Senior Living - LakeCharlesGuide.com

Do you have an idea for something not listed within LakeCharlesGuide.com website? Please send it to us! We would love to hear from you. Use our Contact form to send us your suggestions.

Search Our Site

Sign Our Guestbook

Thanks for visiting
Lake Charles Guide.com!

Please sign our guestbook.

Lake Charles La Hotels

Click here for Local Hotels

Lake Charles Louisiana Restaurant Menus

LakeCharlesGuide.com Local Links

Calcasieu Parish Public Libraries
City of Lake Charles
Convention & Visitors Bureau
Lake Charles Local Schools
Lakeside Wellness Medical Clinic
Literacy Council of SWLA
Louisiana State Parks
Sulphur Parks & Recreation

Lake Charles Louisiana Casinos

Lake Charles, Louisiana Casinos

Flooring America

Southwest Louisiana Veterinary Clinic

Help Feed a Pet

Click Every Day for FREE
To Help Feed A Sheltered Pet

The Boiling Point

Green Smoke

Your Homepage

Click here to make us your homepage.

Senior Living

Senior Living

Don't let aches and pains slow you down (ARA) - We all know the feeling that comes with the first great day of spring. When the sun is shining, the air smells sweet and fresh and the temperatures are warm, we all feel the urge to get outside and throw off the confinement of the winter months. Whether you're an avid athlete, a dedicated gardener or someone who's been meaning to get started on an exercise program, the arrival of spring is one sure way to get you moving.

No one is immune from the desire to get outdoors and do something active while enjoying the weather - and that includes people with chronic pain issues. Whether you're dealing with arthritis or trying to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, the threat of pain is one of the most challenging obstacles to overcome for those who want to live an active lifestyle, because no one wants to take the risk of aggravating their health problems.

But even if you're living with pain, it's essential to heed the call of the outdoors this spring and be active. There are plenty of ways to mitigate pain issues and avoid further injury. The important thing is to consult your doctor and to work out a plan together that will let you get the exercise you want and need without worsening your pain. And, in fact, exercising can be an important part of overcoming some of those issues - as long as it's done in the right way.

There are a lot of activities that we all love to do that require a lot of repetitive motion. Tennis is a popular sport for all ages, and a game that can be played over a lifetime, but for people suffering from joint pain and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the repeated swinging motions required for a good volley can drive them off the court.

Similarly, gardeners eager to get their hands in the dirt can be limited by pain that crops up with the repetitious motion involved in tilling, preparing beds, digging and planting. For people suffering from CTS, whether they are gardeners, tennis players or otherwise, supportive gloves can provide the relief they need. One example, IMAK's SmartGlove, features a comfortably flexible support splint that keeps hands in a good position without being stiff, and helps to relieve or prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. It's ideal for active lifestyles because it is breathable and washable, and it's an effective non-surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise is an important part of dealing with back pain. Not only does it strengthen the muscles and joints, but it can stretch contracted muscles, improve posture and even help protect against injury by improving your overall fitness.

Another health problem that exercise can positively affect is arthritis. When you go outside and start being active this spring, you can help your arthritis with activities like tai chi, strengthening exercises and cardio exercise that get your heart working. It's recommended that you protect your joints by warming them up prior to exercise, and by being gentle on your body - starting out too hard and fast can cause problems. Support products like IMAK's SmartGlove can also help you stay in good alignment as you work out.

Don't resist the urge to soak in the sunshine because of pain and discomfort this spring. Not only is getting outside easier than ever with supportive therapies, but it's an essential part of living a healthier, pain-free life.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Aging in place can be done with style and grace (ARA) - Aging in place - updating one's home to accommodate changing needs and abilities as one ages - doesn't have to mean sacrificing a home's style and decor. From attractive lighting designed to work well for aging eyes to barrier-free shower stalls that compete in beauty and practicality with what you might find in a luxury community for those 55 and older, plenty of home modifications now make it possible to age in place gracefully and stylishly.

"It's no longer necessary to give up your home's good looks for a more institutional-looking appearance just to achieve a safer, more usable house," says Eric Kozak of Premier Care In Bathing, leading makers of walk-in baths. "You can age in place and retain the style that makes living in your home comfortable and safe, and maintain your independence at the same time."

With more than 78 million baby boomers growing older in the United States, aging in place - and how to do it well - is a hot topic for many homeowners. If you're planning ahead or thinking it's now time to update your home to accommodate changing needs, keep a few things in mind:

Kitchens and baths are commonly the most challenging rooms in the house for people, like many seniors, with mobility issues. Updating these rooms can go a long way toward helping you stay in and enjoy your own home for as long as possible. "Bathrooms, in particular, pose safety issues. Falls are one of the leading reasons seniors must go into nursing homes and most home falls occur in the bathroom," Kozak says.

When renovating your bathroom, focus on the important elements, including low-level entryways, accessible grab bars, easy grip faucets and showers with safety screens. Other elements include safer, slip-resistant flooring; brighter, more flexible lighting; and safe access to the shower or bathtub.

Walk in showers

Stepping in and out of a tub or shower is one of the riskiest times for people with mobility challenges. Appropriately placed grab bars - now available in designer colors and textures - can help improve safety in these high-risk areas. Another option that's high on safety and style is to replace a current shower or tub with a walk-in shower like those now offered by Premier Care In Bathing, whose walk-in bathtubs have made bathing safer and more convenient for thousands of Americans with mobility issues. The walk-in showers are a good option for wheelchair users or in rooms where a full-size tub is not practical.

Two size options, 48 inches and 60 inches, ensure convenience and luxury. A waist-high, folding screen, designed with proprietary technology, keeps water inside the shower and not on the bathroom floor. From the waist up, you can add your own decorative touch with the shower curtain design of your choice, hung on a gracefully curved rod like the ones found in quality hotel baths. Dual Delta showerheads provide the option of an overhead shower or a hand-held shower, and a safe and relaxing folding seat. Installation can often be done in just a day or two.

Visit www.premier-bathrooms.com or call (800) 578-2899 to learn more.

Flooring

That tile floor that you adored in your 40s can be a slip hazard when you reach your 70s. In fact, any hard bathroom floor surface such as linoleum, vinyl or tile can put you at increased risk of slipping and falling. Carpeting might be a better option, one that is slip resistant and warmer and softer on the feet. Many manufacturers now offer materials that are attractive and able to repel moisture. If installing carpeting isn't practical for you, use area rugs with sticky backing to help ensure safe footing in high traffic areas, like in front of the commode, sink and bathtub.

Lighting

Aging eyes not only need more light to see, they need better quality light, especially at night. Avoid dim lighting; older eyes need several times more light than younger eyes to see well, experts say. Increase the amount of light in your bathroom and consider using naturally brighter bulbs like compact fluorescent bulbs, which are also energy-efficient.

Be aware of glare, as well. Bright lights bouncing off all-white bathroom surfaces can create glare that makes it difficult to see and navigate for older people, especially at night when they may not be fully awake. If your bath is all white, paint the walls a light color in a finish that will help reduce glare. Use area rugs on white floors to help break up the expanse of white and reduce glare.

"Boomers aging in place will find more options than ever before to do so with style," Kozak says. "Safety should be your first concern, but you can also enjoy good style and beautiful design as well."

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

What will you do to stop diabetes? Know your risk (ARA) - Are you 45 years of age or older? Have you ever had high blood pressure? Did you have gestational diabetes while pregnant? Does anyone in your family have diabetes? If so, you may be at risk for one of the nation's deadly diseases - diabetes.

Tuesday, March 23, 2010, is American Diabetes Association Alert Day. On Diabetes Alert Day, the Association is asking the public "What will you do to stop diabetes?" and encouraging them to join the Stop Diabetes movement by taking the Diabetes Risk Test. The Diabetes Risk Test requires users to answer simple questions about weight, age, family history and other potential risk factors for type 2 diabetes. The Diabetes Risk Test will show users whether they are at low, moderate, or high risk for pre-diabetes or diabetes.

There are approximately 24 million Americans living with diabetes, and nearly 6 million Americans have type 2 diabetes, but don't even know it. Another 57 million, or one in five, Americans have pre-diabetes, placing them at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes. If current trends continue, one out of three children born today will face a future with diabetes.

Unfortunately, people with type 2 diabetes can live for years without realizing that they have the disease. While people with diabetes can exhibit noticeable symptoms, such as frequent urination, blurred vision and excessive thirst, most people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes do not show these overt warning signs at the time that they develop the disease. Often, type 2 diabetes only becomes evident when people develop one or more of its serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, eye damage or nerve damage that can lead to amputations.

Studies have shown that type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by losing just 5 to 7 percent of body weight through regular physical activity (30 minutes a day, five days a week) and healthy eating. Armed with this information, gather your friends, family, loved ones and/or co-workers and take a 30-minute walk and get started with a healthier lifestyle today.

Join the Stop Diabetes movement by taking the Diabetes Risk Test and find out if you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes by visiting stopdiabetes.com/takethetest or call (800) DIABETES.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Health care reform advice from America's... (ARA) - As one year ends and another begins, all eyes remain on Congress and the two health bills that will shape the U.S. health system in 2010 and beyond. The American Medical Association has been a regular presence in the health reform debate and has outlined a set of guiding principles for health system reform that will benefit patients and physicians.

"Health care reform has been a major focal point for the AMA and Congress for most of this year, and as the year draws to a close we are closer than ever to achieving health care legislation that will benefit all Americans," says AMA President Dr. J. James Rohack. "We need reform that builds on what works in our system and fixes what doesn't, and we are committed to staying involved in the process to improve the final legislation for patients and physicians."

What should be included in health system reform?

* Expanded health insurance coverage for all Americans

Why this is important: The uninsured live sicker and die younger than those with health insurance. Fearing big medical bills, they often delay care so an illness that could have been easily treated early on becomes more difficult and costly to treat. Increasing health insurance coverage can lead to more preventive care, better disease management and healthier Americans.

* Insurance market reforms

Why this is important: In the last 10 years, family premiums for health insurance have increased 131 percent. Americans need more choices of affordable health insurance coverage that can't be lost because of job loss or denied based on pre-existing conditions.

* Protection of the patient-physician relationship

Why this is important: The patient-physician relationship is the cornerstone of quality health care. Reform efforts must assure that medical decisions and health care choices remain in the hands of patients and their physicians, and are not dictated by insurers or government bureaucrats.

* Investment in quality improvement efforts

Why this is important: Optimizing the safety and quality of health care for America's patients is an essential component to true health system reform. By making investments in quality improvement efforts that eliminate problems in the system and promote best practices in medicine, physicians can ensure patients are receiving the best care possible.

* Increased focus on prevention and wellness

Why this is important: Seven out of 10 Americans are living with a chronic condition and the cost of treating these conditions accounts for nearly 75 percent of our nation's overall health care spending. Getting regular, preventive care and living a healthier lifestyle greatly reduces the risk for chronic diseases and allows for conditions to be identified and treated early.

