March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the United States and the second leading cause of death from cancer. Colorectal cancer affects all racial and ethnic groups and is most often found in people ages 50 and older. The best way to prevent colorectal cancer is to get screened regularly starting at age 50. There are often no signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer—that’s why it’s so important to get screened.
People over age 50 have the highest risk of colorectal cancer. You may also be at higher risk if you are African American, smoke, or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
Everyone can take these healthy steps to help prevent colorectal cancer:
- Get screened starting at age 50.
- Encourage your family members and friends over age 50 to get screened.
- Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
- Get plenty of physical activity and eat healthy.
For more information, visit or call a Parish Nurse. We can answer questions, guide your decision making and advocate for you. Don’t delay get a screening scheduled today!
Nutrition and Weight Loss
Parish nurses are here to support your health. If you would like to learn more about healthy nutrition, weight loss and exercise to achieve your goals, call on us. We will support you, listen to concerns and barriers and help you with a plan.
Dementia Health Directives Tool Plans for the Future
Advanced directives generally aren’t given much attention until a medical crisis descends on an individual or family. Barak Gaster, a primary-care physician at the UW School of Medicine, came up with a five-page summary of options for those who want to get ahead of an Alzheimer’s or other dementia diagnosis. View his Health Directive for Dementia.
Mar 9 – Free Dental Clinic for Seniors and Veterans
Services are provided by a licensed dentist and may include screening/evaluation, cleaning, X-rays, restorations, and extractions. To be eligible for this free service you must be a resident of Pierce County; have no dental coverage, including Medicaid; meet income eligibility guidelines; and have completed medical history prior to appointment. To make an appointment please call 253-272-1101. Sponsored by Bates Technical College and the Pierce County Dental Foundation.
Free Tax Preparation Available!
VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) helps households with incomes up to $54,000 save money through free tax preparation during tax season. IRS-certified volunteers prepare your taxes accurately and ensure that you receive all deductions and credits you qualify for as well as learn about other financial services and community resources. Associated Ministries and Sound Outreach both have locations throughout Pierce County. Find out who needs to file, how to get answers to your tax questions, and how get the tax forms you need from the IRS.
9 secrets to live a long life
- Move naturally. Don’t do marathons or pump iron; work around the house, garden, walk, cycle, walk when talking on the phone.
- Know your purpose. Have a reason for waking up in the morning.
- Kick back. Find ways to shed stress, whether it’s praying, napping or going to happy hour.
- Eat less. Stop eating when you are 80% full.
- Eat less meat. Beans are a cornerstone of most centenarians ‘diets.
- If you drink do it in moderation (one to two glasses a day).
- Have faith, attending faith-based services often.
- Power of love. Put families first, including committing to a partner and keeping aging parents and grandparents nearby.
- Stay social. Build a social network that supports healthy behaviors.
From Dan Buettner’s book, The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer
—Terry Freed RN
Contact Faith Community Nurses Terry Freed, Lori Neptun, or Wendy Neptun at parishnurse@mtviewlutheran.org