Over 100 million Americans have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep at night. Are you one of these people? If so, there are many things you can do to help! By making some simple changes to your lifestyle and sleep environment you can greatly improve a night’s sleep.
During the day…
1. Do not nap. Napping during the day can confuse your body, making it more difficult to sleep at night. If you feel that you absolutely need to nap, nap early in the day and make sure that it is only for 30 minutes or less.
2. Avoid drinking caffeine and alcohol four to six hours before bedtime. While you may think alcohol can help you sleep, it actually disrupts sleeping patterns.
3. Avoid eating large meals two hours before bedtime. If you are hungry around bedtime, try drinking a glass of milk. Milk has actually been shown to help people sleep.
4. Do not smoke. Nicotine is a stimulant and will make it difficult to fall and stay asleep.
5. Avoid exercising before going to bed. Exercise stimulates the body, making it more difficult to sleep. However, be sure to exercise early in the day- regular exercise can help you sleep deeper.
Before going to bed…
1. Stop doing all work at least an hour before bedtime. This gives your body time to relax before going to sleep. Relaxing before going to bed will help you fall asleep faster.
2. Try to go to sleep at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each day. This helps the body maintain a schedule.
3. Do the same thing before going to bed each night- such as drinking warm milk or herbal tea, to let your body know that it’s time to go to sleep.
4. Write down your worries and concerns in a journal or to-do list before you go to bed. This will help to keep you from thinking about them while you’re trying to fall asleep.
5. Go to bed when you are tired.
Your sleep environment…
1. Make sure your bed is comfortable. Test out different mattresses and try using pillows that support your neck and back.
2. Use earplugs to help reduce noise and window blinds or eye mask to help reduce light. If you have to get up at night, don’t turn on a bright light. Try using a flashlight or a nightlight.
3. Try to make your bedroom a peaceful place. Make sure it is quiet, well ventilated, and a comfortable temperature.
4. Make sure you can’t see your clock from your bed. Being able to see the clock may cause you to worry about the time, causing stress and anxiety.
5. Make your bed a place for sleeping. Avoid doing other things, such as watching TV or doing work, in bed. This helps your body recognize your bed as a place to sleep.
It only takes a few of these changes to your lifestyle and sleep habits in order to sleep better. Try some of these suggestions to help improve your night’s sleep!
Submitted by Victoria M. Brown at NewSunGraphics
(Search Engine Optimization Experts)
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
Laughter & Health : How They Are Interrelated
While you might think that you need to see many doctors and take many medications in order to remain healthy, researchers now believe that laughter is actually the best medicine and the best way to stay healthy. Laughing can relax the body and reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, strokes, arthritis, and other serious illnesses. It can rid the body of negative emotions -such as stress, anger, anxiety, and depression, which have all been proven to lead to heart disease.
Some other benefits are:
1. Laughter can help lower blood pressure. Research has shown that people who laugh on a regular basis tend to have lower blood pressure than the average person. When laughing, breathing becomes heavier and this sends more oxygen through the body. This allows for blood pressure to rise when laughing and then fall to levels below normal after laughing.
2. A good laugh can actually be equivalent to a good workout. Laughing can work out your diaphragm, respiratory, back, leg, and facial muscles. It also is a great way to boost your heart rate and increase digestion. Researchers believe that a good laugh can burn approximately the same number of calories as riding an exercise bike for a few minutes. One study concluded that laughing for 10-15 minutes can burn about 50 calories.
3. Laughter can change the biochemical makeup of the body. It will decrease the amount of stress hormones that the body is releasing, while increasing beneficial infection-fighting antibodies.
4. While relieving stress, laughter can also help improve brain functioning. Since the body is producing less stress-causing hormones, the muscles in the brain relax. This allows the brain to become more alert and retain more information.
5. Finally, laughing can protect the heart from heart attacks. Research has shown that people with heart disease laugh approximately 40% less than people without heart disease.
In order to gain the benefits of laughter, it is important to allow yourself time to laugh every day. For example, watch comedy TV, listen to comedy when driving, and make friends with funny people. You should understand that humor is good, so don’t take life and yourself so seriously! Be sure to laugh at yourself and have fun!
Submitted by Victoria M. Brown at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Some other benefits are:
1. Laughter can help lower blood pressure. Research has shown that people who laugh on a regular basis tend to have lower blood pressure than the average person. When laughing, breathing becomes heavier and this sends more oxygen through the body. This allows for blood pressure to rise when laughing and then fall to levels below normal after laughing.
2. A good laugh can actually be equivalent to a good workout. Laughing can work out your diaphragm, respiratory, back, leg, and facial muscles. It also is a great way to boost your heart rate and increase digestion. Researchers believe that a good laugh can burn approximately the same number of calories as riding an exercise bike for a few minutes. One study concluded that laughing for 10-15 minutes can burn about 50 calories.
3. Laughter can change the biochemical makeup of the body. It will decrease the amount of stress hormones that the body is releasing, while increasing beneficial infection-fighting antibodies.
4. While relieving stress, laughter can also help improve brain functioning. Since the body is producing less stress-causing hormones, the muscles in the brain relax. This allows the brain to become more alert and retain more information.
5. Finally, laughing can protect the heart from heart attacks. Research has shown that people with heart disease laugh approximately 40% less than people without heart disease.
In order to gain the benefits of laughter, it is important to allow yourself time to laugh every day. For example, watch comedy TV, listen to comedy when driving, and make friends with funny people. You should understand that humor is good, so don’t take life and yourself so seriously! Be sure to laugh at yourself and have fun!
Submitted by Victoria M. Brown at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Friday, December 14, 2007
Heart Attack : What You Should Do If You Have One
Hopefully you never have to use this guide, but preparing for something this critical can be lifesaving. First and foremost, make a plan and discuss it in advance with your family, your friends, your coworkers and, of course, your doctor.
Then you can rehearse this plan, just like a fire drill. Talk about heart attack warning signs and the importance of acting fast by calling 9-1-1 within a few minutes (5 at the most) if those signs persist. Explain to them that you will be treated faster if they call 9-1-1 rather than driving you to the hospital themselves.
Keep it simple. Know the warning signs. Keep information–such as what medications you’re taking–in one place.
Act Quickly!
Call 9-1-1 immediately. Don't ignore the pain or discomfort. If you think you are having heart problems or a heart attack, get help immediately. The longer you wait to get medical treatment, the greater the chances you will have severe, permanent damage to your heart or even die. Many treatments are most effective if given within 1 to 2 hours of when the heart attack begins. It is important to call emergency services because research shows that people who arrive at the hospital via ambulance are treated sooner than those who get there by their own means. Plus, everyone on the road makes way for an ambulance. An ambulance has trained medical staff and life-saving equipment to stabilize you if your condition worsens.
Chew an Aspirin
After calling for help, you should chew an aspirin (162 mg to 325 mg) to help prevent further clots developing. A chewed aspirin gets into the bloodstream more quickly than one swallowed whole. Enteric-coated or buffered aspirin is not absorbed as easily as regular aspirin. But if that is the only type of aspirin you have, crush the tablet before swallowing. (Don't take the aspirin if you're allergic to it)
Nitroglycerin
If you’ve already had a heart attack, ask your physician about having nitroglycerin available in the event of a subsequent attack. If your doctor has prescribed nitroglycerin pills, you should follow your doctor’s orders. If you are not sure about how to take your nitroglycerin when you get chest pain, check with your doctor.
Information to Have Available
Find out the location of the nearest hospital that offers 24-hour emergency cardiac care and keep the address handy. The American Heart Association recommends that doctors give a copy of the resting ECG to patients who have heart disease or who are at high-risk for a heart attack. If you have a copy of your resting ECG, give it to the emergency department doctors to help guide your treatment. Make a list of medications you are taking and/or are allergic to. This will help ensure that you receive the appropriate treatments.
Then you can rehearse this plan, just like a fire drill. Talk about heart attack warning signs and the importance of acting fast by calling 9-1-1 within a few minutes (5 at the most) if those signs persist. Explain to them that you will be treated faster if they call 9-1-1 rather than driving you to the hospital themselves.
Keep it simple. Know the warning signs. Keep information–such as what medications you’re taking–in one place.
Act Quickly!
Call 9-1-1 immediately. Don't ignore the pain or discomfort. If you think you are having heart problems or a heart attack, get help immediately. The longer you wait to get medical treatment, the greater the chances you will have severe, permanent damage to your heart or even die. Many treatments are most effective if given within 1 to 2 hours of when the heart attack begins. It is important to call emergency services because research shows that people who arrive at the hospital via ambulance are treated sooner than those who get there by their own means. Plus, everyone on the road makes way for an ambulance. An ambulance has trained medical staff and life-saving equipment to stabilize you if your condition worsens.
Chew an Aspirin
After calling for help, you should chew an aspirin (162 mg to 325 mg) to help prevent further clots developing. A chewed aspirin gets into the bloodstream more quickly than one swallowed whole. Enteric-coated or buffered aspirin is not absorbed as easily as regular aspirin. But if that is the only type of aspirin you have, crush the tablet before swallowing. (Don't take the aspirin if you're allergic to it)
Nitroglycerin
If you’ve already had a heart attack, ask your physician about having nitroglycerin available in the event of a subsequent attack. If your doctor has prescribed nitroglycerin pills, you should follow your doctor’s orders. If you are not sure about how to take your nitroglycerin when you get chest pain, check with your doctor.
Information to Have Available
Find out the location of the nearest hospital that offers 24-hour emergency cardiac care and keep the address handy. The American Heart Association recommends that doctors give a copy of the resting ECG to patients who have heart disease or who are at high-risk for a heart attack. If you have a copy of your resting ECG, give it to the emergency department doctors to help guide your treatment. Make a list of medications you are taking and/or are allergic to. This will help ensure that you receive the appropriate treatments.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Assisted Living On Long Island : 7 Reasons Long Island Is The Greatest Place To Retire!
Long Island is a beautiful, fun filled place to spend your retired years: With miles of beaches, hundreds of places to go shopping and enough good food to go around! The following are a number of reasons that make Long Island the greatest place to retire!
1. With lots of ocean front and lake edge real estate, Long Island has very fresh and clean air. Away from the noise, stress, and busy streets of New York City, you can enjoy calm lazy days uninterrupted. Go for a walk along the water’s edge, enjoy a book on your patio, and invite a few friends over for a game of cards. The weather is beautiful and your days will be equally gorgeous.
2. There are a large number of retired seniors living on Long Island: Meaning you won’t be alone! There will be lots of people your age who share your interests. There are also a lot of places that hold senior activities like bingo, cards, dance classes, craft groups, senior citizen trips, and senior aerobics. You may be retired, but you’ll never be bored!
3. Living on Long Island means you’re close to just about everything you could possibly want or need. For example, retiring at an Assisted Living Facility in beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma, you are only an hour and a half away from the stunning Montauk Point! Montauk is a great place for a day trip: Pack a picnic lunch, bring your walking shoes, and enjoy the view! It’s also only an hour and twenty minutes from Orient Point, where you can catch a ferry over to Connecticut for a weekend vacation. Dropping you off in New London, you are minutes from Mystic, a great little town filled with nice affordable accommodations, lots of shopping, and great food. You can also head over to Mohegan Sun for more shopping, a little gambling, and amazing shows and concerts! And even closer than all that is New York City, which is about an hour away (depending where you are on L.I). And with a train station near by, the trip is a breeze! I don’t think I need to tell you about the plethora of places to go, things to see, and stuff to do in the city!
4. Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches around! With miles of sandy shoreline, rolling waves, and clean warm air what’s not to love? Plus, the sunsets are beautiful too! Long Island also gives you the choice of two shore lines. The South Shore, which is your typical sandy bottom kind of beach, and the North Shore, which is covered in rocks, stones, and even larger boulders. (Honestly, it’s a rock collectors dream come true!) Not to mention, some of Long Island's beaches are placed on the top 10 list of best beaches in America!