* Repeal of the broken Medicare physician payment formula

Why this is important: Each year this flawed payment formula threatens steep cuts to physicians for the care of seniors and military families. With the baby boomers aging into the Medicare program in just two years, a permanent solution is imperative to protect access to care for the millions who rely on Medicare and TRICARE now and those that will in the future.

* Medical liability reforms

Why this is important: Our country's broken medical liability system forces many physicians to order unnecessary tests, scans, consultations and even hospitalization to protect against malpractice suits. Known as defensive medicine, these practices cost our system an estimated $70 billion to $126 billion and drive a wedge between patients and physicians. Medical liability reforms can help curb health care costs and keep physicians practicing solid evidence-based medicine.

* Eliminate waste in the claims process

Why this is important: Administrative burdens weigh down physician offices, adding unnecessary costs and taking away time from patient care. The insurance claims process must be streamlined and standardized so physicians can spend their time doing what they do best - caring for patients.

"A new year can symbolize a new beginning, and in 2010 the AMA is looking forward to a new and improved health system that better serves patients and empowers physicians to deliver the highest quality care," says Dr. Rohack. To learn more about the American Medical Association and its efforts in support of health care reform, visit www.hsreform.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

An active life begins with healthy joints (ARA) - The new year often means resolutions like being healthier or exercising more often. What many people don't know is that our joints are the critical part of the body that allows us to be active and do the activities we most enjoy.

Approximately one-third of Americans 35 and older say their joints prevent them from doing their favorite sport or activity in the last year and more than 50 percent of them just accepted that as part of the aging process, according to a recent study. The good news is there are simple and effective steps you can take to strengthen and protect these "forgotten soldiers" - ensuring your joints a healthy kick-off to an active year.

Dr. Kevin R. Stone, an orthopedic surgeon at the Stone Clinic and founder of the Stone Research Foundation and Joint Juice, a San Francisco-based joint health beverage company, offers five tips for helping to maintain healthy joints:

1. Manage your weight - You won't just look better - you'll feel better. Every extra pound puts four times the stress on your knees and other weight-bearing joints. Even a small amount of weight loss will give your joints relief.

2. Be supplement savvy - Dietary supplements like glucosamine have been proven to help maintain joint function and mobility. Glucosamine is produced naturally in the body, but due to the physical demands of everyday life (let alone running, tennis or even walking), our body's supply is often not enough. Joint Juice beverages provide an easy way to drink your daily supply of glucosamine and avoid having to swallow two big horse pills a day.

3. Stretch - Stretching isn't just for workouts. Take breaks throughout the day, especially at the office, to get re-energized. Range-of-motion exercises are a good way to keep muscles and ligaments flexible and strong.

4. Use good technique - When sitting, standing and especially when lifting, using the proper technique will prevent fatigue and injury. Ask an expert if you don't know how to do it, but be sure to assess your technique for these simple daily activities.

5. Make a date with your doctor - See a physician for a routine check-up at least once a year. Request an examination of your joints - from head to toe - and ask for tips on protecting your joints from daily stress.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Many back pain ailments may be relieved at... (ARA) - Piercing pain between your shoulder blades? Constant dull ache in your lower back? If you haven't experienced these symptoms yet, you probably will.

In fact, 80 percent of the population will suffer from a back problem at some point in their lives, according to the American Chiropractic Association. What can you do to help beat these back aches and pains? The remedy could start at home.

A recent survey of primary care physicians conducted by the L.C. Williams & Associates Research Group for La-Z-Boy uncovered a simple activity that can easily be added to your daily routine - seven in 10 doctors agree that reclining at home can decrease back pain.

Many types of back pain, caused by a variety of reasons including heavy lifting and poor posture, can be eased without surgery. Find comfort at home by following these three easy ideas which may help to alleviate back pain and strengthen your back for the future.

1. Stretch away tension - Stretching is a great way to loosen muscles and relieve tension in your back. But, be sure to consult your physician if you have any medical conditions, and move carefully to keep from straining or inflicting additional pain. This means warming up your muscles with a quick walk before you stretch, stretching slowly and steadily and only reaching as far as your body will comfortably allow.

2. Recline with support - Sitting in a reclined position is often an effective step in helping to relieve back pain, as it transfers weight and pressure off of your spine and allows your muscles to relax. Get comfortable in reclining furniture with total body and lumbar support, meaning that no extra stress is placed on any one part of the body, and be sure to fully recline and adjust the leg rest to the highest position. This will redistribute your weight and ease pressure on your lower spine - 80 percent of doctors prefer for patients to recline with their legs elevated up high and their backs partially or fully reclined.

3. Apply "steamy" heat - As long as it's not within 24 to 48 hours of an acute injury, the next time you are feeling discomfort, apply a moist heat pack directly on the point of pain to help relax and loosen the surrounding muscles. Moist heat, as opposed to an ice pack, increases the flow of blood to the area, and thus can help speed recovery.

"I encourage patients to take steps toward a healthier back every day," says Dr. Dave David, a board-certified physician who has been practicing medicine for more than 30 years. "From utilizing at-home remedies to stretching regularly and utilizing reclining furniture with the right support, sufferers can oftentimes find soothing relief from current aches and pains and work to prevent future discomfort."

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Seek the best returns for your hard-earned savings (ARA) - More Americans are setting money aside in savings accounts these days, due to the financial crisis. And investing Americans have become more conservative, holding onto more cash than they might have in the past. Both trends are good ones and will lead to a stronger economy in the long run.

But with low interest rates on short-term CDs, money market funds and savings accounts hovering around zero percent, you may have difficulty finding an attractive place to park your savings.

Savers will have to be a little more creative to earn a respectable return. In light of this, it is helpful to explore some strategies to help make your cash work harder. However, you should carefully evaluate two potential issues with any strategy to boost returns on cash - the risk of losing your principal and earnings, and the accessibility of your funds. With this in mind, here are a few ways that you can earn returns that are higher than the 0.6 percent being paid by the average savings account:

1. Pay off debt. Before considering any of the options described here, think about paying off debt. Credit card balances or car loans with high interest rates are attractive options for deploying your cash, and best of all, provide a guaranteed return. The only drawback is that once you pay off debt, you lose access to the funds. Still, if you have set aside enough cash for an emergency fund, then using some of your cash to pay off debt is a very sensible option when interest rates on savings accounts and CDs are so low.

2. Buy a two-year CD. CD rates are at historic lows, but two-year CDs can provide an interest rate well above the typical savings account or money market fund. CDs are virtually risk-free if held to maturity and as long as you invest below the FDIC limits of $250,000 per individual, per institution. Buying a two-year CD also means that if interest rates rise, you will not have to wait very long until you can reinvest your money in a higher yielding CD or savings account.

3. Invest in a high quality short- or medium-term bond mutual fund. Buying a bond mutual fund that invests in highly rated bonds that mature in two to five years may provide higher returns than placing your savings in a money market fund or short-term CD. In addition, unlike a CD, your money is accessible at any time, though some bond funds may assess a modest early redemption fee. The major risk is that the value of your initial investment may go down, particularly if interest rates rise quickly. You can gauge this risk by finding out what a fund's duration is - the duration is a measure of how sensitive a fund is to changes in interest rates. For example, a fund with a duration of three years will fall approximately 3 percent if rates rose by one percentage point; a fund with a duration of five years would fall 5 percent if rates rose by one percentage point. While these declines are not dramatic, bond fund investors should be prepared to tolerate this level of volatility. The silver lining is that when interest rates rise and a bond fund falls in value, the future returns on the fund will also rise over time as the fund gets the opportunity to invest in higher yielding bonds. Fixed income securities are subject to interest rate risk, and their value will decline as interest rates rise.

4. Take a look at insurance products. You may already own a universal life insurance policy, either through work or a policy you purchased years ago. These products usually allow you to invest a certain amount each year, say 10 times your annual premium, in an account that will earn a guaranteed rate of return backed by the insurer. For some products, the guaranteed return is more than 4 percent today. The details will vary based on the product, so check with your insurance agent or employer.

Another insurance product that may make sense is a variable annuity. If you are approaching retirement, a variable annuity provides a means to convert cash that you may have set aside for retirement into a future stream of guaranteed retirement income. Many variable annuities, for an additional cost, will guarantee a steady increase, such as 5 percent each year, in the future retirement income that you can draw on the assets you invest for as long as you hold off on drawing your retirement income. However, it is important to keep in mind that while variable annuities guarantee you a future retirement income, the actual value of your assets held within such a product will fluctuate and can go down.

In addition, variable annuities have a broad range of features and contract terms, such as early withdrawal fees, to consider. A variable annuity is suitable for long-term investing, particularly retirement savings. It is best to speak to a knowledgeable financial advisor to evaluate whether a variable annuity is a suitable way to invest your cash. All guarantees are based on the claims-paying abilities of the issuer.

5. Invest in a stable value fund. Stable value funds are similar to high quality bond funds, but provide one added feature - a guarantee that you cannot lose your principal and accumulated earnings. These guarantees, which are dependent on the claims-paying ability of the issuing company, are usually backed by major insurers and even during 2008, stable value funds delivered an average return in excess of 4 percent, according to a Washington Post report. However, stable value funds are generally only available in 401(k) or similar accounts.

So, this may be a good time to consider whether you could benefit by contributing more money to your retirement accounts and investing these contributions in a stable value fund. An additional benefit of doing this is that the retirement account may be tax advantaged and either defer tax on contributions and earnings or, in the case of a Roth account, provide for income tax free earnings. The main drawback to this strategy is that your money will be harder to access once contributed to a retirement account, since taxes and penalties may be assessed on early withdrawals.

Maximizing returns on cash is likely to be an area of interest for households for years to come as Americans recalibrate their finances in the wake of the financial crisis. Interesting and effective options exist for maximizing returns on cash if you look beyond the traditional options of a money market fund or savings account. Choosing among these options requires carefully thinking about how much easily accessible cash you need for emergencies, what your long-term plans are for your cash, and what trade-offs in terms of risk and accessibility you are willing to live with.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Home security and safety improvements for... (ARA) - Home security and safety for senior citizens is an issue with the potential to affect us all. According to the Administration on Aging (AOA), by the year 2030, 20 percent of the total population will be 65 or older. Much of this group will be people who are living independently and hoping to enjoy long, healthy retirements. Simple home improvements can go a long way in preserving the health and safety of seniors, allowing them to live happily and independently, for years to come.

Lighting
One bad fall can put an end to independent living for an otherwise capable senior citizen. Lighting is particularly important for preventing injury due to falling or missteps. Replace light bulbs with compact fluorescent types, as they last longer and burn brighter. Make sure stairways and bathrooms are bright and hallways have nightlights or motion sensors so that middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom do not result in disaster. The same goes for outside: delineate paths, walkways and stairs with adequate lighting. And look into magnifying lamps for living rooms and bedside tables.

