A p u b l i c a t i o n o f S o u t h e r n L a ke s N ews p a p e rs • Fa l l 2 0 2 0
HEALTHY
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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Fall 2020
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How to exercise Lifestyles during the pandemic HEALTHY
Life changed overnight for millions of people across the globe in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, which shuttered businesses and forced many people to follow stay-at-home measures issued by their local governments. These measures not only affected the overall health of those infected with the virus, but also those who experienced no symptoms and even tested negative for COVID-19. In recognition of the mental toll that social distancing and stay-at-home measures can take, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advised people to exercise regularly. But opportunities to exercise seemingly dried up when stayat-home guidelines were issued and gyms were shuttered. People without exercise equipment at home suddenly found themselves wondering how they could stay fit and keep their bodies in the best possible condition to fight a virus that has claimed thousands of lives. Thankfully, there are ways to stay fit and keep immune systems strong without violating stay-at-home measures.
Go back to the basics Many people no doubt recall gym class from their school days. Such classes teach youngsters the basics of physical fitness without employing dumbbells or advanced exercise machines. Those same basic exercises that work for youngsters, including push-ups, sit-ups and lunges, can be effective for adults as well. If it’s been awhile since you’ve done your most recent push-up, access an online tutorial so you can be certain your form is correct.
Access online exercise programs Many gyms that were forced to close to help stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus began offering exercise tutorials and classes via social media or websites such as YouTube. These videos can be invaluable resources, teaching people how to stay fit at home even if they don’t have weights or other equipment on hand. In addition to gym-sponsored exercise tutorials, the internet is loaded with free exercise videos and advice that can help people without access to a gym get fit or maintain their fitness routines.
Go for a jog Perhaps the simplest way to exercise during the pandemic is to go for a daily jog. According to the Mayo Clinic, aerobic exercise repeatedly moves large muscles in the arms, legs and hips while engaging the immune system and helping it to ward off minor viral illnesses. That makes an early morning jog an especially valuable, not to mention easily accessible, way to exercise during the pandemic.
Do some yard work It might not feel as high-intensity as a spinning class or a Pilates session, but yard work can be a great workout. Dust off the push mower the next time the grass needs to be cut, and get to work on pulling weeds in garden beds. The added benefit to yard work is it provides a great opportunity to get some fresh air without violating social distancing guidelines.
(METRO CREATIVE)
Fall 2020
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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Fall 2020
Everyone can help stop the spread of COVID-19, here’s how As businesses and services reopen nationwide, the death toll from COVID-19 continues to rise, and experts warn that Americans must continue taking precautions to help stop the spread of the virus. “In states across the country, the spread of COVID-19 is staggering and concerning. We all have a role to play in stopping the spread and protecting ourselves, our family and our neighbors,” says Susan R. Bailey, M.D., president of the American Medical Association. “The science is clear. We know what stops the spread of the virus – wearing cloth face masks, physical distancing and regularly washing hands – and it is on all of us to practice these steps. Without a vaccine for this novel virus, the only way to turn the tide and recapture a sense of normal is by working together.” The AMA offers the following guidance and insights that can help keep you, your friends and your loved ones healthy and safe:
As the death toll from COVID-19 continues to rise, physicians, nurses, hospital and health system leaders, researchers and public health experts want Americans to know that it is within their power to help stop the spread of the virus. FAMVELD/ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS Healthy Lifestyles
Wear a cloth face mask Take the simple steps that science has shown will help stop the spread of the virus: wearing a cloth face mask, maintaining physical distancing and washing your hands. The simplest tried-and-true methods are still the most important. Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has put a statewide mask mandate in effect until at
least Sept. 28. If you’re indoors in Wisconsin (except at home), you need to wear a mask. Keep up with doctor visits Before you decide to forgo routine care or screenings, talk to your doctor. Physicians are using telehealth services and have taken painstaking precautions to make their practices safe. Make sure you keep up with your vaccines, and don’t let something that in normal circumstances could be handled with an early visit to your physician land you in the hospital. Accept the new normal Be mindful that re-opening is not the same as a return to normal. When indoors, wear a mask, even in restaurants and stores that are open. Consider dining outdoors whenever possible. Stay connected with friends and family, but do so in a physically-distant and safe manner, including small outdoors gatherings where masks and hand sanitizer are used. Take time to clear your head and rest With many people working from home or working under more stressful conditions, it is important to take mental health breaks. Get up and move, take a walk outside, step away from the computer, and take days or hours off from work. (STATEPOINT)
How does telehealth really compare to in-person health care? Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the adoption of telehealth services has been on the rise and people are turning to digital technology more than ever to address their personal health care needs without having to leave their homes. But while many have begun to embrace telehealth offerings as a new way to connect to care and address their personal health needs, myths surrounding what telehealth services are intended for and how they compare to in-office visits continue to prevail. To help determine how digital care can best meet health care needs during quarantine and beyond, here are the facts behind four common misconceptions about telehealth:
MYTH 1: Telehealth is only for basic or urgent care needs.