5. There are lots of great places to eat scattered all over the island. Plus, Long Island is home to some of the best pizza and bagels in the country! With plenty of fast food establishments, delis, cafes, diners and fine restaurants, there is always something to satisfy your taste buds!
6. Long Island is also home to lots of great wildlife. With places like the protected Pine Barrens and wildlife refuges like the one located in Quogue. There are miles of trails to hike and animals to spy! A great place for bird watcher enthusiasts, photographers, and wildlife lovers of all types!
7. Still not convinced? Look at it this way… many people choose Long Island as their vacation destination, and extremely wealthy celebrities own homes in the Hamptons. If it’s worth vacationing to, it’s definitely worth living! You can make other people’s vacations your life!
The Lake Shore Assisted Living (http://www.lakeshoreli.com/)
The Lake Shore Assisted Living Facility, located on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma in Long Island, New York, has been providing seniors with assisted living care, delicious dining, friendly services and award-winning recreational programs for many years.
Submitted by Stacey at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
(www.NewSunGraphics.com)
1. With lots of ocean front and lake edge real estate, Long Island has very fresh and clean air. Away from the noise, stress, and busy streets of New York City, you can enjoy calm lazy days uninterrupted. Go for a walk along the water’s edge, enjoy a book on your patio, and invite a few friends over for a game of cards. The weather is beautiful and your days will be equally gorgeous.
2. There are a large number of retired seniors living on Long Island: Meaning you won’t be alone! There will be lots of people your age who share your interests. There are also a lot of places that hold senior activities like bingo, cards, dance classes, craft groups, senior citizen trips, and senior aerobics. You may be retired, but you’ll never be bored!
3. Living on Long Island means you’re close to just about everything you could possibly want or need. For example, retiring at an Assisted Living Facility in beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma, you are only an hour and a half away from the stunning Montauk Point! Montauk is a great place for a day trip: Pack a picnic lunch, bring your walking shoes, and enjoy the view! It’s also only an hour and twenty minutes from Orient Point, where you can catch a ferry over to Connecticut for a weekend vacation. Dropping you off in New London, you are minutes from Mystic, a great little town filled with nice affordable accommodations, lots of shopping, and great food. You can also head over to Mohegan Sun for more shopping, a little gambling, and amazing shows and concerts! And even closer than all that is New York City, which is about an hour away (depending where you are on L.I). And with a train station near by, the trip is a breeze! I don’t think I need to tell you about the plethora of places to go, things to see, and stuff to do in the city!
4. Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches around! With miles of sandy shoreline, rolling waves, and clean warm air what’s not to love? Plus, the sunsets are beautiful too! Long Island also gives you the choice of two shore lines. The South Shore, which is your typical sandy bottom kind of beach, and the North Shore, which is covered in rocks, stones, and even larger boulders. (Honestly, it’s a rock collectors dream come true!) Not to mention, some of Long Island's beaches are placed on the top 10 list of best beaches in America!
5. There are lots of great places to eat scattered all over the island. Plus, Long Island is home to some of the best pizza and bagels in the country! With plenty of fast food establishments, delis, cafes, diners and fine restaurants, there is always something to satisfy your taste buds!
6. Long Island is also home to lots of great wildlife. With places like the protected Pine Barrens and wildlife refuges like the one located in Quogue. There are miles of trails to hike and animals to spy! A great place for bird watcher enthusiasts, photographers, and wildlife lovers of all types!
7. Still not convinced? Look at it this way… many people choose Long Island as their vacation destination, and extremely wealthy celebrities own homes in the Hamptons. If it’s worth vacationing to, it’s definitely worth living! You can make other people’s vacations your life!
The Lake Shore Assisted Living (http://www.lakeshoreli.com/)
The Lake Shore Assisted Living Facility, located on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma in Long Island, New York, has been providing seniors with assisted living care, delicious dining, friendly services and award-winning recreational programs for many years.
Submitted by Stacey at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
(www.NewSunGraphics.com)
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Senior Health : Sugar Is Not Your Friend!
Growing up, our parents always told us not to eat too many sweets. Turns out, they were right! While sweets are and have always been, the smallest quadrant of the food pyramid, it seems that with age, sugar becomes increasingly bad for you. Decreasing your sugar intake can help cut back your risk of the most common health risks- such as heart disease and type-2 diabetes!
Before sugar gets to your tummy, it goes through an industrial refining process that purifies it. In that process, it is stripped of all vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes and any other edificial nutrients it may possess resulting in an unnatural substance that the body is unable to handle in mass quantity. (FACT: Sugar is refined in a process very similar to that of Heroin) Today’s accepted lifestyle includes a great deal more sugar then it did in the early 1900’s when heart disease and cancer were virtually unknown!
Today, the average American consumes approximately 115 pounds of sugar per year!
Sugar is addictive! Approximately 95% of people are addicted to it on some level. Stop and think about it. What happens when you don’t get your sugar fix during the day? You crave it, and become moody and irritable! The average American eats sugar with breakfast in their coffee or on their pancakes, you have sugar again with lunch in your salad dressing or a 3 o’clock snack of cookies or candy, and again with dinner. When you don’t get your normal hit of sugar, you crave it more and more and it affects your mood and ability to focus and work. Studies find that sugar addicts are much like crack addicts in their needs, withdrawals, and denial.
Some Risks Related To Sugar Intake:
Not ALL sugar is bad- sugars found in complex carbohydrates are actually good for you. However, the average individual eats far more sugar than their body needs or can handle. The following are a few risks associated with a high sugar diet.
· Sugar Depresses The Body And The Immune System! The glycemic index is a numbered rating system used to measure how fast or slow the absorption and digestion process is for any given food. The lower the rating, the slower the absorption, which gives a more gradual and healthier infusion of sugar into the bloodstream. Foods with a low glycemic index are better for you. However, a high rating means that the blood-glucose levels are increased quickly, which will stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin to drop the blood-sugar back down to a normal level. These rapid fluctuations in blood-sugar levels are not healthy and put stress on the body. Another major drawback of sugar is that it causes the body to raise insulin levels which prevent the release of growth hormones which in turn depresses the immune system.
· A Tired Pancreas May Mean Too Much Sugar! A diet filled with too much sugar can exhaust your pancreas leading to the depletion of your insulin reserve. In turn, resulting in diabetes. The more sugar you eat, the harder your pancreas works to maintain a normal blood-sugar level. If you were to get tested after binge eating sugar for a number of hours, your blood-sugar level may very well be normal still, because your pancreas created enough insulin to offset the sugar. However, your insulin levels would be sky high. This overworking of the pancreas can lead to one day stopping creating insulin all together, which will leave you diabetic.
· Sugar and Heart Disease. Studies have shown that the increase in sugar consumption has lead to higher risks and cases of heart disease. Sugar has been associated with increasing the adhesiveness of blood platelets, increasing blood insulin levels and causing many heart complications and diseases.
So clearly, sugar, which seems more like an addiction problem and less like an enjoyable sweet, can lead to many complications and diseases.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com/), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Before sugar gets to your tummy, it goes through an industrial refining process that purifies it. In that process, it is stripped of all vitamins, minerals, proteins, enzymes and any other edificial nutrients it may possess resulting in an unnatural substance that the body is unable to handle in mass quantity. (FACT: Sugar is refined in a process very similar to that of Heroin) Today’s accepted lifestyle includes a great deal more sugar then it did in the early 1900’s when heart disease and cancer were virtually unknown!
Today, the average American consumes approximately 115 pounds of sugar per year!
Sugar is addictive! Approximately 95% of people are addicted to it on some level. Stop and think about it. What happens when you don’t get your sugar fix during the day? You crave it, and become moody and irritable! The average American eats sugar with breakfast in their coffee or on their pancakes, you have sugar again with lunch in your salad dressing or a 3 o’clock snack of cookies or candy, and again with dinner. When you don’t get your normal hit of sugar, you crave it more and more and it affects your mood and ability to focus and work. Studies find that sugar addicts are much like crack addicts in their needs, withdrawals, and denial.
Some Risks Related To Sugar Intake:
Not ALL sugar is bad- sugars found in complex carbohydrates are actually good for you. However, the average individual eats far more sugar than their body needs or can handle. The following are a few risks associated with a high sugar diet.
· Sugar Depresses The Body And The Immune System! The glycemic index is a numbered rating system used to measure how fast or slow the absorption and digestion process is for any given food. The lower the rating, the slower the absorption, which gives a more gradual and healthier infusion of sugar into the bloodstream. Foods with a low glycemic index are better for you. However, a high rating means that the blood-glucose levels are increased quickly, which will stimulate the pancreas to secrete insulin to drop the blood-sugar back down to a normal level. These rapid fluctuations in blood-sugar levels are not healthy and put stress on the body. Another major drawback of sugar is that it causes the body to raise insulin levels which prevent the release of growth hormones which in turn depresses the immune system.
· A Tired Pancreas May Mean Too Much Sugar! A diet filled with too much sugar can exhaust your pancreas leading to the depletion of your insulin reserve. In turn, resulting in diabetes. The more sugar you eat, the harder your pancreas works to maintain a normal blood-sugar level. If you were to get tested after binge eating sugar for a number of hours, your blood-sugar level may very well be normal still, because your pancreas created enough insulin to offset the sugar. However, your insulin levels would be sky high. This overworking of the pancreas can lead to one day stopping creating insulin all together, which will leave you diabetic.
· Sugar and Heart Disease. Studies have shown that the increase in sugar consumption has lead to higher risks and cases of heart disease. Sugar has been associated with increasing the adhesiveness of blood platelets, increasing blood insulin levels and causing many heart complications and diseases.
So clearly, sugar, which seems more like an addiction problem and less like an enjoyable sweet, can lead to many complications and diseases.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com/), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Assisted Living On Long Island : What Do Seniors Do For Fun?
Long Island is a beautiful place for senior citizens to happily spend their retirement. Far enough away from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Long Island can be a quiet yet entertaining place to spend your retired years.
Retirement on Long Island includes beautiful afternoons on our sunny beaches, gorgeous sunsets, and peaceful walks down quiet neighborhood streets. There is plenty of fine dining, movie theaters, malls and parks to suit your needs. There’s also a lot of fun activities specifically for senior citizens. The following is a list of a number of events that are held all over Long Island for the enjoyment of our beloved seniors!
1. For those seniors who aren’t afraid to do something a little different, the Town of Oyster Bay offers ballroom dance instructions for residents 60 and over. Lessons take place at the William P. Bennett Community Center in Hicksville every Monday at 10am. It’s a great way to learn something new, have some fun, and stay active!!
2. The Tanner Park Senior Center in Copiague is a great place for seniors to go with friends or meet new people their own age. Open Monday-Friday 9-4pm, they feature card playing, table games, bingo, billiards, lunch, arts and crafts, and other specially-scheduled programs! The Tanner Park Senior Center is a great place for seniors to socialize and keep their minds sharp!!
3. If you want to stay active but that ballroom dancing simply isn’t for you then the Rainbow Senior Center in Lindenhurst might be! They offer Bend and Stretch classes Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am. This class is designed specifically for seniors, so don’t be afraid it’ll be too intense!
4. The Rainbow Senior Center also offers the Arts and Crafts club. A place to share and discuss craft ideas, open Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-2pm.
5. Another great place for seniors is Golden Opportunities at the Senior Community Service Center in Glen Cove. They offer a wide variety of diverse activities including trips, guest speakers, social cubs, exercise and bridge! Membership is free for residents and guest membership is available for Nassau County seniors!
