Senior Care Mall

New Year New Vision For Seniors

2013-01-14T15:33:00.001-05:00

New year, new vision: see clearly in 2013 SENIORCAREMALL (BPT) - The beginning of the year is the most popular time for eye exams and a great time to assess if your corrective lenses are the best fit for you. See 2013 clearly with healthy eyes by following these five simple tips from optometrist, Dr. Tamara Dunn. -- 1. Start with an eye exam Our eyes age and change just like the rest of our bodies, so it is important to get them checked annually. Even if you already have corrective lenses, ensure you are caring for your eyes properly with an eye exam. Beyond a simple vision screening, the American Optometric Association also recommends that everyone receive a regular comprehensive eye exam to detect potentially serious eye issues to support overall eye health. 2. Good health supports good vision As you kick off resolutions to "get healthy," did you know that you are also supporting your eye health? The healthier you are the better chance you have to avoid complications with your eyes. For example, eating a balanced diet that includes dark green vegetables with lutein like spinach and kale can help to reduce your risk of age related vision loss. 3. Protect your eyes in the sun Sunglasses are a fun way to accessorize while also protecting your eyes. Studies show that spending long periods of time in the sun without eye protection can damage your eyes. Eye care professionals recommend that you wear full spectrum UV-absorbent sunglasses whenever you are in the sun for hours at a time. If you wear contact lenses, remember that contact lenses by themselves may not protect your eyes from UV light so you may still need to supplement by wearing sunglasses. 4. Eye glasses or contact lenses? Vision is as unique as the color and shape of your eyes, so work with you eye care professional to decide which type of corrective lens - glasses or contact lenses - is best for you. According to the Contact Lens Council, 34 million Americans opt for contact lenses as they offer a convenient alternative to glasses or corrective surgery. Contact lenses also offer personally tailored options for design, regimens and materials to meet your needs. 5. Keep eye health simple The beginning of a new year is a busy time for doctor appointments. Ease eye-appointment stress by finding a one-stop solution for all your eye care needs. Independent Optometrists operate private offices located adjacent to nearly 3,000 Walmart Vision Centers and Sam's Club Optical Centers and provide comprehensive eye exams, lens fittings and prescriptions by appointment and on a walk-in basis. The recent launch of a new online and phone contact lens program by Walmart and Sam's Club also reduces prices on contact lenses from many top brands and delivers lenses directly to your home. For additional information on the new contact lens program or to place an order, visit WalmartContacts.com or call 800-741-LENS(5367), SamsClub.com/contacts or call 800-749-LENS(5367), or walk into any location with vision services. Visit Seniorcaremall.com for other great senior safety and health care products and services. Call us with any questions you may have. (508) 868-2801

2012-11-12T20:33:00.000-05:00

Four Holiday safety tips for older drivers SENIORCAREMALL (BPT) - Trips to visit family and friends, nighttime drives to midnight Mass or to look at Christmas lights, emergency runs to the grocery store - driving is as much a part of the holiday season as gift wrap and Christmas carols. No matter where you live in the country, driving during the holidays presents some unique challenges. It pays to make sure both you and your vehicle are prepared to stay safe on the road throughout the winter. The experts at AARP Driver Safety offer some advice: Prepare for bad weather If you live in an area of the country that gets winter weather, take steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for snow. Have your mechanic check the brakes, hoses and belts, ignition, battery and all fluid levels, including the antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid levels. If you know you'll be driving through heavy snow and ice, consider putting winter tires on your car. Stock your car with emergency equipment that will help if you become stranded, including a flashlight, first aid kit, shovel, jumper cables, basic tool kit, a bag of salt, extra windshield wiper fluid, and an ice scraper and brush. Before you leave home, always be sure you have a full tank of gas, a fully charged cell phone and a functional spare tire, jack and lug wrench. Be aware of holiday volume Gas prices notwithstanding, the roads are always busier during the holidays. Shopping trips, local visits to loved ones and long-distance trips keep the nation's highways humming with heavier-than-usual volume. More cars on the road means you face more time sitting in traffic and more risk of a fender-bender or even a serious accident. To minimize the crunch of holiday traffic, try to travel during off times of the day. Avoid traditional rush hours when you're making local trips, and if you'll be taking a long drive avoid historically high volume days. Use GPS navigation to help avoid the busiest roads by plotting less-traveled alternate routes. Minimize distractions Holiday driving is full of distractions, from bright holiday lights that can be visually challenging at night, to driving with a carload of happy holiday revelers. Take steps to minimize distractions. Never drive and use your cell phone at the same time. If you must use the phone, pull over or hand it to a passenger. When driving with passengers, establish ground rules for behavior that won't turn into a distraction for you. Be at your best Finally, you as the driver are the most important factor in ensuring your holiday drive time is as safe as possible. Take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest during this busy time of year and by driving at times of day when you're at your best. Consider brushing up on your driving skills. AARP Driver Safety's course is designed to help drivers 50 and older refresh their skills and adapt to age-related changes to vision, hearing and reaction time. To find an in-person course near you, search at www.aarp.org/findcourse, or sign up to take an online course. Courses are available in both English and Spanish. Signing up for a driving course may also make you eligible for a multi-year auto insurance discount, and who couldn't use some extra money during the holidays? Visit to purchase products and services that will make life safer and easier for yourself or those you love.

