Merry Christmas

Courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

'Tiz the season to worry about mom & dad...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

 December is a time for family.  As the time when many travel to be with parents or grandparents, a family gathering can bring to light previously unknown physical or mental problems of aging relatives.  It's important to distinguish between traits of normal aging and something more serious.  Here are a few items you should take note of..

1. House - Neat and maintained or dusty and in disrepair?
2. Refrigerator - Adequate and fresh food?  Have eating habits changed?  Is there weight loss?
3. Conversation - Are extended conversations a challenge?  Do they repeat questions several times?
4. Forgetfulness - Are there stacks of unopened mail, unpaid bills, missed appointment reminders?
5. Hygiene - Do they look less tidy than the last time you saw them? IE: unshaven, clothes not clean/neat, hair not combed, body odor.
6. Driving - Can they drive themselves safely?  Do you say to yourself "oh no, they're driving to...".

  This is only a brief list.  Our aging families, parents, friends and loved ones rarely want to burden anyone, but we shouldn't ignore their needs.  If you notice these traits, talk about it in a caring manner with them, and also discuss how you can improve the issues.  Above all, be gentle when making changes.

Head to Toe Women's Show

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

 Make plans to attend Head to Toe - A Holiday Women's Show on Thursday, Dec. 9th between 9am & 5pm at the Charles Mack Citizen's center in Mooresville, NC.  While there, be sure to stop by our booth to say "Hi" and to register for our Spring 2011 Sunset Cruise for yourself and 3 guests!  Visit our website at  www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 and click on the link in the "In The News" pane to learn more about the drawing.
 We hope to see you there!

 Providing care for over a decade to the most important of generations....    Yours!

Holidays, Friends, and Family

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958

  It's the holiday season again. For the elderly loved ones in your life (or your neighborhood) the holidays can be a time of many 'bittersweet' memories from seasons long ago. Many of our Elders no longer have the friends and family they shared happy holiday seasons with in the 'good old days'. This time of year can make people feel alone, sad, and hopeless. With a little time, effort, and a willing heart we can all brighten the holiday spirit for the elders in our life.  You really only need 3 things: Your Time, Your Attention, and a Willing Heart.

  Encourage your loved one to talk about their memories of Christmas past.  Most people enjoy reminiscing about the "good old days", and with a little encouragement you are likely to hear stories that will bring tears to your eyes.

  This is a great time to pamper your loved one, making them understand that the times may be different, but they are is still much appreciated and loved.  If you give a gift, it needn't be elaborate.

  The most difficult part of all of this is providing your time and attention. Most of us are already stressed out during the holidays with work, children, other responsibilities, not to mention the extra stresses caused by the current economy. Remember though, giving of yourself can be the greatest gift of all.

Thanksgiving

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958


  This Thanksgiving, let's all try to remember how blessed we are, and do something to help our fellow man.  An act of kindness is seldom forgotten.
  Here's wishing a Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

VA benefits updates...

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958
  

  Recently, the Veterans Administration took steps to streamline the application process for Veteran's Aid & Attendance benefits. This is great news, but it's not the "end all" to a complex process that has frustrated veterans for years, and still retains several pitfalls. The Veteran Aid group has posted a great article covering the improvements and problems that remain. For more information, see the article on their web site by Clicking Here. 

  If you're a Vet, and not sure if you're eligible for Aid & Attendance benefits, we have a good explanation of how it works, and what it can provide on our website.  Keep in mind that changes in healthcare are affecting the final numbers on all benefits these days, but this benefit is one that every veteran should take advantage of.  Learn more by visiting the Home Helpers website by Clicking Here, then click on Aid & Attendance - VA Benefit in the Personal Links section.

