Unbelievably, we are already three weeks into 2011, we hope it has brought you excitement, joy and fulfillment as we as a society continue to plug away with our daily activities. We are also three weeks removed from making some important decisions and resolutions that will help shape us in 2011. How committed have you been to your resolutions? What steps have you taken? Have you made the proper adjustments and planning? If you have, great! If you haven’t fret not, there are still 49 weeks of a very prosperous New Year to go and with the proper planning we all will be highly successful in 2011. Perhaps your resolutions involved goals of health for you and your family, or to be more serviceable in terms of volunteering time for charities or causes.
First Care of New York has several goals of our own this year and we hope that we can help each other achieve these goals by continuing to improve our methods of service to help you provide and achieve those goals you have for your family members in need. Our Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship services are undergoing innovative training techniques and new methods that will help us be more efficient, more effective and more advanced homecare. We have made a greater emphasis this year on equipping our Aides with the tools that will help them make their jobs easier and educate them on the different types of methods that clients require, using new training seminars, videos and hands on equipment training. All of our Aides undergo these training seminars at all of our locations in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens. If you are interested in fulfilling charitable type goals and lending a helping hand for a great cause, look no further than the Hope and Possibilities event which First Care is participating in, where we will be selling raffle tickets to raise money that will go to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Each $10 raffle ticket will benefit Cancer Research, the raffle prizes are a 40” TV, a Home Theater System and a 16GB ITouch all courtesy of First Care of New York. Furthermore, the highest selling raffle seller will win a Gaming System also courtesy of First Care of New York. We hope that we can help fulfill your goals in 2011 in more ways than one, First Care of New York will help you achieve your goals rain or shine, sleet, snow or sun. Happy 2011.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
New Year’s Endeavors
Most people like to call them resolutions, others call them goals, but in the end, they are all things we wish to do or try to make happen not just within a calendar year but over a whole life span. At First Care, we aim to allow our clients to enjoy life and all of its gifts; we travel with our clients all over the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens areas every day, every year, endeavor to endeavor. We want our clients to be goal-oriented and driven to learn and accomplish new things, in spite of any physical short-comings. It is with this in mind that we dedicate this blog to suggesting a series of different endeavors that you or your family members may wish to partake in. The following was written by Laura Bianco of Comfort Keepers.
• Start a letter journal. Handwritten letters have nearly become a thing of the past, thanks to the Internet. However, our seniors are from an era when writing letters by hand was an important and valued form of etiquette – a more personal way of keeping in touch. Purchase a bound journal and write a letter inside, then give it to your loved one who will write a letter to you and return the journal. The same can be done with individual letters written back and forth and pasted into the journal. The process repeats throughout the year, or until the journal is full. Sharing a letter journal with your loved one is a unique way to strengthen your connection, and for you to get to know each other better. An added perk is the excitement of looking forward to receiving “real” mail. You find yourselves thinking of each other more often…and contemplating what bit of news to share in the next letter!
• Plan to age gracefully. Growing old has advantages, as well as a few disadvantages, such as wrinkles, gray hair and changes our bodies undergo in the process. It is never too late to decide to pursue a healthy lifestyle, which increases the odds of aging gracefully. Plan to exercise often, eat nutritious foods and to encourage each other while doing so. If you live near your beloved senior, take walks or participate in a group exercise class together. Even if your senior lives far away, you can take walks during the same time of day and talk on the phone to plan healthy meals and other activities.
• Share your favorite recipes. Exchanging healthy recipes can help your elderly loved one eat more nutritious meals and gives you the opportunity to ensure they are eating well. The bonus is receiving favorite family recipes from your loved one that have been passed down through the generations!
• Get tech savvy. Believe it or not, seniors are the fastest growing segment of computer users. If Grandma and Grandpa do not already have a computer, now is the time to expand their horizons! It might seem a bit intimidating at first, but once they are comfortable their prowess might surprise you. Communication and trading pictures becomes a snap, and imagine being able to see each other over a web cam if you live apart! The grandkids can relay their adventures, and you all get the pleasure of seeing each other laugh! You also get the chance to observe the general appearance of the senior, and to check for signs of good or failing health.
• Talk about the hard stuff. This resolution may not be fun, but it is the most important of all. While your senior is able, help set standards of care they desire should they become incapacitated later. Form plans within your family as to who might become the caregiver or if an outside source, will be required. First Care of New York can offer all kinds of services from Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship service to help you through these times. Discussing these things in advance ensures that your loved one’s wishes are recorded and understood by all.