3 Technology Devices For Sandwich Generation and Aging Parents

2012-11-07T20:15:00.001-05:00

Sandwich generation turns to technology to help take care of aging parents SENIORCAREMALL(BPT) - It's human nature to want to take care of those we love. In fact, nearly 66 million Americans are caregivers, who spend about 19 hours a week caring for a loved one, according to AARP. Many of those caregivers are looking after older parents who don't live with them. And while helping aging parents with everything from financial management to health care decisions is difficult enough, the challenges grow if the parent lives alone, either close by or in another state. Many members of the 'sandwich generation' - adults age 45 to 55 who are taking care of their own children and their aging parents - are turning to technology to make their caregiving role easier. 'This is an age group that's comfortable with technology, and they're used to employing it in their professional lives to solve problems,' says Geoffrey Nudd, CEO of ClearCare Online, a web-based service that facilitates communication between consumers and professional caregivers. 'They're finding that it makes sense to bring in technology-based solutions when they're facing particular challenges in caring for their aging loved ones.' Here are three tech tools that Americans are finding helpful when taking care of elderly parents: 1. Home security systems - These systems, once relied on solely to keep bad guys out of a home, are serving an expanded function for caregivers. Provided through companies such as ADT, these monitoring systems can provide caregivers with a variety of information, including: * Users can receive a text message to their mobile device that lets them know when the front door opens. This can be useful for people taking care of parents with dementia, potentially alerting them if the parent might be wandering outside the house. * Sensors placed on a medicine cabinet can let users know if the cabinet has been opened - or not. An unopened cabinet may mean a parent has forgotten to take needed medications. * Cameras in key areas of a home can live-stream an image of what's going on inside the room to any mobile device. Caregivers can see if a parent has fallen or is having a scheduled meal. 2. Homecare communication systems - This new technology aims at facilitating caregivers' efforts to help aging parents remain independent for as long as possible. Many adult children turn to professional home care agencies to assist aging parents with non-medical aspects of their care. ClearCare is an online software system that helps consumers stay connected with the professionals that aid their parents. Consumers as well as professional caregivers can use a mobile device (such as a smart phone or tablet) to access care schedules and view reports on the status of their parent's in-home care, and more. Visit www.clearcareonline.com to learn more. 3. Personal response and GPS - Tracking devices such as Philips LifeLine and those that use global positioning technology can help caregivers keep track of an elderly parent wearing such a device. To preserve the wearer's dignity, these devices come in wristband, clip on and pendant designs, and provide caregivers with information on the wearer's location. Even elderly parents who are independent enough to continue driving can benefit from GPS technology. Driving can be especially daunting for older people who often deal with age-related deficiencies in reaction time and eyesight. GPS technology can help them safely navigate to a new destination, avoid traffic congestion and even find alternate directions when facing a detour on a familiar route. 'Caring for seniors who need our help is a basic human instinct,' says Lucy Andrews, RN, MS and Vice Chairman of the National Association for Home Care, who uses ClearCare Online with families that she works with, 'Technology can support and make it easier for people to care for those they love, both at home and when they are far away from their loved ones.' Also visit www.seniorcaremall.com for technology products that will make life safer and easier for seniors.

Northeast Seniors

2012-11-01T13:59:00.001-04:00

Please contact those at risk even after the storm. (Sandy) Many still without power and may need a hand with cleanup and safety check of home.

2012-10-29T17:26:00.001-04:00

Fall-prevention strategies Seniors can fall in love with SENIORCAREMALL (BPT) - You're only as old as you feel, which is great news for today's seniors, as 61 percent report they feel younger than their true age. But despite feeling great, the reality is that seniors may need to make minor changes to their homes and lifestyles to ensure they can continue to enjoy safe, healthy and independent lives. If you are part of this senior group, you're likely thinking, “Not me. Not yet.” But did you know that one in three older Americans falls every year, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention? Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65 and older. Don't worry - protecting yourself from falls does not always mean using a walker or wearing an alert pendant. Try these simple tips to protect yourself from becoming a fall statistic, while improving your home and lifestyle. 1. Get moving It's no wonder that 50-years-plus is the fastest growing segment of the fitness population. In addition to maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise improves your leg strength and balance - both of which are important in reducing falls. Experts at the National Institute of Health recommend that seniors enjoy a combination of four types of exercises: endurance, such as walking, cycling or swimming; flexibility, which includes stretching before and after endurance workouts; balance, such as walking on a line or stepping over small objects, and strength, which is using resistance or weights to target core muscles. 2. Prepare your home According to the Home Safety Council, more falls occur in the bathroom than any other room in the home. But don't fear, adding safety to your bathroom can add exquisite styling as well. Grab bars are the most common bath safety product installed, and brands such as Moen Home Care offer stylish Designer Grab Bars with Accessories, which combine the safety benefits of a grab bar with common bath essentials. Options include a towel bar, a paper holder, a straight shelf and a corner shelf, making each item functional and fashionable. Plus, each is available in popular finishes such as Chrome, Brushed Nickel and Old World Bronze, to coordinate with the rest of your bath. Next, add style and peace of mind in the shower by adding a Fold-Down Shower Seat. Unlike traditional bath seats that can be intrusive, this wall-mount design from Moen Home Care folds down for a comfortable and secure shower seat to avoid slips and falls - yet folds up for a thin, compact profile when not in use. Plus, the teak wood and stylish metal trim will accentuate the look of even the most upscale shower. For more information about Moen Home Care products, visit www.moen.com/homecare. For the final step to your safety-upgraded bathroom, increase the amount of lighting. Researchers have found that by the time a person is 60 years old, he or she needs up to 15 times more light than when that person was 10 years old. Add higher-wattage bulbs or even additional lamps to the room for improved illumination. 3. Assess your medications Since boomers buy 77 percent of all prescription drugs sold, chances are that you take more than one medication daily. However, these remedies may have been prescribed by different doctors - and could unknowingly cause side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase the risk of falls. Speak with your physician to ensure that your medications will not interact with other drugs. Programmed pill boxes are also a great idea to keep your prescriptions organized and help you remember what to take and when. 4. Eat right You are what you eat ... which is why a healthy diet is very important to older adults. In fact, healthy eating can reduce the risk for many conditions, including anemia, confusion, hip fractures, hypotension and wounds. Experts note that older adults generally require fewer calories in their diet than other age groups - but need more nutrition. Especially important to reduce falls is to increase foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D, such as milk and dairy, which help keep bones strong. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper eating is also essential, as added weight can cause instability, leading to falls. With these few simple updates to your home and lifestyle, you'll soon feel better about yourself and your home - and can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you're doing the best to reduce the risk of becoming a fall statistic. We hope these suggestions help prevent a future potential fall. Visit www.seniorcaremall.com for other fall prevention products, services and strategies.

