April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), an annual campaign aimed at raising awareness about sexual assault and empowering individuals and communities to take action to prevent sexual violence. This month provides an opportunity for us to come together and work towards ending sexual violence and creating a world where everyone can feel safe and respected. Sexual assault is a serious and pervasive problem in our society. According to a 2018 study entitled The Facts Behind the #metoo Movement: a National Study on Sexual Harassment and Assault, 81% of women and 43% of men reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime (in the US). Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have long-lasting effects on survivors, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more. Among populations in the US, Native Americans are at a higher risk of experiencing sexual assault. According to the National Institute of Justice, Native American women are 2.5 times more likely to experience sexual assault compared to other women. 49% of Native American women have reported sexual violence in their lifetime. (3) - National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Violence Prevention, The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2010 Summary Results (November 2011) It is essential to create safe and supportive environments where survivors can heal and seek justice. There are many ways to get involved in SAAM and support survivors. Here are some suggestions: Educate yourself: learn about sexual violence, its causes, and how to prevent it. You can find information and resources on our resource hub HERE. Speak out: Use your voice to speak out against sexual violence and challenge harmful attitudes and behaviors. Talk to your friends and family about consent, healthy relationships, and the importance of respecting boundaries. Support survivors: Listen to survivors, believe them, and support them in their healing journey. Take action: Advocate for policy changes that support survivors and prevent sexual violence. Contact your elected officials and urge them to prioritize funding for programs and services that address sexual violence. Let us use this month to educate ourselves, support survivors, and work towards ending sexual violence. Together, we can create a world where everyone feels safe and respected. Reference: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Violence Prevention, The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey: 2010 Summary Results (November 2011), https://www.cdc.gov/ViolencePrevention/pdf/NISVS_Report2010-a.pdf. Kearl, H. (2018). The Facts Behind the #metoo Movement: A National Study on Sexual Harassment and Assault. Stop Street Harassment. Rosay, A.B. Violence against American Indian and Alaska native women and men, National Institute of Justice, https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/violence-against-american-indian-and-alaska-native-women-and-men

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. It is an important time to recognize the signs of unhealthy relationships and support teens in having positive, healthy relationships. Here are some tips on how to have a healthy relationship: Set Boundaries and Respect Each Other’s Privacy The most important part of any relationship is respect for yourself and your partner. Setting boundaries will help you both understand what is acceptable behavior in the relationship. Respect each other’s privacy and make sure you are both comfortable with the level of communication that exists between you. Talk To Each Other Honestly and Openly It can be difficult for teens to talk about issues like mental health, sexuality, or dating violence. But it’s important to talk openly with your partner about your feelings and concerns so that you can work together to resolve any problems that arise. Talking honestly also helps build trust in the relationship, which is essential for a healthy connection. Practice Self Care It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of being in a new relationship, but it’s important to take care of yourself first. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly, and taking breaks from technology when needed. Taking care of yourself sets a good example for your partner and helps keep the relationship balanced and healthy. During this National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, it’s important to remember that all relationships should be based on mutual respect and understanding. By practicing self-care, setting boundaries, talking openly with each other, and respecting each other's privacy—you can foster a healthy relationship free of violence or abuse. If you or someone you know feels unsafe in their current situation—reach out for help immediately! There are many resources available such as hotlines or counseling services that can provide assistance and support during this difficult time.

