Men’s Health Spotlight: Don’t Put Off That Prostate Cancer Screening -- Telehealth Tips: Staying Connected with Your Care Team -- Staying Cool: Preventing Heat-Related Illness in Older Veterans -- Take Charge of Your Balance and Confidence - From the Comfort of Home! -- Upcoming Dwyer Events

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Men’s Health Spotlight: Don’t Put Off That Prostate Cancer Screening

As we move through the summer, it’s a good time to focus on your health—especially for male veterans over the age of 50. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men, and veterans may face increased risk due to age, family history, or exposures during military service.

The good news? Early detection can save lives.

The VA recommends having a conversation with your primary care provider about whether a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is right for you. This simple blood test can help detect prostate cancer early—often before symptoms appear.

You should consider getting screened if you:

• Are over the age of 55.
• Have a family history of prostate cancer.
• Are African American, as this group is at higher risk.
• Have concerns about urinary changes or discomfort.

VA providers are here to help you make an informed decision that’s right for your individual health and risk factors. If you haven’t had your annual check-up yet, now is a great time to schedule one.

To speak with your provider or schedule an appointment, contact your local VA clinic or visit www.va.gov. Taking care of your health is one more way you continue to lead with strength and purpose.

Telehealth Tips: Staying Connected with Your Care Team  

Summer is a time for travel, but your health doesn’t have to take a vacation. VA Telehealth makes it easy to stay in touch with your care team, refill prescriptions, and attend appointments from anywhere. 

How to Make the Most of VA Telehealth: 

• Sign up for a My HealtheVet account at www.myhealth.va.gov. 
• Download the VA Video Connect app for secure video visits. 
• Use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera and stable internet. 
• Prepare your questions in advance and keep a list of medications nearby. 
• Ask your provider about remote monitoring tools like blood pressure cuffs or glucose meters. 

If you need help getting started, contact your local VA telehealth coordinator or reach out to the VA’s Office of Connected Care. Your health matters—whether you're at home or on the road. 

Staying Cool: Preventing Heat-Related Illness in Older Veterans 

July often brings dangerous heatwaves, and older veterans or those with chronic health conditions may be especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Medications for high blood pressure, heart disease, or mental health can also interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature. 

Tips for Staying Safe in the Heat: 

• Stay indoors during peak sun hours (10 a.m. – 4 p.m.). 
• Use fans or air conditioning when possible; visit public cooling centers if needed. 
• Drink water regularly—don’t wait until you feel thirsty. 
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat when outside. 
• Ask your provider if your medications might increase heat sensitivity. 

Veterans who lack access to cooling or basic needs should contact their local VA social work team or visit https://www.va.gov for help connecting to community partners. 

Take Charge of Your Balance and Confidence—From the Comfort of Home!

Many older adults experience concerns about falling, which can lead to limiting daily activities and independence. The YMCA's A Matter of Balance virtual workshop is an evidence-based, award-winning program designed to help participants reduce fall risks and stay active. Through eight interactive online sessions, attendees will learn to view falls as controllable, set realistic goals for activity, make simple changes at home to prevent falls, and engage in gentle exercises to boost strength and balance. 

This free program is perfect for anyone concerned about falls, those who have fallen in the past, or individuals looking to improve flexibility and mobility. The classes are led by trained volunteer leaders and offered entirely online, making participation easy and accessible. Ready to regain your confidence and stability? Register today by visiting findyourY.org. Contact the program team at lhvfallprevention@gmail.com or call (828) 280-1193 for more information. 

Upcoming Dwyer Events

V4C Family Picnic and Fishing Day: July 26th from 10-3 at Westfield Fish and Game (8150 Ogden Road in Westfield). 

Rumble at the Arena- Boxing Event: July 12th at 4:00 pm at the Northwest Arena in Jamestown. 

Veterans Motorcycle Run:

• August 16th.  
• Starting Location: Sheridan VFW Post 6390 (2556 NY-20 in Silver Creek).
• VOLUNTEERS ARE NEEDED. 
• Registration: 9:00am – 10:45am. Kickstands Up: 11:00am SHARP! 
• Afterparty: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. 
• Live music | Vendors | Basket raffles | 50/50 draws 
• Police-escorted ride to WhirlWind Veteran & Warrior Retreat for a safe, meaningful journey. 
• Registration: Riders – $25 | Passengers – $15 
• Includes:   Lunch: Pig Roast + Delicious Sides!   Dinner for all registered riders after the run! 
• Sponsored by: Chautauqua Dwyer Peer to Peer Program, Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County, AMVETS. 

AMVETS Camping at Allegany Summer 25: TBD.

Veterans Wellness Fair: Saturday, November 1st at the Celoron Legion. More details will be shared in the near future.

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Issue VH 2507