As we bid farewell to 2010, we at First Care took the time to celebrate our accomplishments and each other with a festive end of year company dinner. Members of the First Care family were on hand as we enjoyed a festive atmosphere of celebration and remembrance. As we finish our year, we also embark on our journey for the hopes and possibilities for 2011. Among these goals, is our participation in the Hope and Possibilities Walk/Run event which helps us raise funds that benefit the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The First Care family was on hand last year, as well as people from all over the city including: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens and more.
As part of our participation, several of the First Care of New York family members participated in the actual 5 mile race. Many of our participants are the same people who provide our Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship services. In the meantime, the other members stood on the sidelines encouraging and cheering on their friends and family members who also raced. The 6,000 runners who participated were from all kinds of backgrounds who ran in different levels including: runners with disabilities, prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs and open divisions, thereby excluding no one. First Care participates in this event to raise community awareness and raise funds for Cancer research, which goes to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. It is a cause that is near and dear to the First Care family, and we are committed to raising funds for this next year’s event as well. More information and more details will come in the upcoming weeks. We wish you a Happy Holiday and a Healthy New Year!!!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Healthy Brain.
At First Care, we understand the delicacies that come with our clients and the condition they are in, against the condition they were once in. We understand that they want to continue to live freely, independently and with the same energy and fervor that makes them happy. The ability to be able to do their daily activities whether it be in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan or Queens areas. It is with this in mind that we include articles like this one about keeping a person's brain stimulated as you age. The goal is to give you subtle tips that will keep you and your loved ones sharp and active physically as well as mentally. The information in this article is courtesy of Mary Desaulniers, author of the article "How to SuperCharge an Aging Brain".
A study at the Bay crest Centre for Geriatric Care found that as people age, their ability to focus on one activity in one part of the brain decreases, which explains why older people are easily "distracted." Yet this distraction suggests that different areas of the brain are working simultaneously which explains why older people can often access higher reasoning processes (such as intuition) by using both hemispheres at the same time. Like any other muscle, the brain can only function at its peak capacity when it is used consistently. What are the steps we can take to ensure a strong and healthy brain in our later years?
Pursue leisure activities. Read books and magazines. Knit with friends, go for a walk, play bridge. Leisure activities can reduce the risk or delay the onset of dementia. Read and write Poetry. In the famous Nuns' Study, researchers concluded that the sisters who had more resilient brains later in life were the ones who tended to use multi-syllabic words and richer vocabulary in their diary entries. Those who developed dementia tended to use simple, monosyllabic words. Exercise and a healthy diet. Exercise creates significant differences in the grey and white matter areas of the brain. Aging brings about a shrinking of these areas that cardiovascular exercise actually slows down. Eat whole grains and legumes as these are rich in lecithin. Eat fish, high in omega 3 fatty acids (good fats) which have anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the formation of plaques in the brain. Have 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables for their powerful anti-oxidant benefits and increase your consumption of Soy Protein, rich in phytonutrients and gives you all the benefits of protein without the fat. Learn new things and take risks. Evidence shows that learning new activities (starting a new project, hobby, business or venture) is exactly what is needed to prevent the loss of myelin in the brain. Love and enjoy what you have. Be thankful for the abundance you have been blessed with and give generously to those you can serve. A positive sense of purpose and a healthy optimism can do wonders to ensure longevity in the brain. Take Advantage. Of the services that First Care can offer you to help you including: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions.
A study at the Bay crest Centre for Geriatric Care found that as people age, their ability to focus on one activity in one part of the brain decreases, which explains why older people are easily "distracted." Yet this distraction suggests that different areas of the brain are working simultaneously which explains why older people can often access higher reasoning processes (such as intuition) by using both hemispheres at the same time. Like any other muscle, the brain can only function at its peak capacity when it is used consistently. What are the steps we can take to ensure a strong and healthy brain in our later years?
