Educational Insights 8.25.14

Educational Insights 8.25.14
Posted on 08/25/2014

            A recent study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health suggests a community makes a difference in matters of the heart. Researchers tracked the cardiovascular health of more than 5,000 seniors with no known heart problems over four years.

In 2006, participants in the Health and Retirements Study were asked how much they felt a part of their neighborhood, if they had neighbors who would help them, whether they trusted people in the area, and if their neighbors were friendly.

During the study period, 148 of the participants had a heart attack. Researchers found people who reported feeling more "social cohesion" were less at risk. Tight-knit local communities may help to reinforce and encourage certain types of behaviors that protect against cardiovascular damage, the study authors say.

(http://www.wcvb.com/health/good-neighbors-are-good-for-your-heart/27685256#ixzz3BLpVEhmi)

Community members support local youth at our county fair with 4-H livestock purchases. Fundraisers for those in need stand out among the best in the area as hallmark events where folks in this community give of themselves to help others. Pool construction in Oshkosh has begun! This is a direct result of the collaboration, cooperation, and civic-minded folks who led the pool drive. Neighbors helping neighbors is commonplace here in Garden County.

Maslow stated one of our basic human needs is the sense of belonging. It is critical to feel we are part of something bigger than ourselves. Garden County provides many opportunities for our citizens to feel a sense of belonging and share in the work of helping our community grow.

Our physical and emotional health are positively influenced by this collegiality and support. By reaching out to others, we increase the quality of life for others, as well as our own.

Hats off to all those who look out for their neighbors and give so freely of themselves here in Garden County! Our children are watching and will certainly follow your lead.

 

         

-Dr. Paula Sissel

[email protected]

Garden County Schools

Superintendent/Elementary Principal