There are many risks involved in operating a chainsaw. However, if you take proper precautions and adhere to safety guidelines, you can significantly minimize the risk of injuries. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a novice, it’s crucial to prioritize safety every time you pick up a chainsaw. Let’s dive into some essential tips for […]

May is American Stroke Month. Make sure your friends and family know the warning signs of a stroke. It could save the life of a loved one. Remember BEFAST to recognize stroke symptoms. Balance loss. Eyesight changes. Face drooping. Arm weakness. Speech difficulty. Time to call 9-1-1. With a stroke, calling 9-1-1 can save a […]

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. While mental health issues are important to address year-round, this is a dedicated time to highlight that mental health matters. “We all have mental health,” comments Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Janet Larson at Riverwood Healthcare’s Behavioral Health Clinic. “Mental health is our ability to engage with our emotions, […]

As the Land of 10,000 Lakes transitions into warmer months, Minnesotans eagerly embrace outdoor activities. However, along with the joys of nature comes the potential nuisance of woodticks. These tiny arachnids are prevalent in Minnesota’s wooded areas and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and anaplasmosis. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips for […]

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) provide excitement and versatility for outdoor enthusiasts, but they also come with inherent risks. Understanding ATV safety and practicing awareness while riding is crucial to prevent accidents and injuries. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips and practices for ATV awareness. Knowing Your ATV: Before hitting the trails, familiarize yourself with your […]

Riverwood Healthcare is pleased to welcome Susan Zelenak as senior human resources generalist to its staff. In this role, Zelenak will support Riverwood’s team with a variety of HR projects and functions, including employee relations, recruitment of new talent, legal compliance, and leave management. In short, she will build relationships to implement best practices in […]

The month of April is dedicated to promoting Esophageal Cancer awareness and education around the risk posed by persistent heartburn or acid reflux disease (GERD). Esophageal cancer is deadly and is increasing at a faster rate than any other cancer in the United States. Only one in five esophageal cancer patients will survive five years […]

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that primarily affects movement. It develops gradually, often starting with barely noticeable tremors in one hand. As the disease progresses, symptoms become more pronounced, impacting various aspects of daily life. While there is currently no cure for Parkinson’s disease, several treatment options are available to manage symptoms and […]

In memory of the late Roger and Sandy Wilson, the Wilson family of Aitkin created the Roger and Sandy Wilson Scholarship to help individuals better themselves. The fund is administered by Riverwood Foundation at Riverwood Healthcare Center. These scholarship funds are intended to ease the burden of tuition costs so that aspiring students or health care […]

March is National Nutrition Month, and this year’s theme is Beyond the Table. This is a time to recognize our team of registered dietitians at Riverwood Healthcare Center, Megan Perpich and Melissa Te Slaa. In their role as registered dietitians, they are food and nutrition experts, who are uniquely educated and trained to create a […]

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, develops in the colon or rectum and typically begins as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called polyps. Over time, these polyps can turn into cancer, making regular screenings and awareness campaigns critical for early detection. During National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in March public health campaigns seek to […]

Terry Buisman, a seasoned physical therapist with Ortho Rehab Specialists in Minneapolis, presented a continuing education course on shoulder pathology and therapies at Riverwood Healthcare Center on March 1 and 2. The educational event, focused on shoulder pathology and therapies, was presented to seven therapy professionals, including two physical therapists from Riverwood. During the course, […]

Riverwood Healthcare Center, with the help of the Aitkin Farmers Market Hub and Aitkin County Public Health, was awarded the Minnesota Local Food Purchase Assistance (LFPA) grant by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). The LFPA program is a new grant from MDA to fund projects that buy local food, primarily from socially disadvantaged and […]

In a recent issue of Becker’s Hospital Review features Riverwood Healthcare Center CEO Ken Westman on its national list of “110 rural hospital and health system CEOs to know” for 2024. This list highlights 110 top executives from rural hospitals across the United States with three other Minnesota CEOs, President and CEO Karla Eischens of […]

A healthy heart is the cornerstone of overall well-being. One of the most impactful ways to nurture cardiovascular health is through mindful food choices. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods into your diet can significantly contribute to quality of life. Fatty Fish for Omega-3 Incorporating fatty fish like salmon and sardines into your diet provides an abundant source […]