6. And for all you men out there that simply have no interest in playing bridge with the ladies, the Plainview Senior Housing Facility has the North Shore Men’s Club! A social club just for men 60 and over.
7. There is also the ‘For Men Only’ club at the Samuel Field YM & YWHA in Little Neck. The ‘For Men Only’ club is a discussion group open to men over the age of 80, open daily from 2pm-3pm.
As you can see, there are lots of activities on Long Island for retired senior citizens to stay active. There is plenty of fun to be had and a lot of new people to meet! Before you know it, you might be planning your own trip with your new friends!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com) is a Senior Assisted Living facility located in beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma. They’re a well established facility with many seniors already enjoying their services. For your protection, The Lake Shore is an ultra modern fire-proof construction and has 24-hour attendants. They provide fun activities on site or you can venture out to any or all of the listed above! Their staff is friendly and accommodating and will make you feel right at home! With your own room, plenty of privacy, and daily home cooked meals, you’ll have no worries and lots of time to go out and have fun!
Submitted by Stacey Crevoiserat at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Retirement on Long Island includes beautiful afternoons on our sunny beaches, gorgeous sunsets, and peaceful walks down quiet neighborhood streets. There is plenty of fine dining, movie theaters, malls and parks to suit your needs. There’s also a lot of fun activities specifically for senior citizens. The following is a list of a number of events that are held all over Long Island for the enjoyment of our beloved seniors!
1. For those seniors who aren’t afraid to do something a little different, the Town of Oyster Bay offers ballroom dance instructions for residents 60 and over. Lessons take place at the William P. Bennett Community Center in Hicksville every Monday at 10am. It’s a great way to learn something new, have some fun, and stay active!!
2. The Tanner Park Senior Center in Copiague is a great place for seniors to go with friends or meet new people their own age. Open Monday-Friday 9-4pm, they feature card playing, table games, bingo, billiards, lunch, arts and crafts, and other specially-scheduled programs! The Tanner Park Senior Center is a great place for seniors to socialize and keep their minds sharp!!
3. If you want to stay active but that ballroom dancing simply isn’t for you then the Rainbow Senior Center in Lindenhurst might be! They offer Bend and Stretch classes Mondays and Wednesdays at 11am. This class is designed specifically for seniors, so don’t be afraid it’ll be too intense!
4. The Rainbow Senior Center also offers the Arts and Crafts club. A place to share and discuss craft ideas, open Mondays and Wednesdays 10am-2pm.
5. Another great place for seniors is Golden Opportunities at the Senior Community Service Center in Glen Cove. They offer a wide variety of diverse activities including trips, guest speakers, social cubs, exercise and bridge! Membership is free for residents and guest membership is available for Nassau County seniors!
6. And for all you men out there that simply have no interest in playing bridge with the ladies, the Plainview Senior Housing Facility has the North Shore Men’s Club! A social club just for men 60 and over.
7. There is also the ‘For Men Only’ club at the Samuel Field YM & YWHA in Little Neck. The ‘For Men Only’ club is a discussion group open to men over the age of 80, open daily from 2pm-3pm.
As you can see, there are lots of activities on Long Island for retired senior citizens to stay active. There is plenty of fun to be had and a lot of new people to meet! Before you know it, you might be planning your own trip with your new friends!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com) is a Senior Assisted Living facility located in beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma. They’re a well established facility with many seniors already enjoying their services. For your protection, The Lake Shore is an ultra modern fire-proof construction and has 24-hour attendants. They provide fun activities on site or you can venture out to any or all of the listed above! Their staff is friendly and accommodating and will make you feel right at home! With your own room, plenty of privacy, and daily home cooked meals, you’ll have no worries and lots of time to go out and have fun!
Submitted by Stacey Crevoiserat at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
Alzheimer’s Disease : Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Stages
More than 4 million Americans today are affected with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is expected to escalate to approximately 12 million within the next 30 years. This serious disease is plaguing America in such a way that just about every individual has had an experience with someone with Alzheimer’s in one way or another. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that affects the mind, and more specifically your memory. 1 in 8 individuals over the age of 65 will develop it.
Risk Factors:
We currently don’t know what exactly causes Alzheimer’s, and it remains a disease that is diagnosed by eliminating other possibilities. However, experts have found a number of factors that reoccur in Alzheimer’s patients. It is believed that a combination of the following factors can cause a person to be predisposed to develop Alzheimer’s.
1. Family history of the disease – especially a parent or sibling.
2. Heart-disease risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and diabetes.
3. Previous head injury
4. Environmental toxins
5. Advancing age
6. Stress- high levels of anxiety
Symptoms:
When an individual begins to develop Alzheimer’s, there won’t be any easily identifiable outward symptoms to use as evidence. As the disease progresses, memory lapses appear and slowly grow more serious. The individual may begin to forget the names of familiar people and places, forget the location of everyday objects, or have trouble finding the right words to express themselves. These symptoms are similar to that of a simply forgetful older mind. As we age, our memory isn’t as sharp as it once was, however an individual with Alzheimer’s will have a more noticeable and rapid decline in memory. If you notice this in a loved one, it is time to see a physician.
As time goes on and the disease progresses, the memory lapses will become more and more noticeable and serious. They will affect the individual’s daily life, hobbies, and work. As this happens, the person will often develop other cognitive problems such as:
· General confusion, disoriented to date, time, and place.
· Apathy, irritability, depression, and anxiety.
· Troubles with language, math, abstract thinking.
· Personality changes
· Later on in the disease paranoia and delusions may occur.
· At the end of the disease’s development, the individual may suffer total loss of self and control.
Main Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease:
Experts have identified a number of stages to help define and group people suffering from this devastating and difficult disease. With no cure the best thing you can do is be aware of what this disease may bring in the future and use this knowledge to help plan care for your loved one.
The following are the Three Main Stages:
1. Early-State – In the early stage, the individual will suffer memory loss and possibly some other cognitive difficulties, however, they can continue to function independently.
2. Mid-Stage – In the mid-stage, the disease has progressed past basic memory troubles and the individual’s mental abilities have continued to decline. They start to suffer personality changes and physical problems, and in turn become more dependent on caregivers.
3. Late-Stage – The late-stage is the most severe. Individuals will suffer complete deterioration of the personality and loss of control over bodily functions. They will become totally dependent on caregivers for even basic daily needs.
There is no set time as to when a person will progress from one stage to the other. One individual may move quickly from the early-stage to the mid-stage, while another may stay in the early-stage for several years. Every person is different. Here is a basic break down of the types of symptoms and their severity for each stage:
Symptoms of the Early-Stage:
· Confusion, forgets names and words, forgets their own history, less able to plan or think logically, poor judgment, and withdraws from social and mental challenges.
· Has trouble expressing themselves and comprehending reading material
· Becomes apathetic, anxious, agitated, insensitive to others’ feelings, tired
· Hoards objects of little value, forgets to do things like eat or eats only one kind of food.
Symptoms of the Mid-Stage:
· Forgets recent events, if they can’t remember they make something up instead.
· Trouble connecting names and faces of family and friends but still knows the difference between familiar and unfamiliar faces.
· Can no longer follow written or oral instructions, disoriented about the season, day of the week or time.
· Problems speaking, reading and writing, repeats stories
· Aggressive, suspicious, delusional, exaggeration of normal personality characteristics.
· Restless, pacing, talking to oneself, disoriented sleep-wake cycle.
Symptoms of the Late-Stage:
· Doesn’t recognize familiar people, can no longer smile, doesn’t speak or speaks incoherently, may cry or call out, groan or mumble. Cannot write or comprehend reading material.
· Cannot control their movements, cannot walk, stand or sit up without assistance. Can’t easily swallow and may choke on food.
· Needs complete assistance with all daily activities, requires full-time care.
· Frequent infections, seizures, abnormal reflexes.
· May refuse to eat or drink, little response to touch, exhausted
Submitted by Stacey at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Risk Factors:
We currently don’t know what exactly causes Alzheimer’s, and it remains a disease that is diagnosed by eliminating other possibilities. However, experts have found a number of factors that reoccur in Alzheimer’s patients. It is believed that a combination of the following factors can cause a person to be predisposed to develop Alzheimer’s.
1. Family history of the disease – especially a parent or sibling.
2. Heart-disease risk factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, and diabetes.
3. Previous head injury
4. Environmental toxins
5. Advancing age
6. Stress- high levels of anxiety
Symptoms:
When an individual begins to develop Alzheimer’s, there won’t be any easily identifiable outward symptoms to use as evidence. As the disease progresses, memory lapses appear and slowly grow more serious. The individual may begin to forget the names of familiar people and places, forget the location of everyday objects, or have trouble finding the right words to express themselves. These symptoms are similar to that of a simply forgetful older mind. As we age, our memory isn’t as sharp as it once was, however an individual with Alzheimer’s will have a more noticeable and rapid decline in memory. If you notice this in a loved one, it is time to see a physician.
As time goes on and the disease progresses, the memory lapses will become more and more noticeable and serious. They will affect the individual’s daily life, hobbies, and work. As this happens, the person will often develop other cognitive problems such as:
· General confusion, disoriented to date, time, and place.
· Apathy, irritability, depression, and anxiety.
· Troubles with language, math, abstract thinking.
· Personality changes
· Later on in the disease paranoia and delusions may occur.
· At the end of the disease’s development, the individual may suffer total loss of self and control.
Main Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease:
Experts have identified a number of stages to help define and group people suffering from this devastating and difficult disease. With no cure the best thing you can do is be aware of what this disease may bring in the future and use this knowledge to help plan care for your loved one.
The following are the Three Main Stages:
1. Early-State – In the early stage, the individual will suffer memory loss and possibly some other cognitive difficulties, however, they can continue to function independently.
2. Mid-Stage – In the mid-stage, the disease has progressed past basic memory troubles and the individual’s mental abilities have continued to decline. They start to suffer personality changes and physical problems, and in turn become more dependent on caregivers.
3. Late-Stage – The late-stage is the most severe. Individuals will suffer complete deterioration of the personality and loss of control over bodily functions. They will become totally dependent on caregivers for even basic daily needs.
There is no set time as to when a person will progress from one stage to the other. One individual may move quickly from the early-stage to the mid-stage, while another may stay in the early-stage for several years. Every person is different. Here is a basic break down of the types of symptoms and their severity for each stage:
Symptoms of the Early-Stage:
· Confusion, forgets names and words, forgets their own history, less able to plan or think logically, poor judgment, and withdraws from social and mental challenges.
· Has trouble expressing themselves and comprehending reading material
· Becomes apathetic, anxious, agitated, insensitive to others’ feelings, tired
· Hoards objects of little value, forgets to do things like eat or eats only one kind of food.
Symptoms of the Mid-Stage:
· Forgets recent events, if they can’t remember they make something up instead.
· Trouble connecting names and faces of family and friends but still knows the difference between familiar and unfamiliar faces.
· Can no longer follow written or oral instructions, disoriented about the season, day of the week or time.
· Problems speaking, reading and writing, repeats stories
· Aggressive, suspicious, delusional, exaggeration of normal personality characteristics.
· Restless, pacing, talking to oneself, disoriented sleep-wake cycle.
Symptoms of the Late-Stage:
· Doesn’t recognize familiar people, can no longer smile, doesn’t speak or speaks incoherently, may cry or call out, groan or mumble. Cannot write or comprehend reading material.
· Cannot control their movements, cannot walk, stand or sit up without assistance. Can’t easily swallow and may choke on food.
· Needs complete assistance with all daily activities, requires full-time care.
· Frequent infections, seizures, abnormal reflexes.
