Saint Mary's Vintage Club

Upcoming "Lunch With Your Doctor"

2010-09-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

"Your Breast Health"
Presented by Dr. David Nelson, OB/GYN, Millard Henry Clinic.

The luncheon will be October 20, 12-1pm at the Saint Mary's Annex, across from the Emergency Room.

Call 479.964.9355 for reservations. Admission is $5 and includes lunch and registration for door prizes

Vintage Luncheon - Dr. James Smith

2009-12-15T08:54:00.000-08:00

“Lunch With Your Doctor”

Understanding and Recognizing Alzheimer’s disease:
Senior Moments or Something More Serious

Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center’s Vintage Club held their final luncheon for 2008 on Wednesday, December 10. Over 95 members and guests from Pope and surrounding counties attended. James Smith, M.D., an Internal Medicine physician with Millard Henry Clinic, was the featured speaker. Dr. Smith presented information regarding the subject of “Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease”. Smith’s presentation focused on an individual’s risk factors, different warning signs and ways to help keep the mind sharp. The floor was open for questions during and after Smith’s presentation.

Occasional lapses in memory as one ages are common and are sometimes referred to by many as “Senior Moments”. One may discount the once-in-a-while occurrence of forgetting where the car is parked or the name of someone rarely seen. But, when recognizing normal people or objects becomes difficult or serious memory loss occurs, a visit to one’s doctor is recommended.

Dementia is a general term most commonly referred to as the loss of intellectual abilities or memory skills that affect daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in the elderly. This progressive disease destroys brain cells, which causes problems with daily activities, language skills, the ability to work, continuing hobbies or other activities, the ability to attain memories or build new ones and maintaining a normal social life.

Currently, there are nearly 5 million Americans living with the disease. Alzheimer’s is usually diagnosed in individuals 65 and older is ranked as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Little information is known regarding this degenerative disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, most of what is known has been uncovered in the last 15 years.

Scientists do not know the cause of Alzheimer’s and so far there is no cure; however progress has been made and treatments are available to help improve the quality of life for someone living with Alzheimer’s. A worldwide research effort is underway in discovering better ways of treating the disease, delaying its onset and even preventing it from developing. Some studies have shown that exercising the mind and learning new skills will help increase brain health among seniors. Playing cards or other games or taking a class are great ways to increase memory skills and strengthen the brain.

Like everything else in the body, the brain changes as we age. Slowed thinking or occasional memory lapses are normal; however, serious memory loss, confusion or severe noticeable changes should be evaluated. These changes could be a sign of failing brain cells. “In age-appropriate memory loss, the memory will eventually come back, but with dementia, that memory is more than likely unattainable” said Dr. Smith.

There are over 100 billion nerve cells in the brain communicating and controlling every bodily function. Alzheimer’s disease halts the functioning of some cells. When communication between the different networks in the brain is interrupted, normal functions cannot be achieved. The interruption will eventually spread and cells will eventually die. Plaques and tangles are two abnormal structures found in the brain and are thought to be the cause of the damage which kills nerve cells.

Plaques build up between the nerve cells and tangles form inside the dying cell. These structures do develop as most people age, but Alzheimer’s patients tend to develop more. While their role is not completely understood, some researchers believe that these structures block communication between the cells and disrupt activity which maintains the cell.

While no single reason has been identified to cause the failure of brain cells, certain fixed and non-fixed risk factors have been determined to increase the likeliness of developing this disease.

These risk factors include:
Age – increasing age is the greatest risk factor
Family History – an immediate family member who has been diagnosed; the risk increases if more than one family member is diagnosed
Genetics – Researchers know that genes are involved; the Alzheimer’s gene has been found in the two categories of genes that play a role in determining whether or not a person could develop the disease.

Non-fixed risk factors:
Head Injury- There appears to be a strong link between a severe head injury and the development of Alzheimer’s.
Heart-head connection – Brain health is linked to heart health. High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high cholesterol damage the heart and blood vessels which supply blood to the head.
General healthy aging – An overall healthy lifestyle such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, maintaining a social life and exercise may help keep the brain healthy.

Warning Signs
As people age, forgetfulness can become quite apparent and it affects each individual differently. Mild forgetfulness can be inconvenient, especially for those used to being independent, but it’s nothing to be concerned about. As stated before, exercising the mind will help keep the mind sharp as one gets older. Other ways to help maintain a sharp memory are remaining social, having a hobby, exercising and maintaining a healthy diet.