FACT: Telehealth can often be the first
stop for preventive, primary care and other health and wellness needs. Patients can connect with a doctor or nurse practitioner to receive care for a range of acute, preventive and chronic care needs, including illness and injury, mental health services, and management of conditions like asthma, diabetes and more. Whether patients live in a rural area or simply want an easier way to manage their health, telehealth can adapt to their needs. MYTH 2: There aren’t any telehealth providers in the area.
FACT: Many trusted local and national
health care systems provide telehealth services across the nation. Today, more
than half of providers in the United States offer some form of telehealth service, according to an April 22, 2020, Merritt Hawkins survey, “Physician Practice Patterns Changing as a Result of COVID-19.” Additionally, recent government, health system and reimbursement policy changes have improved patient access to telehealth services and are encouraging use as a safe way to access care during the pandemic. In fact, locating telehealth providers is easier than ever before with platforms like Walgreens.com/FindCareServices, which helps patients access care when and how they need it. Patients can choose from more than 30 telehealth providers treating over 100 conditions, while searching from the comfort of their own home. Available through an app and online, the platform makes it easy to find and compare available providers by location, preference, insurance coverage, services and price.
MYTH 3: Virtual care isn’t as good as inperson care.
FACT: Telehealth services can offer high-quality, convenient access to care. Much like face-to-face office visits, telehealth visits can facilitate a trusting, open dialogue with a doctor or nurse practitioner. Most providers have a webbased interface or mobile app, making it easy to log onto and use secure, quality video for consultations and to visually help communicate about injuries or conditions. Telehealth also reduces time spent in waiting rooms and commuting to appointments, putting more power in the hands of patients. It can be particularly valuable for enabling remote monitoring
Telehealth is more accessible than ever as more providers evolve and adapt technologies to meet patient needs at a safe distance. But even as social distancing constrictions lift, digital wellness offerings will present greater flexibility and convenience in meeting individual health care needs. STOCK PHOTO Healthy Lifestyles
and regular check-ins for patients with chronic conditions. While telehealth can be a convenient alternative to in-person care, there are still instances where in-person appointments are recommended, such as in the case of a medical emergency. To consider the best option for care needs, check with a doctor.
MYTH 4: Telehealth is too expensive. FACT: Telehealth and other services can
help save money while expanding access
to care. When looking for a telehealth provider, it can prove cost-effective to compare options based on pricing, insurance coverage, preferences and services provided. Look for telehealth options that list transparent pricing information to help guide the search. If a consultation requires a prescription, Walgreens also has 24/7 pharmacy chat capabilities through its app and Walgreens. com/SaveOnRX with discounted pricing on a range of medications.