· May refuse to eat or drink, little response to touch, exhausted
Submitted by Stacey at NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Senior Living : How Baby Boomers Will Change Retirement
When people think of retirement, they typically think of older adults who enjoy exotic drinks on the beach, long days of golf, and reading books on sunny Wednesday afternoons in the backyard. Well not anymore! As baby boomers reach the typical point of retreatment, it seems they aren’t really retiring at all! Baby boomers are changing the face of retirement as we know it!
But Why?
It seems that compared to their parents, boomers are healthier, better educated and living longer! And in turn, want to stay active and… working! 76% of baby boomers plan to continue to work after retiring around the age of 64. In fact, many actually move into a new job or launch an entirely new career! The typical retirement age is still set at 65, but the average life expectancy is actually much longer than that and lengthening all the time. As a result, boomers intend to work, play, and live young!
It’s Not about the Money!
While some boomers do admit to feeling like they have to continue working for the income, the majority of them honestly don’t. The primary reason boomers wish to keep working continues to be for mental stimulation. In fact, out of the 76% of boomers who plan to keep working, 67% of them plan to do so for the mental benefits and motivation they get out of it. Since it’s not about the money, many boomers volunteer their services. Doctors retire and in turn become volunteer physicians so they can continue to stay sharp and on their toes while being free to enjoy time off. Only 17% of boomers said they hoped to never have to work again.
What Does This Mean For Employers?
Well, basically there will be a bit of a shuffle as more and more baby boomers change their path with age. Boomers who have worked a long and dedicated career for a specific company will most likely retire from that career. Companies who have several baby boomer employees may find themselves having to suddenly fill many important open desks. And while most will probably celebrate their retirement with vacations, leisure games of golf, and time with their spouse, children and grandchildren; they won’t be home in their rockers for long! They will return to new jobs and careers, but usually something less stressful or labor intense. Since most wish to cycle periods of work and play, they will be looking for jobs allowing them the freedom to easily do so. Only 16% wish to seek part time employment, while amazingly enough, 13% would like to start up their own business!
So, why are Baby Boomers So Interested In Staying Active?
There are actually a few reasons. One being that they still feel young! They feel too young to just be sitting at home- they don’t want to be bored, they want to be pushed, challenged, and inspired. Another reason being that while they don’t necessarily NEED the money, it does offer them security in the event of illness. Believe it or not, when it comes to the list of concerns of boomers, death is relatively low on the list. Retired seniors today are three times more worried about their ability to pay for healthcare. Staying active keeps them healthy, gives them a little extra money in the event they do fall ill, and often their second career path may give them the benefit of company paid healthcare!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
(www.NewSunGraphics.com)
But Why?
It seems that compared to their parents, boomers are healthier, better educated and living longer! And in turn, want to stay active and… working! 76% of baby boomers plan to continue to work after retiring around the age of 64. In fact, many actually move into a new job or launch an entirely new career! The typical retirement age is still set at 65, but the average life expectancy is actually much longer than that and lengthening all the time. As a result, boomers intend to work, play, and live young!
It’s Not about the Money!
While some boomers do admit to feeling like they have to continue working for the income, the majority of them honestly don’t. The primary reason boomers wish to keep working continues to be for mental stimulation. In fact, out of the 76% of boomers who plan to keep working, 67% of them plan to do so for the mental benefits and motivation they get out of it. Since it’s not about the money, many boomers volunteer their services. Doctors retire and in turn become volunteer physicians so they can continue to stay sharp and on their toes while being free to enjoy time off. Only 17% of boomers said they hoped to never have to work again.
What Does This Mean For Employers?
Well, basically there will be a bit of a shuffle as more and more baby boomers change their path with age. Boomers who have worked a long and dedicated career for a specific company will most likely retire from that career. Companies who have several baby boomer employees may find themselves having to suddenly fill many important open desks. And while most will probably celebrate their retirement with vacations, leisure games of golf, and time with their spouse, children and grandchildren; they won’t be home in their rockers for long! They will return to new jobs and careers, but usually something less stressful or labor intense. Since most wish to cycle periods of work and play, they will be looking for jobs allowing them the freedom to easily do so. Only 16% wish to seek part time employment, while amazingly enough, 13% would like to start up their own business!
So, why are Baby Boomers So Interested In Staying Active?
There are actually a few reasons. One being that they still feel young! They feel too young to just be sitting at home- they don’t want to be bored, they want to be pushed, challenged, and inspired. Another reason being that while they don’t necessarily NEED the money, it does offer them security in the event of illness. Believe it or not, when it comes to the list of concerns of boomers, death is relatively low on the list. Retired seniors today are three times more worried about their ability to pay for healthcare. Staying active keeps them healthy, gives them a little extra money in the event they do fall ill, and often their second career path may give them the benefit of company paid healthcare!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
(www.NewSunGraphics.com)
Friday, October 26, 2007
Senior Health : Diabetes And Its Warning Signs
Diabetes is a very serious disease that affects nearly 21 million people in the United States, and another 54 million people are at risk. It’s a very sad disease to be diagnosed with, and because it has become so common, chances are if you don’t have it, you know at least one person who does.
So what exactly is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease where the body does not properly control the amount of sugar in the blood stream resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. This is a result of the body not producing enough insulin on its own, or when the body is not using the insulin properly. If Diabetes is left untreated, it can cause serious organ damage. Diabetes, even when cared for, can result in heart and blood vessel disease, blindness, kidney failure and foot ulcers.
Now, there are two types of Diabetes, and they are both completely different diseases:
Type 1 – Type 1 Diabetes, in layman’s terms, is when the pancreas can no longer make the insulin required to carry sugar from the blood into other cells of the body. Scientists believe this is caused by a virus that causes the immune system to attack the insulin-producing cells and permanently destroy them. Those diagnosed with Type 1 will have to take insulin injections every day to survive. They will have to test themselves often and determine the proper amount of insulin required and inject themselves daily. This will mimic the action of a healthy functioning pancreas.
Type 2 – Type 2 is the most common form of Diabetes, as much as 95% of people diagnosed have type 2. This form of Diabetes is a result of things like obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, family history and increased age (21% of individuals over the age of 60 are diabetic). Some of the causes of Type 2 Diabetes can be changed with better habits and lifestyle changes, and as a result, the Diabetes may in fact clear up on its own. Those diagnosed with Type 2 should consult a doctor about positive lifestyle changes- daily exercise combined with medication, insulin, and monitoring can help you correct your Diabetes. If you have any of the risk factors for Type 2 that are in your control, you can reduce your risk on your own by losing excess weight, eating better, and staying active. You’ll feel your best and reduce your risk at the same time!
So what are the symptoms and warning signs?
With the exception of a few, many of the warning signs of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the same. However the symptoms of Type 1 tend to hit much faster, and sadly can affect anyone- children, young adults, people in their 40’s and seniors alike can all be diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes.
Warning signs of type 1:
· Increased Thirst
· Increased hunger
· Dry mouth
· Frequent urination
· Blurry vision
· Fatigue
· Headaches
· Unexpected weight loss
Type 2 diabetics aren’t usually diagnosed until complications have already occurred. They usually experience the symptoms listed above but they occur gradually and are not immediately noticeable. As many as half of all people with Type 2 Diabetes don’t even know they have it.
Type 2 Diabetes symptoms include all of the listed above and the following:
· Slow healing sores or cuts
· Itching of the skin
· Decreased vision
· Impotency
· Frequent yeast infections
· Numbness or tingling in the hands, legs or feet
If you are experiencing any of the above listed symptoms you should contact your regular doctor for testing immediately. Even people with pre-diabetes can suffer from increased risk of heart disease.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
So what exactly is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a disease where the body does not properly control the amount of sugar in the blood stream resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. This is a result of the body not producing enough insulin on its own, or when the body is not using the insulin properly. If Diabetes is left untreated, it can cause serious organ damage. Diabetes, even when cared for, can result in heart and blood vessel disease, blindness, kidney failure and foot ulcers.
Now, there are two types of Diabetes, and they are both completely different diseases:
Type 1 – Type 1 Diabetes, in layman’s terms, is when the pancreas can no longer make the insulin required to carry sugar from the blood into other cells of the body. Scientists believe this is caused by a virus that causes the immune system to attack the insulin-producing cells and permanently destroy them. Those diagnosed with Type 1 will have to take insulin injections every day to survive. They will have to test themselves often and determine the proper amount of insulin required and inject themselves daily. This will mimic the action of a healthy functioning pancreas.
Type 2 – Type 2 is the most common form of Diabetes, as much as 95% of people diagnosed have type 2. This form of Diabetes is a result of things like obesity, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, family history and increased age (21% of individuals over the age of 60 are diabetic). Some of the causes of Type 2 Diabetes can be changed with better habits and lifestyle changes, and as a result, the Diabetes may in fact clear up on its own. Those diagnosed with Type 2 should consult a doctor about positive lifestyle changes- daily exercise combined with medication, insulin, and monitoring can help you correct your Diabetes. If you have any of the risk factors for Type 2 that are in your control, you can reduce your risk on your own by losing excess weight, eating better, and staying active. You’ll feel your best and reduce your risk at the same time!
So what are the symptoms and warning signs?
With the exception of a few, many of the warning signs of both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the same. However the symptoms of Type 1 tend to hit much faster, and sadly can affect anyone- children, young adults, people in their 40’s and seniors alike can all be diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes.
Warning signs of type 1:
· Increased Thirst
· Increased hunger
· Dry mouth
· Frequent urination
· Blurry vision
· Fatigue
· Headaches
· Unexpected weight loss
Type 2 diabetics aren’t usually diagnosed until complications have already occurred. They usually experience the symptoms listed above but they occur gradually and are not immediately noticeable. As many as half of all people with Type 2 Diabetes don’t even know they have it.
Type 2 Diabetes symptoms include all of the listed above and the following:
· Slow healing sores or cuts
· Itching of the skin
· Decreased vision
· Impotency
· Frequent yeast infections
· Numbness or tingling in the hands, legs or feet
If you are experiencing any of the above listed symptoms you should contact your regular doctor for testing immediately. Even people with pre-diabetes can suffer from increased risk of heart disease.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By Stacey At NewSunGraphics
Search Engine Optimization Experts
www.NewSunGraphics.com
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Assisted Living vs. Nursing Homes
Assisted Living and Nursing Homes are two terms often used interchangeably, however this is a mistake. The two are actually very different, and a candidate for one is not a candidate for the other. The following are some differences between the two:
Assisted Living Facilities:
· Individuals in assisted living are more independent and can usually get through most of the day by themselves. They only need general help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, grooming and preparing food.
· Assisted living candidates still enjoy social activities with other people and make autonomous decisions about their day. Someone who belongs in an assisted living facility would be downright miserable in a nursing home.
· Assisted living facilities require limited to no medical care. An ideal assisted living facility candidate would be in good health both mentally and physically.
· Assisted living facilities focus on personal privacy and self-sufficiency more so than a nursing home. Residents are able to maintain their independence in a more secure atmosphere.
· Assisted living facilities offer their clients a comfortable apartment that is luxurious and comfortable. Meals and light housekeeping are available.
· Assisted living facilities offer mature adults an alternative with care when needed and would prefer not to manage their large house anymore.
Nursing Homes:
· Those in nursing homes need a great deal more care. They usually require 24-hour nursing supervision and are generally not in good health. Nursing homes are equipped to handle patients who are not mentally or physically well.
· Nursing home patients require help with much more than three or more daily tasks- such as walking or being pushed in wheel chairs, eating, and regular medical tests.
· A nursing home is a place for someone who is unable to be cared for at home, but is not a candidate for hospital care. Although, some nursing homes are set up like hospitals to meet state requirements.
· Nursing homes also provide rehabilitation to help people gain back their independence after a serious health problem, i.e. a stroke or fall.
· Similar to hospitals, nursing home patients have little to no privacy and quite often share rooms.
