Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging in Vermont
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March Scoop

Melinda Martin • March 17, 2025

March is National Nutrition Month® – Food Connects Us

March is National Nutrition Month® – Food Connects Us

March is National Nutrition Month®, a time to celebrate how food connects us to culture, family, and well-being. At the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging, we recognize the power of food—not just for nourishment but for building community and health.

The Power of Food Connections

Sharing a meal is more than just eating—it’s an opportunity to connect with others, pass down traditions, and explore different cultures. Whether it's a favorite family recipe or a new dish inspired by a different cuisine, food brings people together in meaningful ways.

Eating Well on a Budget

Preparing meals at home allows you to control ingredients, reduce costs, and focus on nutrition. Here are a few simple ways to shop smart:
Use a grocery list to avoid impulse buys.
Look for sales and compare prices on staple items.
Choose less-processed foods, which are often more affordable and nutritious.
Take advantage of local resources, including SNAP, food pantries, and meal sites.

Healthy Eating for Older Adults

As we age, our nutritional needs change. Keep these tips in mind:
🥦
Eat a variety of vegetables (dark leafy greens, red peppers, carrots, beans, and lentils).
🧂
Limit sodium, added sugars, and saturated fats—choose herbs and spices instead.
💧
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
🍽
Watch portion sizes—using smaller plates can help with mindful eating.

By focusing on balanced meals, hydration, and portion control, we can enjoy food as part of a healthy lifestyle while still celebrating its role in our lives.

Stay Active with Gentle Chair Stretches

Regular movement supports flexibility, circulation, and overall well-being. If you have limited mobility, try this simple seated stretch routine:
🔹
Overhead Stretch – Raise both arms and reach toward the ceiling. Hold for 10-15 seconds.
🔹
Side Stretch – Lift one arm and gently lean to the opposite side. Hold for 10 seconds.
🔹
Neck Stretch – Tilt your head toward your shoulder and hold for 10 seconds.
🔹
Knee Hug Stretch – Bring one knee toward your chest and hold for 10 seconds.

These stretches can be done daily to improve mobility and reduce stiffness.

Try This Hearty Mediterranean Lentil Soup

Looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make meal? This Mediterranean Lentil Soup is packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

🥕 ½ cup dry lentils (green or brown), rinsed
🍲 2 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
🧄 1 garlic clove, minced
🧅 ½ cup diced onion
🥕 ½ cup diced carrots
🌿 ½ teaspoon dried oregano
🍅 ½ cup diced tomatoes

Instructions

1️⃣ Heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion, carrots, and garlic.
2️⃣ Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
3️⃣ Simmer for
25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
4️⃣ Stir in
a splash of lemon juice before serving.

Enjoy this warm, nourishing meal with whole-grain bread for a complete, balanced dish!

Need Assistance? We're Here to Help!

If you or someone you know is struggling with food, home-delivered meals, housing, or heating assistance, our team is ready to connect you with support.

📞 Call us at 800-642-5119
📧
Email info@nekcouncil.org
🌐
Visit www.nekcouncil.org

This National Nutrition Month®, celebrate food as more than just nourishment—it’s a connection to our health, our loved ones, and our community. 💙

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Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment: We’re Here to Help! Medicare Open Enrollment is just around the corner, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone! Whether you’re new to Medicare or simply reviewing your current plan, understanding your options and choosing the right coverage can be a daunting task. That’s where the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging comes in. We want to make sure you have all the support and information you need to make the best choices for your health and budget. What Is Medicare Open Enrollment? Medicare Open Enrollment happens every year from October 15th to December 7th. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their health and prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year. This includes switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, changing Part D (prescription drug) plans, or even switching between Medicare Advantage Plans. With so many options and updates to plans each year, it’s crucial to review your coverage and see if your plan still meets your needs. Why It’s Important to Review Your Plan Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, changes to your plan’s premiums, co-pays, covered medications, and provider networks can have a big impact on your out-of-pocket costs. That’s why reviewing your options annually is so important. Making the right changes now can save you money and ensure you have the coverage you need. We’re Here to Help You Make the Best Choice The Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging is offering two walk-in Medicare Open Enrollment Clinics to assist you in navigating your options and making informed decisions. Our certified Medicare counselors are trained to provide unbiased, honest guidance and will work with you one-on-one to find the best plan for your situation. Here’s where you can find us: 📅 Monday, November 4th from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM Goodrich Memorial Library 202 Main Street, Newport, VT 📅 Wednesday, November 20th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM NVRH Conference Room 127 1315 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT What to Bring To make the most of your visit, be sure to bring: Your red, white, and blue Medicare card. A list of your current medications and dosages. Any notices you’ve received from your current plan. No appointment is needed, and all our services are free. Our counselors will sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. We’re here to help you feel confident in your Medicare choices. If You Can’t Make It In Person… If attending one of our clinics isn’t convenient, don’t worry! You can call us at (802) 748-5182 or reach our helpline at (800) 642-5119 to speak with a Medicare counselor over the phone. We want to ensure every older Vermonter has access to the support and resources they need. Your Health, Your Choice Choosing a Medicare plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your health. Let us help you find the right fit and feel good about your coverage for the coming year. Join us at one of our walk-in clinics, or give us a call. We’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. For more information, visit our website or stop by one of our walk-in clinics in November. We look forward to seeing you!
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