• Start a letter journal. Handwritten letters have nearly become a thing of the past, thanks to the Internet. However, our seniors are from an era when writing letters by hand was an important and valued form of etiquette – a more personal way of keeping in touch. Purchase a bound journal and write a letter inside, then give it to your loved one who will write a letter to you and return the journal. The same can be done with individual letters written back and forth and pasted into the journal. The process repeats throughout the year, or until the journal is full. Sharing a letter journal with your loved one is a unique way to strengthen your connection, and for you to get to know each other better. An added perk is the excitement of looking forward to receiving “real” mail. You find yourselves thinking of each other more often…and contemplating what bit of news to share in the next letter!
• Plan to age gracefully. Growing old has advantages, as well as a few disadvantages, such as wrinkles, gray hair and changes our bodies undergo in the process. It is never too late to decide to pursue a healthy lifestyle, which increases the odds of aging gracefully. Plan to exercise often, eat nutritious foods and to encourage each other while doing so. If you live near your beloved senior, take walks or participate in a group exercise class together. Even if your senior lives far away, you can take walks during the same time of day and talk on the phone to plan healthy meals and other activities.
• Share your favorite recipes. Exchanging healthy recipes can help your elderly loved one eat more nutritious meals and gives you the opportunity to ensure they are eating well. The bonus is receiving favorite family recipes from your loved one that have been passed down through the generations!
• Get tech savvy. Believe it or not, seniors are the fastest growing segment of computer users. If Grandma and Grandpa do not already have a computer, now is the time to expand their horizons! It might seem a bit intimidating at first, but once they are comfortable their prowess might surprise you. Communication and trading pictures becomes a snap, and imagine being able to see each other over a web cam if you live apart! The grandkids can relay their adventures, and you all get the pleasure of seeing each other laugh! You also get the chance to observe the general appearance of the senior, and to check for signs of good or failing health.
• Talk about the hard stuff. This resolution may not be fun, but it is the most important of all. While your senior is able, help set standards of care they desire should they become incapacitated later. Form plans within your family as to who might become the caregiver or if an outside source, will be required. First Care of New York can offer all kinds of services from Live in Care, Personal Care, Home Health and Companionship service to help you through these times. Discussing these things in advance ensures that your loved one’s wishes are recorded and understood by all.
Monday, January 3, 2011
A First Care Resolution: The Hope & Possibilities Cancer Fundraiser Part II
On behalf of First Care of New York, we hope you had a safe and enjoyable holiday as you prepare for a joyous celebration to ring in the New Year 2011. As you read in our last blog, First Care of New York has already begun planning for some of the major events we are going to be either hosting or participating in for 2011. Among them is The Hope & Possibilities walk/run event which takes place in New York City and will be held at Central Park in the Summer of 2011 (the exact date will be announced). First Care is proud to announce that we will be participating in the event while raising money that will be donated to the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Over 6,000 people from the five boroughs as well as all over New York participated in the 5K walk/run.
This year we aim to surpass last year’s fundraiser total by announcing a very special raffle that everyone can participate in for a great cause, and to win great prizes. The raffle tickets cost only $10, and 100% of the proceeds will go towards donations for cancer research. If you wish to participate in the raffle or are interested in acquiring raffle tickets, you may ask for Rina at 718-741-5956.
First Care of New York aims to donate, time, money, effort and sweat to this event as several of our family members will participate 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. The other members will be on the sidelines encouraging and cheering on their friends and family. The event will be one of many which will include our company in a variety of different functions and causes during 2011, we hope to have you join in and help us fulfill one of the many resolutions we have set for 2011. As always, we thank you and wish you a Healthy and Happy New Year!!!
This year we aim to surpass last year’s fundraiser total by announcing a very special raffle that everyone can participate in for a great cause, and to win great prizes. The raffle tickets cost only $10, and 100% of the proceeds will go towards donations for cancer research. If you wish to participate in the raffle or are interested in acquiring raffle tickets, you may ask for Rina at 718-741-5956.
First Care of New York aims to donate, time, money, effort and sweat to this event as several of our family members will participate 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. The other members will be on the sidelines encouraging and cheering on their friends and family. The event will be one of many which will include our company in a variety of different functions and causes during 2011, we hope to have you join in and help us fulfill one of the many resolutions we have set for 2011. As always, we thank you and wish you a Healthy and Happy New Year!!!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
A First Care Resolution: The Hope & Possibilities Cancer Fundraiser
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!!!
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!!!
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)