Today, May 4, 2017, the US is having its first vote on a new health care plan. As I read about the people that will no longer be getting services, it makes me sad. There seem to be so many factors that add to the difficulty of making health care available to all in that country — insurance companies, pharmaceutical companies and a government that isn’t buying in to the need for coverage for all.
As I read all this, I am thankful for the health care we have in Canada. This year is 45 years since I started my nursing career: first by going to nursing school, followed by 43 years of working as a Registered Nurse. I have cared for many patients/residents/clients in several different settings.
Today, I was thinking about health care and healthy living. What does it take to maintain health? There is evidence that important steps are eating well, drinking enough fluids each day, maintaining a good weight, exercise, getting enough sleep, controlling stress and having FUN AND LAUGHTER in your life.
Do we do what we need to do to take responsibility for my own health? Do we reach for medications when there are healthier options? Do we get medical assistance when we need it rather than waiting until we have a serious problem? Some of these are ways we abuse our “free” health in Canada.
I hope that the medical system in Canada starts to do more to encourage people to focus on preventative medicine. What can I do to help myself and others do better? Lots of ideas start coming to mind. Walking with a friend, cooking lessons to help people cook healthier food, understanding another person’s limits, and most importantly, adding FUN and LAUGHTER to the lives of others.
Please share your ideas in the comments. Spring is here — great time to make some changes in our lives!!
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