Flooring
If you or your loved one lives in a home with lots of hardwood or tiles, consider area rugs with non-skid matting underneath. Inspect high traffic areas regularly for uneven floorboards or cracked tiles. A nice pair of house shoes with firm rubber soles can also go a long way in preventing slips and falls.

Bathrooms
The bathroom can be a dangerous spot for seniors. Install safety handles and a bench in the shower for support and easier access. Add non-slip appliques to the shower floor and a sturdy mat just outside the shower where wet feet hit the ground. Make sure toiletries and towels are within easy reach. Stretching to grab an item can be precarious when balance and vision aren't what they used to be.

Home security
Home alarm systems have been available for decades, but not everyone is fully aware of their life-saving potential. A good alarm system obviously helps protect against unexpected intruders and potential criminals. A wireless alarm system can also offer immediate emergency support, via remote control, so that no matter what the situation, the proper authorities can be reached with a simple push of a button.

Fire safety
Fire is a serious risk for any homeowner, but it is a particular threat to people over the age of 65. Decreased hearing, vision and mobility are major detriments during an emergency. Make sure fire alarms are equipped with fresh batteries, are placed in every room, and have alerts loud enough to be effective. A robust home alarm system package will include additional protection against fire.

Take the time to make the small changes necessary to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Just a few simple home improvements can keep seniors living happily and independently throughout their retirement.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Therapy animals prove 'man's best... (ARA) - When Sunny, a 3-year-old golden retriever, began working for San Diego Unified School District last spring, one of her first students was a fourth-grader with cerebral palsy, mobile only with the aid of a walker.

Adaptive physical education teacher Andrea Bazer says that as soon as this young student met Sunny, she was eager to take Sunny for a walk -- first with the help of her walker, then with Bazer helping, and finally without any assistance. This transformation took several months, but once the student knew she could walk Sunny without the walker, she realized she didn't need a walker at all.

"She walks all over school now," says Bazer, who has worked as an adaptive physical education teacher for the district for six years. "It's amazing to see. Sunny gets the kids to do many things that they won't do for me. When they're working with Sunny, they forget they can't do things."

Therapy animals like Sunny are highly trained and play very active roles in the educational or therapy program they're involved in. Sunny helps by playing fetch and other interactive games with the students. Children in therapy with horses benefit through interacting with the animals and riding them. A client must be confident to lead and/or train a therapy animal, and this provides an opportunity for growth.

Today, animals help out in educational and health care settings so often that the wide array of roles they play can be a bit confusing. For example, within the ranks of assistance animals, there are therapy dogs like Sunny and also visiting animals, which visit the sick in hospitals or nursing homes, providing a warm, soft head to pat.

Bazer works with about 45 preschool to sixth grade children with disabilities at five schools, and she said that Sunny is an asset in her class. Sunny recently helped Bazer achieve a breakthrough with a preschool-aged child who was refusing to open up when faced with a stranger - Bazer. "The child's first word during the assessment was 'dog,' as soon as he saw Sunny," Bazer explains.

Sunny is a hard worker as well; she works 40 hours a week at schools, and then Bazer regularly takes her to the Naval Medical Center in San Diego to give a psychological boost to wounded soldiers receiving treatment.

Dr. Hayden Sears, vice chairman of the American Veterinary Medical Association's (AVMA) Committee on Human-Animal Bond says the impact animals can have on hospital and nursing home patients, people with disabilities, children and the elderly in therapy situations is remarkable to witness. Dr. Sears worked with therapy animals prior to becoming a veterinarian.

"I have also done a lot with horses and people," Dr. Sears explains. "People with multiple sclerosis, people with broken backs, all the way down to children with cerebral palsy, really benefit from working with a therapy horse."

Dr. Sears says that while most people associate therapy animals with a psychological boost for patients, the impact can also be very physical. For example, horseback riding is known to stimulate the nervous system and offer strengthening and mobility therapy for the disabled. Research consistently shows that therapy animals are helpful with multiple conditions, including heart disease, substance abuse, schizophrenia and dementia.

The active ingredient in animal therapy is a little-understood concept called the human-animal bond. The AVMA has officially recognized the existence of the human-animal bond since 1982. And the AVMA states that this bond has existed for thousands of years. "Interactions with animals can provide emotional and physical health benefits for diverse human populations, including the elderly, children, physically disabled, deaf, blind, emotionally or physically ill, and the incarcerated," AVMA policy states.

Therapy animals have a long history, as well. Florence Nightingale recommended the use of a small pet to provide companionship to the sick, and ancient Greeks believed dogs had healing powers.

While most therapy animals are dogs and cats, therapists have found success using chickens and even small ruminants like goats.

"There have been therapy programs that have worked with cattle," says Carol Davis, executive director of Paws'itive Teams, a California organization that trains both therapy and service animals. Paws'itive Teams is the organization that trained Sunny.

Davis says that over the past decade she's seen the demand for her animals increase and more diversity in the work these animals are asked to do. Today, therapy animals trained by Paws'itive Teams work with foster children during evaluation sessions and with children who have been victimized.

"We have one dog that works at a county courthouse with children who have been abused and will have to testify against their abuser," Davis says. "In some cases, the judge will allow the children to take the dog with them onto the stand for support."

The AVMA policy on therapy animals suggests that the relationship between therapy animals and their human clients must be mutually beneficial, explains Dr. Emily Patterson-Kane of the AVMA Animal Welfare Division.

"People experience great benefits from living or working with therapy animals, and we must make sure that the animals benefit from working with us," Patterson-Kane says. "The real power of the human-animal bond is that people and animals can make each others' lives richer and more meaningful."

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

10 senior housing development trends for the... (ARA) - America finds itself amid the historic "age wave" - the largest ever demographic shift from a younger to older population. The next 10 years are pivotal in senior housing and services development. According to the Administration on Aging, from 2010 to 2030, the U.S. population aged 65 and over is expected to grow by 75 percent to over 69 million. Many in this large cohort will live longer, have more education, be more affluent and have greater expectations than any previous senior generation.

Many entrepreneurs, developers and investors salivate at the product needs of an aging population. And one area that draws immediate interest is senior housing. But those who think changing demographics mean "if you build it, they will come," are potentially setting themselves up for failure.

Those who have seniority next are also the savviest consumers America has seen and that means those thinking senior housing development will have to think more strategically and substantively about consumer preferences than ever before. Following are 10 senior housing development trends to be mindful of in this new decade.

Sustainable design
Energy efficient and environmentally responsible design and development are becoming increasingly important to the senior housing market. LEED Certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is great, but not everyone can achieve or afford that. However, there are many cost-effective, sustainable features that can still be achieved even if one doesn't seek LEED designation.

Universal design
People enjoy ease no matter their age or physical ability. Homes with universal design look like other homes, they're just much easier to use. The smart features of a universally designed home will serve its inhabitants even when physical abilities change. No-steps entryways, one-story living, wide doorways and hallways, no-slip bathroom surfaces, ample built-in lighting, lever door handles and slow-closing storm doors are some of the features appreciated by people of any age, especially with an armload of groceries.

Technology, technology, technology
According to the Pew Internet & America Life Project, an initiative of the Pew Research Center, four in 10 seniors currently use the Internet. Seniors' use of technology will only increase. Who doesn't want wireless computer access throughout their home? And fast, secure access to communication, shopping and information available on the Internet? But how about wireless, non-audio/visual sensor technology that can signal to your security service that "patterns of movement" in your home might indicate a situation that requires assistance? For seniors who prefer to live in their own homes, compromising medical or physical conditions notwithstanding, sensor technology is just one of the growing means of support for aging in place, with the reassurance of knowing help is available when needed and online connections to family, friends and others a click away.

Age of amenities
Make no mistake, life is in the details. No one seems to become less particular as they age. Flexibility with regard to individual amenities is important to anyone making housing arrangements, and it should be equally important to senior housing developers. Whether a la carte, bundled or marketed as care and service tiers - all will need to be itemized and transparent as to what, exactly, one can expect for their retirement dollar. Love the cookies, but the cookie-cutter approach is so last century.

At-home services
Not everyone wants to live in senior housing. Senior housing providers that flourish will develop service strategies that extend outside of their bricks and mortar to serve people who want to remain in their own homes. Senior housing providers who don't embrace possibilities for being a "go-to" source on aging gracefully, wellness and living fully, will be at a disadvantage.

NORCs and virtual villages
NORCs (naturally occurring retirement communities) develop where communities have a population of neighbors who age as a cohort, whether in an apartment building, a single block, or neighborhood. These also can be multigenerational. Aging in place means more independent senior living and not having to move to access services and products to meet your needs. It is possible for aging neighbors to band together and develop, or find help to develop, a variety of services from home repair to education to health care, thereby retaining the highest quality of life for all residents as they age. For example, Ecumen, a senior housing provider and developer, recently worked with a community in Minneapolis to create Mill City Commons.

Continuing care retirement communities
Sometimes called "life care retirement communities," many CCRCs guarantee lifetime housing and care with long-term agreements about the obligations of the CCRC as well as its costs. Usually expensive, with entrance fees and monthly payments, residents might own or rent their space, depending on the CCRC arrangements. CCRCs can successfully mingle active adults, as well as those with serious physical and mental disabilities, in a campus-like community. As their needs change, residents move from one type of housing to another, all within the same campus system. For many people, a CCRC becomes a long-term care insurance policy.

Empowerment
Senior housing providers that do best will empower residents. People make their own choices their entire adult life - why should that change when one reaches "senior" status? The senior housing profession will see more customer-experience tools where customers outline their expectations about how they want to live. Looking to more fully empower its customers, Ecumen created what they call a "lifestyle covenant," where customers reflect and share what's most important to them in how they live their life. Ecumen employees then use that insight to forge a "covenant" with the customer to outline how they're both going to support the desired lifestyle. The partnership agreement is signed by the customer and the employees that will be working with him or her.

Memory care
According to the Alzheimer's Association there are nearly a half million new cases of Alzheimer's each year. By 2050, that number will double to nearly a million new cases per year. It would be wonderful to be able to eliminate all memory care housing because that means there is an Alzheimer's cure. Until then, communities need to provide empowering housing and services that will allow people to live as fully as possible with this devastating disease.

New ways of financing
The days of low equity or 100 percent debt financing for new senior housing construction are gone for the foreseeable future. Certain former "go-to" governmental programs have recently been tightening their underwriting criteria and financing from those sources have become increasingly difficult to obtain. Look for more partnerships, for-profit/non-profit joint ventures, increased use of subordinated debt and other emerging financing vehicles to enable projects to move forward in the next 10-year period.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Mapping out a plan: learn the role and... (ARA) - Imagine being confined to bed for days at a time because you can't walk or you are having difficulty resting your elbow on your desk. No one can foresee exactly when a gout attack might occur -- it could be the morning of an important work presentation, the day of your son's wedding or your granddaughter's dance recital.

Unfortunately, this is a reality for many of the approximately 5 million Americans who live with gout -- and experiencing an attack means that elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, called hyperuricemia, promoted formation of uric acid crystals, causing this painful episode.