But, sometimes memory loss isn’t just getting older; it could be the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. There are no clear cut lines separating normal changes from warning signs. So, it’s always a good idea to consult with a primary care physician if normal activity or function level seems to be changing.
Here are some warning signs to watch out for:
Memory Loss – The forgetting of recently learned information is the most common early sign. A person may begin to forget more often and is unable to recall information later or may ask the same question or repeat the same story over and over.

Difficulty performing familiar tasks – The ability to perform or complete everyday tasks, such as, preparing a full meal, playing a game or making a telephone call.

Problems with language – The forgetting of simple words or the substitution of unusual ones often make a conversation or reading a letter from them hard to understand.

Disorientation to time and place – Becoming lost in familiar areas, forgetting where they live or how they might have gotten there is another sign of the Alzheimer’s disease.

Poor and decreased judgment – Giving away large sums of money, dressing inappropriately for outside temperatures or neglecting to keep proper hygiene.

Problems with abstract thinking – The inability to perform complex mental tasks.

Misplacing items – The storage or placement in odd or unusual places, for example, an iron in the freezer.

Changes in mood or behavior – Unprovoked rapid mood swings.

Changes in personality – Changes can be dramatic and one may become extremely erratic, confused, suspicious or fearful.

Loss of initiative – Changes in ambition such as sleeping long hours during the day or watching T.V. for hours.
Paying attention to possible warning signs is the first and best step to diagnosing Alzheimer’s. If someone has just one or several of the listed symptoms, consulting a physician is the next step. A more thorough examination by a medical specialist trained in the evaluation of memory disorders or a visit to a neurologist may be suggested later.

Alzheimer’s disease can come without warning and can be very hard for families to cope with. Finding a good support group or family counselor might help with the transition period after a loved one has been diagnosed. Staying healthy both mentally and physically is one of the best ways to help prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Pay close attention and watch for warning signs. Vast amounts of research are being done in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, and as Smith stated, “I think the future is optimistic.” For questions regarding certain risk factors for oneself or a loved one, talk to a primary care physician.

Dr. Smith is a member of the medical staff at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and is one of five Internal Medicine physicians with Millard Henry Clinic. Dr. Smith’s office is located at 101 Skyline Drive in Russellville. To make an appointment with Dr. Smith, please call 890-2421.
For more information about the Vintage Club or to inquire about upcoming events and luncheons, please contact the Saint Mary’s Community Relations office at 964-9355.

Upcoming "Lunch With Your Doctor"

2009-11-05T09:33:00.000-08:00

"Happy Feet; Diabetes and Wound Care"

featuring Dr. Mark Myers of River Valley Hyperbaric and Wound Care, with special guest Pam Cook of Pam's Shoes and Pedorthics.

The luncheon will be November 18, 12-1pm at the Saint Mary's Annex, across from the Emergency Room.

To sign up, or for more information, call Saint Mary's Vintage Line at (479) 964-9355.

October's "Talk About Rx" Lunch

2009-11-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

Today's medicines cure infectious diseases, prevent problems from chronic diseases, and alleviate pain and suffering for millions of Americans every day. But medicines can also cause harm. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adverse drug events (ADEs) cause over 700,000 emergency department visits each year. Nearly 120,000 of these patients need to be hospitalized for further treatment. This is an important patient safety problem, but many of these adverse drug events are preventable. Patients can do a number of things to help reduce the risk of harm from medicines for themselves and their family members.

Anyone who takes medicines has some risk of a harmful effect. How high that risk is depends on the individual patient's health, the particular medicines a patient is using, and how patients use their medicines. Nevertheless, national data suggest there are some key risks and risk groups:

Young Children: Children less than 5 years old are twice as likely as older children to be taken to emergency departments for adverse drug events (nearly 98,000 emergency visits each year). Most of these emergency visits are due to young children finding and eating or drinking medicines on their own, without adult supervision.

Older Adults: Older adults (65 years or older) are also twice as likely as others to come to emergency departments for adverse drug events (over 177,000 emergency visits each year). Older adults are nearly seven times more likely to be hospitalized after an emergency visit, but most of these hospitalizations are due to just a few drugs known to require careful monitoring to prevent problems. Common drugs that can require monitoring are blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), diabetes medications (e.g., insulin), seizure medications (e.g., phenytoin), and digoxin (a heart medicine).