· Nursing home clients are viewed as patients, not clients. They are there for the sole purpose to get well. If you or your parent is well, a nursing home would not be the ideal place. Perhaps you should investigate an assisted living facility near you.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By NewSunGraphics (www.NewSunG.com)
Assisted Living Facilities:
· Individuals in assisted living are more independent and can usually get through most of the day by themselves. They only need general help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, grooming and preparing food.
· Assisted living candidates still enjoy social activities with other people and make autonomous decisions about their day. Someone who belongs in an assisted living facility would be downright miserable in a nursing home.
· Assisted living facilities require limited to no medical care. An ideal assisted living facility candidate would be in good health both mentally and physically.
· Assisted living facilities focus on personal privacy and self-sufficiency more so than a nursing home. Residents are able to maintain their independence in a more secure atmosphere.
· Assisted living facilities offer their clients a comfortable apartment that is luxurious and comfortable. Meals and light housekeeping are available.
· Assisted living facilities offer mature adults an alternative with care when needed and would prefer not to manage their large house anymore.
Nursing Homes:
· Those in nursing homes need a great deal more care. They usually require 24-hour nursing supervision and are generally not in good health. Nursing homes are equipped to handle patients who are not mentally or physically well.
· Nursing home patients require help with much more than three or more daily tasks- such as walking or being pushed in wheel chairs, eating, and regular medical tests.
· A nursing home is a place for someone who is unable to be cared for at home, but is not a candidate for hospital care. Although, some nursing homes are set up like hospitals to meet state requirements.
· Nursing homes also provide rehabilitation to help people gain back their independence after a serious health problem, i.e. a stroke or fall.
· Similar to hospitals, nursing home patients have little to no privacy and quite often share rooms.
· Nursing home clients are viewed as patients, not clients. They are there for the sole purpose to get well. If you or your parent is well, a nursing home would not be the ideal place. Perhaps you should investigate an assisted living facility near you.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Submitted By NewSunGraphics (www.NewSunG.com)
Friday, October 19, 2007
Senior Health and Nutrition: What Should You Be Eating?
As we age, our body obviously changes and it’s important that we get the nutrition our body needs based on our age. Surely you would not feed an adolescent baby food- They have/need different diets than a new born or toddler does. It’s equally important for a grown adult or senior to eat differently than they did when they were in their 30’s. Here are a few tips and commonly asked questions regarding Senior Nutrition:
A Few Facts Seniors And Caregivers Should Know:
1. As activity levels decrease muscle mass often diminishes and therefore reducing the body’s energy requirements. What does this mean? Well, if a senior does not adapt and continues to eat the way they did when their body required much more energy they run the risk of becoming obese.
2. On the flip side, many seniors also run the risk of not getting enough nutrients for the body due to appetite changes. It’s important to develop a portion controlled diet to ensure the senior gets all the nutrition their body needs. If they aren’t using up any energy and never feel hungry or tired, maybe plan some senior friendly exercises (based upon their ability) to get them more active and to build up an appetite.
3. Always check with your doctor before making any diet changes if you are on any medication. Different medicines can affect food intake in different ways; some can cause an upset stomach, some require you to take them with specific foods, while others cannot be mixed with some foods or beverages. Always check with your doctor first!!
What Does Eating Healthy Mean?
Eating healthy is basically eating the right amounts of foods to provide the required nutrients to give your body enough energy for daily activities, ensure your body is functioning properly, and prevent illness and maintain longevity.
Specific Nutritional Recommendations for Seniors:
It’s helpful to periodically review your diet as you age, especially if you have any medical needs. You should schedule a visit to your doctor so he/she can assist you in creating a diet specifically for you and your individual nutritional needs.
Here are a few general guidelines:
· Monitor fat intake to maintain healthy cholesterol
· Consume more calcium and vitamin D for strong healthy bones
· Reduce your salt intake to prevent water retention and high blood pressure
· Cut back your intake of sugar and dry foods
· Increase your water intake
· Participate in regular physical activity
The Senior Food Pyramid!
Yes, indeed there is a food pyramid strictly for our senior citizens of the world! It’s very much like the food pyramid you should already be familiar with, only this one is adapted specifically for the different needs of older adults who have a slower metabolism and slightly different nutritional needs.
· Let’s start at the base. It is recommended that you drink 8 servings of water a day. (I sure hope you’re thirsty!!)
· Next, you should be getting six or less servings of bread, cereal, rice and pasta. (This is less than the traditional food pyramid where it is recommended we get at least six or more servings in this group.)
· Then you should be getting no more than two servings from the fruit group and two – three servings from the vegetable group. (Again, this is less, in fact half, then the traditional food pyramid)
· Now we have the dairy and meat servings. Seniors should get less than two servings from the meat, poultry, fish, beans, and eggs group. And they should also get three servings of milk, yogurt, and cheese.
· As for your beloved sweets, fats and oils… use them sparingly. You’re better off making them just a little treat for yourself every so often rather than a staple part of your daily intake. (But then again, that one is true for all of us!)
· And lastly seniors should be getting calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B-12 supplements. (See your doctor for specific amounts)
Benefits to a Healthy Diet:
· Increased mental acuteness
· Resistance to illness and disease
· Higher levels of energy
· Stronger immune system
· Faster recuperation time
Everyone, young and old alike, should practice a healthy daily diet. But it seems seniors often suffer most from not changing their diet. As we age, our bodies get older while we often still feel young at heart! So be sure to stop and examine your diet and eat accordingly! You won’t regret it!
A Few Facts Seniors And Caregivers Should Know:
1. As activity levels decrease muscle mass often diminishes and therefore reducing the body’s energy requirements. What does this mean? Well, if a senior does not adapt and continues to eat the way they did when their body required much more energy they run the risk of becoming obese.
2. On the flip side, many seniors also run the risk of not getting enough nutrients for the body due to appetite changes. It’s important to develop a portion controlled diet to ensure the senior gets all the nutrition their body needs. If they aren’t using up any energy and never feel hungry or tired, maybe plan some senior friendly exercises (based upon their ability) to get them more active and to build up an appetite.
3. Always check with your doctor before making any diet changes if you are on any medication. Different medicines can affect food intake in different ways; some can cause an upset stomach, some require you to take them with specific foods, while others cannot be mixed with some foods or beverages. Always check with your doctor first!!
What Does Eating Healthy Mean?
Eating healthy is basically eating the right amounts of foods to provide the required nutrients to give your body enough energy for daily activities, ensure your body is functioning properly, and prevent illness and maintain longevity.
Specific Nutritional Recommendations for Seniors:
It’s helpful to periodically review your diet as you age, especially if you have any medical needs. You should schedule a visit to your doctor so he/she can assist you in creating a diet specifically for you and your individual nutritional needs.
Here are a few general guidelines:
· Monitor fat intake to maintain healthy cholesterol
· Consume more calcium and vitamin D for strong healthy bones
· Reduce your salt intake to prevent water retention and high blood pressure
· Cut back your intake of sugar and dry foods
· Increase your water intake
· Participate in regular physical activity
The Senior Food Pyramid!
Yes, indeed there is a food pyramid strictly for our senior citizens of the world! It’s very much like the food pyramid you should already be familiar with, only this one is adapted specifically for the different needs of older adults who have a slower metabolism and slightly different nutritional needs.
· Let’s start at the base. It is recommended that you drink 8 servings of water a day. (I sure hope you’re thirsty!!)
· Next, you should be getting six or less servings of bread, cereal, rice and pasta. (This is less than the traditional food pyramid where it is recommended we get at least six or more servings in this group.)
· Then you should be getting no more than two servings from the fruit group and two – three servings from the vegetable group. (Again, this is less, in fact half, then the traditional food pyramid)
· Now we have the dairy and meat servings. Seniors should get less than two servings from the meat, poultry, fish, beans, and eggs group. And they should also get three servings of milk, yogurt, and cheese.
· As for your beloved sweets, fats and oils… use them sparingly. You’re better off making them just a little treat for yourself every so often rather than a staple part of your daily intake. (But then again, that one is true for all of us!)
· And lastly seniors should be getting calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B-12 supplements. (See your doctor for specific amounts)
Benefits to a Healthy Diet:
· Increased mental acuteness
· Resistance to illness and disease
· Higher levels of energy
· Stronger immune system
· Faster recuperation time
Everyone, young and old alike, should practice a healthy daily diet. But it seems seniors often suffer most from not changing their diet. As we age, our bodies get older while we often still feel young at heart! So be sure to stop and examine your diet and eat accordingly! You won’t regret it!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Women and Heart Disease – What Are The Symptoms?
Women and Heart Disease – What Are The Symptoms?
Heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases are the No. 1 killer of American women- killing nearly 12 times as many American females as breast cancer. More women than men die from cardiovascular diseases each year. 8,000,000 American women are currently living with heart disease. These statistics are staggering and alarming!
So, what are the warning signs? The majority of people think of chest pain when having a heart attack, but there are some that do not experience it. In fact, women are less likely than men to feel chest pain during a heart attack. Studies of hundreds of women that have had heart attacks suggest that women usually have different symptoms- such as back pain, nausea, vomiting and /or fatigue. And that 95% experienced symptoms before the attack. So, even if you’ve already suffered a heart attack, the symptoms of a second attack may not be the same as your first. For this reason, it is important for women to recognize the various signs and symptoms of a heart attack so that they can take immediate action if ever needed.
The common heart attack symptoms are:
Chest Pain - Women often describe their chest pain as pressure, tightness, or an ache. But often, women do not experience severe pain during a heart attack. When chest pain occurs, it usually feels like discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes- which may come and go. For this reason, women should take milder chest pain more seriously.
Shortness of breath – this may happen at the same time you have chest pain or before it. Shortness of breath has been found to be more common in women. Studies have shown that those who experienced shortness of breath were 3 to 5 times more likely to die from heart disease than those who did not have this symptom.
Pain - in one or both arms, back, neck or jaw
Nausea, Dizziness, Lightheadedness
Sweating – more common with men
Vomiting
Indigestion
Weakness & Fatigue
***Women who smoke risk having a heart attack 19 years earlier than non-smoking women***
There are many lifesaving heart attack treatments, but they only work best if taken within the first hour after a heart attack begins. Many heart attack patients, especially women, wait 2 hours or more after their symptoms begin before they seek medical help. This delay can result in death or long-lasting heart damage, and it is one of the reasons why women tend to experience worse outcomes after a heart attack than men. Learning to recognize the wide variety of symptoms that may be experienced before and during a heart attack will help you get the treatment you need fast - and may even save your life.
Heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases are the No. 1 killer of American women- killing nearly 12 times as many American females as breast cancer. More women than men die from cardiovascular diseases each year. 8,000,000 American women are currently living with heart disease. These statistics are staggering and alarming!
So, what are the warning signs? The majority of people think of chest pain when having a heart attack, but there are some that do not experience it. In fact, women are less likely than men to feel chest pain during a heart attack. Studies of hundreds of women that have had heart attacks suggest that women usually have different symptoms- such as back pain, nausea, vomiting and /or fatigue. And that 95% experienced symptoms before the attack. So, even if you’ve already suffered a heart attack, the symptoms of a second attack may not be the same as your first. For this reason, it is important for women to recognize the various signs and symptoms of a heart attack so that they can take immediate action if ever needed.
The common heart attack symptoms are:
Chest Pain - Women often describe their chest pain as pressure, tightness, or an ache. But often, women do not experience severe pain during a heart attack. When chest pain occurs, it usually feels like discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts for more than a few minutes- which may come and go. For this reason, women should take milder chest pain more seriously.
Shortness of breath – this may happen at the same time you have chest pain or before it. Shortness of breath has been found to be more common in women. Studies have shown that those who experienced shortness of breath were 3 to 5 times more likely to die from heart disease than those who did not have this symptom.