Pursue leisure activities. Read books and magazines. Knit with friends, go for a walk, play bridge. Leisure activities can reduce the risk or delay the onset of dementia. Read and write Poetry. In the famous Nuns' Study, researchers concluded that the sisters who had more resilient brains later in life were the ones who tended to use multi-syllabic words and richer vocabulary in their diary entries. Those who developed dementia tended to use simple, monosyllabic words. Exercise and a healthy diet. Exercise creates significant differences in the grey and white matter areas of the brain. Aging brings about a shrinking of these areas that cardiovascular exercise actually slows down. Eat whole grains and legumes as these are rich in lecithin. Eat fish, high in omega 3 fatty acids (good fats) which have anti-inflammatory properties that can prevent the formation of plaques in the brain. Have 5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables for their powerful anti-oxidant benefits and increase your consumption of Soy Protein, rich in phytonutrients and gives you all the benefits of protein without the fat. Learn new things and take risks. Evidence shows that learning new activities (starting a new project, hobby, business or venture) is exactly what is needed to prevent the loss of myelin in the brain. Love and enjoy what you have. Be thankful for the abundance you have been blessed with and give generously to those you can serve. A positive sense of purpose and a healthy optimism can do wonders to ensure longevity in the brain. Take Advantage. Of the services that First Care can offer you to help you including: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Combating Loneliness
We are now deep into the holiday season and we at First Care are excited for the weeks to come and the chance to celebrate with our families. We also understand that the holidays can have different effects on individuals. This week, the topic is “Combating Loneliness: How seniors and their families fight against those emotions during such a festive holiday”. This year, we celebrate the holidays with all of the residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens’ areas, where we have been honored to service with care and hope for continued improvements in 2011.
The holidays are a time of joy, family and laughter for most, but for others it can be a sad time of reflection and/or loneliness for those in particular who have lost someone dear to them. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) released several statistics on loneliness and seniors that were published through an article written by Erin Schmidt of brightstarcare.com. The study examined prevalence rates among older Americans, and also presented a descriptive profile of lonely older adults and examines the relationships between loneliness and health, health behaviors, involvement in a social network and use of technology for social communications and networking.
Key findings revealed:
• A little over one-third (35%) of the survey respondents were categorized as lonely.
• Older adults reported lower rates of loneliness than those who were younger (43% of those age 45-49 were lonely compared to 25% of those 70+). Married respondents were less likely to be lonely (29%) compared to never-married respondents (51%), and those with higher incomes were less likely to be lonely than those with lower incomes.
• Lonely respondents were less likely to be involved in activities that build social networks, such as attending religious services, volunteering, participating in a community organization or spending time on a hobby.
• Almost half (45%) of those who had lived in their current residence for less than 1 year reported feeling lonely.
• Loneliness was a significant predictor of poor health. Those who rated their health as “excellent” were over half as likely to be lonely than those who rated their health as “poor” (25% vs. 55%).
• Lonely and non-lonely respondents did not differ significantly from each other in terms of their frequency of email use. However, 13% of lonely respondents felt they have fewer deep connections now that they keep in touch with people using the Internet, compared to 6% of non-lonely respondents.
Loneliness is a very real issue for many people this time of year, and we can all make a difference in their lives by simply reaching out and bringing them into your circle of happiness. We can take the time to do things with them or for them, involve them in your holiday planning or if there are logistical problems consider one of the programs we offer at First Care. There are different types of home care services that are available including: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions. Let’s bring joy and happiness to our neighbors this holiday season, as they have done for us.
The holidays are a time of joy, family and laughter for most, but for others it can be a sad time of reflection and/or loneliness for those in particular who have lost someone dear to them. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) released several statistics on loneliness and seniors that were published through an article written by Erin Schmidt of brightstarcare.com. The study examined prevalence rates among older Americans, and also presented a descriptive profile of lonely older adults and examines the relationships between loneliness and health, health behaviors, involvement in a social network and use of technology for social communications and networking.
Key findings revealed:
• A little over one-third (35%) of the survey respondents were categorized as lonely.
• Older adults reported lower rates of loneliness than those who were younger (43% of those age 45-49 were lonely compared to 25% of those 70+). Married respondents were less likely to be lonely (29%) compared to never-married respondents (51%), and those with higher incomes were less likely to be lonely than those with lower incomes.
• Lonely respondents were less likely to be involved in activities that build social networks, such as attending religious services, volunteering, participating in a community organization or spending time on a hobby.
• Almost half (45%) of those who had lived in their current residence for less than 1 year reported feeling lonely.
• Loneliness was a significant predictor of poor health. Those who rated their health as “excellent” were over half as likely to be lonely than those who rated their health as “poor” (25% vs. 55%).
