ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Rio Rancho

Older adults are at higher risk for heat-related illness, even in moderate temperatures. Staying cool and hydrated helps prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Here are some simple ways to stay safe:

• Drink plenty of water, juices, or electrolyte drinks; avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible (home, library, mall, senior center)
• Keep blinds closed during peak heat and use fans or AC at home
• Wear light, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing
• Limit outdoor activity during hottest hours; plan errands for cooler times
• Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses when outside
• Take cool showers, baths, or put damp cloths on the body to help lower temperature

Warning signs of heat-related illness include headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, confusion, or fainting. If symptoms occur, move to a cool place, hydrate, and rest, and seek medical care if symptoms do not improve. Heat stroke is a medical emergency marked by very high body temperature, hot or dry skin, confusion, or loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately.

Today, we observe Juneteenth and reflect on its enduring significance in American history. We remain committed to advancing equality, freedom, and justice for all.

We also take this time to honor the resilience and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. By learning from the past, we continue working toward a more inclusive and equitable future for everyone.

A consistent routine can help make daily life calmer and more predictable for both individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Routine provides structure, reduces confusion, and fosters a sense of safety as memory loss progresses. It can ease transitions between activities, reduce anxiety, and support better sleep. Familiar daily patterns may also help individuals feel more secure and maintain independence for longer.

To support a loved one, aim to keep consistent times for meals, waking, and bedtime. Incorporate activities that reflect the person’s past interests, and break tasks into simple, step-by-step instructions.

A predictable, stable environment benefits everyone involved.

Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses through three stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe), with symptoms varying from person to person.

In the early stage, individuals may experience mild memory lapses, such as forgetting words, misplacing items, or having difficulty with planning and organization. Despite these changes, many can still live independently.

As the disease advances to the middle stage, memory loss and confusion become more pronounced. Individuals often require assistance with daily activities, and changes in mood or behavior may occur.

In the late stage, individuals lose the ability to communicate effectively and require full-time care. Physical abilities, including walking, swallowing, and overall mobility, significantly decline.

Understanding these stages can help families anticipate changes and provide appropriate support and care at each phase.

Aphasia is a condition that affects speech, understanding, reading, and writing. The most common cause of aphasia is a stroke that interrupts blood flow to the left side of the brain, which controls language. Without oxygen, brain cells in this area become damaged and make it difficult for the brain to turn thoughts into words or understand language.

Prompt medical attention can help reduce long-term effects and improve recovery outcomes. Remember F.A.S.T. to recognize a stroke: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call 911.

This June, we recognize Pride Month and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. At ClearSky Health, we remain committed to fostering inclusion, equality, and respect for all. We believe diversity strengthens our organization every day.

Most language recovery after a stroke happens in the first few weeks, but recovery doesn’t stop there. The brain can continue to heal and form new pathways for months and even years.

At a medical rehabilitation hospital like ours, speech-language pathologists help patients work on speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. Therapy may include practicing words and sentences, improving speech clarity, strengthening the muscles used for talking, and working on voice, breathing, and pacing to make communication easier and more natural. They also may use structured practice, conversation training, and singing-based techniques to support recovery.

While progress may slow over time, consistent practice, ongoing speech-language therapy, and strong support systems can still lead to meaningful gains.

Honoring and remembering those who gave their lives in service to our country this Memorial Day. We are forever grateful for their sacrifice.

Stroke recovery can feel isolating, which is why support networks matter. While family and friends provide important help and encouragement, stroke support groups offer something unique: connection with others who truly understand the experience. Research shows that strong support networks are linked with better mental well-being and improved recovery after stroke.

Support groups can reduce stress, improve coping skills, and create a sense of belonging. Many survivors find that sharing with peers who have “been there” helps them feel less alone and more understood.

Day 5 of our Hospital Week celebration was full of western fun, team spirit, and meaningful support for our patients and loved ones impacted by stroke awareness.

Staff showed up in their best western wear while also wearing red in support of stroke awareness. We enjoyed a cowboy cookout with hotdogs, hamburgers, and all the fixings, along with more exciting scavenger hunts and prizes that kept the fun going throughout the day.

We are grateful for this incredible team and the joy they continue to bring to our staff and patients during this special week.