All Adults: The death rate from unintentional prescription drug overdoses is highest among middle-aged adults (40–49 years old). In 2004, over 7,500 Americans died of unintentional overdoses of opioid (or narcotic) analgesics (pain medications such as methadone, oxycodone, and hydrocodone), more people than from cocaine or heroin.

To help combat preventable medication errors, Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center invites River Valley residents to this month’s “Talk about Rx” Vintage Club luncheon on Wednesday, October 28. Featured guests are pharmacists Melinda Reams and Yancy Walker with C&D Drug Store.

“A key message to consumers is that if you are taking a medicine – especially if you are taking several medicines at the same time, including prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) – you should keep a current list, including the doses and how you take each medicine; and be sure to include vitamins, dietary supplements, or herbal remedies,” said Reams. ”Sharing your updated medicine list with your physician at every medical visit, as well as providing a copy to your pharmacist, can go a long way in promoting safe and appropriate medicine use.”

Reams also noted that it is important to make a copy of your medication list for a family member or other loved one, so that it can be provided to the emergency room or hospital in the event of an emergency.

Being smart about medications means getting the necessary facts to use them correctly. That means asking questions and sharing important information about your medicine use to better ensure that you reduce risks and get the most benefit from your treatment. Have lunch with Saint Mary’s Vintage Club on Wednesday and learn more about how you can play an active role in protecting yourself from medication errors.

Through the Vintage Club program, Saint Mary’s provides River Valley seniors with health and wellness information as well as social and travel opportunities. Vintage Club membership is exclusive to people 55 and older and their spouses. “Lunch with your Doctor” is a popular Vintage seminar event at which a physician or other health care professional speaks on topics relevant to senior wellness while guests enjoy lunch. A brief question and answer session follows. Admission is $5 per guest and includes the meal and registration for door prizes.

Guests at Wednesday’s program will also receive free medical reconciliation cards. These cards are meant to be personalized with important and accurate medical information, including medical history, medications, allergies, personal emergency contacts, physician information and other vital data. They are contained in a magnetic file, which can be placed on the refrigerator door where rescue workers can easily locate medical data in the event of an emergency. Medical reconciliation cards can also be obtained, at no charge, from the Saint Mary’s switchboard, just inside the main entrance of the hospital.

Wednesday’s “Talk About Rx” presentation is scheduled to begin at noon. Reservations are required at (479) 964-9355.

Melinda Reams and Yancy Walker, Pharmacists with C&D Drug Store.

July's "Lunch With Your Doctor" featuring Dr. Dennis Berner

2009-08-05T08:24:00.000-07:00

Updating seniors with information about the H1N1 flu virus and heat-related illnesses, Dr. Dennis Berner spoke at a recent Saint Mary’s Vintage Club “Lunch with your Doctor” in the hospital’s annex.

Dr. Berner is an internal medicine physician with Millard-Henry Clinic in Russellville. As he spoke to the capacity crowd in attendance, he prefaced his remarks by introducing his mother, Mrs. Lois Berner of Little Rock, formerly of Russellville.

Dr. Berner then gave the latest information available on the H1N1 influenza virus pandemic.

Originally termed “swine flu,” H1N1 is actually a new virus that includes three strains: the swine flu, bird flu and the human flu virus, he said.

He added that in late winter 2008, an outbreak of the flu began in Mexico. “The governing agencies were good to identify the outbreak, and acted quickly to close down many facilities to prevent further spread of the disease,” he said. “If you saw any soccer matches on television that were broadcast from Mexico, you would see that even the soccer stadiums were empty.”

Despite Mexico’s best efforts, the virus had already spread. By June, 100 countries had reported about 94,000 cases of the viruses. “This number doesn’t reflect how many cases there actually have been, because World Health Organization (WHO) officials have stopped tracking data estimates,” he said.

Because the virus has been isolated, Dr. Berner said, a vaccine can now be produced that will offer a 75 to 85 percent protection rate among recipients. The drug is expected to be available in the fall in limited quantities. “It may be rationed by the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention,), which we haven’t seen in the United States since World War II,” he said. He added that vaccines will be given first to those who are hospitalized with the disease, followed by those most at risk of contracting it.