Gout is a chronic, metabolic condition and is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis in men. It's also common in post-menopausal women. Gout has been associated with poor health and physical health-related life quality. The disease can progress through stages. As uric acid builds up in the blood, needle-like crystals of uric acid can form and collect in the joints and/or soft tissue and can trigger an acute gout attack marked by intense pain, redness, swelling and heat in the affected joint. Gout attacks can occur in the big toe and other parts of the body, including, but not limited to, insteps, ankles, knees, wrists, elbows and fingers. It is important to know there are management options that can help reduce the risk of recurrence of attacks for people with gout.

"The pain associated with gout attacks can be debilitating and can leave patients fearful of the next attack," says Dr. Theodore Fields, Fellow of the American College of Physicians and director of Rheumatology Faculty Practice Plan, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York. "Many patients only go to the doctor when they have an attack and don't realize that with the appropriate management plan, they can aim to lower uric acid levels and keep them in a target range, which can reduce the risk of future gout attacks over time."

According to Dr. Fields, the following steps can be taken to help manage high uric acid levels and gout:

* Tune in to your body now - Pay attention to your aches and pains, and take note if they don't seem normal for you. Be sure to schedule regular appointments with your health care provider to discuss your health and, more specifically, your uric acid levels if you have gout. It's important that you share all of your symptoms and concerns -- there's no need to be embarrassed.

Despite common belief, gout is not caused nor controlled by diet alone. Gout is often linked to a genetic condition. Most people are able to rid their bodies of uric acid. But, if your body produces too much uric acid or has a difficult time getting rid of uric acid, it builds up in your blood. While limiting alcohol and certain foods is important, diet changes alone will not typically be enough to get rid of the buildup of uric acid in the body to reduce your risk of future gout attacks. To help manage your gout, you should discuss a management plan with your health care professional.

* Map out a plan - Experts recognize that a target range for uric acid is below 6 mg/dL in patients with gout. If you have gout, you may want to check with your doctor to test your uric acid during a routine physical, and if your uric acid level is high, to develop a management plan that will help treat your flares and treat the underlying cause. There are two types of medical treatment for gout: medicine that treats the acute symptoms (pain and inflammation) and medicine that treats the underlying cause (high uric acid).

* Seek Support - In addition to working with your doctor, speak with trusted family members and/or friends if you have concerns about your health, and get the support you need. You may even learn that one of your relatives has gout since it's often linked to a genetic condition. You can also visit www.Gout.com to learn more about hyperuricemia and gout.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

What a heart failure diagnosis really means for... (ARA) - Hearing the words "heart failure" from your doctor is a frightening thing. If that is your diagnosis, you're not alone - more than 5 million Americans are affected by heart failure. But while it is certainly serious, it is not quite as ominous as it sounds. The good news is that there have been tremendous strides in heart care treatment in recent years, which enables patients with the disease to live full, active, normal lives.

One key thing to remember about heart failure is what it actually means. It's not a death sentence; it means that your heart muscle has changed. It's either weakened or it has become stiff, which means that it has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body.

"Many people with heart failure can lead relatively normal, active lives. The key is early diagnosis and treatment," says Dr. Stephen Gottlieb, chair, Heart Failure Society of America Education Committee. "New treatments can be very effective in slowing and stopping the progression of the disease, and in some cases can even reverse the process."

It's when heart failure goes undiagnosed and untreated that things go wrong, which is why it is the leading cause of hospitalization in people older than 65. Many people have questions about this common disease, and the more you know, the better you'll be able deal with a heart failure diagnosis.

Question: What causes heart failure?

Answer: Heart failure develops following an injury to the heart. Heart attacks, long-term untreated high blood pressure, alcohol abuse, or an abnormality of one of the heart valves can all cause the damage that leads to heart failure. You are also at increased risk if you have a history of a heart murmur, suffer from enlargement of the heart or have a family history of enlarged hearts, or if you are diabetic. In some cases, the exact cause of heart failure is not known.

Question: What symptoms should I watch for?

Answer: Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath even when the activity you are engaging in is not strenuous; difficulty breathing in a laying down position; weight gain and fluid retention that lead to swelling in the legs and ankles; and general fatigue and weakness. Of course, many other health problems may share some of these symptoms, so it's important to talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital.

Question: I've been diagnosed with heart failure. What do I do now?

Answer: Take charge. Working with your doctor, you can find a treatment plan that will help you live the healthiest life possible for you. Your treatment will include diet modifications, an exercise plan and certain medications. Limit your salt and alcohol intake. If you smoke, quit. Lose weight if your doctor advises it and exercise regularly. And be sure to weigh yourself daily and report any sudden weight gain or swelling to your doctor.

Once you've been diagnosed with heart failure, it's important to take good care of yourself and to enlist the support of family and friends. To learn more about how to live well with heart failure, visit www.abouthf.org to download information or request to have complimentary materials mailed to you. All the information on this site is designed for patients and is easy to read and understand.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Stop colon cancer now: screening equals prevention (ARA) - Colon cancer is the second-deadliest form of cancer in the U.S., yet it doesn't have to be. More than 90 percent of colon cancer cases are curable if caught in their early stages.

In an effort to showcase the important message that screening equals prevention when dealing with colon cancer, an awareness campaign called Stop Colon Cancer Now, and powered by AmSurg, aims to educate the public about early detection and prevention of the disease, to eliminate the stigma associated with colonoscopies and to increase regular screenings for people over 50 and for other groups at added risk for the disease.

The risk of a person having colorectal cancer in his/her lifetime is about 1 in 19. Almost 75 percent of colon cancer cases have no prior family history and most have no symptoms. Scientists are still unsure of exactly what causes colon and colorectal cancer, but some risk factors have been identified, including a high-fat diet, diabetes, smoking, alcohol, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and other inflammatory bowel diseases.

Americans continue to battle this disease at alarming rates with 49,920 reported deaths in the U.S. in 2009. It is important to understand who is at risk, and what the available prevention methods are, to eliminate the onset of colon cancer.

Colon cancer indiscriminately affects people regardless of race, sex, economic status or geography. There often are no symptoms. It is important to get screened if you are:

* 45 and older and African-American
* 50 or older
* 40 or older and have a family history of polyps or colon or rectal cancer
* Have a history of cancer or polyps found earlier

The easiest way to prevent colon cancer is to schedule a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a painless screening test that provides important information about your digestive health. For most patients, a colon cancer screening does not have to be performed at a hospital. Today, many outpatient centers provide screenings by highly skilled physicians in a more relaxed, personal environment and usually with much lower out-of pocket costs for the patient.

No matter where you live or work, stopcoloncancernow.com provides valuable education, colon cancer screening options, screening locations, insightful patient stories and more.

Additional information on colon cancer and prevention methods can be found online at www.stopcoloncancernow.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Tips to manage the silent emotional and... (ARA) - More than 34 million people are caring for an aging parent in the United States today. It is estimated one in two of these caregivers are baby boomers, adults in the "sandwich generation," caught between caring for their aging parents while raising families of their own.

Caring for a loved one puts a great deal of strain on caregivers, taking a toll on everything, including their health, relationships and finances. Balancing caregiving with managing households and busy careers has become a struggle for millions of Americans and is made worse when the loved one has incontinence.

Caring.com, a leading online destination for people caring for aging parents, and TENA, the worldwide leader in the management of bladder control issues, conducted an in-depth survey on the impact of incontinence on caregivers.

The survey revealed that 65 percent of Caring.com members are dealing with incontinence in a parent, grandparent or spouse and three out of four caregivers are tackling two to three extra loads of laundry each week as a result of incontinence. About one third of caregivers find incontinence difficult to handle and 42 percent said dealing with their loved one's incontinence sometimes leads to depression.

"Incontinence often can be frustrating and overwhelming for a person caring for an aging parent or loved one, but there are steps caregivers can take to meet this challenge," says Ann Cason, caregiving expert, author and founder and director of Circles of Care. "These include considering all available treatment options, discussing incontinence in a straightforward and factual way, and asking for physical or emotional support if you need it."

Caregivers should remember they are not alone and can rely on others to help them through difficult times. Some tips to help manage their loved one's incontinence include:

* Establish a dialogue: It's important to be able to talk with your loved one about their incontinence. Over time, incontinence symptoms may change or get worse. If you share an open line of communication, you'll be better equipped to manage these changes by using different products and adjusting your care management plan. Caring.com has a variety of resources with helpful information on how caregivers can talk to their loved one about difficult issues, including who should do the talking, when to have the conversation, where to have it, what to say and how to avoid emotional land mines.

* Create a routine: Having a standard routine helps make it easier for you and your loved one to predict when they may need to use the bathroom. Eating meals around the same time each day, drinking a steady amount of water and keeping a journal of bathroom visits can help in managing incontinence.

* Be prepared: Make sure your loved one has plenty of time to go to the bathroom before you leave the house. Bring a bag with extra incontinence products, wipes and a change of clothes. Being prepared not only helps in the event of an accident, it also helps your loved one to feel more confident and secure.

* Use the right tools: Not all absorbent products are created equal. Absorbent products are designed to meet a variety of different care needs and personal situations. Take the time to research what products are best for your loved one at www.tena.us. Also, www.tena.us provides caregivers with money- and time-saving product tips that help them provide high quality care without breaking the bank.

For caregivers, dealing with your loved one's incontinence brings added strain to an already stressful situation. Here are some tips for caregivers to deal with the emotional effects of their loved one's incontinence:

* Unwind: Taking time for yourself will help reduce stress, elevate your mood and, ultimately, help make you a better caregiver. Buy a new book, join a club or go out to dinner and give yourself some time to relax.

* Maintain a healthy lifestyle: It's easy to fall into unhealthy habits with caregiving responsibilities keeping you busy. Incorporating a nutritious diet and exercise routine into your daily schedule will help give you extra energy and reduce stress. Try simple things like adding a healthy salad to your meal or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

* Ask for help: Caring for a loved one by yourself can be an overwhelming task. Ask family members to pitch in by picking up supplies or keeping your loved one company while you take a break. Don't be afraid to call a friend to listen when you've had a bad day, or to network with other caregivers who are dealing with similar issues.

* Know your rights: The Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) grants legal rights to some employed caregivers at organizations with 50 or more employees. FMLA guarantees that employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave a year to care for a seriously ill parent, spouse or child. Ask your human resources department for more information on programs to help you balance your career and caregiving.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Tips to relieve winter's achy knees (ARA) - The temperatures drop, the skies cloud over and your knees are aching. As the winter months settle in, so can osteoarthritis (OA) pain in your knees.

While researchers aren't exactly sure why temperature and barometric changes trigger achy joints, a 2007 Tufts University study supports evidence that the two are linked.

More than 10 million Americans suffer from OA in one or both knees. The cartilage that protects the ends of the bones slowly weakens, and the synovial fluid, or joint fluid, may lose its ability to absorb shock. Stiffness, loss of movement and joint pain are the result.

