Blog---November 6, 2024-9-10—Working on Wellness Wednesday
  Day after the General Election Nationwide---and we did some mixing and matching on what was big with the candidates----and medically.
  We started with Sioux Falls Health Director Joe Kippley---we did talk about the Amendment F—which would allow the legislature to implement work requirements as a condition of receiving Medicaid----
   But as we were talking we were hearing that for the first time in many years—that what was called a “lack of preparation” slowed down the counting in the state’s largest----Minnehaha.
   Director Kippley talked about in the first hour---and head of the County Commissioners—Dean Karsky did so in the 2nd hour.
   Mr. Kippley---shared with us Amendment F—which would allow the legislature to implement work requirements as a condition of receiving Medicaid---and it led us into to a discussion of the difference between Medicaid and Medicare (poverty vs age over 65)
   13% of the population is covered by Medicaid (128,000 people) (30% of Sioux Falls Community Health patients. 
   50% of nursing home residents
   2 out of 7 children
   67% of adults on Medicaid are working
   The federal Government pays 53% of the cost of traditional Medicaid and 90% of the Medicaid expansion group. 
    It was an explanation that was part of the start to the Wellness Show

    We talked as well about the ambulance ride along-s that we have talked with in previous months.
     Mary Michaels---joined us from AARP---and we learned that November is Family Caregivers Month. Supporting family caregivers is a priority for AARP throughout the year, but we take time in November to raise awareness of the valuable care they provide. November is Family Caregivers Month, and there are 80,000 family caregivers in SD providing 74 million hours of unpaid care each year. Their efforts are what allow their older parents, spouses, or other loved ones to live independently at home—where they really want to be. A Majority of family caregivers are also trying to balance their own jobs and family responsibilities while caring for a loved one—which creates physical, emotional and financial stress. Chances are if you are not a family caregiver right now, you may be at some point—or you know someone who is—or you may someday need a family caregiver yourself to help you live independently at home. 

    We talked as well about Supporting Veterans and Military Families---which is another priority group for AARP—yes Veterans and Military Families. With November being the month of Veterans Day, it is a great time for us to highlight resources we have available. 
     The do have a special membership offer available to them during the month of November—with the opportunity to enjoy AARP membership for up to 43% off. 
     Then we closed with Mary talking about the Health Benefits of Pumpkin---rich in Vitamin A—essential for strengthening the immune system and fighting infections. 
      It also has Lutein—a powerful antioxidant associated with improved vision and protection against macular degeneration. Pumpkin is a good source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and its fiber content aids in lowering cholesterol contributing to heart health. 
       Our good friend Dr. Joshua Jordee---talked with us about the Autumnal activities that impact the low back and then ways to help support that, but he has had patients come in recently who reminded him as did his banjaxed shoulders, that there’s some upper back, neck and shoulder related activities going on around now too. 
       When it comes to doing things down low and being in flexion, breaks are encouraged every 15 minutes when you are taking down small and medium branches overhead from trees---or working on the leaves or whatever else is on your yards. 
        Dr. Jordee was encouraging us to not over-do-it-----take breaks frequently—let your head look straight and arms hang down----be careful with ladders---and if you feel lightheaded or dizzy—you need to stop right then. 
        Bryson Patterson—SBA of South Dakota yes the CEO—was visiting with Lori Finnesand---from Sisseton about what they doing to help Native Americans----it is a big deal----and in listening to them---they are sharing what they know and opportunities that are available. 

      Our It’s Your Business Show---with the Working on Wellness Wednesday can indeed provide insights on what to do –when to do it---and yes how to do it carefully.
      Our show is available live at 1320, 105.1, 107.9—use the KELO App---or streaming on line. Norm Anderson provides the podcast----for the show—and you can use these notes as a guide to what’s in the show and where to find it. Questions for me—feel free to call/text at 605-728-BILL (2455) or email me at bill.zortman@mwcradio.com.