February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month. This is an important time to draw attention to the prevalence and dangers of teen dating violence. It is estimated that one in three adolescents in the United States will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse by someone they are in a relationship with before they become adults. What is Teen Dating Violence? Teen dating violence (TDV) is defined as physical, sexual, psychological, or emotional aggression within a romantic relationship between two young people aged 13 to 19 years old. This type of violence can take on many forms including verbal abuse, physical assault, stalking, and cyberbullying. Prevalence in Schools Unfortunately, Teen Dating Violence is all too common in schools today. Studies show that one out of every eight high school students have experienced dating violence in some form. In addition to the direct effects on teens who experience this type of violence from their romantic partners, there are also broader impacts on school safety and climate as well as student learning outcomes. For example, students who experience teen dating violence may be more likely to struggle academically or miss school due to fear for their safety or stress related to their violent relationship. They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as drug or alcohol use which can further compromise their safety and wellbeing. Recognizing Signs It can be difficult for parents to recognize the signs of TDV because many teenagers do not want to share details about their relationships with adults. However, there are certain behaviors that could indicate TDV may be taking place between two teens: One partner isolating themselves from friends and family members One partner regularly checking up on the other One partner displaying extreme jealousy or possessiveness One partner becoming controlling over decisions made by the other Intimidation tactics being used by one partner against the other Either partner being physically violent toward each other Either partner exhibiting unhealthy communication styles like name-calling or threats Either partner feeling unsafe around each other If you notice any of these behaviors among your child’s relationships with their peers—or if your child has expressed concern about a peer’s behavior—it is important to take action quickly and provide guidance on how best to handle the situation. What You Can Do to Help The first step toward helping prevent teen dating violence starts with education and awareness about healthy relationships among teenagers and adults alike. If you suspect that someone you know may be involved in an abusive relationship, it’s important to talk to them about it without judgment or criticism. Encourage them to seek professional help if needed so they can learn how to navigate these difficult situations safely and effectively. Additionally, you should also reach out to local organizations whose mission is to support victims of domestic violence so your teen can get the help they need. It’s important for parents and educators alike to recognize the signs of teen dating violence and provide support and resources for those affected by it. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) provides 24/7 support for anyone experiencing domestic violence including teenagers who may not know where else to turn for help. Educators should also be aware of warning signs such as changes in academic performance or social behavior that could indicate that a student may be a victim of teen dating violence so they can intervene early on before the situation escalates further. February is an important month for raising awareness about this issue, but it's essential we remain vigilant throughout the year if we want to protect our teens from harm and create safe learning environments for all students.

In today’s digital world, cyber stalking and GPS tracking are real threats that can affect your safety. As technology advances, so do the methods used to commit invasions of privacy. Apple AirTag is a great example of how useful technology can be used negatively (like to track people without their knowledge). Let's look at why it is important to be aware of these dangers. Cyber Stalking and GPS Tracking Cyber stalking and GPS tracking are both forms of invasion of privacy, but they come with different levels of risk and consequences. Cyber stalking refers to using online methods like social media and email to stalk someone without their knowledge or consent. GPS tracking involves the use of satellite-based positioning systems to track someone’s movement without their permission or knowledge. It is important to note that while these two activities may seem similar in nature, they come with completely different levels of risk. How Can You Stay Safe? The best way to stay safe from cyber stalking and GPS tracking is by being aware of the potential risks associated with them. You should always be mindful when sharing personal information online, especially if it could potentially reveal your location or other sensitive data about yourself. Additionally, make sure that you have strong passwords in place for all accounts and devices connected to the internet – even those connected via Bluetooth. Finally, never give out your home address or other private information unless absolutely necessary. As technology becomes increasingly available, it is important to stay vigilant for small and concealable items that have GPS capabilities. Apple AirTags are a new battery-powered tracking device that can be attached or stored with items you frequently lose. Although this is a convenient way to track down your lost items, it comes with safety concerns too. Luckily, Apple has implemented a safety alert system to notify non-owners when an AirTag is following them. "AirTag Found Moving With You" will appear on the person's iPhone if it detects an unknown AirTag near it. Although designed around the iPhone, newer Android phones can notify users as well by displaying an "Unknown AirTag" notification. Cyber stalking and GPS tracking are serious threats in our digitally connected world; however, understanding how these technologies work can help you protect yourself from becoming a victim. By being mindful of what information you share online and taking measures such as setting strong passwords on all devices connected to the internet, you can increase your chances of staying safe from these invasions of privacy. Remember - if something seems too good to be true (like an offer for free AirTags), it probably is! Don’t trust any offers that require you to enter personal information before receiving anything in return – this could be a sign that someone has foul intentions behind it. Be smart about security measures – your safety depends on it! By understanding the risks associated with cyber stalking and GPS tracking, you can better protect yourself from unwanted surveillance. Remember to always stay alert while out in public places and never hesitate to contact authorities if you feel like someone may be following or tracking you without your permission. Taking these measures will help ensure that you remain safe from potential threats both online and offline.