(BPT)
Fall 2020
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
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Why your child’s back-to-school eye exam is so important This year, going back to school may mean attending class physically or virtually, with states and districts deciding on a case-by-case basis. Wherever your child attends school this fall, eye exams are essential for a successful academic year. Here’s what to know:
During these challenging times, remember that you have the power to keep your child healthy by seeing their doctor and getting routine vaccines. STOCK PHOTO Healthy Lifestyles
Protect your child’s health DON’T DELAY WELL-CHILD VISITS
Over the past several months, families have been helping stop the spread of COVID-19 and keeping their loved ones safe by staying home as much as possible. As communities across the country begin to reopen, you can help your child stay healthy by keeping any scheduled appointments for well-child visits and rescheduling appointments that may have been missed. At these essential appointments, you have an opportunity to: • Track your child’s growth and developmental milestones; • Discuss any concerns about your child’s health; and • Get your child vaccinated to protect them from 14 serious diseases. In recent years, some of these diseases – particularly measles and whooping cough – have caused
outbreaks. These contagious illnesses can pose serious risks and complications for infants and young children. For this reason, CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that every child continue to receive routine vaccinations during the COVID-19 outbreak. Here are some answers to questions you may have about wellvisits during this time:
in different locations, and reducing crowds in waiting rooms by asking patients to wait outside until called.
Can I take my child to the doctor safely? Talk to your child’s doctor to see what measures they have in place during the COVID-19 outbreak. Offices and clinics across the country are taking proactive, protective measures to help you and your child stay safe during your visit. These steps may include scheduling sick visits and well-child visits at different times and
What if I can’t pay for my child’s vaccines? The Vaccines for Children program provides free vaccines for children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured, or American Indian/Alaska Native. If you need help paying for vaccines, ask your child’s doctor for more information about the program.
Which vaccines does my child need? Check out CDC’s easy-to-read childhood immunization schedule to see the vaccines recommended for each age and the diseases they prevent.
(BPT)
Childhood obesity risk factors Parents want their children to be as healthy as possible, but many youngsters are at serious risk for poor health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, roughly 13.7 million children and adolescents in the United States are obese, which poses a considerable threat to their long-term health. Childhood obesity may be seen as something children will grow out of as they age and lose their baby fat. However, the CDC warns that children who are obese are more likely to develop a host of serious issues, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, sleep apnea,
and fatty liver disease. In addition, studies have shown that childhood obesity also has been linked to low self-esteem and psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. Thankfully, childhood obesity is preventable, especially when parents learn to recognize its risk factors. Diet Poor diet is perhaps the most notable contributor to childhood obesity. High-calorie foods can cause children to gain weight, and the CDC notes that fast food and baked goods tend to be high in calories.
In addition, the CDC advises against giving children sugary drinks, including fruit juices, which studies have increasingly indicated may be linked to obesity in some people.
Physical activity A lack of physical activity is a significant risk factor for childhood obesity. Children who do not exercise are at risk of weight gain because they do not burn as many calories as children who exercise. Parents should encourage their children to exercise each day and discourage their children
See CHILDHOOD OBESITY, Page 9
When should I get my child’s eyes checked? The American Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend having vision checked regularly, starting in infancy. Not only will an eye exam help provide the clear vision necessary for a child to see the blackboard and work on digital devices without straining, but this essential visit can also detect a broad range of issues related to eye health and overall wellness. Kids – and adults for that matter – don’t always know they are experiencing a vision problem. As a result, they may be compensating for vision issues by turning their head to the side, squinting or holding reading material up close or far away. What information should I share at the appointment? Be sure to share any behaviors or symptoms with your child’s doctor that could be related to eye health. You should also mention all the activities and sports your child participates in which may be impacted by vision. Are contacts right for my child? Contact lenses may give the wearer a full field of clear, focused vision and many eye care professionals believe that children who demonstrate responsibility are excellent candidates for them. With many teens preferring contact lenses over glasses, this upcoming eye exam may be a good time to get your child fitted. And it makes sense in the current environment, as contact lenses can be a great alternative for glasses that fog up with a face mask. Contact lenses that provide comfortable vision when working for long hours on digital devices can also prove to be beneficial. Research has shown that half of teens are almost constantly online – between smartphone usage, video games, and school work – it’s important to know that digital devices can contribute to reduced blink rates, which can lead to dryness. Ask your eye doctor about lenses that have a high moisture content, feel comfortable throughout the day and are easy to insert, like Biotrue ONEday contact lenses from Bausch + Lomb, which maintain nearly 100 percent of their moisture for a full 16 hours. The brand’s daily disposables are also a great choice for first-time wearers, as there is no need to clean and store the lenses after removal, just dispose of them and start with a fresh new pair each day. For more information, visit, BiotrueONEdaylenses.com. (STATEPOINT)
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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Fall 2020
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Easy ways to keep your immune system strong The immune system is a powerful component of the human body. The immune system recognizes when viruses, bacteria and other foreign invaders enter or compromise the body, and then takes action to prevent illnesses from taking over. The average person can help his or her immune system do its job more effectively by making the immune system as strong as it can be. Harvard Medical School says that diet, exercise, age, and psychological stress may affect immune system response. Certain lifestyle choices can promote a strong immune system.