Pain - in one or both arms, back, neck or jaw
Nausea, Dizziness, Lightheadedness
Sweating – more common with men
Vomiting
Indigestion
Weakness & Fatigue
***Women who smoke risk having a heart attack 19 years earlier than non-smoking women***
There are many lifesaving heart attack treatments, but they only work best if taken within the first hour after a heart attack begins. Many heart attack patients, especially women, wait 2 hours or more after their symptoms begin before they seek medical help. This delay can result in death or long-lasting heart damage, and it is one of the reasons why women tend to experience worse outcomes after a heart attack than men. Learning to recognize the wide variety of symptoms that may be experienced before and during a heart attack will help you get the treatment you need fast - and may even save your life.
Senior Health- 5 Musts To Lower High Blood Pressure
As we mature, maintaining a healthy and physically fit body can decrease our risk for serious health problems. One serious health problem that so many adults face is high blood pressure. High blood pressure makes your heart work harder than normal. Both the heart and arteries are then more prone to injury. According to the American Heart Association, high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure, eye damage, congestive heart failure and fatty buildups in arteries called atherosclerotic plaques. If you have high blood pressure, are obese, smoke, or have high blood cholesterol levels or diabetes, your risk of heart attack or stroke goes up several times!
If high blood pressure isn't treated, your heart may have to work harder and harder to pump enough blood and oxygen to your body's organs and tissues. So let’s look at some preventative measures to help lower high blood pressure:
1. Get Out And Move!
At any age, our weight has a direct correlation to the value of life. What’s the best way to maintain a healthy weight? Good old exercise! Exercise is a solid way to help prevent and lower high blood pressure. It is most beneficial when it is constant. Changing up routines and including a partner in your activities will help you both stay focused and motivated. A healthy 30 minutes a day will easily help lower your high blood pressure while releasing the feel good endorphins that energize us. Try focusing on these four areas of physical activity:
1. Muscle Building exercises
2. Cardiovascular exercises
3. Stretching exercises
4. Balance exercises
2. Eat Responsibly!
The food you eat can affect the way blood flows through your heart and arteries. A diet high in fat and cholesterol can gradually cause a buildup (called "plaque") in your arteries. That buildup slows down the blood flow and blocks small arteries. If the blockage happens in an artery that carries blood to the heart muscle, a heart attack can occur. If the blockage happens in an artery that carries blood to the brain, a stroke can occur. The right diet helps keep your arteries clear and reduces the risk of heart problems and stroke. So, eat foods rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Avoid foods with a lot of salt, sugar and fat. We really only need about 1 teaspoon of salt each day. So beware! Read labels- most canned foods have a higher sodium content from preservatives.
3. Drink Alcohol In Moderation!
There is good evidence to show that if you drink alcohol in large amounts, it will cause your blood pressure to rise. However this does not seem to happen if you drink alcohol in small amounts. In fact, drinking small amounts of alcohol actually protects against heart disease and stroke. US guidelines recommend that men have no more than two alcoholic drinks per day while women are to have no more than one alcoholic drink per day to help lower high blood pressure.
4. Stop Smoking!
Research shows that smoking only increases your chances of developing a number of health complications such as: heart disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and a few other cancers. If you goal is a longer healthy life with lowered blood pressure, it would be best to start weaning yourself off your cigarettes and cigars. The nicotine in cigarettes and other tobacco products makes your body release adrenaline. Adrenaline causes your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat faster, which raises your blood pressure. If you quit smoking or using other tobacco products, you can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and heart attack, as well as help lower your blood pressure.
5. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Measuring your blood pressure at home and keeping a record of the measurements will show you and your doctor how much your blood pressure changes during the day. Also, measuring your own blood pressure is a good way to take part in managing your health. To measure your blood pressure at home, you can use either an aneroid monitor or a digital monitor. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 140/90, you have something called "prehypertension" (you are in the beginning stages and at risk of high blood pressure). Only your doctor can tell you whether you have high blood pressure. Most doctors will check your blood pressure several times on different days before deciding that you have high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or prehypertension, you need to check your blood pressure regularly and keep in touch with your family doctor.
Remember: Slow and steady wins the race. Remind yourself that life is not meant to be lived in one day so change will not occur overnight. Life is a beautiful process- we can only relax, take a deep breath and stay focused on our goals. Take personal responsibility for your health. Your future is your choice.
If high blood pressure isn't treated, your heart may have to work harder and harder to pump enough blood and oxygen to your body's organs and tissues. So let’s look at some preventative measures to help lower high blood pressure:
1. Get Out And Move!
At any age, our weight has a direct correlation to the value of life. What’s the best way to maintain a healthy weight? Good old exercise! Exercise is a solid way to help prevent and lower high blood pressure. It is most beneficial when it is constant. Changing up routines and including a partner in your activities will help you both stay focused and motivated. A healthy 30 minutes a day will easily help lower your high blood pressure while releasing the feel good endorphins that energize us. Try focusing on these four areas of physical activity:
1. Muscle Building exercises
2. Cardiovascular exercises
3. Stretching exercises
4. Balance exercises
2. Eat Responsibly!
The food you eat can affect the way blood flows through your heart and arteries. A diet high in fat and cholesterol can gradually cause a buildup (called "plaque") in your arteries. That buildup slows down the blood flow and blocks small arteries. If the blockage happens in an artery that carries blood to the heart muscle, a heart attack can occur. If the blockage happens in an artery that carries blood to the brain, a stroke can occur. The right diet helps keep your arteries clear and reduces the risk of heart problems and stroke. So, eat foods rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Avoid foods with a lot of salt, sugar and fat. We really only need about 1 teaspoon of salt each day. So beware! Read labels- most canned foods have a higher sodium content from preservatives.
3. Drink Alcohol In Moderation!
There is good evidence to show that if you drink alcohol in large amounts, it will cause your blood pressure to rise. However this does not seem to happen if you drink alcohol in small amounts. In fact, drinking small amounts of alcohol actually protects against heart disease and stroke. US guidelines recommend that men have no more than two alcoholic drinks per day while women are to have no more than one alcoholic drink per day to help lower high blood pressure.
4. Stop Smoking!
Research shows that smoking only increases your chances of developing a number of health complications such as: heart disease, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and a few other cancers. If you goal is a longer healthy life with lowered blood pressure, it would be best to start weaning yourself off your cigarettes and cigars. The nicotine in cigarettes and other tobacco products makes your body release adrenaline. Adrenaline causes your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat faster, which raises your blood pressure. If you quit smoking or using other tobacco products, you can significantly lower your risk of heart disease and heart attack, as well as help lower your blood pressure.
5. Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Measuring your blood pressure at home and keeping a record of the measurements will show you and your doctor how much your blood pressure changes during the day. Also, measuring your own blood pressure is a good way to take part in managing your health. To measure your blood pressure at home, you can use either an aneroid monitor or a digital monitor. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower. High blood pressure is 140/90 or higher. If your blood pressure is between 120/80 and 140/90, you have something called "prehypertension" (you are in the beginning stages and at risk of high blood pressure). Only your doctor can tell you whether you have high blood pressure. Most doctors will check your blood pressure several times on different days before deciding that you have high blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or prehypertension, you need to check your blood pressure regularly and keep in touch with your family doctor.
Remember: Slow and steady wins the race. Remind yourself that life is not meant to be lived in one day so change will not occur overnight. Life is a beautiful process- we can only relax, take a deep breath and stay focused on our goals. Take personal responsibility for your health. Your future is your choice.
Healthy Eating- 5 Dietary Requirements For Senior Citizens
Healthy eating, whether as a child or senior citizen is a vital part of a healthy and active lifestyle. Your nutritional needs are pretty much the same at 40, 50, 60 and beyond as they were when you were younger--with some minor variations. As we grow older, our bodies becomes less forgiving, and we will have to make more of an effort to eat well and stay fit.
Here are 5 Dietary Requirements for Senior Citizens:
1. Exercise:
Studies of the elderly indicate that current weight, rather than age, determined energy intake in men and women. The study suggests that changes in lifestyle, not age, resulted in the dietary changes seen in the healthy elderly survey. As you mature, your body will loose muscle mass, decreasing your metabolic rate, which in turn burns fewer calories at a slower rate. A great way to maintain control of your maturing body is to exercise regularly and eat healthy meals in moderation.
2. Eat More Fiber:
Maintaining a regular cycle of all systems in our bodies is very important. Fiber helps maintain regularity to prevent constipation and gastrointestinal diseases like divertculosis (pouches that cause spasm or cramping in the large intestines). You may also want to be extremely selective in your diet and not include gaseous foods.
3. Eat More Calcium:
Around 40 years old, our bones start to lose more minerals quicker than it can replace them. For women, menopause causes a drop in estrogen levels, estrogen helps bones maintain calcium. Menopause is responsible for a greater loss of calcium than in men. You should discuss with your physician a dietary supplement to ensure you are properly maintaining your body.
4. Water:
Water is essential from birth throughout life. It is critical to health-and is chronically overlooked. Second only to air in its steady and relentless necessity, H2O carries nutrients to cells; aids digestion by contributing to stomach secretions; flushes bodily wastes and reduces risk of kidney stones by diluting salts in the urine; ensures healthy function of moisture-rich organs (skin, eyes, mouth, nose); lubricates and cushions joints; regulates body temperature; and protects against heat exhaustion through perspiration. And the list goes on and on. Everybody should consume the minimum eight glasses of water daily to maintain our youthful vigor and pep.
5. Avoid Foods With Too Much Sugar:
Too much sugar causes a number of problems- it suppresses the immune system, weakens eyesight, contributes to obesity and diabetes, causes constipation, leads to all different types of cancers, and the list goes on and on about the effects of sugar intake. Young and old should never binge on sugar.
Eating well can make us feel a lot better. It gives us more energy – and it can actually help slow down the aging process!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Here are 5 Dietary Requirements for Senior Citizens:
1. Exercise:
Studies of the elderly indicate that current weight, rather than age, determined energy intake in men and women. The study suggests that changes in lifestyle, not age, resulted in the dietary changes seen in the healthy elderly survey. As you mature, your body will loose muscle mass, decreasing your metabolic rate, which in turn burns fewer calories at a slower rate. A great way to maintain control of your maturing body is to exercise regularly and eat healthy meals in moderation.
2. Eat More Fiber:
Maintaining a regular cycle of all systems in our bodies is very important. Fiber helps maintain regularity to prevent constipation and gastrointestinal diseases like divertculosis (pouches that cause spasm or cramping in the large intestines). You may also want to be extremely selective in your diet and not include gaseous foods.
3. Eat More Calcium:
Around 40 years old, our bones start to lose more minerals quicker than it can replace them. For women, menopause causes a drop in estrogen levels, estrogen helps bones maintain calcium. Menopause is responsible for a greater loss of calcium than in men. You should discuss with your physician a dietary supplement to ensure you are properly maintaining your body.
4. Water:
Water is essential from birth throughout life. It is critical to health-and is chronically overlooked. Second only to air in its steady and relentless necessity, H2O carries nutrients to cells; aids digestion by contributing to stomach secretions; flushes bodily wastes and reduces risk of kidney stones by diluting salts in the urine; ensures healthy function of moisture-rich organs (skin, eyes, mouth, nose); lubricates and cushions joints; regulates body temperature; and protects against heat exhaustion through perspiration. And the list goes on and on. Everybody should consume the minimum eight glasses of water daily to maintain our youthful vigor and pep.
5. Avoid Foods With Too Much Sugar:
Too much sugar causes a number of problems- it suppresses the immune system, weakens eyesight, contributes to obesity and diabetes, causes constipation, leads to all different types of cancers, and the list goes on and on about the effects of sugar intake. Young and old should never binge on sugar.
