What is Preventive Care?

Preventive care is comprised of the actions that you take to avoid or prevent illness or disease and increase quality of life. Currently six (6) of the top ten causes of death in this country are lifestyle related. Chronic ailments such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, have all increased exponentially in the past 10 years.

Why are these diseases considered lifestyle related rather than genetic? Because more often than not they are the result of things like poor eating habits, lack of activity and exposure to environmental toxins.

Genetic predisposition only accounts for 2% of our adult health. That leaves 98% up for grabs. Preventive healthcare and healthy lifestyles go a long way with those kinds of odds.

Q: What kinds of things are considered preventive care?

• Eating a diverse diet of nutrient rich whole or minimally processed foods
• Participating in physical activity on a regular basis. A minimum of 30 minutes a day is a good place to start.
• Controlling your stress levels (physical and mental/emotional)
• Minimizing your exposure to environmental toxins
• Making sure your relationships are supportive and balanced
• Taking time to rejuvenate

Even though initially it may feel like it is too much of a hassle to go the extra measure and eat a balanced meal, get out from in front of the television, or get rid of relationships that don't support your well-being, ultimately it is the only way to stay on top of your game. If you don't have time to be healthy now you can count on taking the time to be ill later.

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is defined as treatment that reduces suffering and maintains or increases quality of life during critical illness or end of life. Palliative care has no agenda for 'curing' a disease and is the type of care best suited for people with terminal and/or chronic diseases. The goal is to provide relief and support. What kinds of things are considered Palliative care?

• Good, healthy foods that support and soothe the body, mind and spirit
• Energy therapies such as therapeutic touch or Reiki
• Spiritual witnessing or direction
• Herbal remedies

Palliative care is one of the least considered forms of intervention for individuals with critical health issues or facing end of life. Yet it's my belief that this is exactly the time when people need the most support and love. A palliative care provider can be just what is needed to help provide care and relief not only for the patient but for the family/caregivers as well. As a palliative care provider I can help provide any or all of the following:

• Healthy food options (shopping and meal preparation)
• Integrated body focused therapies, such as Reiki or light massage
• Spiritual counseling
• Remedies that provide relief from pain, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms of illness.

End of life care has been my focus of practice for many years. My commitment has been to provide kindness and loving touch as people pass from this life. I also provide support as family members manage and move through their grief during the loss of a loved one. The care I've provided has run the gamut from weekly massage and bodywork to daily food preparation and around the clock caregiving.