January is National Stalking Awareness Month, a time to pause and reflect on the prevalence of stalking in our daily lives. It’s estimated that 7.5 million people are stalked each year in the United States alone – with women being more likely to be targeted than men. Let’s take a deep dive into why women face more risks from stalkers, what signs to look out for, and how to best protect yourself if you ever find yourself in this situation. The Impact of Stalking on Women Stalking can have serious psychological effects on its victims, particularly women. According to the Stalking Prevention, Awareness, and Resource Center (SPARC), one in three women experience stalking at some point in their lifetime and 84% of stalking victims felt fearful, threatened, or concerned for their safety. Unfortunately, these fears are not unfounded as nearly one in three women stalked by an intimate partner were also sexually assaulted by that partner. These risks can be compounded by the fact that many stalkers use technology such as GPS tracking devices and spyware apps to monitor their victims’ activities without their knowledge or consent. In addition to physical and psychological harm, stalking can have financial repercussions for those affected by it. Many victims feel the need to move, change jobs or even go into hiding to stay safe from their stalker—all of which come with extra costs associated with them. Additionally, some employers may not be willing to provide a victim with paid leave or other accommodations necessary for them to remain safe while at work and out of sight from their stalker. That puts women at greater risk for economic instability if they are unable to continue working due to fear of being stalked by an ex-partner or another individual who poses a threat. Protecting Yourself If you think you are being stalked, there are several steps that you can take in order to ensure your safety and well-being. It’s important to remember that there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution when it comes to addressing potential stalking behavior – each situation is unique and must be handled accordingly. However, here are some general tips on how you can identify and address potential stalking behavior: No one should have to live in fear because of a stalker but unfortunately, millions of people face this reality every year. January is Stalking Awareness Month so now is the time for us all to act and learn more about how we can better protect ourselves against this very real threat. Whether it’s staying informed on the latest news related to stalking or taking practical steps like those outlined above, everyone has a role play when it comes preventing cases like this from happening in the future. Let’s work together towards creating a safer world for everyone! Resources are available if you are experiencing stalking. Visit www.ihcrc.org/dvp for more information.

2023 is here and many of us are looking to make positive changes in the new year, especially when it comes to our health. Creating a healthy New Year’s resolution can be daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, you can achieve your goals. Here are some tips for creating a healthy New Year’s resolution that will stick. Set Realistic Goals The most important step in creating a healthy New Year’s resolution is setting realistic goals. Setting unrealistic expectations will only lead to disappointment and frustration. Reflect on what you want to accomplish this year and create SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-Bound) goals that you know you can achieve within the timeframe you have set for yourself. SMART Goal Example: To get healthier by next year, I will start exercising weekly. For the first six months, I will exercise 2x a week for 30-minute intervals. For the last six months, I will exercise 3x a week for 30-minute intervals. I can choose from running, interval exercise videos, and weightlifting. Break It Down into Bite-Sized Pieces You might feel overwhelmed when looking at your overall goal so it helps to break it down into smaller pieces that are easier to manage. This way instead of focusing on one big goal you can focus on an achievable task each day or week that brings you closer to achieving your goal. By incorporating a less frequent exercise pattern for the first 6 months of your SMART goal can help the task feel less overwhelming and give you the ability to build momentum through the year. A good place to start your exercise journey is by following along with our Workouts With Jordin video series on YouTube! Skip the clicks and start working out now! Find Support & Accountability It’s much easier to stay motivated if you have support from friends or family members who share similar goals or just want to help keep you accountable along your journey. You might also consider joining a support group or finding an online mentor who has already achieved similar goals as yours (did you know our Fitness Program offers zoom workout sessions with fitness specialists?). Having someone there to cheer you on as well as hold you accountable will help increase your chances of success! IHCRC Poll: Take Time to Reflect At least once per month take time to reflect on your SMART goal to see how far you have come since making your resolution and celebrate any victories no matter how small they may seem. Acknowledging your progress helps motivate and inspire, while keeping track of the challenges faced provides valuable insight into what works best for your specific situation. This can help inform future decisions related to exercise goal setting and achievement. Making a healthy New Year’s resolution does not need to be complicated or overwhelming if done with proper planning and preparation. Start by setting realistic goals for yourself then break them down into manageable tasks which makes them more achievable over time. Find additional support from friends or family members who share similar goals and join an online forum or find an online mentor for additional accountability (IHCRC's Fitness Program). Finally, take time each month to reflect on how far you have come since making your resolution—recognizing even small victories will help keep motivation high! With these tips in mind, 2023 could be your healthiest year yet!