2012-09-24T19:13:00.000-04:00

Here are the 4 strategies. 1) Clear away clutter. Bottles and jars and grooming tools frequently crowd counters, closets and the corners of tubs and showers. Make use of hangers, shelves and wall-mounted baskets to keep things neatly tucked away, providing a cleaner environment that's also better looking and less likely to cause trips or spills. 2) Bathe in safety. With limited mobility, moving in and out of the tub can be difficult, if not downright dangerous. One renovation solution to that problem is installing a walk-in tub. Premier Care in Bathing, the leader in walk-in bathtubs, offers a variety of tubs that homeowners can simply walk into, close the water-tight door, and fill for a comfortable, relaxing bathing experience. The company's Walk-in baths and EasyAccess showers configure to your existing space and allow you to maintain the look of your bathroom while enjoying greater ease. 3) Choose rugs carefully. Bath mats and rugs are both functional and decorative. They can add a splash of color while also effectively collecting water that might otherwise pool on the floor and lead to slipping. However, rugs that don't stay in place can present a problem of their own and lead you to trip. Opt for mats and rugs that have non-skid backing, but which still look harmonious with the rest of your bathroom decor. 4) Bring things up to the right height. Your bathroom routine can be an active one, which can present problems if your health limits your ability to move or bend easily. Having a commode and a sink at a higher level that prevents you from overexertion during your daily routine will add to the comfort and safety of your bathroom. And with options like Premier Care in Bathing's easy-access sink, you can integrate these new fixtures into your room while maintaining your existing decorative theme. One of the most important parts of maintaining independence throughout aging is being able to uphold your sense of self. Taking a holistic approach to creating a home environment that meets your needs but still expresses who you are enables you to live life as you choose for a long time to come. For a free brochure including more information about Walk-in bathtubs and other solutions for making living at home more convenient, visit premiercarebathing.com/saferbathing or call 888-378-7953. Visit www.seniorcaremall.com for other resources that will improve safety.

Three Steps For Seniors To Decrease Healthcare Costs

2012-09-18T18:58:00.000-04:00

ARA Seniorcaremall 1. Be an informed consumer. Millions of seniors, their families and caregivers will be pleased to know that for the third straight year the average basic Medicare prescription drug premiums will remain steady. Since enacted, the Affordable Care Act has helped more than 5.4 million people with Medicare save more than $4.1 billion in out-of-pocket prescription drug expenses. These are significant results as the law closes the Medicare Part D donut hole coverage gap, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Seniors can capitalize on those savings by knowing exactly what they are paying for - shop around for better prescription prices and ask about costs. For additional savings, use generic medications. Take advantage of Medicare preventive services, including many types of screenings, tests, shots, counseling, training and supplies now offered without co-pays or other out-of-pocket costs. 2. Ask for help. In addition to guidance on retirement, estate and long-term care planning, seniors can rely on professionals to help them with health care choices. Walters points out this can include Medicare specialists such as Allsup or financial planners who often consult Medicare experts. “Health care planning is a quality of life and a financial issue,” Walters says. “If you need assistance sorting through the overwhelming number of options, it' s important to know that help is out there for you - don't be afraid to ask.” Grace Hercules used Allsup to research her Medicare needs and found she could save more than $1,000 a year by switching drug plans. “I thought a mail-order prescription plan was best for me, but their specialists proved me wrong about this - and I am so happy,” she says. “People can probably do their own taxes, but when they pay a tax adviser they get better returns,” Hercules adds. “It's getting the mindset that good help is available. It's really worth getting expert help and not having the aggravation.” 3. Be proactive. Having known and been around seniors, Hercules says she is saddened that so many settle for high costs or keep the same Medicare plan year after year because of a lack of understanding. Just as seniors review their finances or taxes each year, Medicare annual enrollment is the ideal time to review health care coverage, Walters says. “It's OK to admit it's confusing and that help will be valuable. Look at all your Medicare options and take charge of your health care.” In addition to annual Medicare enrollment, special enrollment periods happen throughout the year for specific situations. For an evaluation of Medicare options, call an Allsup Medicare Advisor specialist at 866-521-7655, or go to medicare.allsup.com. Visit Seniorcaremall for your senior care needs.