Unlike other influenza strains that seem to affect the elderly and small children first, this virus appears first among those with chronic lung diseases, suppressed auto-immune systems, chronic heart failure and diabetes. Also at high risk are pregnant women, he said.

“It’s imperative that you get your flu shot this fall,” he added.

Moving then to heat-related illnesses, Dr. Berner spoke of the one incident where he saw a person with heat stroke.

“Heat stroke seldom occurs, but it is serious and dramatic. It is fatal 50 percent of the time,” he said. In the case he saw, in which the patient was a young Marine, the serviceman recovered only because of youth and relative good health. “If you survived it at an older age,” he said, “you would be sick for weeks.”

Heat stroke occurs when a person’s brain can no longer control the body’s cooling system. The internal body temperature rises to more than 105 degrees, which can cause brain and organ damage, and may result in coma and even death.

Besides exposure to extreme heat and humidity, two other factors can cause heat stroke.

A condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome can occur when strong psychotropic drugs are used. Patients develop heat stroke as they experience extremely high fever and body heat in reaction to the drugs.

Malignant hyperthermia can also cause heat stroke, although it rarely occurs today. This happens in reaction to gases used as anesthesia for surgery, and occurs in patients with a genetic predisposition to the syndrome. It is rare today because drugs are more commonly used than gases, Dr. Berner said.

Much more common than heat stroke is heat exhaustion, which is a warning sign that the body is getting overheated. With heat exhaustion, a person’s temperature can be elevated but isn’t extremely high. The skin is often pale and sweaty. Conditions such as dry mouth, headache, nausea, fatigue and dizziness can also occur.

To avoid heat exhaustion, Dr. Berner suggested wearing loose-fitting clothing and being exposed to extreme heat and humidity for only a few minutes at a time. Hydration is needed, but it isn’t necessary to drink more liquids than you need, he said. Water is best for hydration, he added, as sports drinks often contain more potassium and sodium than the body needs.

For more information about Saint Mary’s Vintage Club, or to inquire about upcoming events and luncheons, call Saint Mary’s Community Relations at 964-9355.

May's "Lunch With Your Doctor" featuring Dr. Robert Thurlby

2009-05-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Bone up on your Bone Health:

When you think about staying healthy, you probably think about making lifestyle changes to avoid life-threatening conditions like cancer and heart disease. Keeping your bones healthy to prevent osteoporosis is probably not at the top of your wellness list. After all, breaking a bone might strike you as painful and inconvenient, but not necessarily as dangerous.

If your thinking runs along these lines, the following facts from the National Osteoporosis Foundation might make you think again:

Fact 1: Osteoporosis is the thinning of bone tissue and the loss of bone density over time.

Fact 2: The problem with osteoporosis isn’t just that it causes broken bones. The problem is that when you’re older, breaking a bone is serious. It often starts a downward spiral of pain, disability and the loss of independence.

Fact 3: Osteoporosis is a disease you can do something about. It can be prevented, detected and treated.

First, the bad news.

The U.S. Surgeon General reports that half of all women older than 50 will break a bone because of osteoporosis. Up to one in four men will too. And breaking a bone when you’re older is serious. It can lead to immobility, which in turn can lead to isolation, depression and other health problems. More than 20 percent of seniors who break a hip will die within one year. Many of those who survive will need long-term nursing home care.

Now, the good news.

Thirty years ago, most people considered osteoporosis and broken bones to be a part of normal aging. That view has changed. Researchers today know a lot about how you can protect your bones throughout your life with nutrition and exercise. And although it’s never too late to start protecting your bones, the best time to begin is when you’re young.

But if you already have osteoporosis or are at risk for it, the good news is that in the last 15 years, researchers have developed effective new treatments for osteoporosis. They’re not a cure, but they can help, especially when you exercise and eat right.

Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center invites you to learn more about osteoporosis prevention and treatment with Dr. Robert Thurlby at this month’s Vintage Club “Lunch with your Doctor.” Thurlby is an internal medicine specialist with Millard Henry Clinic – Dover, and will share his knowledge and expertise on this important topic on May 27th in the Saint Mary’s annex.