The holiday season can be a stressful and overwhelming time of year. Between the rush of shopping, family gatherings, festivities, end-of-year projects, and other obligations, it can be hard to find the energy or even a few moments to relax and enjoy yourself. While stress is a natural part of life, it can affect your physical health and mental well-being if it gets too extreme or prolonged. If you’re looking for ways to manage your stress levels over the holidays, here are some tips that may help. Take Time For Yourself First and foremost, take time for yourself. With all the shopping and socializing that comes along with the holidays, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle and forget about taking care of your own needs. Make sure you schedule some down time for yourself each day – whether that means an hour for reading a book or enjoying a relaxing bath. This will help restore your energy levels so you have enough left over to take care of tasks throughout the day. Stay Organized It’s also important to stay organized during this time of year by creating lists for everything you need to do. This will help prevent overwhelm from setting in so you can focus on crossing off items one at a time without feeling like there’s too much on your plate at once. You can also delegate tasks when possible so others can help lighten your load – like asking family members to help make decorations or plan meals together instead of doing it all alone. Set Realistic Expectations Another way to manage stress during the holiday season is by setting realistic expectations of what things should look like this year. Understand that with changes happening in our daily lives, it may look different than past years in terms of gathering with extended family or attending events outside of home. Overall, taking steps towards managing stress during the holiday season isn't easy but it is possible! By intentionally scheduling some personal "me-time" each day while staying organized and keeping realistic expectations (and positive perspectives!), you'll be able create enjoyable memories this holiday season without getting overwhelmed by all that needs done within such a short amount of time!

The winter holidays are a time when many people tend to relax and take it easy. But for those of us who like to keep active, it can be tough to find ways to stay motivated during the colder months. Here are some tips for keeping up your exercise routine during the winter holidays: Make a plan: One of the best ways to stay motivated during the winter is to have a plan in place. If you know what workouts you’re going to do each day, you’re less likely to skip them. Find a partner: Working out with a friend or family member can make your workouts more enjoyable and help you stay on track. Bundle up: When it’s cold outside, it can be tough to get motivated to go for a run or hit the gym. But don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting in your workout. Bundle up and get outside! Mix things up: If you get bored easily, try mixing up your workouts. Instead of always doing the same thing, try something new like yoga or tai chi. Stay indoors: If the weather is bad or you just don’t feel like going outside, there are plenty of exercises that you can do indoors from the comfort of your own home. The Workouts with Jordin video series is sure to get your blood pumping without the use of specialized equipment. The winter holidays don’t have to be a break from your workout routine. In fact, you may find that keeping up your exercise habits will actually help you enjoy the holiday season more! All it takes is a little bit of planning and creativity. We hope these tips will help you stay active and healthy over the next few weeks. Skip the clicks and work out now!

When you do your holiday shopping this year, consider purchasing items through the AmazonSmile program. By adding IHCRC as your designated non-profit, every purchase you make on Amazon.com or inside the Amazon app will donate a small amount to IHCRC all at no cost to you! Thanks to a recent update to Amazon's mobile app, designating IHCRC as your AmazonSmile non-profit has never been easier! This entire process takes only three minutes and can be done completely from the Amazon shopping app on your mobile device! Open the Amazon shopping app and navigate to the settings (small three horizontal lines on the bottom right corner). Scroll down and select “settings” and then click “AmazonSmile” You will be prompted to enable notifications (required to enable AmazonSmile Donations). Once notifications are enabled you will be prompted to search for your designated non-profit. Search “Indian Health Care Resource Center”. Select IHCRC in the populated list and that’s it! Alternatively, if you shop Amazon through a web browser, visit the link here to sign up: https://smile.amazon.com/charity Congrats! You now support Indian Health Care Resource Center through the AmazonSmile program. Although some purchases may not qualify, you will quickly generate funds with each purchase you make, all at no additional cost to you. Happy Shopping!