• Lonely and non-lonely respondents did not differ significantly from each other in terms of their frequency of email use. However, 13% of lonely respondents felt they have fewer deep connections now that they keep in touch with people using the Internet, compared to 6% of non-lonely respondents.
Loneliness is a very real issue for many people this time of year, and we can all make a difference in their lives by simply reaching out and bringing them into your circle of happiness. We can take the time to do things with them or for them, involve them in your holiday planning or if there are logistical problems consider one of the programs we offer at First Care. There are different types of home care services that are available including: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions. Let’s bring joy and happiness to our neighbors this holiday season, as they have done for us.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Final Diabetes Blog
This week, we continue to educate our loyal readers on the topic of Diabetes. Last week we discussed the ways to prevent Diabetes. The different stages represent different resulting physical conditions that in some cases may require the need for homecare. There are different types of homecare that are available for families in need, such as: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions.
We are concluding our series on Diabetes this week by giving you some facts and figures on the disease in relation to the effects it can have on you according to race and the complications that can arise from it. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones that are battling this disease. All residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served and hope to be able to accommodate your every need.
How can you prevent Diabetes? What tips are available to help you steer clear of this disease? The following information is courtesy of face-diabetes.com, which will answer these questions and many more.
Diabetes affects approximately 285 million people worldwide. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) predicts that by 2030, that figure will grow to 438 million people. In the United States alone, more than 24 million Americans are living with diabetes. Research suggests that by 2050, diabetes will affect 48.3 million people in the United States, with the largest increase occurring in minority groups. African-Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes, approximately 3.7 million African-Americans age 20 or older have diabetes. African-Americans are 1.8 times more likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites, 25 percent of African-Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 have diabetes. One in four African-American women over 55 years of age has diabetes.
Currently, 24 million children and adults in the United States live with diabetes. Of these, nearly 6 million do not know they have the disease and it is estimated that another 57 million adults have pre-diabetes. Over the last 50 years, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes has risen from 1.5 million to 17.9 million, an increase of epidemic proportions. If current trends continue, 1 out of every 3 children born today will face a future with diabetes. Information courtesy of njtoday.net.
It is a serious disease, with serious complications and consequences. But there is help out there and there are ways to both manage or prevent the disease. The sooner we all take those steps, the better our quality of life will be in the long term.
We are concluding our series on Diabetes this week by giving you some facts and figures on the disease in relation to the effects it can have on you according to race and the complications that can arise from it. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones that are battling this disease. All residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served and hope to be able to accommodate your every need.
How can you prevent Diabetes? What tips are available to help you steer clear of this disease? The following information is courtesy of face-diabetes.com, which will answer these questions and many more.
Diabetes affects approximately 285 million people worldwide. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) predicts that by 2030, that figure will grow to 438 million people. In the United States alone, more than 24 million Americans are living with diabetes. Research suggests that by 2050, diabetes will affect 48.3 million people in the United States, with the largest increase occurring in minority groups. African-Americans are disproportionately affected by diabetes, approximately 3.7 million African-Americans age 20 or older have diabetes. African-Americans are 1.8 times more likely to have diabetes as non-Hispanic whites, 25 percent of African-Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 have diabetes. One in four African-American women over 55 years of age has diabetes.
Currently, 24 million children and adults in the United States live with diabetes. Of these, nearly 6 million do not know they have the disease and it is estimated that another 57 million adults have pre-diabetes. Over the last 50 years, the number of people diagnosed with diabetes has risen from 1.5 million to 17.9 million, an increase of epidemic proportions. If current trends continue, 1 out of every 3 children born today will face a future with diabetes. Information courtesy of njtoday.net.
It is a serious disease, with serious complications and consequences. But there is help out there and there are ways to both manage or prevent the disease. The sooner we all take those steps, the better our quality of life will be in the long term.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Diabetes Part II
This week, we continue to educate our loyal readers on the topic of Diabetes. Last week we discussed the three prominent stages: Pre-Diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. The different stages represent different resulting physical conditions that in some cases may require the need for homecare. There are different types of homecare that are available for families in need, such as: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides and Companions.
This Month, as we think about how to help our loved ones, we are going to give you as much information as possible about Diabetes. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer services for those that need homecare for their loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need.
