from sun rays.
Use an umbrella for shade when walking or sitting in chairs.
Dress appropriately. Loose fitting cotton materials provide protection from the sun, and also assist the body in the ability to cool itself.
Drink water and non-caffeine drinks frequently! Dehydration is a dangerous risk in warm weather. Encourage portable water bottles.
Many medications increase the risk of sunburn. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions.
With the proper planning, you can have a safe and delightful summer.
A Healthy Diet
It isn’t easy to sort through all the information about nutrition and then prepare a meal that is tasty and stays within the budget. However, it is worth the effort!
Foods are grouped together when they share similar nutritional properties. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) describes the food groups a bit differently than when you were a kid. These are the food groups of the 21st Century: Grains, Fruits, Vegetables, Dairy Products, Meat, Poultry and Fish, and Nuts, Seeds and Legumes. Add plenty of water and you have it; and don’t forget to emphasize the fruits and vegetables. A growing body of research shows that they are critical to promoting good health. They contain essential vitamins, minerals and fiber that may help protect you and the people you support from chronic diseases including stroke, heart disease and some kinds of cancer.
So, plan colorful meals that give your body a wide variety of valuable nutrients and color. Just think of a yummy meal that has green spinach, orange sweet potatoes, a chicken breast and a glass of milk!
Please remember to follow the dietary orders of the physician, and of course, if the person you support requires a specific consistency in food or liquid, it is imperative that you prepare foods according to the ordered guidelines.
Flu Season Precautions
How to Avoid Influenza
Influenza is a respiratory disease caused by two main types of viruses. Scientists and the government try to predict what type of influenza will occur each year, in advance, so that flu vaccine can be made, and given to as many people as possible. The flu vaccine cannot provide 100% protection from influenza. It is difficult to predict what strain of the virus will be predominate. However, usually the flu shot provides some protection, and every year the people we support and their caregivers must have a discussion with the doctor about getting the flu shot. The best time to be vaccinated is in October or November.
Symptoms of influenza (depending on the strain, the symptoms may vary, but in general they are): Fever, chills, headache, fever, dry cough, aching in muscles and joints and overall fatigue which can last for several days after all other symptoms are resolved.
People who are frail or debilitated are at risk for life-threatening complications including pneumonia.
Viruses do not respond to antibiotics. Treatment of symptoms is the best approach, along with getting plenty of rest.
Resource Links
GAC wants to help ensure that all resources are available to individuals and those in their circle of support. This page is created to keep you connected with organizations and information that are pertinent to your needs and provide other resources to support individuals in your community.
Governmental Organizations
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services
The Center for Disease Control
Wisconsin Long Term Care Reform: Family Care Programs