If you suffer from OA, what do you do to ease your pain as the cold weather descends across the country? Here are some helpful hints to help you overcome the aches of winter:

* Regular exercise. Although it may seem counter-intuitive, exercising an aching knee is one of the best things you can do for it. By keeping your knees moving you can increase flexibility, strengthen the muscles that support the knee and help maintain a healthy weight. You can find detailed instructions on knee exercises at OAKneeRelief.com including: supine straight leg raises, short arc quad extensions, modified partial lunges and step ups. Talk with your doctor about which exercises are best for you.

* Viscosupplement injection. This treatment is specifically designed for osteoarthritis of the knee. It involves the injection of a gel-like substance into the knee to supplement the joint fluid and restore the shock-absorbing properties. A single injection can provide up to six months of pain relief and the treatment can be repeated if the pain returns. Typically a specialist such as an orthopaedic surgeon provides this type of treatment.

* Anti-inflammatory medications. Arthritis causes inflammation of the joint, and using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can reduce this swelling and relieve pain. There are options for both over-the-counter and prescription products to help ease the pain.

* Surgery. Usually a last resort, surgery involves cutting away damaged cartilage, removing particles from the joint, or a complete joint replacement, depending on the extent of the arthritis.

If you are suffering from knee pain this winter, make sure you ask your doctor if osteoarthritis may be the reason and what possible treatments might be appropriate for you.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Avoid the 'Senior Sickness Snowball... (ARA) - An emerging health trend where a relatively simple illness leads to a number of physical and lifestyle changes is impacting seniors around the country, say immune system researchers from Embria Health Sciences, co-founders of the Nourish America Senior Health Project. They've dubbed this trend the Senior Sickness Snowball Effect, which impacts the overall quality of a person's daily life and follows this recurring cycle:

* Loss of appetite
* Inadequate nutrition
* Decreased energy
* Reduction in social activities
* Decreased independence
* Limited social interaction
* Increased potential for depression, stress
* Weakened immune system
* Continued illness
* Loss of appetite

"Today's older Americans are active and often have major responsibilities that require them to be in good health," explains Stuart Reeves, Ph.D., director of research and development for Embria Health Sciences. "Unfortunately, as a person ages, their immune system becomes weaker and there is greater need for support, not just during cold weather seasons, but also throughout the year."

Embria Health Sciences established this Senior Health Project, alongside non-profit organizations Nourish America and the National Foundation of Women Legislators, to address the increased need for senior health support. This series of free community education events provides seniors with the knowledge and tools they need to maintain and manage their own health through a combination of non-profit health organization outreach activities and no-cost distribution of EpiCor, an all-natural immune health supplement, clinically shown to reduce cold and flu symptom incidence and duration.

In addition to his participation in the Nourish America Senior Health Project, Dr. Reeves offers these easy lifestyle tips that will keep seniors' immune systems going strong:

Get your grain: According to a 2008 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is estimated that a mere 18 percent of Americans 60 and older meet the dietary recommendations for daily grain intake. "Well-nourished people have fewer illnesses," says Dr. Reeves. Seniors can easily add more whole grains into their diets through a wide variety of easy-to-prepare everyday foods, including brown rice, oatmeal and popcorn.

Adopt a pet: "Seniors living alone sometimes experience a sense of isolation, which is one of the main components of the Senior Sickness Snowball Effect," explains Dr. Reeves. Studies show that when seniors establish an owner-pet relationship, their feelings of loneliness dissolve and the pet-related activities such as walking, feeding, grooming and playing improve their overall well-being.

Fill in the gaps: "Since seniors are at a higher risk of falling ill, getting the right amount of daily vitamins and nutrients is essential to their well-being, which is why taking a multi-vitamin supplement is often recommended," Dr. Reeves explains. "Some seniors would also benefit from taking a supplement specifically designed for their immune system." Dr. Reeves points out that, "EpiCor, an all-natural immune health ingredient found in a wide variety of dietary supplement products, works year-round to balance the body's immune system for optimal health." Visit www.EpicorImmune.com for more information.

Hit the mall: The mall is great place to kill three birds with one stone. You can run a shopping errand, participate in social dialogue, and get some exercise by walking a couple of laps around the perimeter. "Staying active, both physically and socially, is a key element to a healthy lifestyle," says Dr. Reeves.

"By maintaining good immune health now, seniors may avoid experiencing the Senior Sickness Snowball Effect firsthand," says Dr. Reeves. "The immune system is an important part of the body's immune defense against germs and pathogens - keep it in check and the rest will follow."

To learn more about immune health, visit www.BalancedImmuneHealth.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Pain meds can cause serious side effects (ARA) - Karen Woolery has struggled with arthritis in her hands for the past 12 years, making her job as director of a day care physically difficult. The arthritis made even the simplest movements painful. To relieve the pain, she often took medications like ibuprofen, never realizing they could potentially cause her harm. Her doctors soon discovered Karen had a big problem - she had ulcers.

Woolery learned that those pain relievers, also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), had caused her ulcers.

NSAIDs which include aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are the most widely used drugs in the United States. Every day, more than 30 million Americans use NSAIDs for pain from headaches, arthritis and other conditions. In fact, it is estimated that more than 60 million Americans use NSAIDs regularly. Two to 4 percent of users - or over a million individuals, like Woolery - will experience serious complications from NSAID use, such as ulcers, each year.

"Many patients do not realize the risks associated with taking NSAIDs, such as nausea, heartburn, ulcers or complications from ulcers, and that the side effects can occur at any time regardless of whether you've taken an NSAID for a week or for a year," says Dr. Byron Cryer, professor of Internal Medicine - Digestive and Liver Diseases at Dallas VA Medical Center and University of Texas Southwestern.

NSAIDs, which may be over-the-counter or prescription medications, work by blocking enzymes that prevent the body from making a hormone called prostaglandin that causes inflammation and pain. By preventing the body from making prostaglandin, the lining of the stomach and upper gastrointestinal tract becomes weakened, which makes a person more susceptible to serious GI complications such as bleeding, ulceration and perforation, often without warning or symptoms.

A number of factors may increase a patient's risk for NSAID-associated GI ulcers and their complications. Risk factors include age, history of GI complication, use of corticosteroids or anticoagulants, cardiovascular disease, use of multiple NSAIDs, chronic use of NSAIDs and high-dose NSAIDs. For example, people taking low-dose aspirin for cardiovascular protection in addition to another NSAID have a two- to four-fold increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding - a major and potentially life-threatening complication - compared with those not taking these medications together.

"I had no idea that taking a medicine for pain could be so harmful," says Woolery. "I always thought that my stomach ache was due to something else. I never talked to my doctor about the fact that there are side effects involved with taking NSAIDs."

According to Cryer, the "safety" of over-the-counter pain drugs is a common misperception. In fact, a study conducted by physicians at Eastern Virginia Medical School found that 22 percent of patients responding to the survey did not think that over-the-counter medications were important enough to list to their physicians. The study concluded that the perception that over-the-counter NSAIDs are benign is precisely the reason patients and their physicians need to discuss all NSAID use.

Understanding and reducing the GI risks associated with the use of NSAIDs is becoming an increasingly important part of patient care for primary care physicians and rheumatologists. Not every patient will require NSAID therapy, but those who do should work with their physician to determine whether taking a low dose would be an effective way to manage pain and inflammation.

For those who need a higher dose of NSAIDs, physicians may decide to add a GI protective therapy to reduce the risk of ulcers and more serious upper GI complications. GI protective therapies are medications that are already commonly found both over-the-counter and by prescription, and primarily fall into two categories - H2 antagonists and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). H2 antagonists are products like famotidine (Pepcid), while PPIs include products like lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), esomeprazole (Nexium) and pantoprazole (Protonix). Another less common therapy that may be used is misoprostol (Cytotec). Celecoxib (Celebrex), a COX-2 specific NSAID, may also be considered an option for some patients.

"The good news is that for people who take NSAIDs, there are options to address GI risks," says Cryer. "In the near future, we may see even more effective treatments that address both pain relief and potential GI complications in a single pill."

With the right information from her physician, Woolery now has the tools to better manage her pain and help keep the ulcers from coming back. She hopes her experience will encourage others to learn more about the risks associated with NSAID usage.

"I had no idea of the risks, but others can learn from my experience and speak to their doctor," she says.

For more information about NSAID risks, including a discussion guide for patients, visit www.connecttoprotect.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Tips for choosing the right aid for your... (ARA) - More than 31 million Americans of all ages live with some level of hearing loss, according to the Better Hearing Institute. Our increasingly noisy society has, unfortunately, ensured hearing problems are no longer an exclusive affliction of age; while people 55 to 64 make up the largest group with hearing loss, the second largest segment are people who are just 45 to 54, a time when many of us are in our prime financially, socially and professionally.

Hearing loss can stand in the way of all those positive things in life. Research has linked hearing loss to a number of emotional problems, from negativism to chronic depression. Helen Keller, blind and deaf since infancy, once observed that while a loss of vision "separates us from things," hearing loss "separates us from people."

Fortunately, assistive technology has advanced by leaps and bounds since Keller's era. It's now possible to find a hearing aid to fit nearly any lifestyle, no matter how active or relaxed, and any cosmetic preference, from discreet to virtually invisible.

"Wearing a hearing aid has improved my quality of life," says golf legend Arnold Palmer. "Golf is my business. I found that when I could hear the click of a golf ball to actual noise level, it improved my golf. Once I could hear the golf club hitting the ball, it gave me a much better definition of what I needed to do in hitting some shots."

"Early hearing aids didn't assist the wearer well in certain complex sound situations, such as when using a cell phone or in a noisy environment like a concert or crowded restaurant," says Dr. Barry Freeman, from hearing aid maker Starkey Laboratories, Inc. "And many people were concerned with the cosmetic and social aspects of wearing an aid.

"Hearing aids are not just large pieces of plastic sitting behind your ear any more. Today's hearing aids run and process sophisticated algorithms just like a computer to provide the listener with an excellent experience - all wrapped in an elegant package," Freeman adds. "From hearing better in noisy situations like restaurants to eliminating annoying whistling (feedback), there is a hearing aid solution to meet every need."

Choosing a hearing aid that's right for your hearing loss can directly affect your quality of life. The experts at Starkey offer some tips and advice when choosing a hearing aid:

Consider the style.

There are now many options, including behind-the-ear (BTE), receiver-in-canal (RIC), completely-in-canal, in-the-canal and in-the-ear. Each offers a different level of assistance and cosmetic appeal.

* BTE styles are appropriate for most types of hearing loss, and technology such as Starkey's Sweep Technology, which allows the wearer to adjust volume and settings with a simple sweep or touch of the finger, make a BTE aid appropriate for those with limited dexterity. A BTE sits on the back of the ear and has a tube that runs to an ear bud or custom earmold in the ear.

* RIC styles are appropriate for mild to moderate hearing loss and offer a more discreet, open-fit solution. They lessen feedback by widening the distance between the microphone and the receiver. The RIC also sits behind the ear and has a thin tube that connects to an ear bud or custom earmold in the ear. The receiver in a RIC is in the ear near the ear bud instead of in the case behind the ear.