Alzheimer’s: Recognizing the Symptoms and Finding Care

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958


November is Alzheimers Awareness Month.  According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the disease currently affects approximately 5.3 million Americans, and this number is expected to triple by 2050. Home Helpers has partnered with the Alzheimer’s Early Detection Alliance to help raise awareness, educate the public, provide enhanced care and find a cure.  Early Alzheimer’s detection helps ensure that those diagnosed are receiving proper care.  Below are 10 warning signs that may indicate Alzheimer’s:

Memory loss                                                          Problems with language

Misplacing things                                            Disorientation
Poor or decreased judgment                      Difficulty performing familiar tasks
Problems with abstract thinking         Changes in mood or behavior
Changes in personality                                Loss of initiative

If your loved one is exhibiting any of the signs above, it’s important to consult their doctor. Dealing with Alzheimer’s can be emotionally challenging, but the more familiar you are with the signs and symptoms of the disease the better you will be able to cope and relieve stress.

At Home Helpers, we provide employees with client-specific training, full screening and insurance to ensure you and your family are protected. We can be there to ensure your loved one is taking their medication, eating properly, and being supervised daily.  For more information on Alzheimers, visit www.alz.org .

Making your home safer

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .
   Did you know that you are more likely to be injured in your home than most any other place?  Statistically speaking, at home injuries out rank more dangerous activities such as driving your car or flying!  
  Knowing this, the following web site should be of interest: 
   www.ageinplace.org
 While the focus of this particular article is on making the home safer for seniors, the tips and advice they offer are valid for anyone.  Take a moment to review the article and look for items that are familiar to your home, particularly if you are living with senior family members.  Then consider how you can improve the issue.
  Who knows, the person you end up protecting could be yourself!

Some Facts About Stroke

The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  
Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

 Each year, about 780,000 people experience a new or recurrent stroke.  Stroke is a source of serious, long-term disability, and the severity of a stroke influences both the possibility of returning home afterward and how much supportive personal care is needed.  Persons living alone—the majority of whom are women—are at greatest need for personal caregiving services. 

 The following are some findings from studies on returning home after a stroke:

• Compared to 16% of men, 45% of women over the age of 70 with with post stroke impairment are living live alone.
• Women with impaired ability receive less informal caregiving assistance from family members than do similarly impaired men.
• As a result, women who have experienced a stroke are at greater risk of having unmet personal care needs, whether or not they live with a spouse and/or children.
• Personal caregiving services can assist with more complex tasks, like meal preparation and light housekeeping, that patients who have experienced a mild stroke can find difficult.
• In the home, caregivers can also provide help as needed with bathing, dressing, and other personal care assistance.

 After a stroke—even a mild one—a loved one can find it difficult to complete normal daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and housekeeping. Caregivers can make it possible for them to return home sooner and provider support until functional recovery is complete.

From our 'Did You Know' department... Kidney Stones

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

 Kidney stones can be very painful, but there are things you can do to help prevent them.  Most doctors agree that you can cut your risk of kidney stones by drinking 12 glasses of water every day, and limit your intake of caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, or soft drinks.  Also, during your next doctor visit, ask to see if you need to change your dietary habits.

 Kidney stones are not fun.  Why not take a few simple steps to avoid them.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Davis Regional Medical Center, Statesville N.C.

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  This past weekend (Sept. 18th), Home Helpers of LKN & Central NC was pleased to be able to participate in the Davis Regional Medical Center Health Fair in Statesville, NC.  What was most impressive about this event was the number of people that came out to visit the facility, as well as the availability of free tests and screenings that the center offered.  Davis Regional is a top notch facility, and their staff did an outstanding job of organizing the event.
  If a medical center near you offers a Health Fair, make plans to attend.  You'll likely be able to take advantage of free services, and you'll come away with a better understanding of the role the center plays in your community.  
  Many thanks to all of those volunteers, employees, etc., that came together this past weekend to make this Health Fair such a successful event. 

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

 

The Common Cold

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

 As we move into fall, we also move into the 'cold & flu' season.  Why anyone decided to honor these maladies with their own season is a mystery, but that's a moot point.  What is important is knowing some facts about the common cold.

  The big Number 1 about colds:  There's no cure.  You can relieve the symptoms somewhat with over the counter antihistamines  and decongestants, but you can't cure it.