Get adequate sleep
Doctors believe sleep and immunity are closely tied. A study of 164 healthy adults published by the National Institutes of Health found those who slept fewer than six hours each night were more likely to catch a cold than people who slept for more than six hours. Aim for adequate rest each night to keep your body in top form.
Eat more fruits and vegetables
Fruits and vegetables supply the powerhouse antioxidants that are essential for protecting a body against free radicals. Free radicals may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases. Serve fruits and/or vegetables with every meal to ensure you’re getting enough antioxidant-rich foods.
Consume fiber and fermented foods Fiber can help feed the gut microbiome, which is linked to a robust immune system. The microbiome also may prevent harmful pathogens from entering the body through the digestive tract. Data also suggests that eating more fermented foods can further strengthen and populate healthy bacteria in the gut.
Exercise regularly
Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, advises the American Heart Association. Thirty minutes of exercise each day can go a long way toward keeping the body healthy. The U.S.
See IMMUNE SYSTEM, Page 9
Proper nutrition is essential to overall health. As you age, keep nutrition top of mind and explore new ways to eat well. RAWPIXEL / ISTOCK VIA GETTY IMAGES PLUS Healthy Lifestyles
As you age, keep nutrition top of mind Getting proper nutrition can be challenging for everyone, but especially as we age for a variety of reasons, including changing tastes, physical or dental conditions, and lack of access to healthy foods. “It’s critical that people of all ages get proper nutrition, but especially seniors, and particularly now with the spread of COVID-19 in the United States,” says Dr. Gina Conflitti, chief medical officer with Cigna’s Medicare Advantage business, which offers Medicare plans in 18 states and the District of Columbia. “Good nutrition helps older adults stay active and vital, and can help them stave off or better manage chronic conditions.” Cigna provides the following nutrition tips:
Make healthy choices
Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your plate for colorful, nutrient-rich, fiber-filled meals. Add flavor with spices and herbs instead of salt. Stay hydrated with plenty of water. Even light exercise can stimulate appetite and strengthen bones and muscles.
Consult your doctor
If your appetite is changing or you’re losing weight, talk to your primary care physician. There could be an underlying reason for these changes. For instance, your medication might be affecting your appetite. Or maybe you’re dealing with depression. Your doctor can work with you to identify possible causes.
Adapt to changing tastes
A healthy immune system is vital to fending off or recovering from illness. STOCK PHOTO Healthy Lifestyles
There are a number of ways to change your eating habits to improve your nutrition, from eating more frequent, smaller meals to trying new foods and cooking styles. For tips on preparing healthy meals, visit ChooseMyPlate. gov.
See a dentist
A dentist may be able to address any dental problems impacting your ability to enjoy food. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you may have access to dental benefits at no extra cost. Check your plan for details.