How can you prevent Diabetes? What tips are available to help you steer clear of this disease? The following information is courtesy of mayoclinic.com, by way of the American Diabetes Association, which will answer these questions and many more.
When it comes to type 2 diabetes — the most common type of diabetes — prevention is a big deal. It's especially important to make diabetes prevention a priority if you're at increased risk of diabetes, for example, if you're overweight or have a family history of the disease.
Diabetes prevention is as basic as eating more healthfully, becoming more physically active and losing a few extra pounds — and it's never too late to start. Making a few simple changes in your lifestyle now may help you avoid the serious health complications of diabetes down the road, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage. Consider the latest diabetes prevention tips from the American Diabetes Association.
Tip 1: Get more physical activity
There are many benefits to regular physical activity.
Exercise can help you:
Lose weight
Lower your blood sugar
Boosts your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range
Research shows that both aerobic exercise and resistance training can help control diabetes, but the greatest benefit comes from a fitness program that includes both.
Tip 2: Get plenty of fiber
It's rough, it's tough — and it may help you:
Reduce your risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control
Lower your risk of heart disease
Promote weight loss by helping you feel full
Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
Tip 3: Go for whole grains
Although it's not clear why, whole grains may reduce your risk of diabetes and help maintain blood sugar levels. Try to make at least half your grains whole grains. Many foods made from whole grains come ready to eat, including various breads, pasta products and many cereals. Look for the word "whole" on the package and among the first few items in the ingredient list.
Tip 4: Lose extra weight
If you're overweight, diabetes prevention may hinge on weight loss. Every pound you lose can improve your health. And you may be surprised by how much. In one study, overweight adults reduced their diabetes risk by 16 percent for every kilogram (2.2 pounds) of weight lost. Also, those who lost a modest amount of weight — at least 5 to 10 percent of initial body weight — and exercised regularly reduced the risk of developing diabetes by almost 60 percent over three years.
Tip 5: Skip fad diets and make healthier choices
Low-carb diets, the glycemic index diet or other fad diets may help you lose weight at first, but their effectiveness at preventing diabetes isn't known nor are their long-term effects. And by excluding or strictly limiting a particular food group, you may be giving up essential nutrients. Instead, think variety and portion control as part of an overall healthy-eating plan.
This Month, as we think about how to help our loved ones, we are going to give you as much information as possible about Diabetes. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer services for those that need homecare for their loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need.
How can you prevent Diabetes? What tips are available to help you steer clear of this disease? The following information is courtesy of mayoclinic.com, by way of the American Diabetes Association, which will answer these questions and many more.
When it comes to type 2 diabetes — the most common type of diabetes — prevention is a big deal. It's especially important to make diabetes prevention a priority if you're at increased risk of diabetes, for example, if you're overweight or have a family history of the disease.
Diabetes prevention is as basic as eating more healthfully, becoming more physically active and losing a few extra pounds — and it's never too late to start. Making a few simple changes in your lifestyle now may help you avoid the serious health complications of diabetes down the road, such as nerve, kidney and heart damage. Consider the latest diabetes prevention tips from the American Diabetes Association.
Tip 1: Get more physical activity
There are many benefits to regular physical activity.
Exercise can help you:
Lose weight
Lower your blood sugar
Boosts your sensitivity to insulin — which helps keep your blood sugar within a normal range
Research shows that both aerobic exercise and resistance training can help control diabetes, but the greatest benefit comes from a fitness program that includes both.
Tip 2: Get plenty of fiber
It's rough, it's tough — and it may help you:
Reduce your risk of diabetes by improving your blood sugar control
Lower your risk of heart disease
Promote weight loss by helping you feel full
Foods high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds.
Tip 3: Go for whole grains
Although it's not clear why, whole grains may reduce your risk of diabetes and help maintain blood sugar levels. Try to make at least half your grains whole grains. Many foods made from whole grains come ready to eat, including various breads, pasta products and many cereals. Look for the word "whole" on the package and among the first few items in the ingredient list.
Tip 4: Lose extra weight
If you're overweight, diabetes prevention may hinge on weight loss. Every pound you lose can improve your health. And you may be surprised by how much. In one study, overweight adults reduced their diabetes risk by 16 percent for every kilogram (2.2 pounds) of weight lost. Also, those who lost a modest amount of weight — at least 5 to 10 percent of initial body weight — and exercised regularly reduced the risk of developing diabetes by almost 60 percent over three years.
