From Pink Floyd, "Breathe, breathe in the air"

No, this post isn't about Pink Floyd's song Breathe, although there are some loose correlations with the lyrics.  We're focusing more on our lungs rather than the rock band. The lungs differ from other organs in your body because the tissues are exposed to the outside world.  Fortunately, we have a natural defense system to protect us. This usually works well, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of lung disease,  and consequently the need for supplemental oxygen or treatment as we age.

Don't Smoke.  We know you've never heard that before, but it's a big deal for healthy lungs.  Cigarette smoke can narrow the air passages and make breathing more difficult. Over time cigarette smoke damages lung tissue, and may trigger events that lead to cancer.
Avoid Exposure to Pollutants.  Secondhand smoke, outdoor air pollution, chemicals in the home and workplace, can cause lung disease.
Prevent Infection. A cold or other respiratory infection can quickly become very serious. Common prevention tips are:
*Wash your hands often with soap and water.  Use hand sanitizers as a backup.
*Avoids crowds and closed spaces during the cold and flu season.
*Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if a flu vaccine is right for you.
*If you get sick, keep it to yourself!   Stay home from work and rest until you are feeling better.
Get Regular Checkups. Health checks are an important part of disease prevention, even when you are feeling well. During a checkup, your doctor will listen to your breathing and talk to you about any concerns you may have.

  Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!

Our office is constantly being asked about costs for the services we provide, as well as how it compares to other services and the differences in what is being provided.  One oversight that we

consistently see is when people do not fully appreciate that our Home Health Aides are dedicated to one-on-one services.  In contrast, a facility may have as many as 15 patients assigned to one caregiver.  Consequently, the amount of attention and time that person may spend with each patient is limited.  It’s a huge differentiation, and one that should be fully understood when comparing value.

 In keeping track of average care costs, Genworth does an admirable job of publishing a yearly evaluation.  The costs are directly compared on a state-by-state basis, so you can compare different areas if you’re searching for a loved one that isn’t close by.  The latest reports are now accessable on their website, and the comparisons are available by clicking here.  Notice also, you can select different cities within a state to tailor your information.

Having information like this available before you begin shopping makes decisions easier.  Just be sure you fully understand the differences between the listings.

Bringing useful news to educate our clients is one more way that Home Helpers has been making life easier for over a decade.  Call us today at 704-909-7958.  And as always, you can find us on our website,  Facebook and Google+!