* For those seeking a small, discreet aid, completely-in-canal is a good option. Nearly invisible when worn, this style is good for treating mild to moderate hearing loss and uses the natural anatomy of the head, pinna and ear canal to provide a clean, clear signal. They are custom designed to fit entirely in the ear canal, reducing feedback and improving sound quality.

* In-the-canal styles fit within the ear canal but are still slightly visible within the outer ear. Good for treating mild to mildly severe hearing loss, they offer a variety of options despite their small size.

* People with limited dexterity might also benefit from an in-the-ear style, which is a custom-made shell that fits in the outer portion of the ear. Appropriate for mild to severe hearing loss, they are easy to insert and adjust.

You can learn more about hearing aid styles and how to choose the one that's right for you at www.Starkey.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

When an irregular heartbeat should send you to... (ARA) - You may chalk up that flutter in your chest to too much rich food, or think that your heart occasionally skips a beat in response to stress at work. For most people, such irregularities are harmless. But if your irregular heart rhythms are combined with a diagnosis of heart failure, they can be serious -- and ignoring them may make your condition worse.

Your heart is essentially a powerful electric pump. If a breakdown occurs in the heart's complex internal communication system, it can cause your heart to beat irregularly. It's possible for healthy people to experience occasional irregular heart beats. But if you already have heart problems, you should be aware of the symptoms of an irregular heart beat.

On its Web site www.abouthf.org, the Heart Failure Society of America points to these common symptoms of an irregular heart beat:

* If your heart skips a beat, flutters or pounds in your chest.
* You experience dizziness or feel "light-headed."
* You experience sudden shortness of breath not related to physical exertion.
* You feel inexplicably weak from time to time.
* You faint or suddenly lose consciousness.

If you regularly experience these symptoms, see your doctor. In order to diagnose your condition, your doctor will likely start with an electrocardiogram (ECG) that monitors electrical activity in your heart. If the ECG doesn't explain your irregular heart rhythm, your doctor may next ask you to wear a Holter Monitor, a small, portable device that records your heart beats over a longer period of time - typically 24 to 48 hours. He'll also ask you to keep a diary of your symptoms while wearing the monitor. There are several other tests that can help diagnose heart rhythm problems. Talk to your doctor about what's best for you.

If tests show that you have a heart rhythm problem, you may not necessarily need treatment. Your doctor will develop a treatment plan for you if the problem requires treatment. This plan may include medicines such as blood thinners that help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of stroke, an implantable device like a pacemaker or defibrillator to help regulate your heart beats, or even surgery.

You can take some steps to minimize the impact of your irregular heart rhythm. Check with your health care provider before taking any over-the-counter medications, including nutritional supplements. Immediately tell your doctor if you experience muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, unusual fatigue or weakness or a dry mouth - these can indicate a potassium imbalance that can make your heart problems worse. If you smoke, quit, and reduce your alcohol consumption. Exercise under the guidance of your doctor; don't start any exercise program until you've consulted with him or her.

You can learn more about irregular heart rhythms and heart failure at www.abouthf.org, the Web site of the Heart Failure Society of America.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Maintaining a strong, intimate relationship... (ARA) - Maintaining the spark in a years-long relationship has its challenges. Particularly in this day and age, spouses sometimes only see each other for a few hours a day between work, meetings, kids and other obligations.

Letting your relationship languish can have dire consequences. The worst-case scenario might be separation, but even if things don't go that far, partners can start to feel alienated, alone and unloved. Problems really start when frustration builds up but doesn't get voiced and when subjects that are hard to talk about are left unattended.

These issues are only compounded when one partner has a medical problem or health issues. Dealing with health problems can try even the most patient and loving relationships, though no one is to blame. To keep your relationship's flame burning, consider ways that you can re-connect.

* Save the date
Don't just settle for the few hours a day that you already see each other. Schedule time when you can spend quality time together and stick to it - no excuses. If you haven't been seeing eye-to-eye lately, try doing something that requires input and cooperation from both partners. Try cooking a healthy, beautiful meal together from scratch - ask each other to do taste tests, set a candlelit table and linger over the dinner that you've made for (and with) each other. If you're able to do something more active, consider canoeing, simulated rock-climbing or renting a tandem bicycle - you'll literally be your partner's backup.

* Get back in touch
Many couples have to face the difficulties associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), and the loss of intimacy can be very problematic. ED can develop on its own, but it can also be a problem after surgery (particularly prostate surgery) and it is a major challenge for those who are faced with paralysis. Couples can regain their intimacy, even in the face of the most devastating medical conditions, but the cost of medications and potential drug interactions can be prohibitive. One solution that can help couples, regardless of the health issues they face, is The Elator, a small, safe and non-drug device. Many men who thought that their sexual lives were sidelined forever have been able to regain intimacy with their partners because of The Elator. It has been sold in urology offices, but as the demand for natural and non-drug ED aids has grown, it is now coming to a wider market. For more information on The Elator and how it can help anyone suffering with impotence, go to www.TheElator.com.

* Get away from it all
Take a vacation from it all, but don't leave the intent to reconnect at home. Go to a place where you'll be able to focus on each other, and where you'll feel comfortable talking about your relationship. Know what makes you come out of your shell - maybe you feel more comfortable holding hands on a quiet beach, or maybe you feel a stronger connection with your partner when you have to work together to find your way through a new place.

* Bring in reinforcements
You might feel alone in losing the spark in your relationship, but that could not be further from the truth. If you're suffering from medical problems, look for related support groups where you can connect with other individuals and couples who are facing similar issues. They might have insights that you can benefit from, and you might just be able to help someone else. You might also seek out a couples' counselor who can help set you on a path to reconnection, or consult your doctor for support.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Retirees turn to a surprising source of cash in... (ARA) - A rising number of American households - nearly 45 percent - are "at risk" of not having enough money in retirement, according the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College. But some retirees have discovered a surprising source of supplemental retirement income: the cash value of their whole life insurance policies.

Many retirees will use the cash value of their whole life insurance policies as a supplemental income stream to see them through tough times. The cash value of whole life is guaranteed to grow every year, unlike stocks and mutual funds which can have good and bad years. Mutual life insurance companies also have an excellent track record of paying annual dividends that beef up the policy's cash value.

"My whole life insurance policy has always been the best value for the buck," says Jack Leon, 79, a lawyer in San Antonio, who purchased coverage from Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. (MassMutual). "I've always known the cash value of my whole life policy would grow, in good times and in bad. And I've always known the cash is there if I need it in an emergency."

Dave Janca, 48, a software company owner from Orchard Park, N.Y. agrees. "It's nice to know you can get to the cash as you grow older," he says. "Your investments may fluctuate with the markets. But the value of whole life is predictable - it grows, and it's there if you need it. To me, it's not just insurance, it's another planning vehicle."

Most people buy life insurance for the policy's death benefit. But financial professionals say whole life insurance can also supplement retirement planning because it's flexible and helps policyholders address their ever-changing needs and circumstances.

"A policy's cash value can be used for planned long-term needs, like helping a grandchild with college tuition or for medical and elder care. Used responsibly, it also can be used to help ride out the unexpected" says Tara Reynolds, MassMutual vice president. "We've seen people tap their whole life policies in emergencies, like home mortgage payments, getting a loan when banks say no, or quickly generating cash flow in a small business situation."

Guarantees are one of the many great aspects of whole life insurance. The death benefit is guaranteed; the premiums are guaranteed, and growth of the cash value is guaranteed. It's a piece of your financial plan that you don't have to worry about.

The cash value of a whole life policy can also be used to "tame a bear market."

MassMutual has free tools and calculators that can help people set savings goals, planning strategies and identify their specific needs at www.massmutual.com/calculators.

"When the stock market or economy is down, policyholders can tap into the cash value of their whole life insurance policy instead of selling stocks at a loss. This gives their portfolio time to recover," says Reynolds.

To learn more about how whole life insurance can help with retirement planning, visit
www.MassMutual.com/life.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Need help paying for that hearing aid?... (ARA) - "No one should go without a needed hearing aid because of an inability to pay," says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive director of the Better Hearing Institute (BHI).

That's why BHI has just published Your Guide to Financial Assistance for Hearing Aids - the first comprehensive guide on how people can obtain financial assistance to purchase hearing aids.

According to BHI, two out of three adults with hearing loss do not use hearing aids because of financial constraints.

"Of the thousands of annual inquires we receive, the most frequent topic concerns financial assistance for hearing aid purchases," Kochkin says.

For the free hearing guide, go to www.betterhearing.org and click on "Request Hearing Loss Guides." It will help you quickly and easily identify charitable foundations, private organizations, insurance plans, corporate benefits and government programs that can help you get the hearing healthcare you need.

Of the more than 34 million Americans with hearing loss, at least 95 percent could benefit from hearing aids.

When left untreated, hearing loss reduces earning power, disrupts relationships, causes a wide array of psychological problems, impairs cognitive functioning and even has negative health effects. Those who have difficulty hearing can experience such distorted and incomplete communication that it seriously impacts their professional and personal lives, at times leading to isolation and withdrawal. Hearing loss is one of the most commonly unaddressed health conditions in America today. And six out of 10 Americans with hearing loss are below retirement age.

Untreated hearing loss is linked to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions. Advances in digital technology have dramatically improved hearing aids in recent years, making them smaller with better sound quality. Designs are modern, sleek and discreet. Clarity, greater directionality, better speech audibility in a variety of environments, better cell phone compatibility, less whistling and feedback than hearing aids of the past and greater ruggedness for active lifestyles are common features.

"Many Americans of all ages with unaddressed hearing loss can benefit from the use of hearing aids," says Kochkin. "We hope that this financial guide will help people get the hearing aids they need to appropriately address their hearing loss and improve their lives."

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Must-haves for a mature household (ARA) - The aging population will have the second biggest impact of any factor on the remodeling industry over the next five years, according to the AARP and National Association of Home Builders. Why? Because today's homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to live independently in their current homes, even if it means remodeling to meet their needs.

Whether you modify your current house or purchase new these are some must-haves to ensure you'll have a safe, secure and easily maintained home in which to spend your golden years:

Floor plan
* Open floor plan with wide, accessible paths
* Single-story home or a two-story with a first-floor master bedroom

Bathroom
* First-floor master bathroom equipped with safety products, such as grab bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs
* Curbless shower, featuring a handheld showerhead with an extra long hose
* Adjustable- or varied-height countertops

Kitchen and laundry
* Adjustable- or varied-height countertops
* Upper wall cabinetry 3 inches lower than conventional height
* Pull-out kitchen faucet with lever handles
* First-floor laundry with front-loading machines

Electrical and security
* Light switches by each entrance to halls and rooms
* Security system connected to police, fire and EMS
* Flashing porch light or 911 switch

Flooring
* Smooth, non-glare, slip-resistant surfaces
* Less than 1/2-inch pile carpet with firm padding

Exterior
* Low-maintenance exteriors, such as vinyl or brick
* Covered garage or carport
* Handrails near steps

For more information about ADA-compliant pull-out kitchen faucets from Moen or bath safety products, such as SecureMount Grab Bars, elevated toilet seats and shower chairs from Home Care by Moen, call 800-BUY-MOEN(800-289-6636) or visit moen.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Protect yourself from identity theft during the... (ARA) - Identity theft remains "one of the hottest scams around," according to William J. Smigiel, CEO of Liberty Bank, a Chicago bank that works with retail and lending customers. "The real risks of identity theft are closer to home than you might think."