SENIORS CUT VEHICLE COSTS

2012-09-17T20:35:00.001-04:00

How senior drivers can cut vehicle costs SENIORCAREMALL (ARA) - For most of us, driving is a necessity, and so is doing it as cost-effectively as possible - even in retirement when most of us stay in our suburban homes. Saving money on automobile-related expenses like gas and insurance can help free up cash for other important things. Fortunately, many tactics can help you minimize vehicle costs, from doing basic maintenance tasks yourself to taking a driver safety course that could qualify you for insurance discounts. The driving experts at AARP recommend drivers 50 and older focus on three key areas of opportunity for cost-reduction: Insurance Older drivers have lower rates of police-reported crashes per capita, limit their driving to familiar routes and better weather, and drive fewer miles than other age groups, but accident rates per mile start increasing when drivers reach 70, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Even if your personal driving record is clean, your age may put you in a demographic that insurance companies view as higher risk - and you'll pay higher auto insurance premiums because of it. Shopping around for auto insurance may help you secure a better rate, but if you're facing very high premiums, it may make sense to take an extra step. Many insurers offer discounts to drivers who complete driver safety courses. Check with your insurance company to see if such a discount is available to you, then look for a program, like AARP Driver Safety's course, that is specifically designed to help people 50 and older refresh their driving skills and adapt to age-related changes. There are no tests to take for the course. To find an in-person course near you, visit www.aarp.org/findacourse, or sign up for an online course. Fuel efficiency After insurance, fuel can be one of the highest costs of operating a vehicle, especially for those who travel far, such as older drivers commuting from winter to summer residences. Car makers have improved overall fuel efficiency for many newer vehicles, but you can take steps to cut your gas costs more - even if you have an older car. AARP offers these tips for improving fuel efficiency: * Lighten the load. The heavier your vehicle and contents, the more gas it will consume moving down the road. Remove excess weight from the trunk and avoid traveling with luggage or bike racks that create drag, add weight and decrease fuel economy. * Watch your speed. While it's important to safely keep pace with the flow of traffic around you, keep in mind most cars are at the optimum fuel efficiency around 50 mph. * Drive smoothly. Abrupt stops and starts, and fast, erratic movements in traffic all decrease fuel economy. * Try to consolidate trips. Rather than making one trip to the grocery store today, then the doctor's office tomorrow and your book club the next day, try to group errands together. Starting a cold engine consumes more gas than keeping it running longer. Maintenance With the average age of cars on the road approaching 11 years, according to R.L. Polk & Co., an automotive market research firm, routine maintenance is more important than ever. Doing simple tasks like oil changes, windshield wiper replacement and air filter changes yourself can help save you money. Tasks that you can easily perform yourself include: * Changing the oil and oil filter. * Changing the air filter. * Monitoring tire inflation and adding air if needed. * Checking and cleaning battery connections. * Replacing worn windshield wipers. * Replacing headlight or brake light bulbs. Other DIY tasks, like replacing brake pads or sparkplugs, or flushing the radiator, require a bit more know-how. Fortunately, plenty of online resources offer step-by-step guides for doing more complex vehicle maintenance tasks. And, you can always check with your local community college to see if they offer a basic auto maintenance course. Visit www.seniorcaremall.com

Are you ok?

2012-08-20T14:42:00.001-04:00

In Massachusetts they offer an R U OK program. SENIORS can receive daily calls by an automated system to ensure they are OK. Call us for more information 508 868 2801 or to sign up call 866 900 7865.

Emergency Response

2012-08-15T19:55:00.001-04:00

There are many options for senior care health and safety. Emergency response is one of those many confusing areas.

Emergency response usually falls into one of two categories. No monthly fee and monthly fee emergency response.

The no monthly fee pendant is very simple. You purchase the unit and when the senior presses the emergency button a call goes to an emergency contact of your choice.

The other option is typically 30.00 to 45.00 per month, and if pendant is pressed the call goes to an emergency call center.

Both are good options. Choose the one that works for you and your family.

Biggest Seller January 2012

2012-02-06T13:20:00.001-05:00

The biggest seller in January was The No Monthly Fee Emergency pendant.

To conclude the year the No Monthly Fee Emergency Pendant was the biggest seller for the year as well. We believe the economy was the biggest reason that helped propel this products popularity. We also provide the low monthly fee pendant as well monitored 24/7.

Senior Care Healthy Skin Tips

2011-10-10T20:50:00.003-04:00

Safe, simple and affordable healthy skin tips for men and women

SENIORCAREMALL(ARA) - Whether you are a male or female, you likely have some key elements to your health routine like exercise, good food, rest and regular medical and dental check-ups. Taking care of your skin probably isn't a part of this important list - but it should be. Your skin is a living organ and a first line of defense against the outside world. Your skin protects you from environmental toxins and pathogens, gets rid of waste, regulates healthy body temperature and is ultimately the picture of health the world sees.

Senior Men are often guiltier of neglecting healthy skin care than women. Maybe skin care isn't considered manly enough, or maybe men simply feel that beyond a good scrub and shave nothing else is needed. And the barrage of high-priced, celebrity-endorsed anti-aging products sold by powerhouse cosmetics companies for women contributes to the notion that skin care is a luxury for well-to-do women rather than an important aspect of a healthy everyday lifestyle.

What's not in your skin care products is just as important to your health as what is in your skin care products. Control what goes on your body by making and using a few essential oil-based products yourself that that don't contain any of the chemical preservatives and synthetic fragrances often found in expensive skin care products. Why pay for what you don't need when you can create more affordable, natural and healthy skin care products - with a custom scent of your liking - on your own?

One hundred percent pure and natural essential oils from a reputable company such as Aura Cacia provide a natural way to scent your homemade skin care products. Here are the essential oil scents that tend to be favored by men and women and some do-it-yourself natural alternatives to the commercial products cosmetic companies offer.

Seniors Masculine Scents
* Cedarwood
* Frankincense
* Myrrh
* Sandalwood
* Vetiver

Seniors Feminine Scents
* Geranium
* Jasmine
* Neroli
* Rose
* Ylang Ylang

Neutral Scents
* All citrus oils
* Eucalyptus
* Lavender
* Patchouli
* Peppermint

Cleanser
Maintaining clean skin is important for senior men and women because a good wash removes the build up of accumulated toxins and allergens from the outside environment while it removes dead skin, oil, bacteria and odor. Cleansing stimulates cell turnover and renewal. A gentle, natural liquid soap made with a wholesome vegetable oil such as olive or sweet almond is the best cleanser you can use. Good old-fashioned soap is a very effective cleanser - but it might be drying for sensitive individuals or with repeated use, so make sure you follow up with moisturizing oil afterwards.