Explore options
If mobility is an issue, look for local organizations offering transportation or meal delivery to older adults. If you have an MA plan, you may have access to home-delivered meals following a hospitalization. One-third of hospital patients are malnourished at admission and poor nutrition increases their risk of having to return to the hospital after being released. Good nutrition helps patients regain their strength and energy faster for better recoveries. Check your plan for details.
Get help
Some older adults with limited resources may qualify for assistance with food purchases through programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Many older adults qualify for this program and don’t know it. One way to verify eligibility is to visit Cigna. BenefitsCheckup.org and enter your information under the “Food & Nutrition” section. If you aren’t eligible for this type of assistance, you can still find ways to save on food bills, including asking for senior discounts, using coupons, having a store discount card and buying store brands. These are just a few resources. Every individual has unique needs. Cigna encourages you to talk with your physician for additional information about your personal nutrition requirements. For videos about senior nutrition and some warning signs of malnutrition, visit wnpt.org/agingmatters/nutrition-aging.
(STATEPOINT)
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Fall 2020
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• Childhood obesity (Continued from page 5)
from engaging in sedentary activities, like watching television or playing video games, for too long. Family The CDC notes that children who come from families of overweight people may be more likely to gain weight. That’s especially true in households where highcalorie foods are always available and physical activity is not prioritized. Psychological factors Children who must confront personal, parental and family stress may be at an elevated risk of obesity than children who are shielded from such stress. That’s because some children cope with stress by overeating. Parents also should avoid coping in that way, as such tendencies may be passed on to their children.
(METRO CREATIVE)
• Immune system (Continued from page 7)
There’s no better time than now to change your health for the better. Eat right, prioritize health, fitness, etc. and remember, you are your biggest health advocate. STOCK PHOTO Healty Lifestyles
9 tips to take charge of your health Women have the power to proactively take control of their feminine health during all stages of life from the first period through post-partum, during perimenopause and beyond. Maria Sophocles, MD, OB/GYN, the Medical Director of Women’s Healthcare of Princeton, offers these tips to help change your health for the better. Tips to keep healthy include: Eat right Drink one less soda a day and lose 15 pounds in a year, and replace the “white” foods with “brown” like brown rice and whole wheat bread. Take fast food out of your diet completely - it’s full of sugar and trans fats that clog your cell walls and contains toxins that are bad for the heart and arteries. Most fast food also contains chemicals like MSG that should be avoided. Freshen up by balancing pH Vaginal pH can be offset by menstruation, sex and hormone fluctuations during menopause and pregnancy. An imbalance in pH can often lead to a UTI or other infection like bacterial vaginosis, causing uncomfortable itching, burning and smell. A pH-balancing gel like RepHresh normalizes pH and eliminates odor. Many women mistake BV for yeast infections and are prescribed antibiotics, which can throw off the normal pH.
Optimize vitamin D levels Safe sun exposure is a powerful and inexpensive intervention that can have profound benefits on your health. Enjoy 10-15 minutes of exposure to natural sunlight daily for good nutrition, mental health and bone density. Supplement a balanced diet with essential nutrients to promote healthy teeth and bones, support the immune system and benefit cardiovascular health. Consider a vaginal probiotic Millions of women suffer from recurrent vaginal infections. Sex and antibiotics can be the reason why. RepHresh Pro-B provides two strains of vaginal lactobacilli to maintain vaginal health by keeping yeast and bacteria balanced every day. Fast fix to eliminate painful sex Stress and decreased estrogen levels during menopause can cause uncomfortable dryness and irritation. Replens Vaginal Moisturizer provides relief from internal dryness for three days and Replens Silky Smooth is a preservative-free silicone lube that should be used just before sex to avoid abrasion and increase comfort. Exercise Regular exercise decreases chances of developing cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. Try ending the
day with a personal dance party, watch YouTube videos or get a subscription to a virtual exercise class. Track your menstrual cycle Stress and other factors can affect the menstrual cycle, so it’s important to stay on top of your cycle whether or not you’re planning on getting pregnant. Make sure to have a pregnancy test like First Response on hand to find out six days sooner than your missed period. If you are trying to conceive, make sure to use a personal lubricant that won’t harm sperm, like Pre-Seed.