  A cold is usually spread by direct hand to hand contact with infected secretions, or from contaminated surfaces.  A cold virus can live on the surface of objects like keyboards, pens/pencils, telephones, etc., for hours.  When you come into contact with these items, you pick up the virus.  Remember to keep your hands away from your face, and wash them frequently.  BTW, there's no evidence that antibacterial soap works any better than regular soap in protecting you from colds.

  Cold weather itself does not cause a cold.  However, people tend to be more confined, and in closer contact during cold weather.  This leads to a higher likelihood that you will contract a cold.

  The best treatment for a cold?  As mentioned in the big Number 1, there is no cure.  The best thing one can do when they have a cold is to rest and drink plenty of liquids.  Decongestants, throat lozenges, antihistamines, etc., all may help relieve symptoms.  But in the end, you just have to let it run it's course.  If your symptoms become severe, see your doctor.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

More from our 'Did You Know' department... Smoking

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  In addition to increasing one's likelihood of developing smoking related illnesses, persons who smoke are almost 3 times more likely to develop lower back pain than are non-smokers.  You can read the full report from Medical News Today at this url:  http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/113492.php .

  While the relationship between smoking and back pain is not clear, it provides yet more incentive to stop.  By using proven treatments and medications, group and individual counseling, you can more than double your chances of quitting smoking successfully.  Ask your doctor for recommendations about the best way for you to stop.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

It's September!!!

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  Well, Labor Day has come and gone, the kids are back in school, and fall is knocking on the door.  The days are a little cooler than they were in July.  Right?  Don't forget you can (and likely will) get sunburn that brings the same skin damage that you got early this year as we were rolling into summer!  Large brim hats, shade, sunblock, etc., are still very important to overall skin health. 

  As the season changes, get outside and enjoy it.  But don't forget to protect yourself from the sun!!

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Hiring someone to work in your home...

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

   We often come across families that decide to hire a private individual to provide in home care for a loved one.  Frequently, it's a nurse, neighbor, friend, or "someone a friend of mine knows" that is brought in to help out.  Most often, the caregiver is not affiliated with any company or organization, and are usually hired without consideration of a background check or any type of screening process.  Family members likely do not understand the qualifications or legal status of the person they hire, and are unaware of their responsibilities towards taxes, insurance, or liability exposure.
  Unfortunately, we just as frequently hear of lawsuits pertaining to issues that may arise from doing this, along with the resultant lost of property and assets.  Home Helpers encourages you to give careful consideration to the process of hiring someone to come into your home.  Consider these basic questions:

1. Who will have the legal responsibility for federal and state taxes, as well as social security for the worker?
2. What happens if the person you hire becomes ill and cannot come to work?
3. What happens if the person is injured in your home?  Most homeowners policies exclude injury to domestic employees.  Be sure to check your policy!!
4. Is the person legal to work in the US?  
5. Are you confident about their background or qualifications?  Have references been verified, abuse records checked, or criminal backgrounds validated?
6. Do you or the employee have insurance to cover property damage, theft, mishaps, etc?  
7. Is the person bonded? If so, does the bond cover injury and damage related to working in someone's home?
8. Is documentation provided that covers the specific services that will be provided, and is there any way to verify this is happening?

  As you can see, there's more than meets the eye when  hiring someone to come into your home.  If you can't answer all of these questions with confidence, consider using a professional agency that can.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

From our 'Did You Know' department...

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  The burn you feel from eating a hot pepper is caused by the pepper's 'active ingredient', capsaicin.  Recent research published by Scientific American (www.scientificamerican.com) indicates that capsaicin may be beneficial in helping to reduce high blood pressure.  While it causes the lips to burn and the eyes to water, researchers have found that capsaicin actually causes blood vessels to relax, thanks to increased production of the signaling molecule nitric oxide.  At least that's what has been noted in the rodents that are used for testing.  More testing is needed, but there seems to be a strong link here.

  So have a pepper!

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Just what is Alzheimer's Disease - Part 2

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .
 