Ingredients:
1 cup unscented liquid vegetable oil-based soap
2 tablespoons water or unflavored green tea
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice

Directions:
Combine soap, water (or tea) and essential oils in a small bottle. Apply about 1 tablespoon to a soft, wet washcloth and gently scrub damp skin in a circular buffing motion (not for too long or with too much force). Rinse with warm (not hot) water.

Moisturizer
It's essential for seniors to re-hydrate the skin after cleansing. Washing with soap lifts away dirt, makeup and dead skin, leaving skin bright and pores clear, but it also strips skin of its natural protective (and wrinkle-fighting) oil known as sebum. A light-bodied, absorbent and non-clogging oil such as grapeseed, jojoba or rosehip oil can be applied to still-damp skin after rinsing off your liquid soap-based cleanser to perform the same function as costly lotions and creams at a fraction of the price.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup grapeseed oil
1/2 cup jojoba oil
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a small bottle, apply a teaspoon to the palm of hand, rub hands together and smooth over damp, freshly cleansed skin. The oil will seal in moisture and protect against dehydration.

Toning and hydrating mist for seniors:
As the day goes on, you'll inevitably lose your fresh glow. Some areas of your skin might become increasingly dry, while others might be oily. A simple mixture of pure water and protecting essential oils like lavender and geranium can help diminish an oily appearance and moisturize dry areas while the oils provide healthy protection.

Ingredients:
1 cup water
48 drops essential oil or blend of oils of your choice
Small spray mister bottle

Directions: Combine water and essential oils in bottle, shake vigorously and apply 2-3 spritzes of the mist to skin, smooth over surface if needed.

Good skin care isn't as much effort as heavy lifting or running a marathon, but it's a tool of health maintenance for seniors that can be as beneficial as hitting the gym. Man or woman, you should add it to your senior health routine. For more information and valuable skin care tips for seniors, visit www.auracacia.com. Visit www.seniorcaremall.com for other senior care products and services.

6 Ways To Increase Bathroom Safety & Ease

2011-09-25T16:33:00.004-04:00

6 Tips For Bathroom Safety & Ease

Seniorcaremall (ARA) - Many boomers caring for their aging parents don't realize that their bathroom is the most important room in the house.

Try these 6 helpful ideas to create a bathroom that will look great and work wonderfully for you and your loved ones well into the future.

1) Switch to an ADA-compliant faucet. Some faucet handles require a surprising amount of force to operate, and knobs can be difficult to twist for seniors. Instead, try an ADA-compliant single lever faucet that allows
for easy on-and-off operation without the need to grip. This faucet style, which complies with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), also has an adjustable hot limit safety stop that helps reduce scalding. This simple and inexpensive alteration will make washing up more comfortable for elderly parents
and grandparents, and is also a great excuse to perk up the look of your bathroom.

2) Try a taller toilet. Standard toilets have a bowl height of about 15 inches, but many manufacturers have recently introduced models that are an inch and a half higher. These taller commodes make sitting down and getting back up less stressful on the body. Bring high style and performance as well as comfort to your bathroom by upgrading to a luxury toilet. Porcher offers several elegant "Right Height" toilets in sleek, easy to clean, one-piece styles.

3) Think about accessible storage. Keep bathing and grooming accessories neatly stowed out of the way to reduce trips and falls, and to keep them clear of wheelchairs. Accessibility and functionality are essential when planning for convenient storage options in the bathroom.

4) Make it easy on the eyes. High-gloss paints and tiles can produce an uncomfortable glare, so introduce matte finishes for better visibility. Choosing wall and floor colors or patterns that contrast is another great way
to increase visual perception of space and help older adults feel more confident as they move about the room.

5) Replace an unused bathtub with a walk-in shower. Holding on to the ability to bathe independently is key to aging gracefully and with dignity. The ubiquitous tub/shower unit in so many homes may be uncomfortably high for the elderly and disabled to step over, and too low to sit down into for bathing. American Standard has a unique low-cost solution with its walk-in seated shower that features a wide, contoured, full-sized seating area with recessed front to make standing or sitting while showering comfortable and easy. This unit has a low 3-inch threshold for easy access in and out, plus a built-in wrap-around grab bar for added safety.

6) Provide a spa-like walk-in tub. Why shouldn't Mom have her own home spa? The greatest generation is also the "bathing generation." Boomers' parents are more likely to benefit from replacing an old, under-used bathtub with
one of today's walk-in tubs. Installing a walk-in bathtub or shower system with a built-in seat brings back a measure of independence in self-care. Many walk-in tubs are designed to fit perfectly in the space of a conventional tub for easy installation and are now available with luxurious special features. American Standard
offers a smart QuickDrain option that removes water in less than two minutes, so there is no need for a long, cold wait for the tub to drain before opening the door to exit the bath. American Standard walk-in bathtubs are available with advanced features like whirlpools and combo massage systems, so bathing can be safer and more
luxurious for aging parents and for you.

Hope this is helpful. Seniorcaremall.

7 Caregiver Support Tips

2011-09-08T20:03:00.003-04:00

FOR CAREGIVERS

SENIORCAREMALL (ARA) - For 66 million Americans, taking care of seniors, seriously ill or disabled family member or friend is a part of daily life. Fortunately there are numerous resources that can make the process easier.

