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 Resistance training is one of the best things older adults can do for their health When we think about staying healthy as we age, we often focus on diet or walking. But there's a powerful, often overlooked tool that can transform how you feel, move, and live: resistance training. What is Resistance Training? Resistance training (or strength training) is simply physical exercise designed to improve muscular strength, endurance, and size by causing muscles to contract against resistance from free weights, machines, elastic bands, or body weight.
Resistance Training Benefits. Extensive research shows that it's never too late to begin resistance training, and the benefits are substantial. Resistance training:
At Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ), our goal is to help our community stay active and in the comfort of home as long as possible, and staying strong is one of the most important ways to accomplish this. Before starting any new exercise program, check in with your doctor first, especially if you have existing conditions like heart disease or joint issues.  Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148. The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Passaic counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 February is American Heart Month, and Home Care Matters More Than Ever February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Nearly half of all American adults live with some form of cardiovascular disease, and many are older adults managing chronic conditions at home. At Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ), we help patients monitor blood pressure, manage medications, and recover safely after cardiac events. Just as important, we help families prepare for the unexpected by encouraging a Cardiac Emergency Response Plan (CERP), so caregivers know the warning signs, who to call, and what to do in a cardiac emergency when every second matters. This proactive, at-home approach helps protect patients, reduce complications, and bring peace of mind to families. Learn more about creating your own CERP here. This American Heart Month, we thank you for helping VNANNJ protect hearts, strengthen families, and keep our community healthier at home. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNANNJ) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Passaic counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 Patients and Caregivers give VNANNJ high marks Patients and caregivers consistently rate VNANNJ highly for quality, compassion, and trust—based on post-care surveys and direct feedback. Comments like “exceptional care,” “professional and kind,” and “made a difficult time easier” reflect the real-world impact of our nurses, therapists, aides, and staff. “A wonderful experience with VNA. Special mention for occupational and physical therapy. They have provided such caring, professional service. So pleasant and kind and encouraging. They have been essential to my mother’s recovery. We couldn’t have made it without them.” These sentiments underscore the importance of home health care and all that VNANNJ does. As we begin a new year, we look forward to continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients and their caregivers. Thank you for your ongoing support. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Passaic Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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Did You Know? Dec 2 is GivingTuesday.12/2/2025  This year, on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, your VNA is part of a call to action that has helped make history. GivingTuesday was created as a day to encourage people to do good. Since then, it has grown into a year-round global movement, inspiring millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. Because Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need, giving a little of what we have can make a tangible, meaningful difference in their lives. Please visit vnannj.org/donate or call the VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 Family caregivers make home health care possible. This November, we honor family caregivers — the quiet heroes who make home health care possible. At Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA), our clinicians provide expert care, but it is the family caregiver who stands at the bedside long after we leave. They give their time, their strength, and their hearts. Here are simple ways we can support them:
Because when we support caregivers, we also support the patients they love. Reminder -- MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT runs through December 7th. Provisions and costs associated with Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, and Part D prescription plans may be subject to change in 2026. If you’re currently enrolled in a plan – or you’ll be age 65 soon – take advantage of this annual opportunity to shop around and compare your options. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Passaic Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in the US. Glaucoma has no noticeable symptoms in its early stages, and vision loss progresses at such a gradual rate that people affected by the condition are often unaware of it until their sight has already been compromised. It is often related to high pressure in the eye, but can also occur under normal circumstances. Glaucoma can happen at any age, although it is more common in older adults and is one of the leading causes of blindness for people over the age of 60. The purpose of Glaucoma Awareness Month is to educate the public about the best defense against developing glaucoma-related blindness: routine, comprehensive eye exams. Protect yourself. EyeCare America® is a public service program of the American Academy of Ophthalmology that provides uninsured and underinsured individuals 18 years and older with access to medical eye exams. For more information, visit: American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) or reach out to your eye doctor. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 Because Your Health Matters Every Month At Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey, we believe wellness is about more than health—it’s about connection, care, and supporting one another. Whether it’s a kind word, a gentle check-in, or helping hands at home, we have been here for over 125 years to help our neighbors thrive while aging in their own homes. Let’s celebrate wellness by taking three simple steps this month:
Small steps today can lead to a healthier, happier tomorrow! Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 3 - 4 cups of black coffee before noon might do you good. A study done at Tulane University found that drinking coffee at certain times during the day appears to be linked to significant impacts on longevity. Interestingly, the research indicates that only morning drinkers seem to benefit. Drinking black coffee in the morning: Coffee is packed with polyphenols, compounds that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, and has been linked to lowering the risk of certain cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, and Type 2 diabetes. This study found that only morning coffee drinkers benefited from a 16% lower risk of death and a 31% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Drinking coffee later in the day: Drinking black coffee later in the day appears to negate the advantages of drinking it in the morning. The study authors suggest that later coffee consumption may disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, impacting sleep quality and bone health. What to do: Drink only 3-4 cups of black coffee between 4 am and 12 pm. Adding sugar, other sweeteners, and milk or coffee creamer of any type appears to eliminate the healthful effects of black coffee. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call the VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 Join VNANNJ in Supporting Families and Advancing Care More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and millions more are caring for someone they love with the disease. This June, Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey stands with families facing the daily challenges of memory loss and cognitive decline. As part of Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, we’re raising awareness about the importance of early diagnosis, brain health, and compassionate in-home care for those affected. Whether it’s skilled nursing, home health aides, or caregiver support, our team provides the personalized care and guidance families need to navigate Alzheimer’s and related conditions. Learn more about Alzheimer’s here: The Alzheimer's Association. Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148.  Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org.
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 A recent poll shows nurses are held in high regard. Nurses are routinely held in high regard, and a recent Gallup poll (Americans' Ratings of U.S. Professions Stay Historically Low, January 13, 2025)noted that a majority of those surveyed found nursing to top the list of 23 occupations with respect to honesty and ethics. In another poll cited by AARP, 98% of those asked said nurses are vital to the health and well-being of the nation. Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is proud to have served New Jersey since 1898, and our longevity, as well as these polls, indicate how vital nurses are to the communities we serve. Home health care is a rewarding profession as evidenced by the many letters of thanks and support our nurses receive (visit these links to leave a review on our website or Google listing). We encourage anyone considering a career in home health care to consider our VNA. Learn more here: vnannj.org/careers.  Did you know that Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey is the longest-serving VNA in the state of New Jersey? So we know a thing or two about healthy aging and how to successfully “age in place” while avoiding hospitalization and nursing homes. We suggest that you learn more about our home health care services and make a plan to age at home before you have a health emergency. Medicare and supplemental insurance often do not cover all the care our patients and caregivers need. If you would like to help, please visit vnannj.org/donate or call VNA Foundation at 973-451-4148. Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey (VNA) is a leading provider of comprehensive home health care and hospice services in Morris, Hunterdon, Sussex, Warren, Passaic, and Somerset Counties in Northern New Jersey. Established in 1898, generations have known that just one call to VNA opens the door to quality, patient-centered home health care solutions that allow patients to remain in the comfort of their homes with dignity, health, and independence. © All content on The Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey's website, including blog posts, may be reproduced only if attributed to our organization with a link to vnannj.org. |