Eating well can make us feel a lot better. It gives us more energy – and it can actually help slow down the aging process!
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Assisted Living- Knowing When Your Loved One Needs It And Other Helpful Facts
How Do I Know If My Loved One Needs An Assisted Living Facility?
The topic of Assisted Living can be a very touchy one and should be handled with great care. Sometimes it can be hard to know when it’s time to seek an Assisted Living Facility.
Here are some signs that could mean your loved one may need an Assisted Living Facility:
1. They are suddenly less social and become very reclusive.
2. Tasks that were once easy have become difficult and labored.
3. They are having trouble taking their medication properly, miss doses or take too many pills.
4. They aren’t eating as well as they used to and seem to have suddenly lost weight.
5. The house isn’t kept up the way it used to be- laundry isn’t done and groceries haven’t been bought.
6. They are having trouble taking care of their own personal hygiene- showering regularly, washing their hair and brushing their teeth, ect.
Signs such as these could mean your loved one would benefit from an Assisted Living Facility. As difficult as it is, this means it’s time to broach the topic and do some research to find potential facilities. If you are too close to the individual who’s health is in question, ask a friend or an extended family member to visit and see if they feel that they could benefit from the services an Assisted Living facility. It is often hard to look at a loved one and admit they can no longer care for their own basic needs, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s a hard time for everyone involved.
So let’s look at the upside of things. Your loved one needs a little help and may be moving into an Assisted Living Facility very soon. This means big changes, but not all of them are bad! Here are some of the great things they will love about their new home:
1. Assisted Living generally carries negative connotation but many people who are living in these facilities enjoy life even more then before! It gives them a chance to remain independent and get the help they need without feeling like a burden to their family and friends. In fact, some move in simply for the social aspect of it!
2. Assisted Living is fun! Most facilities have regularly scheduled events to keep everyone active, meeting new people and having a good time. Whether it be a game of cards with your neighbor, a few drinks before dinner with old friends, or movie night with new residents, there is always something going on to keep them upbeat and enjoying life.
3. Assisted Living offers much more privacy then nursing homes. Each resident will have their own personal room and space to call their own. They can decorate it however they please and have whatever furniture they want, which makes them feel more comfortable. Residents are also free to spend their day however they wish- that decision is theirs to make freely.
So as you can see, although moving a loved one into an Assisted Living Facility can be a tough decision, it isn’t necessarily a bad one. Once they get settled in (and with a little time they will), they will feel very comfortable and at ease with their new home.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
The topic of Assisted Living can be a very touchy one and should be handled with great care. Sometimes it can be hard to know when it’s time to seek an Assisted Living Facility.
Here are some signs that could mean your loved one may need an Assisted Living Facility:
1. They are suddenly less social and become very reclusive.
2. Tasks that were once easy have become difficult and labored.
3. They are having trouble taking their medication properly, miss doses or take too many pills.
4. They aren’t eating as well as they used to and seem to have suddenly lost weight.
5. The house isn’t kept up the way it used to be- laundry isn’t done and groceries haven’t been bought.
6. They are having trouble taking care of their own personal hygiene- showering regularly, washing their hair and brushing their teeth, ect.
Signs such as these could mean your loved one would benefit from an Assisted Living Facility. As difficult as it is, this means it’s time to broach the topic and do some research to find potential facilities. If you are too close to the individual who’s health is in question, ask a friend or an extended family member to visit and see if they feel that they could benefit from the services an Assisted Living facility. It is often hard to look at a loved one and admit they can no longer care for their own basic needs, so don’t be afraid to ask for help. It’s a hard time for everyone involved.
So let’s look at the upside of things. Your loved one needs a little help and may be moving into an Assisted Living Facility very soon. This means big changes, but not all of them are bad! Here are some of the great things they will love about their new home:
1. Assisted Living generally carries negative connotation but many people who are living in these facilities enjoy life even more then before! It gives them a chance to remain independent and get the help they need without feeling like a burden to their family and friends. In fact, some move in simply for the social aspect of it!
2. Assisted Living is fun! Most facilities have regularly scheduled events to keep everyone active, meeting new people and having a good time. Whether it be a game of cards with your neighbor, a few drinks before dinner with old friends, or movie night with new residents, there is always something going on to keep them upbeat and enjoying life.
3. Assisted Living offers much more privacy then nursing homes. Each resident will have their own personal room and space to call their own. They can decorate it however they please and have whatever furniture they want, which makes them feel more comfortable. Residents are also free to spend their day however they wish- that decision is theirs to make freely.
So as you can see, although moving a loved one into an Assisted Living Facility can be a tough decision, it isn’t necessarily a bad one. Once they get settled in (and with a little time they will), they will feel very comfortable and at ease with their new home.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
What to Pack If You're Moving Into One
One big issue seniors have when they decide to move into an Assisted Living residence is what to bring with them.
Many facilities offer furnishings - sometimes there's little to bring at all in the way of furnishings. That said, there are particular items you might like to bring along. Many residents say it's good to plan ahead - visit the apartment where you'll be living, take measurements, see what might fit where, where the outlets are located. This allows you to have a good idea of what you can and should bring when it comes time to sort through your things.
If you aren't sure what furnishings will be provided, representatives of the facility- be it the directory or general aids- will be happy to assist you. In most cases you'll find that there isn't much you’ll need to bring along.
It can be hard sometimes to part with the things you've had and used for many years - but it's a good idea to stay positive. Have your family and friends help you organize your belongings and decide which you'd really need/want to have with you in your new home. It also may be a good idea to put some things into storage or ask your family or friends to hold on to them if you aren't sure yet what you'll want or need when the time to move in comes along.
Through it all, try to remember to stay positive about the moving process. Think about all the fun times you'll have and the friends you'll make at your new home. There are sure to be loads of great activities to enjoy.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Many facilities offer furnishings - sometimes there's little to bring at all in the way of furnishings. That said, there are particular items you might like to bring along. Many residents say it's good to plan ahead - visit the apartment where you'll be living, take measurements, see what might fit where, where the outlets are located. This allows you to have a good idea of what you can and should bring when it comes time to sort through your things.
If you aren't sure what furnishings will be provided, representatives of the facility- be it the directory or general aids- will be happy to assist you. In most cases you'll find that there isn't much you’ll need to bring along.
It can be hard sometimes to part with the things you've had and used for many years - but it's a good idea to stay positive. Have your family and friends help you organize your belongings and decide which you'd really need/want to have with you in your new home. It also may be a good idea to put some things into storage or ask your family or friends to hold on to them if you aren't sure yet what you'll want or need when the time to move in comes along.
Through it all, try to remember to stay positive about the moving process. Think about all the fun times you'll have and the friends you'll make at your new home. There are sure to be loads of great activities to enjoy.
The Lake Shore (http://www.lakeshoreli.com), a respectable assisted living facility located in the heart of Long Island on beautiful Lake Ronkonkoma where residents can enjoy the great outdoors, fishing, shopping and many other facility activities. The Lake Shore offers a friendly atmosphere with many great activities and top of the line facility staff.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
New York's Assisted Living Bill of Rights
RIGHTS OF RESIDENTS IN ASSISTED LIVING RESIDENCES
RESIDENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBLITIES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:
(A) EVERY RESIDENT’S PARTICIPATION IN ASSISTED LIVING SHALL
BE VOLUNTARY, AND PROSPECTIVE RESIDENTS SHALL BE PROVIDED
WITH SUFFICIENT INFORMATION REGARDING THE RESIDENCE TO MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE REGARDING PARTICIPATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICES;
(B) EVERY RESIDENT’S CIVIL AND RELIGIOUS LIBERTIES,
INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT PERSONAL DECISIONS AND KNOWLEDGE OF AVAILABLE CHOICES, SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED;
(C) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE PRIVATE
COMMUNICATIONS AND CONSULTATION WITH HIS OR HER PHYSICIAN, ATTORNEY, AND ANY OTHER PERSON;
(D) EVERY RESIDENT, RESIDENT’S REPRESENATATIVE AND
RESIDENT’S LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE, IF ANY, SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO PRESENT GRIEVANCES ON BEHALF OF HIMSELF OR HERSELF OR OTHERS, TO THE RESIDENCE’S STAFF, ADMINISTRATOR OR ASSISTED LIVING OPERATOR, TO GOVERNMENTAL OFFICIALS, TO LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMEN OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON WITHOUT FEAR OF REPRISAL, AND TO JOIN WITH OTHER RESIDENTS OR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN OR OUTSIDE OF THE RESIDENCE TO WORK FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN RESIDENT
CARE;
(E) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO MANAGE HIS OR
HER OWN FINANCIAL AFFAIRS;
(F) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE PRIVACY IN
TREATMENT AND IN CARING FOR PERSONAL NEEDS;
(G) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO CONFIDENTIALITY
IN THE TREATMENT OF PERSONAL, SOCIAL, FINANCIAL AND MEDICAL RECORDS, AND SECURITY IN STORING PERSONAL PROSSESSIONS;
(H) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE
COURTEOUS, FAIR AND RESPECTFUL CARE AND TREATMENT AND A
WRITTEN STATEMENT OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE RESIDENCE, INCLUDING THOSE REQUIRED TO BE OFFERED ON AN AS-NEEDED BASIS;
(I) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE OR TO
SEND PERSONAL MAIL OR ANY OTHER CORRESPONDENCE WITHOUT
INTERCEPTION OR INTERFERENCE BY THE OPERATOR OR ANY PERSON AFFILIATED WITH THE OPERATOR;
(J) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT NOT TO BE COERCED
OR REQUIRED TO PERFORM WORK OF STAFF MEMBERS OR CONTRACTUAL WORK;
(K) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE SECURITY
FOR ANY PERSONAL POSSESSIONS IF STORED BY THE OPERATOR;
(L) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE
ADEQUATE AND APPROPRIATE ASSISTANCE WITH ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING, TO BE FULLY INFORMED OF THEIR MEDICAL CONDITION AND PROPOSED TREATMENT, UNLESS MEDICALLY CONTRAINDICATED, AND TO REFUSE MEDICATION, TREATMENT OR SERVICES AFTER BEING FULLY INFORMED OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH ACTIONS, PROVIDED THAT AN OPERATOR SHALL NOT BE HELD LIABLE OR PENALIZED FOR COMPLYING WITH THE REFUSAL OF SUCH MEDICATION, TREATMENT OR SERVICES BY A RESIDENT WHO HAS BEEN FULLY INFORMED OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH REFUSAL;
(M) EVERY RESIDENT AND VISITOR SHALL HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY TO OBEY ALL REASONABLE REGULATIONS OF THE
RESIDENCE AND TO RESPECT THE PERSONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVATE
PROPERTY OF THE OTHER RESIDENTS;
(N) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO INCLUDE THEIR
SIGNED AND WITNESSED VERSION OF THE EVENTS LEADING TO AN
ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT INVOLVING SUCH RESIDENT IN ANY REPORT OF SUCH ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT;
(O) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE VISITS
FROM FAMILY MEMBERS AND OTHER ADULTS OF THE RESIDENT’S
CHOOSING WITHOUT INTERFERENCE FROM THE ASSISTED LIVING
RESIDENCE; AND
(P) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO WRITTEN NOTICE
OF ANY FEE INCREASE NOT LESS THAN FORTY-FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO THE PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE FEE INCREASE; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT IF A RESIDENT, RESIDENT REPRESENTATIVE OR LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE AGREES IN WRITING TO A SPECIFIC RATE OR FEE INCREASE THROUGH AN AMENDMENT OF THE RESIDENCY AGREEMENT DUE TO THE RESIDENT’S NEED FOR ADDITIONAL CARE, SERVICES OR SUPPLIES, THE OPERATOR MAY INCREASE SUCH RATE OR FEE UPON LESS THAN FORTY-FIVE DAYS WRITTEN NOTICE. WAIVER OF ANY OF THESE RESIDENT RIGHTS SHALL BE VOID. A RESIDENT CANNOT LAWFULLY SIGN AWAY THE ABOVE-STATED RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES THROUGH A WAIVER OR ANY OTHER MEANS.
RESIDENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBLITIES SHALL INCLUDE, BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:
(A) EVERY RESIDENT’S PARTICIPATION IN ASSISTED LIVING SHALL
BE VOLUNTARY, AND PROSPECTIVE RESIDENTS SHALL BE PROVIDED
WITH SUFFICIENT INFORMATION REGARDING THE RESIDENCE TO MAKE AN INFORMED CHOICE REGARDING PARTICIPATION AND ACCEPTANCE OF SERVICES;
(B) EVERY RESIDENT’S CIVIL AND RELIGIOUS LIBERTIES,
INCLUDING THE RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT PERSONAL DECISIONS AND KNOWLEDGE OF AVAILABLE CHOICES, SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED;
(C) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE PRIVATE
COMMUNICATIONS AND CONSULTATION WITH HIS OR HER PHYSICIAN, ATTORNEY, AND ANY OTHER PERSON;
(D) EVERY RESIDENT, RESIDENT’S REPRESENATATIVE AND
RESIDENT’S LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE, IF ANY, SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO PRESENT GRIEVANCES ON BEHALF OF HIMSELF OR HERSELF OR OTHERS, TO THE RESIDENCE’S STAFF, ADMINISTRATOR OR ASSISTED LIVING OPERATOR, TO GOVERNMENTAL OFFICIALS, TO LONG TERM CARE OMBUDSMEN OR TO ANY OTHER PERSON WITHOUT FEAR OF REPRISAL, AND TO JOIN WITH OTHER RESIDENTS OR INDIVIDUALS WITHIN OR OUTSIDE OF THE RESIDENCE TO WORK FOR IMPROVEMENTS IN RESIDENT
CARE;
(E) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO MANAGE HIS OR
HER OWN FINANCIAL AFFAIRS;
(F) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE PRIVACY IN
TREATMENT AND IN CARING FOR PERSONAL NEEDS;
(G) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO CONFIDENTIALITY
IN THE TREATMENT OF PERSONAL, SOCIAL, FINANCIAL AND MEDICAL RECORDS, AND SECURITY IN STORING PERSONAL PROSSESSIONS;
(H) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE
COURTEOUS, FAIR AND RESPECTFUL CARE AND TREATMENT AND A
WRITTEN STATEMENT OF THE SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE RESIDENCE, INCLUDING THOSE REQUIRED TO BE OFFERED ON AN AS-NEEDED BASIS;
(I) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE OR TO
SEND PERSONAL MAIL OR ANY OTHER CORRESPONDENCE WITHOUT
INTERCEPTION OR INTERFERENCE BY THE OPERATOR OR ANY PERSON AFFILIATED WITH THE OPERATOR;
(J) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT NOT TO BE COERCED
OR REQUIRED TO PERFORM WORK OF STAFF MEMBERS OR CONTRACTUAL WORK;
(K) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO HAVE SECURITY
FOR ANY PERSONAL POSSESSIONS IF STORED BY THE OPERATOR;
(L) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE
ADEQUATE AND APPROPRIATE ASSISTANCE WITH ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING, TO BE FULLY INFORMED OF THEIR MEDICAL CONDITION AND PROPOSED TREATMENT, UNLESS MEDICALLY CONTRAINDICATED, AND TO REFUSE MEDICATION, TREATMENT OR SERVICES AFTER BEING FULLY INFORMED OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH ACTIONS, PROVIDED THAT AN OPERATOR SHALL NOT BE HELD LIABLE OR PENALIZED FOR COMPLYING WITH THE REFUSAL OF SUCH MEDICATION, TREATMENT OR SERVICES BY A RESIDENT WHO HAS BEEN FULLY INFORMED OF THE CONSEQUENCES OF SUCH REFUSAL;
(M) EVERY RESIDENT AND VISITOR SHALL HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY TO OBEY ALL REASONABLE REGULATIONS OF THE
RESIDENCE AND TO RESPECT THE PERSONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVATE
PROPERTY OF THE OTHER RESIDENTS;
(N) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO INCLUDE THEIR
SIGNED AND WITNESSED VERSION OF THE EVENTS LEADING TO AN
ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT INVOLVING SUCH RESIDENT IN ANY REPORT OF SUCH ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT;
(O) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO RECEIVE VISITS
FROM FAMILY MEMBERS AND OTHER ADULTS OF THE RESIDENT’S
CHOOSING WITHOUT INTERFERENCE FROM THE ASSISTED LIVING
RESIDENCE; AND
(P) EVERY RESIDENT SHALL HAVE THE RIGHT TO WRITTEN NOTICE
OF ANY FEE INCREASE NOT LESS THAN FORTY-FIVE DAYS PRIOR TO THE PROPOSED EFFECTIVE DATE OF THE FEE INCREASE; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT IF A RESIDENT, RESIDENT REPRESENTATIVE OR LEGAL REPRESENTATIVE AGREES IN WRITING TO A SPECIFIC RATE OR FEE INCREASE THROUGH AN AMENDMENT OF THE RESIDENCY AGREEMENT DUE TO THE RESIDENT’S NEED FOR ADDITIONAL CARE, SERVICES OR SUPPLIES, THE OPERATOR MAY INCREASE SUCH RATE OR FEE UPON LESS THAN FORTY-FIVE DAYS WRITTEN NOTICE. WAIVER OF ANY OF THESE RESIDENT RIGHTS SHALL BE VOID. A RESIDENT CANNOT LAWFULLY SIGN AWAY THE ABOVE-STATED RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES THROUGH A WAIVER OR ANY OTHER MEANS.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Assisted Living in New York
New York is certainly an often-visited destination. Every year millions of tourists from around the world come to New York to see the sites - whether it be the mountains of upstate, Niagara falls, the historic sites of New York City or the world-renowned Long Island beaches, forests and lakes.
Long Island, New York is one of the highest populated areas in the country. It is one of the most sought-after areas to live in in the country, and it's easy to see why. Home to what are widely considered to be some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, beautiful expanses of forests, world-famous golf courses and more, for those fortunate enough to live on Long Island it is a fine place to call home.
Probably the most famous Long Island lake is Lake Ronkonkoma. It is the largest lake on the island, with depths of up to 90 feet, and it is also a scenic wonder and great for fishing - hosting such species as Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Pickerel, Bluegill and more. Many Long Islanders travel miles to enjoy the sites and fun offered by this majestic lake.
The Lake Shore Assisted Living is an assisted living facility that happens to be located directly on the shore of Lake Ronkonkoma. Its residents enjoy the breathtaking year-round views the lake provides while the extensive services and amenities offered at the facility bring ease and enjoyment to their lives.
Imagine a day of fishing on the lake with good friends, bringing home the catch and having the cooks prepare it for your dinner. You can sit down with good company for a few cocktails after a delicious dinner, play a round of billiards, enjoy a favorite movie with friends - all this and more at The Lake Shore.
If you're looking for an assisted living residence in New York for yourself or your loved one look no further than The Lake Shore Assisted Living. From the experience of life on majestic Lake Ronkonkoma to the sumptuous dining to the convenient location to the great activities there is simply no place like it.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
How do I tell my elderly friend or family member that they need assisted living?
If your elderly friend or family member is in need of assisted living it can be a very difficult thing to bring up. The easiest way to move someone into an assisted living situation is for him or her to admit the problem and willingly make arrangements. Many elderly people, for understandable reasons, are not happy to admit that they can no longer care for themselves adequately.
This is a very delicate topic for many people, and it is important to keep this in mind while considering your own approach. Since the issue goes right to the core of people's most private and personal lives the problem needs to be taken very seriously and treated with kindness and confidentiality. Admitting to oneself and one's family and friends that you are aware of your need for assisted living is a very big step, and it will require a great deal of comfort to do so.
How can you help this along? Be kind, be respectful and be patient. People respond much better to kindness and respect than they do to abrupt, pointed remarks. Try to understand how difficult it must be to come to terms with this issue and the kind of emotional states it can bring about. Make your elderly friend or family member aware of the fact that you care about them and want the best for them and that your motivation for bringing the issue up with them is only out of concern for their well-being.
www.lakeshoreli.com
This is a very delicate topic for many people, and it is important to keep this in mind while considering your own approach. Since the issue goes right to the core of people's most private and personal lives the problem needs to be taken very seriously and treated with kindness and confidentiality. Admitting to oneself and one's family and friends that you are aware of your need for assisted living is a very big step, and it will require a great deal of comfort to do so.
How can you help this along? Be kind, be respectful and be patient. People respond much better to kindness and respect than they do to abrupt, pointed remarks. Try to understand how difficult it must be to come to terms with this issue and the kind of emotional states it can bring about. Make your elderly friend or family member aware of the fact that you care about them and want the best for them and that your motivation for bringing the issue up with them is only out of concern for their well-being.
www.lakeshoreli.com
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Home Health Care vs. Assisted Living
Many people, upon deciding that they need or would like to pursue some form of assistance for their day-to-day living, are faced with the question of whether they'd like to have someone come to their home to assist them or whether they'd like to move to a facility. There are different factors and circumstances involved in each, and for every person there will be a unique answer.
For many people their homes are where they'd like to stay, and the cost of hiring a personal health care assistant is well worth it. They get to continue enjoying the comfort of their home while still receiving the assistance and care that they need on a daily basis. Perhaps they still live with a spouse or other family member who is unable to care for them, and they'd understandably like to remain close to that person. There is something to be said, however, for moving into an assisted living facility.
Some prospective residents might have their reservations about leaving home. We get rather attached to our long-time surroundings, and it can be difficult to accept change. However, great things often await those who opt to move into an assisted living community.
Among the best improvements you can expect at an assisted living community is being surrounded by people just like yourself. These are people who have also decided to opt for an assisted living situation, whatever their reasons, and they're still, like you, looking to enjoy life! Group activities, dining, leisure and more can make what might have seemed at first to be a daunting change more like a long-awaited vacation.
Of course some people will still want to remain at home. They have their reasons, and if their conviction is strong who should tell them otherwise? However, those who choose to consider assisted living communities and eventually move in are almost always thrilled with the choice they made. They can relax, enjoy their favorite books, movies, meals. They can enjoy competitive games, dancing, cocktails, fishing and more. And best of all - they can do it all with plenty of friends to share their happy new lives with.
del.icio.us
Digg it
Furl
ma.gnolia
Netscape
Netvouz
RawSugar
Shadows
Simpy
Sphinn
StumbleUpon
Yahoo MyWeb
Assisted Living in New York State Law
New York State Law officially defines Assisted Living as: An entity which provides or arranges for housing, on-site monitoring, and personal care and/or home care services (either directly or indirectly) in a home-like setting to five or more adult residents unrelated to the assisted living provider…(The provider) must also provide daily food service, twenty-four hour on-site monitoring, case management services, and the development of an individualized service plan for each resident. An operator of assisted living shall provide each resident with considerate and respectful care and promote the resident’s dignity, autonomy, independence and privacy in the least restrictive and most home-like setting commensurate with the resident’s preferences and physical and mental status.
del.icio.us
Digg it
Furl
Google
ma.gnolia
Netscape
Netvouz
RawSugar
reddit
Shadows
Simpy
Sphinn
StumbleUpon
Yahoo MyWeb
del.icio.us
Digg it
Furl
ma.gnolia
Netscape
Netvouz
RawSugar
Shadows
Simpy
Sphinn
StumbleUpon
Yahoo MyWeb
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