Caregivers can start by turning to Ask Medicare, a service created by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that offers a number of useful resources through its website at www.medicare.gov/caregivers. The site gives caregivers tips on how to make the most of the Medicare program and offers tips on managing chronic illnesses, finding and paying for nursing home and assisted living care, finding local organizations that support caregivers and much more. Representatives of the program also offer recommendations to help caregivers deal with short and long-term financial issues:

1) Talk with the person you are caring for about legally authorizing you to make decisions about his or her medical care. Discuss personal wishes and develop a living will to provide direction on the kind of health care the person desires and needs. Having this plan legally developed can make it much easier for you to make decisions in the future, especially for loved ones who are unable to speak for themselves.

2) Get started; contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program in your area by visiting www.medicare.gov and clicking on "Help and Support or "Useful phone numbers and websites." Also visit www.agingwithdignity.org for a "5 Wishes" document that can help you talk with family members about how they want to be treated.

3) Review finances and health care accounts. Medicare can reduce many out-of-pocket expenses for your loved one, but it does not cover everything. Make a monthly and yearly list of all income sources, such as Social Security and pensions, as well as monthly and yearly expenses, savings and investments that impact the overall financial picture.

4) Learn which types of services are paid for. Visit "Caregiver Topics," "Paying for Care" and "Which expenses are covered" sections on the Ask Medicare site. Deductibles, co-payments and nursing home care are not covered by Medicare.

5) Keep detailed notes of medications, appointments, doctors and other medical treatments. Share this information with other family members or friends who might be able to step in and help you as a caregiver if needed.

6) Start focusing on preventive care such as tests, shots and screenings once you have a future plan in place. Medicare covers preventive care items such as flu shots, bone mass measurements, glaucoma tests and other screenings. To learn more, visit the Ask Medicare site to find "How Medicare Supports Various Types of Care."

7) Learn how to get the best value from the Medicare program. Ask Medicare also offers practical information about enrolling your loved one in Medicare, choosing a prescription drug plan, finding state and local resources and a free e-newsletter with the latest Medicare updates.

We hope that you find this information useful.

SENIOR CARE MALLwww.seniorcaremall.com

One Possible Retirement Solution

2011-08-08T19:47:00.002-04:00

Don't gamble with your golden years

(ARA) SENIORCAREMALL - Will you have enough money for retirement? That question may keep seniors up at night. Or you may avoid thinking about it altogether.

"What scares me for this country, especially for the baby boomer generation, is that many people will have to rely on their investment smarts in managing retirement funds," says economist Steven Weisbart of the Insurance Information Institute. "Many have no training, or interest, in managing money."

One possible solution? Annuities - contracts sold by life insurance companies that offer a guaranteed stream of income for those golden years.

Fixed savings annuities, also known as deferred annuities, have guaranteed interest rates and tax-deferred benefits. And immediate income annuities offer guaranteed income for life. Most important, they both promise peace of mind. Both are popular during market downturns. At USAA Life Insurance Co., one of five life insurers that is AAA rated, total annuity sales grew 26 percent from 2008 to 2009. And the company says it anticipates annuity growth will increase as baby boomers get further into retirement.

"Annuities come up in conversation when people are concerned about market turmoil, or when they do a retirement income plan and are worried about running out of money," says J.J. Montanaro, a certified financial planner practitioner with USAA.

Now more than ever

With a draining Social Security reserve, traditional pensions on the wane, a volatile stock market and homes losing value, retirees should be thinking harder than ever about protecting and growing retirement assets. Longer life spans mean retirees may have to amass more money and preserve it many more years than previous generations.

Having a portion of retirement money in a fixed savings annuity with a fixed interest rate offers certainty in an uncertain investment market, Montanaro says. And using a portion of your savings to buy an income annuity can offer a pension-like stream of monthly payments to help pay your bills. "Whether you're talking about creating income or building a retirement portfolio, an annuity can work well as a tool in your retirement toolkit," says Montanaro.

Fighting misperceptions

Weisbart says annuities in general get an unfair rap, often from people who sell competing investment products on commission. But fixed savings annuities and fixed immediate income annuities are fairly straightforward, says Montanaro. And their fees are very competitive to other retirement products. In some instances, fees can be waived altogether. You can also name a beneficiary so any money remaining goes to someone you love.

Finally, some point out interest rates on annuities aren't as high as they were a few years back. But annuities with fixed rates can still be a good deal if you're looking for a secure place to put your money. "Relative to other safe investments, such as certificates of deposit or treasury bills with even lower rates, they are still attractive," Montanaro says.

How to choose

Deciding which of these kinds of annuities could benefit you is easy, says Joe Montminy, assistant vice president of the annuity research program at LIMRA. Just ask, "Do you need the money now or later for your retirement needs?"

If you need it now, consider the immediate income annuity. If your retirement is a few years away and you want to increase your assets, go with a fixed savings annuity.

Here's how each works.

Savings annuity
Savings annuities earn either a fixed rate for a period of time, say five or 10 years, or a flexible rate that changes over time within an established range. All fixed savings annuities have a guaranteed minimum interest rate, the interest is not taxed until you take the money out, and is guaranteed against loss by the insurer.

"Think of the fixed savings annuity as a safe harbor," Montanaro says. "It can only go in one direction: up."

Because taxes are deferred, withdrawals before age 59 1/2 could be subject to penalties. But remember the annuity is really for retirement, so you should try not to touch it anyway.

Immediate income annuity This kind of annuity helps cover basic living expenses in retirement. To find out if you need one, add up monthly, non-negotiable bills -- utilities, food, property taxes, etc. If your guaranteed income from Social Security and military or corporate pensions can't cover the tab, an immediate income annuity can help fill the gap.

You'll feel secure not having to pay bills with your investment income, which can plunge during market downturns, notes Montminy. Weisbart agrees: "If you have to cancel a vacation because the market's down, that's fine. But if you can't buy medicine or food, that's a problem."