  Like the rest of our bodies, our brains change as we age.  We all notice some slowed thinking and occasional problems with remembering certain things.  Everyone jokes about this, and credits the problem to "having a senior moment".  It's all quite normal.   However, serious memory loss, confusion and other major changes in the way our minds work are not a normal part of aging. This could be a sign that brain cells are failing for some reason. 

  There are over 100 billion nerve cells or neurons in a normal brain.  Each nerve cell communicates with others to form networks.  These networks have special jobs.  Some networks are associated with thinking, learning and remembering.  Others are used for sight, hearing and smell.  Others tell our muscles when to move.  In a patient with Alzheimer’s disease, as in other types of dementia, increasing numbers of brain cells deteriorate and die. 

  There are two abnormal structures in brain cells, plaques and tangles:

•  Tangles form inside dying cells.  Tangles are twisted fibers of a protein called "tau".  Though most people develop some plaques and tangles as they age, those with Alzheimer’s tend to develop far more.

•  Plaques build up between nerve cells. They contain deposits of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid.

  These are prime suspects in damaging and killing nerve cells.  Dr. Alzheimer recognized these abnormal cells in the brains of patients, although he referred to them differently. 
 There's no definitive knowledge of what role plaques and tangles play in Alzheimer’s disease. Most experts believe they somehow block communication among nerve cells and disrupt activities that cells need to survive.
 

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Just what is Alzheimer's Disease

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  We hear about Alzheimer's Disease all the time, but rarely do we hear anyone describe what it is and how it progresses.  With this posting, we will begin a series of short articles that will help you better understand more about the disease, and how it affects those who suffer from it. 

  Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder named for German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906. Scientists have learned a great deal about Alzheimer’s disease in the century since Dr. Alzheimer first drew attention to it.  Some facts we know today:

• It is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases. 

• It is a progressive and fatal brain disease. As many as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing memory loss and problems with thinking and behavior severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Alzheimer’s gets worse over time, and it is fatal. Today it is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States.

• Has no current cure. But treatments for symptoms, combined with the right services and support, can make life better for the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer’s. There is an accelerating worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, or prevent it from developing.

   In our next posting, we'll begin to discuss how Alzheimer's affects the brain, and the resulting impact on the suffer.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Summertime Reminder!!

  When spending time outdoors, you need to reapply sunscreen. Even sunscreen with an SPF 50 or higher needs to be reapplied. Be sure to reapply

•   Approximately every 2 hours, even on a cloudy day.
•   After swimming or sweating 

  Skin damage from the sun is permanent.  Let's be careful out there!

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Summer Safety

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

  At this time of year, being stricken by heat exhaustion is not uncommon.  We should all be able to recognize the onset and know what to do should they occur.  First, let's review some of the symptoms:

1. Sudden high body temperature (but less than 104 degrees)
2. Hot and flushed skin that may be clammy to the touch
3. Cramping muscles, or stomach cramps
4. Headache
5. Nausea/vomiting
6. Dizziness
7. Rapid pulse
8. Profuse sweating

 Heat exhaustion is not usually life threatening, but it's important that it is recognized and treated quickly.  Should you experience, or notice symptoms in another person, the following suggestions are recommended:

1. Move out of the sun.
2. Have the person replace fluids by drinking water, Gatorade, or decaffeinated tea.
3. Cool the person with fans or light water spray.  Place a cold damp towel on the back of the person's neck.
4. Keep the person still and out of the sun for at least 12 hours.
5. Call your health care provider.

 Any person recovering from heat exhaustion needs to rest.  Once a person has suffered from heat exhaustion, they are more vulnerable to another bout.  Take time to rest and let your body recover.

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Getting Involved with Aging Family and Friends...

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .


    As people age, there are some considerations that family members should consider to determine if a loved one may need some assistance with daily activities.  Most people facing challenges with day to day activities won't ask for help, as they place a very high value on their independence and privacy.  Also, most people do not want to feel like a burden to their family or friends.
  The following list was created to help you quickly assess a loved one's condition, and to identify areas of concern.  If you find that someone you know has a challenge with even one of the following items, it may be time to take a more active role in their life.  Chances are, your loved one may be struggling unnecessarily, and by taking a proactive approach, you can avoid having a small challenge become something major.

