Resident, Madelyn Wright France recently published a poetry and prose book, entitled Palette. The picture on the right was taken on December 22, 2010 at the Franklin United Methodist Community where Mrs. France was signing several copies of her new book. She graciously provided a complimentary, autographed copy to the lovely library in Wesley Center.

A few days later, Madelyn was photographed (left)with four of her great grandchildren celebrating Christmas. She has a total of ten great-grandchildren.

We wish this new author and all our many accomplished residents, a very Happy New Year in 2011!

Cold weather poses danger for those with heart disease and especially for the elderly. Many people enjoy this time of year because of the white, glistening snow and icy trees. Although the scenery may be beautiful, the bitter cold weather can be harmful to your health. It is important to be aware of the threats cold weather can bring and take appropriate precautions to ensure your health and safety.

How Does Cold Weather Affect the Heart?
Physical Stress – The combination of colder temperatures and physical activity increases the workload on the heart. Sudden exertion such as shoveling snow and walking through heavy snow adds strain to the heart, thus increasing your risk of heart attack.

Hypothermia – As people age, their ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases. A sudden drop in body temperature can cause your heart and nervous system to malfunction and may result in heart failure.

Blood Pressure – To conserve heat and maintain body temperature, your blood vessels constrict in cold weather. With less room for blood to move, pressure rises along with your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Heart Rate – The cold air causes you to lose body heat, in response your heart rate has to rise to not only keep your body temperature above 98 degrees but to guarantee blood flow to your brain, muscles and organs.

Oxygen –The heart demands more oxygen in cold weather because it is working harder to maintain body heat, however, cold weather causes arteries to tighten, restricting blood flow and reducing the oxygen supply to the heart.

Breathing – Breathing cold air can have an irritating effect on the airway, causing the muscle surrounding the airway to contract. With this decrease in size of the airways, it is more difficult to get the air in and out of the lungs, increasing shortness of breath. Quick shallow breathing results in oxygen deprivation and reduced strength.

Flu Activity – Flu viruses cause inflammation in the body, usually in the lungs. But they can also cause swelling in the heart itself or in the coronary arteries. In some people, this inflammation can lead to dangerous clots breaking off and causing a heart attack. British researchers have found that up to 50% of all unexpected flu deaths were due to heart disease.

Tips to Lower Your Risk for Heart Attack
Understanding your personal heart attack risk is vitally important during winter months. Taking a few precautions in the cold weather can help protect your heart.

• Diet - Eat a heart healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and lean meats.

• Exercise - Regular exercise promotes heart health. Consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

• Smoking – if you smoke, try to quit.

• Flu Shot - Get a flu shot annually, this is especially recommended if your over 65 years of age.

• Physical Activity - Don’t overdo it, start your morning off slow. The cardiovascular system can adapt to slow, progressive change but it has a much more difficult time adapting to sudden change.

• Clothing - Wear layers of clothing to protect you from cold temperatures including a head scarf or hat and warm socks and gloves.

• Remain Hydrated - The body needs hydration, even in cold weather. Take breaks and drink water regularly to prevent overexertion and dehydration.

• Breathe through Nose- Wear a cold air mask or scarf over your mouth to warm up the air entering your lungs. Breathe through your nose in cold weather, your nose has various defense mechanisms to prevent impurities and excessively cold air entering your body.

If you would like to learn more about a heart-healthy lifestyle, stop by the THERAPY department. Physical and Occupational therapists can help you to develop a healthier lifestyle and reduce many of the risk factors that cause cardiac conditions. Contact your therapy department for more information on how therapy can benefit you!

Submitted By: Therapy Department
References: American Heart Association, WebMD

As we celebrate Christmas 2010, a former patient writes in remembrance of a Christmas past that he continues to be grateful for every day of his restored life. Here's his note:

"Some of the most special people in my life are the nurses and aides on the Third Floor of the Methodist Home Rehab Center! My memories and thoughts are of a truly caring, fun group who helped me through a very hard time in my life.. It has been a year since I was there but you are all on my mind every day. And I thank God that when I needed it, I ended up in your care. Have a very Merry Christmas, with so much appreciation,"

Jack C.

The Franklin United Methodist Community is hosting an Open House on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The informative tours provided will also allow guests an opportunity to enjoy the beautifully decorated common areas including the greenhouse where a Winter Solstice Party will be underway during the early afternoon.

Community residents, serving on the Green Thumb Committee, invite others to celebrate this shortest day of the year with a visit to the greenhouse from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., decked out for the holiday season with holly, flowering plants, and lots of color. Located in the Southeast corner of Wesley Center, the airy and light-filled space greenhouse is just the place to “chase away the winter blues”.

The Franklin United Methodist Community is a retirement community open to persons of all faiths and denominations and includes independent living, assisted living, a health care center, and a state-of-the-art Alzheimer’s/dementia unit. For more information or to schedule a personal tour, contact Diane Amari or Julie Mahan at (317) 736 – 7185 0r toll-free 1-87-RETIRING.