The 2010 Identity Fraud Survey Report confirms that there were more victims of this crime than in any period since the survey began in 2003 - and many of these crimes are perpetrated by people who know the victim. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) estimates that more than 9 million Americans were victims of identity fraud last year and it's possible other cases have gone unreported.

Protect yourself. Sources of ID theft which you may have some control over include:

* Lost or stolen wallet, checkbook or credit card - 30 percent of cases

* Fraudulent business transactions, employee theft - 28 percent of cases

* Friends, acquaintances, relatives or in-home employees - 15 percent of cases

* Stolen paper mail or fraudulent change of address - 8 percent of cases

* Computer viruses, spyware or hackers - 5 percent of cases

* Phishing scams online - 3 percent of cases

* Garbage, dumpster diving - 1 percent of cases

* Miscellaneous, other - 10 percent of cases

What is your best protection against identity theft? "Don't share your Social Security or account numbers," says the Chicago bank CEO. "Even though we're a friendly community financial institution, we're continually educating our customers to be proactive. Shred sensitive documents you no longer need and keep an eye on your wallet." Free information is available on the bank's Web site.

"Chicago banks aren't the only financial institutions warning customers about increasing identity fraud, says Jim Larranaga, president of Priority Integrated Marketing, a consulting firm that helps educate consumers about personal finance. "We work with more 100 financial institutions on how to educate account holders about personal finance, and identity theft has been the most popular topic for the past three years."

Use caution when disclosing information to strangers
The 2010 U.S. Census is being conducted this spring and summer, and once again census workers count every person in the country and collect information about every resident, including name, age, gender and race.

"Gathering this information can be a challenge," says Janis Ekl, senior vice president of Liberty Bank. "The high number of foreclosures has forced a lot of people to move." The census officially runs from April through July, when you're likely to see census workers going door-to-door in some neighborhoods.

You're required by law to provide the requested information to the Census Bureau either by phone, mail or a personal visit to your residence - but it's important to be cautious when providing your personal information to someone you don't know.

Knowing the details of the official census can help you avoid being scammed:

* You may be contacted by phone, mail or in person by the U.S. Census Bureau.

* You will not be contacted by e-mail. Never open an e-mail or click on a link that claims to be from the Census Bureau.

* Census workers who visit homes will carry a badge, handheld device, canvas tote and confidentiality agreement.

* Request to see the visitor's identification and badge before providing information.

* A census worker will never request your Social Security number, bank account information or credit card numbers.

* Census workers will never ask for donations.

* Information provided to the census is confidential

The information you provide for the census is protected by federal law, so you can rest assured that your data will remain confidential. The Census Bureau will never publish or share your private information with anyone, including other government agencies or courts.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

How to choose a hearing aid (ARA) - If you've been dealing with hearing loss, you know firsthand the toll it can take on your relationships and your life. Hearing loss can lead to feelings of frustration, isolation - even depression. But thinking about sifting through all of the hearing aid options today might leave you feeling even more confused and overwhelmed.

Losing your hearing or witnessing it in a loved one is stressful enough - finding the best solution for you shouldn't be. Don't let this daunting task stand between you and enjoying a richer, fuller life. In five easy steps, you can start enjoying all of the wonderful sounds life has to offer.

Step one: get tested
A hearing test is the first step - both chronologically as well as in importance - to figuring out your options. The feedback and information you will get from a professional audiologist cannot be replaced. If you have any suspicion that you are suffering from hearing loss, schedule a hearing test. During the exam, expect a series of physical tests to gauge your hearing as well as questions about how hearing loss affects your life at home and at work. Your results will get you started down the path of finding the right solution for your individual hearing needs.

Step two: look and feel
Everyone is different - and that includes their hearing loss. While digital hearing aids all use the same basic technology to deliver sound to your ear, a variety of styles are available to suit your comfort and personal taste. Looking for discretion? Consider nearly invisible devices that fit entirely within your ear canal. For those who need a bit more power, check out products that place a receiver in your canal and connect to a larger device behind your ear. There is always the more standard earpiece option, which comes in a variety of shapes and fashions as well. Regardless of the style you choose, make sure your hearing aid suits your needs and lifestyle, and go to a retailer who can custom fit it for maximum comfort.

Step three: pick your perks
Digital technology has revolutionized the versatility and capabilities of hearing aids. Customers can choose from many perks that can now be built in these tiny devices to make a big impact. Some top-of-the-line products on the market today incorporate Bluetooth technology, remote controls and data recall. In terms of sound quality, updated features include automatic directional microphones, noise smoothing and reduction and hearing aids that can actually learn your preferred listening environments. Your audiologist can help you identify which of these fascinating technologies will benefit you most.

Step four: choose a brand
Hearing aids are a life-changing commitment, so find a retailer who can offer strong product warranties and customer service. Additional benefits to look for are free maintenance, aftercare, personalized fittings and adjustments. A good provider can also call your insurer to verify if and how much of your hearing aid is covered by insurance benefits. A major brand, such as Miracle-Ear, will likely have a location near you so that you don't have to put your life on hold if you need personal assistance.

Step five: take care
A hearing aid is an investment, one which will require diligent maintenance in order to last a long time. Remove aids at night and carefully clean them after each day of use. This includes wiping them down and storing them carefully. And be sure to return to your audiologist for regular checkups and cleaning. With good maintenance, you will enjoy maximum performance from your device - and maximum benefits in your life.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

New medical therapies working with traditional... (ARA) - Healing is only part of the plan for anyone who's been diagnosed with an illness or injury. You want to recover, but you also want to feel better while healing - as quickly as possible. That's why many specialists are now turning to massage therapy to help patients feel better faster.

"Several cancer treatment centers across the U.S., as well as hospitals, are opening their employment doors to more full-time licensed massage therapists to aid in pain management and health/wellness of patients," says Tara Celaya of Phoenix, director of Career Services at Cortiva Institute, Scottsdale.

Massage therapy helps patients relax and release tension. This helps to reduce pain and get patients up and moving around again - which can also speed up the recovery process. Dr. Winnie Suen, a geriatrician and palliative care consultant at Boston Medical Center, and a graduate of Cortiva Institute, Boston, works with seniors who have arthritis and pain in the back, shoulders, neck and legs, which affects their ability to remain independent.

"I hope to be able to incorporate massage therapy into my practice somehow to include it as an option for symptom management," she says. "I wish there were more massage therapists on staff that I could refer my patients to. The patients love it. They feel cared for. They find it relaxing, and it decreases their level of pain."

Many people are considering entering the massage therapy field as a second chance for a career. The average massage therapist is in his or her 40s, and has entered the profession as a second career, according to the American Massage Therapy Association.

The practice of combining massage therapy for illness and injury treatments is still relatively new.

"In my experience and research, injuries such as rotator cuff tears, knee injuries, whiplash and even weight loss treatments are benefiting from the direct and immediate effects massage therapy can have, and in some cases, are utilized to avoid surgery all together," Celaya says. "Protecting the structural integrity of the body through the use of massage therapy is quickly being seen as a standard portion of rehabilitation for various surgeries and medical conditions."

And the field is becoming more popular with the general public as well, who are pursing a healthy lifestyle separate from medical treatment.

"As more and more individuals are seeking natural ways to ensure a healthy and long life, they are seeking out services from massage therapists, nutritionists and personal trainers," Celaya says. "We are entering a time when people are taking more responsibility for their health and wellness and find the one-on-one interaction and individualized treatment plans from a massage therapist an ideal way to go."

For more information on a career in massage therapy, visit www.Cortiva.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Are you and your doctor on the same page? Maybe... (ARA) - Are you and your health care provider on the same page when it comes to discussing your health? Does he or she think you're doing as well at maintaining your health as you think you are? Probably not, according to a new survey conducted by StrategyOne on behalf of GE, the Cleveland Clinic and Ochsner Health System.

While about a third of patients surveyed gave themselves grades of "A" on managing their personal health, eating well, exercising regularly, managing stress and getting preventative screenings, the majority of health care providers gave Americans a grade of "C" or lower on all points, according to the survey of more than 2,000 Americans age 18 and older, and more than 1,200 doctors, nurses, pharmacists and dieticians.

What's more, 70 percent of those surveyed admitted to avoiding their doctors at some point, even though 95 percent recognize the importance of regular doctor visits. And while 70 percent of providers say their patients only come to see them when they're sick, only 38 percent of Americans say this is true.

"Healthy living is not easy and can be overwhelming at times," says Olympic figure skating champion Michelle Kwan, who has teamed up with fellow Olympic champion Scott Hamilton, GE, Ochsner Health and the Cleveland Clinic to educate Americans on how to take simple daily steps to improve their health, and their communication with their doctors. "We learned there are times when Americans would rather clean their house than take care of their health, and with my hectic schedule, I can totally relate. You have to work to improve your health - it's not something that gets better overnight."

"It's crucial for people to take ownership of their health if they want to maintain it," says Dr. Joseph Bisordi, chief medical officer of Ochsner in New Orleans. "This is not just a question of motivation; we're seeing a significant doctor-patient communication gap. Health care professionals are eager to help people achieve better health."

So how can Americans improve their health and their communications with their physician? GE's "healthymagination: Year of Better Health for More People" initiative aims to help. On the Web site www.healthymagination.com, Americans can get advice on:

* What questions to ask your doctor about your overall health and specific medical conditions that might concern you. Developed with WebMD, the Better Health Conversation asks you a series of questions about your health status and generates suggested discussion points to cover with your doctor.

* A free mobile application for iPhones or Androids that suggests easy-to-do activities to improve your health in surprising, imaginative ways.

* An interactive tool that allows you to share health news, features and blogs with others on a variety of sites.

* Interactive data, graphically presented allows you to apply the data and learn about health issues like the major health issues facing Americans and conditions frequently experienced by people with health profiles similar to yours.

"Unfortunately the survey showed most Americans are avoiding the one person who could help them live healthier," says Bisordi. "It's time for Americans to have a more collaborative relationship with their health care providers, and we believe that improving your knowledge of good health is the best way to start."

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

How to know if your insurer can keep its... (ARA) - When you buy life insurance, you aren't just making a simple purchase like a cell phone or other retail item. Instead, you are buying into a promise. You are paying premiums to an insurance company in return for the promise by that insurance company that it will pay a death benefit to your beneficiary in the event something were to happen to you. Sometimes the coverage you purchase can last 30 years or longer.