AARP Safe Driving Program

2009-03-13T10:17:00.001-07:00

Upcoming 2009 Classes

The AARP Safe Driving Program will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Annex building behind Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center. The class is available to persons 55 & over. Cost is $12 to all AARP members and $14 to non-members, payable to AARP the day of the class. Saint Mary’s will provide complimentary coffee and pastries. Lunch will be available in the cafeteria at a 25% discount for all attendees following the program. To reserve your spot, please call Saint Mary’s Community Relations at 964-9355.

Saturday, April 4
Tuesday, May 5
Tuesday, June 2
Tuesday, July 7
Tuesday, August 4
Tuesday, September 1
Saturday, October 3
Tuesday, November 3
Tuesday, December 1

June "Let's Do Lunch"

2009-03-13T09:34:00.000-07:00

June 9, 2009

"Let's Do Lunch" in Little Rock

June's "Let's Do Lunch" will be spent at the Garden Home Retreat of P. Allen Smith. The day will start with a guided tour of the home and gardens with Allen and then enjoying a wonderful meal on the property. After lunch, time will be spent with Allen getting autographs and having pictures with Allen. But the day doesn't end there. All guests are encouraged to spend time walking around and enjoying the beauty of the gardens.

Cost: $135 and includes luxury motor coach travel, lunch and attractions.

Registration deadline: 4/3/2009

April's "Let's Do Lunch" trip

2009-03-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

April 16, 2009

"Let's Do Lunch" in Tunica
Many people have had Paula Deen over to their place on several occasions through Food Network. Now it’s your turn to have lunch at The Paula Deen Buffet. Come join us as we travel to discover the 560-seat, cutting-edge restaurant concept is modeled after Paula’s own home. You’ll savor the Queen of Southern Cuisine’s down-home recipes in this unique upscale buffet. The buffet is divided into station each named after family members. Some of the stations include: Granny Paul’s Garden which is a full salad bar featuring some of Paula’s favorite salads and signature “Skillet Cornbread.” Uncle Bubba’s Oyster House featuring items served at Bubba’s restaurant in Savannah, including the signature “Char Grilled Oysters.” Lady & Son’s is full of southern comfort foods such as Paula’s famous Fried Chicken, Collard Greens and Lady’s Cheesy Mac. Little Jack’s Corner has a wide array of desserts featuring Paula’s famous Gooey Butter Cake, Grandmother Paul’s Sour Cream Pound Cake, peach cobbler and creamy hand dipped ice cream. Once we have all filled ourselves up with the wonderful home style cooking, we will be on our way to the Pillow Thompson House where we will be guided through history. The Pillow Thompson House was built in 1896 by Jerome B. Pillow. Five generations of Pillow descendants have lived in the house. In 1992 The house was donated by Josephine Thompson to the Phillips Community College Foundation. The house has been beautifully restored to offer visitors a look at one of the finest examples of Queen Anne architecture in the South.

Cost: $99 and includes luxury motor coach travel, lunch, and attractions
Reservation Deadline: 4-2-2009

2009 Vintage Club Valentine Tea

2009-02-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

Vintage Club Valentine Tea with Royalty Tours

Winifred and Clarice Cox enjoyed sweet treats at the Vintage Valentine Tea

Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and luxury travel company Royalty Tours, Inc. hosted a Vintage Club Valentine Tea in February, providing over 50 Vintage Club members and their guests information regarding Royalty travel opportunities in 2009.

Each year, Royalty Tours and Saint Mary’s work in conjunction to provide an array of exciting trips for Vintage members and travel enthusiasts. Before the program, which was held in the Saint Mary’s annex, guests were treated to a variety of treats ranging from fresh fruit and assorted cheeses to platters of rich chocolate and decadent petit fours. Royalty owners Parker and Sandy DeVore were on hand with a plethora of information regarding trip pricing and dates. Tour sign-up sheets were also available for those interested in traveling. After a brief welcome by Vintage Coordinator Stephanie Beerman, the program was turned over to Evonna Surrette, Royalty Director of Tours. Surrette highlighted the extensive travel schedule and provided an in-depth presentation on upcoming one-day and multi-day trips for 2009.

Barbara Parker of Dardanelle and Kay Vandergrift of Russellville

discuss travel plans with Sandey DeVore and Evonna Surrette of Royalty Tours.