Tip 5: Skip fad diets and make healthier choices
Low-carb diets, the glycemic index diet or other fad diets may help you lose weight at first, but their effectiveness at preventing diabetes isn't known nor are their long-term effects. And by excluding or strictly limiting a particular food group, you may be giving up essential nutrients. Instead, think variety and portion control as part of an overall healthy-eating plan.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Diabetes Awareness and You.
This week, we dedicate our post to Diabetes, which has three prominent stages Pre-Diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. The different stages represent different resulting physical conditions that in some cases may require the need for homecare. There are different types of homecare that are available for families in need such as: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides, Companions and Assisted Daily Living.
This November as we think about how to help our loved ones, we are going to give you as much information as possible about Diabetes. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. What are the differences between the three stages of Diabetes? The information you will read is courtesy of diabetes.org, and will answer those questions and many more.
Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have "Pre-Diabetes"—blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. There are 57 million people in the United States who have Pre-Diabetes. Recent research has shown that some long-term damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system, may already be occurring during Pre-Diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Only 5-10% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease. With the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, even young children with type 1 diabetes can learn to manage their condition and live long, healthy, happy lives.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders as well as the aged population.
In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.
This November as we think about how to help our loved ones, we are going to give you as much information as possible about Diabetes. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. What are the differences between the three stages of Diabetes? The information you will read is courtesy of diabetes.org, and will answer those questions and many more.
Before people develop type 2 diabetes, they almost always have "Pre-Diabetes"—blood glucose levels that are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. There are 57 million people in the United States who have Pre-Diabetes. Recent research has shown that some long-term damage to the body, especially the heart and circulatory system, may already be occurring during Pre-Diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. Only 5-10% of people with diabetes have this form of the disease. With the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, even young children with type 1 diabetes can learn to manage their condition and live long, healthy, happy lives.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. Millions of Americans have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, and many more are unaware they are at high risk. Type 2 diabetes is more common in African Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders as well as the aged population.
In type 2 diabetes, either the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use glucose for energy. When you eat food, the body breaks down all of the sugars and starches into glucose, which is the basic fuel for the cells in the body. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.
Alzheimer's Blog: Part II
First Care of New York continues to spread the message this month as part of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, by providing information and material on the debilitating disease. Alzheimer’s is a complex neurological disease that is the most common form of dementia. More than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s and more than 10 million are caring for a loved one with the disease. There are different types of homecare that are available for families in need such as: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides, Companions and Assisted Daily Living.
This November as we think about how to help our loved ones, during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we are going to dedicate our next couple of blogs to give you as much information as possible on Alzheimer’s disease. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens Areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s? Are there common symptoms that I should be aware of? The information you will read is courtesy of alzinfo.org, and will answer those questions and many more.
• Difficulty performing otherwise familiar tasks, such as preparing a meal, opening a car window or using a household appliance can be signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Memory loss that affects job skills. It is normal to occasionally forget an assignment or a colleagues phone number, but it is not normal to frequently forget such things or to become so confused that you are unable to concentrate and cannot perform your job functions.
• Problems using language may be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Although it is normal to forget words, people with Alzheimer’s disease may become hard to understand and may substitute unusual words or phrases for forgotten ones. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may appear to have become less fluent and may also have difficulty writing coherently.
• Disorientation to time and place. It is normal to sometimes lose track of time or to become lost, but a person with Alzheimer’s can forget what year it is and can become lost on familiar streets and not be able to find their way home.
• Loss of good judgment may also be a warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. This could take the form of wearing inappropriate clothing (e.g. pajamas worn outside in winter) or suddenly giving away large amounts of money.
• Problems with abstract thinking. It is normal to make a mistake balancing a checkbook, but people with Alzheimer’s disease may forget the meaning of numbers or what to do with them.
• Misplacing things. It is normal to misplace things occasionally, but putting things in unusual places, like an iron in the refrigerator or a watch in the sugar bowl are warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Rapid mood swings such as unexplained anger or going from apparent calm to sudden crying can be warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Personality changes. As people age, their personalities may also gradually change, but for a person with Alzheimer’s disease the changes in personality are often sudden and dramatic.