You brush your teeth every day, but are you doing it with purpose? Just going through the motions isn’t enough – you need to make sure you’re brushing correctly in order to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Here’s a quick guide on how to brush your teeth with purpose. How to Brush Your Teeth With Purpose 1. Choose the right toothbrush. There are all kinds of toothbrushes on the market these days, from manual to electric. But the most important factor is the bristles. Look for toothbrushes with soft bristles, as hard bristles can damage your gums. If you have sensitive gums, look for a toothbrush with extra-soft bristles. And if you have trouble reaching all of your teeth, consider an electric toothbrush. 2. Use the right amount of toothpaste. You don’t need a lot of toothpaste to get the job done – just a pea-sized amount will do. Using too much toothpaste can actually be harmful, as it can contain abrasives that can damage your teeth. 3. Brush properly. Hold your toothbrush against your teeth at a 45-degree angle and use gentle circular motions. Be sure to brush on the inside surfaces of your teeth and to use a light back and forth motion on the chewing surfaces of your molars. Don’t forget to brush your tongue! This will help remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Use this tip next time you brush your teeth and you’ll be on your way to keeping your smile healthy and bright! Rinsing with mouthwash or water immediately after brushing can wash away the fluoride in toothpaste left on the teeth. By waiting 10 minutes, you allow the fluoride within your toothpaste to be most effective. - Dr. Akberali 4. Floss daily. Flossing is just as important as brushing, so be sure to do it every day! Start by wrapping the floss around each middle finger, leaving about an inch or two of floss between them. Then hold the floss tightly between your thumbs and index fingers and slide it up and down between each tooth, using a gentle back and forth motion." Brushing your teeth may seem like a simple task, but it’s important to do it with purpose in order to keep your smile healthy and bright! Use these tips next time you brush and you’ll be on your way to a healthier mouth in no time!

When we hear about the personal and societal costs of domestic violence, it is difficult to comprehend the magnitude of the issue. Domestic violence is a pervasive problem that affects all segments of our society. The direct and indirect costs of domestic violence are staggering. From a public health perspective, domestic violence is a serious problem that has far-reaching consequences. Victims of domestic violence often suffer physical and mental health problems. They may also experience problems at work or school, and in their personal relationships. Domestic violence can also lead to homelessness and suicide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that domestic violence costs our nation billions of dollars annually. This includes costs for medical and mental health care, lost productivity, and homicide lost earnings. According to the CDC, domestic violence results in more than $8 billion in annual losses for employers. Domestic violence is often underreported, so the actual figures and costs are potentially even greater than these projections. Domestic violence also takes a significant toll on the overall health of victims. In addition to the physical and emotional trauma that victims suffer, there are also long-term health consequences. Domestic violence can increase the risk of chronic diseases, injuries, and death. It is clear that domestic violence has a devastating impact on individuals, families, and communities. The personal and societal costs are immense. We must do more to address this serious problem. If you, or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, please seek help in a safe manner. National Domestic Violence Hotline: resources for all IPV victims; 24-hour hotline at 1-800-799-7233, 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)

It's estimated that every day, around 123 people lose their life by suicide worldwide. That means that every 40 seconds, someone somewhere decides that life is no longer worth living. Suicide is a global problem, and it touches all of us in one way or another. Whether we have lost someone to suicide, know someone who has attempted suicide, or have ourselves struggled with suicidal thoughts, the issue is relevant to us all. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time when we come together to remember those we have lost and to raise awareness about this preventable tragedy. Many people who die by suicide do not want to die but are desperate and feel they have no other way out. Those who die by suicide often show some warning signs before they take their own life. It is important to keep an eye out for these warning signs and seek help before reaching the point where suicide seems like the only option. If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. Through Indian Health Care Resource Center’s Behavioral Health Program, we can provide you with confidential counseling and the support you need. By utilizing cognitive and behavioral therapies, coping skills can be developed to help deal with mental illness. Family therapies and therapies for trauma are also offered to help support you in your times of trouble. If you need immediate assistance, please call 988. When you have a police, fire, or rescue emergency you call 911. When you have a mental health emergency, you call/text 988. By reaching out for help, you can begin the journey to recovery and hope.