National Library of Medicine says physical activity may help flush bacteria out of the lungs and airways. Exercise causes changes in antibodies and white blood cells. These antibodies and white blood cells circulate rapidly, so they may detect illnesses earlier than they would if you do not exercise. Body temperature also rises during exercise, which could naturally prevent bacteria from growing. Try to minimize stress According to Simply Psychology, when people are stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced, making people more susceptible to infections. The stress hormone corticosteroid can suppress the effectiveness of the immune system. Limiting stress through meditation and breathing exercises, or trying to remove stressors from one’s life, may help. (METRO CREATIVE)
Decrease stress Don’t feel guilty taking time to clear your mind. Plan quiet times and activities like reading a book, starting a garden or even meditating. Listening to relaxing music or taking a bath helps to slow heart rate and breathing. The better you feel mentally can improve how you feel physically. Prioritize sleep Sleep is like a reset button for the body and mind. Prioritize getting at least seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep and try to stay off technology at least an hour before bed to avoid blue light keeping you awake. If you have trouble sleeping, try a vitafusion Max Strength Melatonin gummy before bed. (BPT)
Easting fruits and vegetables is key to a healthy immune system. STOCK PHOTOS Healthy Lifestyles
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Fall 2020
Prostate cancer affects millions of men and their families every year. Learning about the risk factors and symptoms may help men improve their prognosis if and when they are diagnosed with the disease. STOCK PHOTO Healthy Lifestyles
Learn the basics of prostate cancer If asked to name the most common non-skin cancer in the United States, few Americans may point to prostate cancer. But prostate cancer is the most common nonskin cancer in the United States, and the World Cancer Research Fund notes it is the fourth most commonly occurring cancer across the globe. The Prostate Cancer Foundation notes that one out of every nine men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. Such figures underscore the importance of learning about prostate cancer. Knowledge of prostate cancer and its risk factors and symptoms may help men improve their prognosis if and when they are diagnosed with the disease. What is the prostate? The prostate is a walnut-sized gland that is responsible for producing seminal fluid. The growth and function of the prostate is controlled by male hormones, including testosterone. Are there early warning signs of prostate cancer? The PCF notes that there usually aren’t any early warning signs for prostate cancer. The tumor associated with prostate cancer does not push against anything, even as it grows, so many men with prostate cancer do not experience pain until the cancer has advanced beyond its earliest stages. What are the symptoms of prostate cancer? According to the PCF, in rare cases prostate cancer can cause symptoms. Some of the more mild symptoms may be mistaken as normal byproducts of aging, and their presence may not necessarily mean a man has prostate cancer. However, the appearance of any of the following symptoms should be discussed with a physician immediately.
• A need to urinate frequently, especially at night. Sometimes the need to urinate may be urgent. • Difficulty starting or holding back urination; • Weak, dribbling or interrupted flow of urine; • Painful or burning urination; • Difficulty in having an erection; • A decrease in the amount of fluid ejaculated; • Painful ejaculation; • Blood in the urine or semen; • Pressure or pain in the rectum; and • Pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, pelvis, or thighs. Does anything increase a man’s risk for prostate cancer? The WCRF notes that there is strong evidence to suggest that various factors increase a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Such factors include: • Body weight – Men who are obese or overweight are at increased risk of developing advanced prostate cancer; • Height – Men who are tall are at an increased risk of prostate cancer; and • Diet – The evidence regarding the effects of diet on prostate cancer risk is not as strong as evidence linking body weight and height to the disease. However, the WCRF notes that high consumption of dairy products and diets high in calcium might increase a man’s risk of prostate cancer. Is screening effective? The PCF notes that there is controversy about the risks and benefits of prostate cancer screening. Men must make their own decisions regarding prostate cancer screening, and such decisions should only be made after discussing the disease and their family histories with their physicians. More information about the disease can be found at www.pcf.org. (METRO CREATIVE)
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How to clean and sanitize a backpack Backpacks are useful tools for students and adults alike. From hiking supplies to schoolbooks to sports equipment, backpacks can store just about anything. As veritable workhorses, they’re bound to get dirty and can benefit from periodic cleaning. While it may be tempting to simply throw a backpack into the washing machine, it is important to check the care instructions first. Some canvas, nylon and fabric backpacks can go in the wash, but those made of leather or those with intricate details should not. Backpack manufacturers also advise against putting backpacks in a dryer. Here are steps to cleaning a backpack.