Loss of initiative, sleeping longer than usual, and loss of interest in the usual activities can be signs of depression, but are also warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
This November as we think about how to help our loved ones, during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we are going to dedicate our next couple of blogs to give you as much information as possible on Alzheimer’s disease. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens Areas can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s? Are there common symptoms that I should be aware of? The information you will read is courtesy of alzinfo.org, and will answer those questions and many more.
• Difficulty performing otherwise familiar tasks, such as preparing a meal, opening a car window or using a household appliance can be signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Memory loss that affects job skills. It is normal to occasionally forget an assignment or a colleagues phone number, but it is not normal to frequently forget such things or to become so confused that you are unable to concentrate and cannot perform your job functions.
• Problems using language may be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Although it is normal to forget words, people with Alzheimer’s disease may become hard to understand and may substitute unusual words or phrases for forgotten ones. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may appear to have become less fluent and may also have difficulty writing coherently.
• Disorientation to time and place. It is normal to sometimes lose track of time or to become lost, but a person with Alzheimer’s can forget what year it is and can become lost on familiar streets and not be able to find their way home.
• Loss of good judgment may also be a warning sign of Alzheimer’s disease. This could take the form of wearing inappropriate clothing (e.g. pajamas worn outside in winter) or suddenly giving away large amounts of money.
• Problems with abstract thinking. It is normal to make a mistake balancing a checkbook, but people with Alzheimer’s disease may forget the meaning of numbers or what to do with them.
• Misplacing things. It is normal to misplace things occasionally, but putting things in unusual places, like an iron in the refrigerator or a watch in the sugar bowl are warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Rapid mood swings such as unexplained anger or going from apparent calm to sudden crying can be warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Personality changes. As people age, their personalities may also gradually change, but for a person with Alzheimer’s disease the changes in personality are often sudden and dramatic.
Loss of initiative, sleeping longer than usual, and loss of interest in the usual activities can be signs of depression, but are also warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Monday, November 8, 2010
“Alzheimers Awareness Month”
This week, First Care of New York, as part Alzheimer Awareness Month is providing information and material on the debilitating disease. Alzheimer’s is a complex neurological disease that is the most common form of dementia. More than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s and more than 10 million are caring for a loved one with the disease. There are different types of homecare that are available for families in need such as: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides, Companions and Assisted Daily Living.
The decisions surrounding the type of long-term care that is needed can be difficult. Dealing with Alzheimer’s is not an easy task and because Alzheimer’s affects each sufferer and caregiver differently, there is never one right way to cope. As we think about how to help our loved ones, this November, during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we are going to dedicate our next couple of blogs to give you as much information as possible on Alzheimer’s disease. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens counties can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. There are several clinical stages of Alzheimer’s disease that you want to be aware of. The information you will read is courtesy of alzinfo.org, and for a more complete breakdown of the stages you can visit alzinfo.org.
Stage 1: Normal
At any age, persons may potentially be free of objective or subjective symptoms of cognition and functional decline and also free of associated behavioral and mood changes. We call these mentally healthy persons at any age, stage 1, or normal.
Stage 2: Normal aged forgetfulness
Half or more of the population of persons over the age of 65 experience subjective complaints of cognitive and/or functional difficulties. The nature of these subjective complaints is characteristic. Elderly persons with these symptoms believe they can no longer recall names as well as they could 5 or 10 years previously.
Stage 3: Mild cognitive impairment
Persons at this stage manifest deficits which are subtle, but which are noted by persons who are closely associated with the stage 3 subject. The subtle deficits may become manifest in diverse ways. For example, the person with mild cognitive impairment (MCl) may noticeably repeat queries. The capacity to perform executive functions also becomes compromised.
Stage 4: Mild Alzheimer’s disease
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can be made with considerable accuracy in this stage. The most common functioning deficit in these patients is a decreased ability to manage instrumental (complex) activities of daily life. The mean duration of this stage is 2 years.
Stage 5: Moderate Alzheimer’s disease
In this stage, deficits are of sufficient magnitude as to prevent catastrophe-free, independent community survival. The characteristic functional change in this stage is incipient deficits in basic activities of daily life. This is manifest in a decrement in the ability to choose proper clothing to wear for the weather conditions and/or for the daily circumstances (occasions). Some patients begin to wear the same clothing day after day unless reminded to change. The mean duration of this stage is 1.5 years.