Expanding across Arkansas and into neighboring states, one-day trips known as “Let’s Do Lunch” provide a wide variety of destinations to travelers for that quick get-away. Each trip includes motor coach travel, attractions and meals. This year’s “Let’s do Lunch tours include “Paula Deen Style & More” in Tunica, “Antiques America Har-Ber Village” in Grove, OK, “P. Allen Smith Garden Home Retreat” near Little Rock, plus several other interesting and exciting destinations. Multi-day trips include an Alaskan cruise in August, the annual October “Mystery Tour” and a San Antonio Christmas journey.

Dodie McSpadden of Dover is a frequent traveler with Vintage Club and Royalty Tours. “I love to travel with Royalty whenever I can,” she said. “We often travel to unexpected places, but even when we tour familiar places there is always something that makes each trip unique.”
The Royalty Tours office is located in Dover, AR. To inquire about upcoming tours, or to make travel reservations, please call 479-890-6774.

For information regarding Saint Mary’s Vintage Club, call the Vintage Line at 479-964-9355.

From Left: Julia Ann Taylor, Imo Hickman,
Gail Lutrell, Gerry Spradlin, Clarice Cox,
Arvetta Turner, Dodie McSpadden;
Winners of prizes presented at the tea.

January's "Lunch With Your Doctor" featuring Dr. Owen Kelly

2009-01-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

January 21 “Lunch with Your Doctor”

Happy New Year and Happy New You!!

Start the year off right by having lunch with Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center’s Vintage Club on Wednesday, January 21. Owen Kelly, M.D. with Arkansas Orthopaedic Institute and Laurel Stabler with Saint Mary’s Wellness Fitness Center will present information on gaining strong bones and wellness through fitness and nutrition. The luncheon is scheduled from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Saint Mary’s Annex. The cost of the lunch is $3 per person, payable at the door. Reserve your seat by calling 964-9355. Reservations are required and seating is limited. Due to limited seating, reservations will close at 4 p.m. on Monday, January 19.

Dr. Owen Kelly visits with a
Vintage Member after the presentation.

Laurel Stabler (left) with Saint Mary's Wellness and Fitness Center, shows guests how to stay in shape

during the winter season.

2009 Royalty Tours Trip Guide

2009-01-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

"Let's Do Lunch" one day trips:
January - No trip scheduled
February - No trip scheduled
March 6th - Bring in the Spring: Antebellums & Daffodils
April 16th - Paula Deen Style & More
May 14th - Antique America: Har-Ber Village
June 9th - P. Allen Smith garden Home Retreat
July - No trip scheduled
August - No trip scheduled
September 10th - New Stephen's Central Arkansas Nature Center
October 15th - Diamonds and Cruise
November 12th - stay tuned for more information
December 10th - Arkansas Queen River boat Christmas Spectacular

Multi - Day Trips
October - 2009 Mystery Tour
December - San Antonio Christmas

For more information on all upcoming tours, please contact Evonna Surrette or Sandy DeVore with Royalty Tours by calling 890-6774.

December luncheon featuring James Smith, M.D.

2008-12-15T09:05:00.000-08:00

"Lunch With Your Doctor"

Dr. Smith discusses related questions

with Vintage member,

Sharyn French of Russellville.

January Vintage Luncheon

2008-12-01T09:56:00.000-08:00

“Lunch With Your Doctor”

December 10th

This December, Saint Mary’s Vintage Club will be having its regularly scheduled luncheon on Wednesday, December 10 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. in the Annex building. James Smith, M.D., an Internal Medicine physician with Millard Henry Clinic, will focus his presentation on the subject of Alzheimer’s disease. The cost of the lunch is $3 per person and is payable at the door. Reservations are required and seating is limited. Reservations for the luncheon will not be taken after 4 p.m. on Monday, December 8 due to limited seating. For reservations, please call 964-9355.

Welcome to the Vintage Club Blog!

2008-11-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

At Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center, one of the things we hold dear is the relationship we build with our seniors in the community. Our staff considers it a privilege to meet the healthcare needs of keenagers, a cherished group of people who have touched our society in countless ways.

While your physical health is of our utmost concern, Saint Mary's is interested in your overall wellbeing. That's why we developed Vintage, a program especially for those 55 and over. Vintage provides venues for you to build relationships, save money as well as enjoy life to the fullest with special activities, travel opportunities, wellness programs and discount offers.

You do so much for others, so let us do something fun for you. Have the time of your life with Vintage.