1. Medical condition - Has the person been diagnosed with an illness or condition that could affect their functional ability and daily living?
2. Driving - Are you concerned about their driving ability for any reason?  For instance, how is their hearing, sight, or reflexes?
3. Food/Nutrition - Are your loved ones eating healthy meals?  Is their weight stable?  Often, as meal preparation becomes more difficult, the quality of the diet deteriorates.
4. Hygiene - How does your loved one look and smell, including their breath?  What about their overall appearance? Are they able to manage the laundry?
5. Behavior - Does your loved one seem irritable or anxious?  Does being away from home make them uncomfortable?
6. Daily Tasks - Do basic tasks seem to be more and more difficult?  IE: shopping, meal preparation, cleaning.
7. Medication - Can you loved ones manage their prescriptions?  Are you worried that they aren't getting their medicines at the proper times and in the correct amounts?
8. Finances - Do your loved ones struggle managing bills and finances?
9. Mail - Does the mail seem to just stack up?  Are bills becoming delinquent?  Do solicitors seem to be calling frequently?
10. Safety - Do your loved ones forget to turn off the stove, coffee pot, etc?  Do they remember to close and lock doors and windows?

  Regardless of a person's age, it's often unclear to family and friends when it's time to take a more active role in the life of a loved one.  If any of the above 10 items seem to give you pause for thought, perhaps it's time for you to become more involved.  If you have a concern with only 1 area, chances are, that person is struggling.  Trust your instincts and take action.  There are often simple things that can be done to provide assistance and Make Life Easier for the ones you care for.   

Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of LKN and Central NC
www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445

Grills, Guys, & Good Health

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

 

 This summer, take the time to enjoy, kick-back, throw a ball around, and fire up the grill!  Worrying about your health can make life difficult to enjoy, so make sure that this summer, and every season, you are working to help prevent and lower your risk for disease.  Here are some quick bits of advice to help you stay healthy...

BBQ smoke only!

  Stop smoking.  Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among men, and is mostly due to smoking.  Smoking also has very damaging effects on the immune system, and overall body function.

  If you've tried but failed to stop, try getting some help.  Family, friends, as well as your doctor or clinician will usually be happy to assist.

Game On!

   Get moving.  Exercise is essential for overall body function, weight management, lowering 'bad' cholesterol, working the heart & lungs, reducing stress, better sleep, etc.

  Watching the game on TV is great, but getting in the game is even better.  Aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day.  From a light jog to sit-ups in the gym to a brisk walk, it all adds up!!

Healthy Grilling!

  Try to avoid 'bad' foods, including processed and refined items, those with high fat, sugar, and salt content.  These tend to suppress the immune system, lead to high blood pressure, unhealthy weight gains, and overall reduce body function.

  Eat more salads, soups, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, and low-fat dairy products.  Here are a few healthy BBQ Alternatives...

• Turkey Burgers instead of Beef
• Whole grain buns
• Veggie dogs or 100% beef hot dogs
• Baked sweet potato instead of French Fries
• Grilled veggies
• Fresh salad instead of cole slaw
• Chicken or fish kabobs instead of red meat or sausage

  Men tend not to think about their health, but they should.  Don't wait until it's too late to do something about it!  Making small, positive lifestyle changes will ensure many healthy summers.

  Glenn Holden - Home Helpers & Direct Link of Lake Norman and Central N.C.

10 Reasons to Invest in a Med-Alert/Personal Emergency Response System

 The following is courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman & Central NC.  Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or call us at 704.909.7958 .

Making the decision to invest in a personal emergency response system (PERS) is not a decision that should be taken lightly. But, if you’re sitting on the fence about whether or not to take the leap these ten reasons might be just the nudge in the right direction you need.

1) The longer a fall is left untreated the greater damage it has the potential to do. With so many lasting injuries to the elderly being the direct result of falls it’s important to have immediate access to care if or when a fall happens to you.