Though immediate annuities require a sizable one-time premium, you'll have the security of knowing essential expenses are covered - immediately. That's what makes them worth considering. "It's the insurance factor -- the peace of mind -- that people are looking for," says Montminy. "By having that guaranteed payment for life, you know you have some protection on your overall portfolio."

Experts emphasize that the lump sum you use to buy an income annuity should be just a portion of your retirement assets. You want to diversify your retirement portfolio to also provide liquidity and to protect against inflation.

Bottom line

There are only five life insurers that are AAA rated, so make sure the company you buy from has high marks from the insurance rating agencies. You want to make sure the company is around as you age. And review the fine print on your contract with a financial adviser. "The goal is to understand what you're buying and approve the terms," Weisbart says.

4 Ways Seniors Can Maintain Youthful Look

2011-07-31T17:29:00.003-04:00

Tips for maintaining a youthful look naturally

SENIORCAREMALL(ARA) - Age means different things to different people. What some might think of as "old", others may view as "young." To present a youthful image to the world, making adjustments to your appearance is key.

To project the right kind of youthful image, it's important to know how to avoid going too far. A common mistake is dressing too young in an effort to avoid looking too old. Striking a balance between embracing current, youthful trends and adding your own style will create a more balanced look.

To give your look an age-appropriate revision, get started with these 4 steps.

* Hair. One of the first signs of age is gray hair. Hair dye is a solution that seems to help minimize the aging process, but for many people, dyeing is a costly solution. Consider trying an all natural supplement like Rise-n-Shine's all natural Go Away Gray pills, which uses the enzyme catalase to bring back hair's natural color. Catalase, produced naturally by the body during youth, slowly begins to deplete as the years wear on. Catalase breaks down hydrogen peroxide, which is naturally produced in the body and which bleaches hair gray. Go Away Gray also comes in shampoo and conditioner form, so fighting grays is easy for everyone.

* Clothes. Both men and women can benefit from bringing a bit of modernity into their wardrobes. It isn't necessary to pore over fashion magazines and cultivate an eye for haute couture. Seek fresh takes on items that never go out of style, such as a button down in the latest color trend. Don't go for too much embellishment, as it can look overdone. Fits and cuts change as years pass, and items as simple as white T-shirts can look outdated just by having an older style collar. When shopping, don't be afraid to ask questions; many stores offer complimentary personal shopping services that can help in the quest to look younger.

* Accessories. Clothes provide a palette, but accessories add interest. It's extremely easy to fall into the trap of buying items that are too juvenile, but it's just as easy to pick up items that age your look. Accessories that are all about function, with no thought given to style, are a quick way to look older, but frivolous details like bows, ruffles, whimsical prints and tons of pockets take things in the other direction. Look for middle ground in sleek, understated items made with quality materials. For a fun yet classy look, rely on accessories to add a pop of color, rather than using them to make a big statement.

* Skin. Your face is the first thing people notice about you, but it is also the body part most prone to the aging process. A good skin care regimen is important, of course, but having an extra helper to maintain the look of skin is ideal. By taking a skin-supporting supplement like Wrinkle Remedy, the facial area can begin to look youthful again. Wrinkle Remedy contains important nutrients and antioxidants (like collagen, reservatrol and alpha lipoic acid) which all help in maintaining a natural, youthful look. Another way to refresh skin's appearance is to adopt a new beauty routine. Less really is more when it comes to achieving a natural, youthful look. Stop by a makeup counter and ask for suggestions - or even a makeover - that will be the perfect finishing touch.

It has been said that age is all about attitude. While that remains true, appearance also conveys attitude, so show everyone that looks are not only skin deep.

Senior Care Product: Shoe Valet

2010-11-16T21:32:00.005-05:00

SHOE HORN IMPROVEMENT?

What A Great Product! Having worked in the field of Occupational Therapy for many years the shoe horn has been a fairly solid "tool" for assisting seniors to put on their shoes. Unlike the sock aid, the shoe horn has a good success rate. Most seniors who utilize them will benefit. The shoe horn is especially valuable for those elderly who are recuperating from hip surgery, or those seniors with limited mobility.

But whats this? An improvement in the long handle shoe horn? Yes its true. We recently tested this new product called the Shoe Valet. It grips better than a long handle shoe horn, and takes less flexing at the hips, because of its longer handle. If you use a traditional long handle shoe horn and it is working for you, no need to switch, however, if you are thinking of purchasing a new shoe horn, or if your present one is not effective, you may want to consider this great product.

We offer hundreds of products at the mall because we all know that "one size does fit all."

We have just added this new product to the mall. You can learn more about this senior care product, and or order one here at the link below. Simply go to the Activities Of Daily Living Shop Here is the link to Senior Care Mall.

www.seniorcaremall.com

We will also be adding our video assesment of the Shoe Valet in the coming days.

We hope that it makes life safer, easier and more comfortable for you or a loved one.

Senior Care Product: 5 Wishes

2010-11-03T11:52:00.003-04:00

This is a great product for both seniors and caregivers alike.

Many things in life are out of our hands. The Five Wishes program gives you some control at end of life. The Five Wishes Program is an easy to complete document, ( only 11 pages)that enables you to proactively think about five critical areas during end of life. Watch the Video to learn more about this wonderful program, or visit www.seniorcaremall.com or a great site called Aging With Dignity @ www.agingwithdignity.org.

Senior Care Mall 5 Wishes Video

http://www.youtube.com/user/SENIORCAREMALL?feature=mhum#p/u/0/K9R55DdpZAk

This could be one of the most important things that you will ever do for yourself, or a loved one. A great resource and tool. Just opening up the conversations is worth the cost of this program. ($5.00 plus S&H) If it makes a difference in your life in any way please let us know. We love to hear those stories.