Wellness

2008-10-31T06:52:00.000-07:00

Your health and wellbeing are important. At Saint Mary's, we bring together physicians, technicians, and other professionals in the community to provide you with information and resources that promote your quality of life.

"Lunch with Your Doctor." Join us each month for lunch and learn about more health issues important to you from one of our local medical professionals. After a brief presentation, the speaker opens the floor for your questions. Call 479.964.9355 to make your reservation, bring $3 to cover lunch, and we'll do the rest.
Discounts at Saint Mary's Wellness Fitness Center. Vintage members 65 and older receive a discounted daily rate of $4 when visiting Saint Mary's Wellness Fitness Center and are invited to use the full facility. For the same group, classes at the center are only $2 per session. Better yet, join the Fitness Center and the joining fee will be waived. Plus, there are classes designed just for seniors like you. Try out the Light Yoga class or the Sit and Tone class. For more information on the Fitness Center, visit their blog at smfitnesscenter.blogspot.com.
Free Cholesterol and Glucose Screening. As a vintage member, you are eligible for free cholesterol and glucose screenings during the month of your birthday.
Free Physician Referral Service. Call 479.964.9355.

Travel & Recreation

2008-10-31T06:45:00.000-07:00

Sure there is more to life than fun and games, but now is the time to reward yourself for your years of hard work and dedication to raising your family.

Vintage Excursions. For one of the best travel values around, take a trip with Vintage and leave the planning to us. Vintage Club has partnered with Royalty Tours to offer day trips, weekend getaways and longer excursions. Our weekend getaways to interesting destinations include enjoyable dining experiences, comfortable transportation, nice lodging accomodations and plenty of fun to go around. Plus, our staff is there to treat you like the treasure you are. The cost of meals, snacks, transportation, lodging and gratuities is included in the package. Call Royalty Tours at 479.890.6774 for trip schedules.
Community Lecture Series. Vintage members receive preferential notification to these informative events.

Special Services

2008-10-31T06:41:00.000-07:00

Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center helps keep you on top of things with these special services.

Vintage Newsletter. This monthly newsletter provides information about upcoming Vintage events and wellness topics.
AARP 55 Alive Mature Driving Course. This refresher course for drivers is a great way to lower your car insurance by as much as 15%. Classes are held quarterly. For information on the next course and to make reservations, call 479.964.9355.

Discounts

2008-10-31T06:33:00.000-07:00

There are more perks to being a senior than retirement. Check out these special offers for Vintage members.

Emergency Response System Installation Discount. Get Lifeline and take half off the price of installation.
Optical Shop Discount. Take 10% off your purchase price in the optical shop at Russellville Eye Clinic.
Compliments Gift Shop Discount. Save 20% off all regular priced items at Compliments Gift Shop, located inside Saint Mary's Regional Medical Center. Also, take advantage of special offers exclusively for Vintage members.
Cafeteria Discount. Save 25% in Saint Mary's cafeteria.
Complimentary Guest Meal Ticket. Vintage members receive three guest meal tickets per inpatient admission.
Free Photocopy Service. Make up to five copies at no charge.
Discounts at Saint Mary's Wellness Fitness Center. Vintage members 65 and older receive a discounted daily rate of $4 when visiting Saint Mary's Wellness Fitness Center, a savings of $2 per visit. The joining fee is waived for 65 and older Vintage members. For more information, call 479.968.7979.

October's luncheon features Thomas Sneed, M.D.

2008-10-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

"Lunch With Your Doctor"

Dr. Thomas Sneed

Understanding Breast Cancer:
The importance of early detection

Understanding breast cancer causes and treatment options was the focus at “Lunch with Your Doctor” held recently at Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center. October was Breast Care Awareness Month, and in observance, approximately 85 members and guests of Saint Mary’s Vintage Club gathered for a presentation by Thomas Sneed, M.D., an Oncologist with Arkansas Oncology Associates.

Despite an increased effort to find a cure, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women in Arkansas; the first being lung cancer. According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, approximately 200,000 women nationally will be diagnosed with breast cancer and about 40,000 will die of the disease in 2008. In Arkansas, approximately 1,700 women will be diagnosed and 400 will die from breast cancer. Statistically, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime in the United States.

Due to advances in medicine and technology over the years, breast cancer has become one of the more successfully treatable cancers. A patient diagnosed in the early stages of breast cancer has about a 97% chance of surviving another 5 years.