2) Seconds matter when an accident occurs. Falls are the most common accidents experienced by the elderly. Many hospitalizations and even some deaths happen as a result of these falls. When it is you or a loved one that has fallen the longer it takes to get proper care, the longer it will take for recovery and the greater the odds of permanent injury or even death. Getting help quickly is the primary difference between a full recovery and permanent damage.

3) Peace of mind. Not only will you enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing there is someone out there who can help you get the care you need in the event of an emergency but it will also remove a huge burden from the shoulders of family members and loved ones who worry about you living on your own.

4) Allows you to maintain your own independence a little longer. If nothing else it will remove some of the sense of urgency your family feels to get you to move in with them or into an assisted care facility of some sort. The longer you can live on your own the greater your quality of life is likely to be.

5) You have more important things to worry about than “what if?” Seriously, life is short. Who has time to worry about “what if I fall in the shower or slip when getting out of the bed and can’t get to the phone?” You can quit worrying with a medical alert system because you will already have it covered.

6) Gives you an around the clock backup plan for when things go wrong. This is help that is available when you need it. It’s there on your schedule. No matter what time of day or night, the right service will have you covered for all manner of life’s little emergencies that we never seem to be prepared for no matter how much we plan.

7) You love someone who could benefit from around the clock monitoring. You don’t have to be the one using the service in order to benefit from it. If you have a loved one that is desperately clinging to independence you can give them the greatest gift available by purchasing a personal emergency response system for them.

8) As part of your emergency plan for friends and family. A good medical alert system is more than just a lifeline in a time of crisis (though that would certainly be worth every penny you pay for the service), it is also an emergency plan that contacts friends and family members when the crisis has happened and coordinates efforts to make sure you are cared for and not just receiving medical attention.

9) Provides instant and easy access to help in a time of crisis. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a personal safety issue, or any other crisis the medical alert system and monitoring are in place to serve you.

10) You never know when disaster will strike. It is always best to be prepared in a time of emergency. Since there is no crystal ball that will tell you every single emergency you’ll face in life this is one more component in your own personal safety net.

Blow the whistle on Skin Cancer

The following information provided courtesy of Home Helpers of Lake Norman and Central NC. Visit our website at www.homehelpers.cc/lkn58445 , or contact us at 704.909.7958 .

Do you love the warm feeling of the sun on your skin, that warmth you feel all the way to your bones? Do you like being outside walking, gardening, or just reading a book on a park bench? OF COURSE YOU DO! Everyone enjoys being outside and living an active and vibrant life. But what about the harmful effects? Did you know that up to 90% of skin changes that people think are related to aging are actually from the sun?

By now we all know that too much sun can cause skin damage. But what is "too much"? "Too much sun" equals a lot of sun exposure over your lifetime, or more than one bad sunburn. That's right, ONE.

Skin damage, called photo-aging, not only contributes to wrinkles, but can also cause loose skin, a loss of elasticity, as well as lack of firmness. It may also cause your skin to have a leathery texture as well as spots and unevenness in color.

The good news is that your dermatologist has treatments to help you actually repair skin damage. Some options are: laser treatment, dermabrasions, chemical peels, and wrinkle fillers. A dermatologist can also prescribe topical creams or serums that help to reverse some sun damage.

While appearance of your skin may be your primary focus, you should always remember that excessive exposure can lead to skin cancers. There are three common types of skin cancers:

1. Basal cell carcinoma. The most common, rarely fatal, but can be dis-configuring.
2. Squamous cell carcinoma. Another common form with about 250,000 cases and 2,500 deaths per year.
3. Melanoma. The most serious skin cancer, and less common than the first two. Melanoma occurrences are growing faster than any other type. Often found on white males, but affects anyone with fair skin and moles. Early detection can produce a 99% survival rate.

Protect your skin when you are outdoors!
Always check your skin for new moles. A dermatologist can "map" your moles by taking photographs of your skin, and then comparing these over time for changes.
Avoid too much sun. Always use a sunblock with at least SPF 15, wear a hat and long sleeves.
Finally, get a check by a professional and ask questions about your risk, skin type, and any treatments that may be right for you.

Until next time, enjoy your summer!!