Regards,

Senior Care Mall

Senior Care Product: Emergency Careband

2010-10-25T21:44:00.006-04:00

This Senior Care Product could possibly save a life. We love this product at the mall. We love it because it is a proactive approach to care administration.

This USB port Careband Bracelet holds all your critical health information, on your wrist. What if their was a crisis at your home? Lets say you have a heart attack. You can now provide life saving information to EMT's. All your health history to triage your care quickly and effectively is now on your wrist.

EMT's or emergency personnel can simply insert the USB band into their computer and they now know important information like 1) Who you are 2) your age 3) doctors 4) allergies 5) diagnosis's 6) medications and so much more.

Check out the video below for more information about this important senior care product.

Caregivers will feel better knowing the band is on their loved one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeuU0_QNeE0

Senior Care Product Pulse Oximeter

2010-10-22T11:00:00.003-04:00

Hello from Senior Care Mall,

This senior care product will help seniors monitor two important factors in regards to energy conservation. 1) Pulse Rate (we want to keep low) and 2) Oxygen saturation level (we want to key high) Both numbers are important indicators off excertion.

Your numbers may be different then this standard, so take the advice of your healthcare professional. We have provided a video below to show you how the pulse oximeter may benefit seniors and caregivers in regards to analytically looking at measurements of these two facors and changing ones behaviors accordingly.

Regards, Senior Care Mall

Senior Care Product Emergency Pendant Video

2010-10-19T14:08:00.002-04:00

This senior care product that we have spoke about before, is one that just may be a fit for you and your family. If you make referrals consider referring this product to your patients. This emergency pendant is a low cost approach to (PERS) Personal Response Services. No monthly fee auto dialer. If you have any questions call one of our Occupational Therapists @ (859)877-6255. Check out this video link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7GYOKZ3ghc

New Great Product

2010-10-04T16:55:00.003-04:00

We will be providing a Youtube video of this USB Emergency Wrist Band in the coming days but just wanted to share some information about this product. What a great idea. I mean valuable health information for Emergency personell on your person at all times.

We were very impressed with the detail of information on the software that came with the band. You can fill in as much or as little as you like, and the information is all VALUABLE. Medications taken, your Doctors, key contact information and so much more. The software is preloaded in the wrist band and you can edit and update at anytime.

Again we will be providing a detailed Video in the coming days but the unit is very simple to use, and then you just wear it. Note: Should be updated as your information changes. Great way to communicate with all family members as well for the health and well being of the senior. Sells for 18.99 plus shipping at www.seniorcaremall.com. Let us know your thoughts on the product especially those who have recently purchased the unit!

Regards,
Senior Care Mall

Key Holder

2010-09-20T23:18:00.001-04:00

The Enablers Key Enlarger increases leverage so that you can turn your key with minimal stress. This flat plastic piece fits over any standard key and snaps shut over the head, so that you have an easier time handling your keys.

This product was designed in consultation with occupational therapists to assure that it does what it is designed to do, with your needs as their primary concern. Engineers used state-of-the-art manufacturing methods so this product is ergonomic, comfortable, and easy to use.

The designers also styled this product to look good, both in your home and when in use.

Patient Turning Aid

2010-09-07T21:08:00.004-04:00

Features & Benefits The physical demand of performing routine tasks essential to maintaining skin integrity and basic hygiene are the very aspects of care that most often put caregivers and patients at risk for serious injury. That’s why we consider the Turn2® Turning Aid™ such a revolutionary product. Its simple, non-mechanized design makes it one of the most cost-effective and practical solutions on the market today!

Following are the features and benefits of using the Turn2® Turning Aid™ each and every time you tend to the personal care needs of your patients or loved ones:

Each year, staggering numbers of care providers suffer back injuries as a result of turning and repositioning patients in bed. When used as directed, the Turn2® Turning Aid™ may be an effective tool in helping to reduce this risk.

Caregiver Friendly Design Improves Patient Comfort, Care and Dignity The Turn2® Turning Aid™ allows caregivers to more quickly, easily and safely perform the routine functions of care necessary for maintaining skin integrity and proper hygiene. Staff gains greater control and flexibility in turning, bathing and bed sheet changes while patients are kept comfortable and safely secure. The compact, lightweight design makes it easy to store and keep close at hand.

Disposable Design Makes Good “Cents” Plus... Stops Risk of Cross-Contamination The Turn2® Turning Aid™ is a disposable alternative to other commercially available products on the market today. Reduces logistical challenges, labor demands and increased costs associated with laundering and sanitizing.

If Used In Facility Icreased Staff Productivity

The Turn2® Turning Aid™ allows staff to use their time more efficiently in the care of their patients. The unique strapping system features a hook and loop closure that enables caregivers to safely and securely turn patients of different sizes and weights even while working alone.

Easy to Use, Easy to Implement No special training required or costly mechanized equipment needed.

Finally, a practical solution for turning patients in bed.

To Order Visit www.seniorcaremall.com this great new product is in the FEATURED PRODUCT section of the Mall. Let us know your results with the product.

Senior Care Mall Team

Best Selling Product August

2010-08-31T16:00:00.003-04:00

Our Oximeter sales were heavy in July. We wonder if breathing challenges in summer had effect here? COPD and other chronic lung problems are exacerbated during the summer months. The big seller this month was our no monthly fee auto dialer. We sold a record amount of units in August.

This truly is a great option for individuals on a tight budget who want the peace of mind of the Emergency Pendant without the monthly cost.

Cant seem to get the image loaded of the auto dialer but visit us at the mall and view the Emergency Response options on the left.

Take care,

Tracey Kiley OTR/L

Senior Care Mall