gentle bristle brush. The outdoor retailer REI says you do not want to harm any protective coatings on the pack. Zippers need occasional cleaning to 4. remove dirt, sand or crumbs. Many zippers have water-resistant coatings so do not scrub them. Use a lubricant made for zippers to help them slide smoothly.
Hang the bag to air dry upside 5. down. It likely will dry more quickly outdoors, but avoid direct sunlight, which
6. 7.
1.
To get started, begin by removing any items from the backpack, including all of the pockets. If necessary, use a vacuum to get crumbs out of the backpack.
Check the care label to see if there 2. are washing instructions. This will determine if you should wash it by hand or if it can be put in the machine.
If the bag can be machine-washed, 3. turn it inside out first or place it in a pillowcase so that the straps and zippers will not be caught. Then wash it on a gentle setting with a mild detergent and lukewarm water. If the bag should be hand-washed, use lukewarm water and a soft sponge or a
can compromise the integrity of the fabric or discolor the backpack. Do not store or use the backpack until it is completely dry. Sometimes a backpack may need to be disinfected to prevent the growth of fungus or bacteria. Athlete’s foot fungus can easily transfer from socks and shoes to the backpack if gym clothes are left in the bag. The Spruce says to skip chlorine bleach and use a pine oil or phenolic disinfectant or a disinfectant wipe, such as Pine Sol or Spic-n-Span. Lysol brand disinfectant also can be used and is available in liquid formula or spray. If a backpack is waterproof, only wash it once or twice per year; otherwise, you may reduce the pack’s ability to repel water. Use cleansing wipes to spot clean when necessary. (METRO CREATIVE)
Backpacks can get grimy quickly. Routine washing can freshen them right up. STOCK PHOTO Healthy Lifestyles
Meet Your Friends at Geneva Crossing! Lake Geneva’s Premier 55+ Neighborhood
www.rainbowhospicecare.org www.rainbowhospicecare.org (920) 674-6255
(920) 674-6255
The Terraces & Highlands Active Senior Living 55+
Arbor Village & Village Glen Assisted Living and Memory Care Neighborhood
262-248-4558
www.genevacrossing.com
368841
374754
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HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
Fall 2020
WORKING TOGETHER
TO B E C O M E T H E H E A LT H I E ST C O M M U N I T Y I N W I S C O N S I N You don’t need to travel far from home to make the best choice for your health care. From routine and preventive healthcare needs – annual exams, screenings, flu shots, and immunizations, to coordinated care for your joints, physical therapy, surgeries, special procedures, mental health, or other specialty care – our providers are committed to improving your health and well-being.
Receive online health care from a local Fort HealthCare provider in 60 minutes or less for $25.00. Start a visit 24/7, seven days per week. WWW.FORTHEALTHCARE.COM/ECARE Or, schedule a VIDEO VISIT with your provider instead of coming into the clinic. WWW.FORTHEALTHCARE.COM/VIDEO-VISITS
611 SHERMAN AVENUE EAST • FORT ATKINSON
WWW.FORTHEALTHCARE.COM (920) 568-5000
FORT ATKINSON • JEFFERSON • JOHNSON CREEK • LAKE MILLS • WHITEWATER • CAMBRIDGE • SURROUNDING AREAS 379018