Stage 6: Moderately severe Alzheimer’s disease
At this stage, the ability to perform basic activities of daily life becomes compromised. Functionally, five successive substages are identifiable. Initially, in stage 6a, patients, in addition to having lost the ability to choose their clothing without assistance, begin to require assistance in putting on their clothing properly. Unless supervised, patients may put their clothing on backward, they may have difficulty putting their arm in the correct sleeve, or they may dress themselves in the wrong sequence. The total duration of the stage of moderately severe AD (stage 6a through 6e) is approximately 2.5 years.
Stage 6b
Requires assistance adjusting the temperature of the bath water. At approximately the same time as Alzheimer’s patients begin to lose the ability to put on their clothing properly without assistance, but generally just a little bit later in the disease course, patients begin to require assistance in handling the mechanics of bathing. Difficulty adjusting the temperature of the bath water is the classical earliest deficit in bathing capacity in Alzheimer’s disease.
Stages 6c, 6d, 6e
With the further evolution of AD, patients lose the ability to manage independently the mechanics of toileting correctly (stage 6c). Unless supervised, patients may place the toilet tissue in the wrong place. Many patients will forget to flush the toilet properly. As the disease evolves in this stage, patients subsequently become incontinent. Generally, urinary incontinence occurs first (stage 6d), then fecal incontinence occurs (stage 6e). The incontinence can be treated, or even initially prevented entirely in many cases, by frequent toileting. Subsequently, strategies for managing incontinence, including appropriate bedding, absorbent undergarments, etc., become necessary.
The decisions surrounding the type of long-term care that is needed can be difficult. Dealing with Alzheimer’s is not an easy task and because Alzheimer’s affects each sufferer and caregiver differently, there is never one right way to cope. As we think about how to help our loved ones, this November, during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, we are going to dedicate our next couple of blogs to give you as much information as possible on Alzheimer’s disease. A better understanding of the disease can prepare you for the road ahead. First Care of New York is proud to be able to offer its services for those of you who need homecare for your loved ones who are battling this disease. Any and all residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Westchester and Queens counties can be served, and we hope to be able to accommodate your every need. There are several clinical stages of Alzheimer’s disease that you want to be aware of. The information you will read is courtesy of alzinfo.org, and for a more complete breakdown of the stages you can visit alzinfo.org.
Stage 1: Normal
At any age, persons may potentially be free of objective or subjective symptoms of cognition and functional decline and also free of associated behavioral and mood changes. We call these mentally healthy persons at any age, stage 1, or normal.
Stage 2: Normal aged forgetfulness
Half or more of the population of persons over the age of 65 experience subjective complaints of cognitive and/or functional difficulties. The nature of these subjective complaints is characteristic. Elderly persons with these symptoms believe they can no longer recall names as well as they could 5 or 10 years previously.
Stage 3: Mild cognitive impairment
Persons at this stage manifest deficits which are subtle, but which are noted by persons who are closely associated with the stage 3 subject. The subtle deficits may become manifest in diverse ways. For example, the person with mild cognitive impairment (MCl) may noticeably repeat queries. The capacity to perform executive functions also becomes compromised.
Stage 4: Mild Alzheimer’s disease
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can be made with considerable accuracy in this stage. The most common functioning deficit in these patients is a decreased ability to manage instrumental (complex) activities of daily life. The mean duration of this stage is 2 years.
Stage 5: Moderate Alzheimer’s disease
In this stage, deficits are of sufficient magnitude as to prevent catastrophe-free, independent community survival. The characteristic functional change in this stage is incipient deficits in basic activities of daily life. This is manifest in a decrement in the ability to choose proper clothing to wear for the weather conditions and/or for the daily circumstances (occasions). Some patients begin to wear the same clothing day after day unless reminded to change. The mean duration of this stage is 1.5 years.
Stage 6: Moderately severe Alzheimer’s disease
At this stage, the ability to perform basic activities of daily life becomes compromised. Functionally, five successive substages are identifiable. Initially, in stage 6a, patients, in addition to having lost the ability to choose their clothing without assistance, begin to require assistance in putting on their clothing properly. Unless supervised, patients may put their clothing on backward, they may have difficulty putting their arm in the correct sleeve, or they may dress themselves in the wrong sequence. The total duration of the stage of moderately severe AD (stage 6a through 6e) is approximately 2.5 years.