Life insurance is confusing, and there are so many different options available, it may be difficult to narrow down the best plan for your family. For a helpful guide to understanding the basics of life insurance, visit www.sbli.com/jpond_guides.

So how do you judge if the insurance company you choose will be able to fulfill its promise to your family? There is a lot of money involved, so this is a very important question you need to ask as you choose a policy for your family.

Consumers can find indications of how financially strong different insurance companies are through respected rating agencies like A.M. Best (www.ambest.com). These ratings can help you choose a company that is more likely to provide your family the benefit you are paying premiums for.

How insurance company ratings are determined

By annually reviewing each insurance company's financial balance sheets, business profiles and operating performance, rating companies can make a conservative prediction about the long-term financial strength of each insurance company. Their goal is to determine, to the best of their ability, whether an insurer's financial situation and future outlook is secure or vulnerable.

If it is secure, then the company will be more likely to meet the demand for payment of death benefits. If it is vulnerable, then the chances are higher that the insurance company could default on its obligations to policyholders. For more details and to find the ratings on many insurance companies, visit www.ambest.com. It is important to remember that while insurance company ratings are great tools for consumers to use when evaluating various insurers, they are not guarantees.

Understanding insurance company ratings

Insurance company ratings by A.M. Best use the same rating system that schools use when grading papers. A.M. Best's rating of "B+" or better is good or, "secure." Anything below "B+" is technically on the "vulnerable" side of the ratings equation. An insurance company rating of "U" means that it is currently under review and may change within the next six months. One interesting rating from A.M. Best is "PD." A "PD" rating means that the insurer did not wish to participate in A.M. Best's rating program. This is not always an indication of a vulnerable financial state but could be a warning sign.

A good example of a highly-rated life insurance company is The Savings Bank Life Insurance Company of Massachusetts. SBLI has been rated "A+ (Superior)" for financial quality by A.M. Best for 17 straight years. Additionally, SBLI has been serving families for over 100 years with affordable coverage. For more information on different kinds of life insurance call 888-GET-SBLI or visit www.sbli.com.

SBLI and The No Nonsense Life Insurance Company are registered trademarks of The Savings Bank Life Insurance Company of Massachusetts, which is no way affiliated with SBLI USA Mutual Life Insurance Company, Inc. SBLI products may not be available in all states.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

A retirement home that helps pay for itself (ARA) - With today's record low real estate prices and attractive mortgage rates, now may be a good time to think about investing in a second home that ultimately can be used as your permanent residence upon retirement. By taking a "buy-and-rent" approach before you're ready to retire, your new home will actually have partly paid for itself by the time you're ready to move into it.

"Buying and renting out a second home as a vacation rental property until you're ready to move in upon retirement can significantly help offset the cost of ownership," says Brian Sharples, CEO of HomeAway, the world's leading online vacation rental marketplace. "The income stream, in addition to tax write-offs for maintenance and repairs, make this an attractive strategy for many people nearing retirement."

According to HomeAway, the average second-home owner rents out their property to travelers 17 weeks a year, generating more than $28,000 in rental income annually. And the demand for vacation rentals among travelers is growing, which is good news for second-home owners. In fact, 87 percent of travelers who looked into a vacation rental in the past say they plan to stay in a vacation rental in 2010 - a significant increase from the 67 percent who stayed in a vacation rental in 2009.

To generate income from a second home prior to moving into it when you retire, Sharples suggests consumers take the following steps:

* Consider the location and market potential - Carefully review the markets where you want to retire, and before you buy, consider the areas where consumer demand for vacation rentals is high, but inventory is low. For example, Atlantic City, N.J.; Sunny Isles Beach, Fla.; Hampton Beach, N.H.; Dauphin Island, Ala., and Mount Pocono, Pa., were among some of the most underserved markets for vacation rental properties in 2009, according to HomeAway.

* Factor in tax write-offs - Talk to an accountant about the tax advantages of owning and renting out a second home. Expenses such as insurance, utilities, home maintenance and depreciation can be deducted, depending on how often you rent out the property and how many weeks you personally stay there each year.

* Advertise to attract renters - When you're ready to rent out the property, be sure to market the availability of the vacation rental to travelers by listing it on sites like HomeAway.com or VRBO.com, which reach millions of travelers each month. A 12-month listing costs $329 - or less than $28 per month - on HomeAway.com, so the advertising pays for itself with your first booking - and the rest is pure rental income.

* Stay competitive and network with owners - Check out other similar vacation rentals in the area to determine what rates they're charging travelers, and price your home at a competitive rate to help drive bookings. Also, be sure to talk with other owners to get their tips and advice for maximizing a second home investment.

For more information on buying a second home and effective strategies for maximizing rental income, check out HomeAway's online community for vacation rental owners at ownercommunity.homeaway.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Keep an eye on 'silent killers' in the... (ARA) - Getting older is not easy, especially when it comes to making sure your body is healthy. Doctors probably have you watching your weight, your cholesterol and other health vitals in every effort to make sure you have a happy and full life.

But there are conditions that many times do not get mentioned during visits to the doctor because they often don't exhibit any symptoms until it's too late. One such "silent killer" is an abdominal aortic aneurysm (also known as "AAA"). Today, it's estimated that more than one million people are living with an AAA, and don't even know it.

An AAA is a blood-filled bulge or ballooning of the abdominal aorta, the artery that carries blood away from the heart to the lower part of the body. Over time, the bulge (known as an aneurysm) can become weak and the force of normal blood pressure can cause the aorta to rupture. This can lead to severe pain, massive internal bleeding or even sudden death.

While the exact causes of AAA are unknown, the risk factors that increase your chance of developing an AAA include:

* Age: Individuals over the age of 60 are most likely to develop this condition
* Gender: AAAs are between five to 10 times more common in men than in women
* Family history of AAA
* Smoking or history of smoking
* Clogged arteries
* High blood pressure
* High cholesterol

Fortunately, most AAA can be detected early through a simple ultrasound screening in which a health care professional glides a sensor over the stomach to view images of the aorta, similar to a pregnancy ultrasound. The ultrasound screening takes a few minutes and helps doctors 'see' inside to determine if an AAA is present. The exam also measures the size of an AAA, a key step in identifying the best treatment option - such as a watchful, waiting approach, open surgical repair or endovascular grafting.

The good news is that if detected prior to rupture, AAAs can be successfully treated 95 percent of the time. On the contrary, only 10 to 25 percent of people survive a ruptured AAA making it the third leading cause of sudden death in men over 60.

Due to his family history of AAA, professional football legend Joe Theismann understands the risks associated with the disease. "My father was lucky. He wouldn't be here today if his aneurysm had not been detected through a routine exam," says Theismann.

Having his father diagnosed with AAA was a wake-up call to Theismann to get himself screened by a simple, painless, 10-minute ultrasound. Today, he encourages everyone to learn more about AAA and ask their physicians if they qualify for a life-saving screening.

Screenings are held across the country in an attempt to detect AAAs before they rupture and to help save lives. You can find a screening location near you at www.FindtheAAAnswers.org, which also has more information on AAA risk factors and how you can "Take the Pledge" to get screened for AAA and to keep yourself, and your loved ones, healthy into your golden years.

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Smart tips for baby boomer retirement planning (ARA) - If you are one of America's 78.2 million baby boomers, you are likely considering what ideal retirement will look like, and the steps required achieving it. With the current economic downturn, many boomers are finding it necessary to revisit their initial retirement goals.

According to the Social Security Administration, today's retirees count on corporate pensions and Social Security for 56 percent of their retirement income. With a few minor adjustments, some careful planning and a positive attitude, the other 44 percent is attainable.

"It's never too late to start planning for retirement and it's crucial that life insurance is considered as the foundation of your plan." says Vikki Pryor, president and CEO at SBLI USA Mutual Life Insurance Company, Inc. "Determine your needs by deciding how much money surviving family or loved ones will need to maintain their standard of living if you are no longer around to protect them. Women need to pay particular attention to their retirement planning options." To learn more about the educational tools and insurance products designed with baby boomers in mind visit www.sbliusa.com.

Consider the following tips for smart retirement planning:

1. Assess your financial plan and budget.

* Begin to assess your basic retirement income sources such as a 401(k) plan, IRA, and life insurance plans.

* How much will you need to retire? Determine this by creating a budget that will enable you to pay your monthly expenses such as food, heat, rent and transportation. Consider expenses that may increase such as health insurance and prescription medicines. At the same time, consider those that may decrease, such as work-related and educational spending.

* Health care coverage is necessary in supplementing your financial foundation and these costs can add up fast. It's important to have an adequate plan both before and after retirement. After age 65 you are eligible for Medicare coverage. But what if you want to retire before then? Your employer may offer a plan for retiring employees, or you may have to look into private coverage, so be sure to consider this.

* Take into account variable expenses such as tax liabilities on your home, illness or the care of elderly parents. Other, often underestimated, variables include gifts, clothing, recreational expenses, and increases in costs of living. For valuable retirement planning resources and projected trends in costs of living visit www.usa.gov.

2. Begin to explore other retirement income options.

* Determine the amount of guaranteed retirement income you already have. Examples of these are cash savings, corporate pension plans, home equity, or annuity-type investments.

* Are you married? If so, how will that affect your retirement budget?

* Pay attention to how your retirement funds are earning money. Are they structured for maximum returns? It's crucial that you continually assess these funds.

* Decide when to begin Social Security benefits. According to AARP, for each year you put off collecting your benefits between ages 62 and 70, you increase your payments by 8 percent.

* Calculate your potential monthly retirement budget based on your estimated income weighed against your expenses. At minimum, you need enough retirement income to cover basic living expenses for your lifetime.

* If your initial assessment requires additional income, consider part-time work during retirement, or perhaps selling your larger home for a more comfortable, carefree condo.

2. Consider life insurance - the foundation of a solid retirement plan.

* If you don't have a life insurance policy, get one. Life insurance not only helps to leave a legacy for generations to come, it will protect your loved ones and help provide them with financial security once you're gone.

* Consult an expert in order to find the right life insurance for you. For example, BoomerLife by SBLI USA lets you apply for up to $25,000 of whole life insurance with no hassle. Acceptance is guaranteed for anyone ages 50 to 75. Selected benefits remain fixed for life and the premium you pay will not go up. Additionally, the policy builds cash value that grows each year tax-deferred. Call (866) 331-3078 to speak with an SBLI USA representative. Or go to our Web site at www.sbliusa.com and complete the entire application process - from quoting, to paying - online today!

Start planning your retirement today. With a little strategy and the right attitude, you can build the financial security you need to live a successful, happy retirement. Visit www.sbliusa.com today - completing your application is just clicks away!

Courtesy of ARAcontent - You should follow us on Twitter

More...

Articles last updated at Mar 11, 2010 17:54:19pm.
Next update in 60 minutes.

Copyright 2010 - Powered By City America.
Use of this website constitutes acceptance of our TOS, Privacy Policy, DMCA Policy.