As a parent, you want to do everything you can to help your child succeed in school. One important way to help your child is to make sure he or she is up-to-date on immunizations. Immunizations protect children from diseases like measles, mumps, and chickenpox. These diseases can cause serious health problems, including pneumonia, meningitis, and even death. Immunizations are important for school-aged children for two reasons. First, unvaccinated children are at risk for catching these diseases. Second, many schools require proof of immunization in order to attend school. If your child is not up-to-date on his or her vaccines, talk to your doctor about getting them caught up. Click the link below to see the required immunizations for Oklahoma Public Schools. Required immunizations for 2022-2023 School Year Immunizations are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from disease. Make sure your child is up-to-date on his or her vaccines so that he or she can have a healthy and successful school year.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently updated its policy statement on breastfeeding and the use of human milk. The revised policy updates recommendations on breastfeeding, highlights special considerations, and notes how pediatricians can support breastfeeding parents. Breastfeeding not only provides key nutrition for development, but it also reduces the risk for SIDS. Research shows that feeding only human milk by breastfeeding directly or by giving milk pumped from the breast reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The research also shows that feeding human milk some of the time is more protective than not feeding human milk at all, and feeding only human milk, with no supplements or additives, offers the best protection against SIDS. The longer a baby is fed human milk, the lower their risk of SIDS. In most cases, pediatricians and other healthcare providers recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least baby’s first 6 months. Recommendations may be different for babies born preterm, with certain health conditions, or for those families for whom breastfeeding is not an option. After 6 months, AAP recommends continued breastfeeding, with appropriate complementary foods, for as long as mutually desired by parent and child. Learn more about ways to reduce baby’s risk for SIDS on the Safe to Sleep® website. For more information on breastfeeding and SIDS risk reduction, check out these doctor’s tips for breastfeeding moms. Members of the AAP Task Force on SIDS are committed to answering your questions about safe infant sleep. Q. Why are weighted swaddles or blankets not recommended for babies? A. Weighted blankets and swaddles are not recommended because there is not enough evidence of their safety for use with infants, and because—based on what we know about infant health, SIDS, and sleep-related infant deaths—they could actually cause harm. Consider the following: An infant’s ribcage is still developing. Adding weight could make it difficult for baby to expand their chest to take in air, reducing their ability to breathe properly. There are no studies on what amount of weight, if any, is safe to place on baby’s chest. Weighted swaddles and blankets are a new product category, meaning there are currently no safety standards for them beyond the general rules for children’s products (for example, lead content, likelihood of catching on fire, etc.). There are also no studies regarding the use of these products and the risk of sleep-related death. If an infant rolls over during sleep, the additional weight could make it more difficult for them to roll onto their back again. Sleeping on the stomach carries the highest risk of SIDS. That risk is very high among infants who are used to sleeping on their back but who are placed onto their stomachs for sleep, and among swaddled infants who are placed or roll onto their stomachs. Because there are no safety regulations for these products, they could be made with heavy/thick materials that increase the risk of overheating. Overheating from excessive clothing or blankets and high room temperature is associated with increased SIDS risk. Claims that these products are safe for infants during sleep are based on a single study of 16 infants with neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome who were in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), where they were constantly monitored and covered with a weighted blanket for only 30 minutes at a time. Because this tightly controlled situation is very different from using a weighted product on an infant for an hour or more at a time, outside of the NICU and without constant monitoring, the safety of using these products in the home cannot be assumed. Suggested benefits of weighted blankets and swaddles for infants are unproven. Although there is some evidence that the products may be beneficial in certain groups of older children or adults, there are no studies that show any benefits specifically in infants. Until mandatory product standardization is in place and convincing evidence of safety and efficacy regarding weighted swaddles/blankets/sleep sacks is available, the Task Force cannot support their use for infants. The U.S. Breastfeeding Coalition (USBC) is an independent nonprofit coalition of more than 50 organizations that collaborate on policy and practice efforts to create a landscape of breastfeeding support across the United States. For years, Safe to Sleep® and the USBC have worked together to develop and share consistent, integrated messaging for all caregivers about safe infant sleep and breastfeeding. This National Breastfeeding Month, the USBC reminds families and caregivers that Together We Do Great Things! Throughout the month, the USBC is celebrating all efforts in service to babies, families, and human milk feeding. Join the USBC and Safe to Sleep® in celebrating the power and impact of our collective efforts. Visit the Coalition website to learn more about the USBC’s National Breastfeeding Month resources. In case you missed it, a recording of the July 21 SIDS Awareness Month Activities Webinar, along with featured partner resources, will soon be available on the Safe to Sleep® website.

Don’t let age keep you from being fit and healthy! Exercise is important for people of all ages, but it’s especially important for our elders. Regular exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It can also help improve balance and flexibility, leading to fewer falls and injuries. Elders who exercise regularly tend to have more energy, better sleep, and a sharper mind. So how can you get started? If you’re not used to exercising, start slow with chair exercises. Designed to be safe and easy, chair exercises can be done from the comfort of your own home. Chair exercises are a great way to introduce a workout routine to your daily life. Follow along with Jordin H., IHCRC Fitness Specialist, in the video below. Once you’ve built up your strength and stamina, you can try more challenging exercises like biking, swimming, or joining our Running Strong Run Club! With a little effort, you’ll be on your way to a heathier, happier life! Visit our fitness page to find a class that fits your lifestyle: www.ihcrc.org/fitness Interested in joining our run club? Sign up here: www.ihcrc.org/running