Stage 6b
Requires assistance adjusting the temperature of the bath water. At approximately the same time as Alzheimer’s patients begin to lose the ability to put on their clothing properly without assistance, but generally just a little bit later in the disease course, patients begin to require assistance in handling the mechanics of bathing. Difficulty adjusting the temperature of the bath water is the classical earliest deficit in bathing capacity in Alzheimer’s disease.
Stages 6c, 6d, 6e
With the further evolution of AD, patients lose the ability to manage independently the mechanics of toileting correctly (stage 6c). Unless supervised, patients may place the toilet tissue in the wrong place. Many patients will forget to flush the toilet properly. As the disease evolves in this stage, patients subsequently become incontinent. Generally, urinary incontinence occurs first (stage 6d), then fecal incontinence occurs (stage 6e). The incontinence can be treated, or even initially prevented entirely in many cases, by frequent toileting. Subsequently, strategies for managing incontinence, including appropriate bedding, absorbent undergarments, etc., become necessary.
Monday, October 4, 2010
A Trusted Name in Homecare: First Care of New York
At First Care of New York, we realize the importance of recognizing that we are being trusted with your most prized possession, your family. It is a responsibility that we do not take lightly, many companies simply like to speak about their trustworthiness. At First Care, we have many goals, we aim to provide a wide range of services including: Live in Care, Personal Care Aides, Home Health Aides, Companions, Daily Living and Private Duty services. We aim to show our trustworthiness by obtaining licenses and accreditations through the most stringent companies and organizations in our region. Finally, our aim is to reach the residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, Kings, Manhattan, New York City, Queens and NY suburbs. Our goal is to not only talk about our quality, but support our claims through accreditations and awards that highlight what we at First Care are all about. This week, we are proud to be associated with the National Private Duty Association (NPDA), this organization is committed to assuring that all agencies within their faction follow the very strict rules and regulations of the state. In addition, the NPDA assures the quality of the service, including the aides and staff of all the member homecare agencies. In achieving this goal, we at First Care take yet another step in assuring you, as part of our extended family, that our agency is first in class, in addition to care.
First Care of New York would like to humbly thank the organizers of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center for their recognition of our efforts in joining their wonderful organization in the fight to finally find a cure for Cancer. The award is the latest in a string of awards that have been presented to First Care of New York for our diligence and participation in the many events and charities that occur all over the city. We thank the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Center for this prestigious award and look forward to continuing to be just a small part in obtaining the goal of a cure.
First Care of New York would like to humbly thank the organizers of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center for their recognition of our efforts in joining their wonderful organization in the fight to finally find a cure for Cancer. The award is the latest in a string of awards that have been presented to First Care of New York for our diligence and participation in the many events and charities that occur all over the city. We thank the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Center for this prestigious award and look forward to continuing to be just a small part in obtaining the goal of a cure.
Friday, September 17, 2010
First Care’s new “Face"
First Care of New York continues to build towards getting our word to the masses. We are proud to announce that we can now be found on Facebook. All of our information, blogs, events, and services can be accessed through Facebook.
Our page is dedicated to helping our patients learn about homecare services and the different areas we serve in our community. First Care of New York provides home care services and events in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Kings, Manhattan, New York City, Queens and NY suburbs. We are implementing new techniques and courses that are aimed at elevating the quality of care that is already the standard for homecare services at First Care of New York.
We are always looking for new ways to improve ourselves in all areas of Live in Care, Personal Care Aide, Home Health Aide, Companionship, Daily Living and Private Duty services, all with a care and an accessibility all our own. You can find our Facebook fan page at First Care of New York, Inc.
Our page is dedicated to helping our patients learn about homecare services and the different areas we serve in our community. First Care of New York provides home care services and events in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Kings, Manhattan, New York City, Queens and NY suburbs. We are implementing new techniques and courses that are aimed at elevating the quality of care that is already the standard for homecare services at First Care of New York.
We are always looking for new ways to improve ourselves in all areas of Live in Care, Personal Care Aide, Home Health Aide, Companionship, Daily Living and Private Duty services, all with a care and an accessibility all our own. You can find our Facebook fan page at First Care of New York, Inc.
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