“In the past 20 years there have been great advancements in treating breast cancer. The importance of pushing for newer and better treatments for this disease is tremendous”, stated Sneed.

Women under the age of 40 aren’t recommended for mammograms unless they fall into a high risk category. At this point, mammograms are recommended at age 35. Beginning at age 20, all women are encouraged to perform a self-breast examination or BSE monthly to check the breast for lumps or anything unusual. Upon turning 40, a Clinical Breast Exam or CBE should be done every year by a medical professional.

When giving self-examinations, women should look for any abnormal changes in their breasts. Several changes that indicate a strong likelihood of breast cancer include:
· Any abnormal lump;
· A depression found on any part of the breast surface;
· Veins on the skin surface that are more prominent in one breast;
· A swelling portion of the skin on the breast or underarm;
· Any redness or pitting of the skin over the breast, much like the skin on an orange and
· An indentation or retraction of the nipple.

Women should also look for any discharge from the nipple other than breast milk. If any of these symptoms occur, contact a physician immediately for a clinical examination.

At the age of forty, every woman should schedule their first mammogram. A mammogram is an x-ray of the breast that may help to find tumors that are too small to detect through regular examinations. Mammograms can also be helpful in also detecting ductal carcinoma in situ, which are abnormal cells in the lining of the breast duct. In some women these abnormal cells could turn to invasive cancer. Certain factors such as the size of the tumor, the density of the breast and the skill of the radiologist will affect how accurate the test will be.

“Most lumps found in the breast are not cancerous but cysts or fibrocystic disease,” stated Sneed, “However, just because you don’t feel something doesn’t mean that you don’t have cancer.”

The best method of early detection is by getting a mammogram. While regular self-examinations are effective in early detection, mammograms can detect breast cancer at an average of one to three years before a woman can feel the lump.

According to the American Cancer Society, women ages 40 to 49 are recommended to get a mammogram every year; doing so may reduce the risk of breast cancer by 17 percent. Women ages 50 to 74 can reduce the risk of breast cancer by 30 percent if they receive mammograms every year, as well.

All women are at risk of developing breast cancer, however, because of certain fixed risk factors, some women are more apt to developing breast cancer. These factors include:
· Direct Family History – Having one “first degree” relative doubles the risk of development. Some examples are a grandmother, mother or sister that has been diagnosed with breast cancer.
· Age – About 77% of women diagnosed are over 50.
· Radiation – Women who received high doses of radiation before age 30
· Menstrual History – Women who began their menstrual cycles early.

While mammograms assist with early detection, prevention is possible through several lifestyle habits. Some non-fixed risk factors include:
· Obesity – Being overweight, especially in the waist, after menopause increases chances
· Exercise – Ongoing research suggests that exercising can lower the risk of developing breast cancer by 60%. Fat tissue is the primary non-ovarian site for estrogen development.
· Reproductive History – Women who had their first child after 30 or none at all.
· Breastfeeding – Mother’s who breastfeed produce less estrogen while nursing and therefore, lowers their risk.
· Alcohol – limit intake at two beverages per day.

Additionally, women who are under the age of 25 and have been on birth control for 10 or more years have an increased risk of breast cancer.

The link between the development of breast cancer and estrogen hormone is beginning to become clearer. Some researchers believe that the more a woman is exposed to estrogen the great the chances of developing breast cancer. Why? Estrogen directs cells to divide. The more cells divide, the more likely a cell is to be abnormal and become cancerous. Women who use birth control pills or abstain from having children raise the risk of developing breast cancer because of the higher levels of estrogen in the body.

Of the women who receive mammograms each year, 6% to 8% are found to abnormal and, after additional views, most women will be found to have nothing wrong.
Regular mammograms, along with positive lifestyle habits can help prevent breast cancer. Women who are age 40 or older and have not received a mammogram are encouraged to schedule one as soon as possible. Questions regarding mammograms or breast cancer can be discussed with a primary care physician.

Dr. Sneed is a member of the medical staff of Saint Mary’s Regional Medical Center and is one of two Oncologists at Arkansas Oncology Associates. Dr. Sneed’s office in Arkansas Oncology is located at the hospital.

For more information about the Vintage Club or to inquire about upcoming events and luncheons, please contact the Saint Mary’s Community Relations office at 964-9355.