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Saturday, January 19, 2008

Preparing Your Home For Caregiving

When you decide to become a caregiver one of the first steps that you should take before moving someone in your home is your home to prepare for their arrival. Prepare your home for a sick or disabled adult is substantially the same as the kids at home for a toddler. Each room has to be lived, if need be reorganized and has proven that accidents as possible.

Here is a checklist piece by piece to use as a guide.

Areas of common life

• Does all agreements electricity and telephone or secure out of the way to avoid being triggered? Do not start your cords under rugs or furniture, they can be damaged or frayed and not use nails or tacks to secure them down.

• Does your loved being able to turn the lights on and off easily? Otherwise you can try to touch lamps or lights that react to sounds.

• Do the doors and windows open easily and lock safe?

• Are march of congested lanes free?

• Does your loved to be able to get the top and bottom of your sofa and chairs safely and easily? Otherwise, straight back chairs with armrests and firm seats can be a wise investment. You can also add a firm cushion chairs to your existing for adding a little height, it will be easier for them to sit down and stand up.

• If your loved one is still able to use the telephone, you may want to buy a phone with big push buttons that will numbering easy. Program all emergency numbers by dialing, you can also write numbers and tape to the wall by the phone. Another big idea is to get an emergency call in the event of a crash or injury.

• Obtain an intercom system that wirelessly so that you can easily be achieved if the person needs help.

• Make sure a TV with remote control is available.

Cuisine

• Does your equipment in good working order?

• Does your pots and pans, utensils and food readily available?

• Does all flammable materials away from the stove?

• Are objects stored in a safe place?

• Are there enough room to work?

• Calling all outlets cooking accessible?

• Is it easy to transfer food from the cooking area of the eating area?

• The sink taps easy to turn on and off and easily accessible?

Bathroom

• The entrance to the bathroom for easy access and free from clutter?

• Does your loved to be able to get in and out of the shower and the tub safely on their own? If they can not you need to install handrails on both the interior and exterior of the tub and shower. Remember that towel racks are not robust enough or intended to be used as handholds.

• Make sure the shower or bathtub has a wireless intercom so tight assistance can be summoned if needed.

• Can you liked a shower safely stand or a chair necessary? If you need a chair, buy a padded Anti-skid.

• Have you placed non-skid buffer strips and a bath mat in place?

• Do you have a seat raised a security framework or a grab bar so that your beloved able to transfer to the bathroom?

• Can outlets and light switches to be easily accessible?

• Do you have a night to travel a bathroom midnight?

Bedroom

• You should consider purchasing an electric bed, if your parent has problems getting in and out of a regular bed safely.

• Maybe the light reaches bedside bed?

• Is there a phone that can be achieved in bed?

• Is there a wireless intercom system that can be used to reach you in an emergency?

• Is there a clear path from the bed to the bathroom?

• If your beloved has difficulty getting in and out of bed, you can install a trapeze bar for them to use.

• Do you have any railing on the bed to ensure your beloved does not fall during the night?

General Security

• Do you have smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers in your home? It's always a good idea to check periodically to make sure they are functioning properly.

• Do you have emergency numbers such as hospitals, fire, and 911 by telephone, and any other emergency number?

• Have you placed lights at night in all parts of the house if your beloved is a vagabond night? The little light they emit help prevent tripping and falling.

Special equipment that you might need

• A hospital bed

• A cane or a walker and

• A wheelchair

• A bedside commode

• A transfer lift - to help them recover and to get out of bed

• Oxygen

• intercom system wireless

While this may seem like a lot of work on your part to get your house is not really ready. Go through each room one at a time and make a list of things to do, depending on your relatives disability or illness. You may find you are more prepared to be a caregiver that you thought you were.

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Caregiver Discussions With Doctors And Health Care Professionals

When you are caring for a parent it is important to keep in regular contact with the medical community. Talking regularly with doctors, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, and social workers is critical in making the best decisions you can. Not only will this help you to get results, but it also will give you peace of mind. Talking with healthcare professionals comes down to three things.

1. Giving them all pertinent information about your parent so they can make an informed medical opinion.

2. Asking the right questions to get the information and answers to any questions you or your parent has, this will help you when it comes time to make decisions.

3. Getting the information, services and the quality of care your parent deserves.

While you may want to know everything about your parent’s health condition, they may be reluctant to tell you everything you want to know. It's important that you respect their decision in regards to how much information they are willing to share with you or how willing they are to communicate with their doctor or nurses. All you can do is inform them of the importance of communicating in regards to their health, and that your main concern is they receive both safe and effective care.

If your parent is hesitant to talk to the doctor, but is open with you, you can, with your parents permission talk to the doctor or nurse yourself. If you are the one to talk to the doctor make sure you ask questions. Write any questions you have on paper before hand. This way you won't forget to ask anything important. It is just as important to receive information from the doctor as it is to give information to the doctor. The doctor needs all relevant information about your parent in order to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the proper treatment that is both safe and effective.

In addition to doctors, it's important that both you and your parent talk to other health care professionals such as nurses, pharmacists, social workers, and dieticians.

Nurses are trained in patient education and counseling. A nurse can explain the doctor's diagnosis and teach you how to follow any treatment required, take blood pressure at home, and how to give injections.

Pharmacists are experts in drugs. They are there to answer any questions you may have regarding the medication the doctor has prescribed. They will inform you of any side effects to watch for and how to use the medication properly.

Social Workers are available to help you navigate the social security system and the medical care. If there are programs available to help you, a social worker will direct you in that direction.

Dieticians are available to provide information on meal planning. Certain medical conditions require a special diet and a dietician can help you set up the proper diet for your needs.

As a caregiver you are now also your parents advocate. While the medical profession has the medical expertise, the quality of service and attention are not always there, so you have to take an active role in getting the best service possible.

A Gift Of Flowers Is Better Than An X-Box

One of today's hottest items, and among the most requested gifts, is the X-Box game system. Although video games are a lot of fun, the money it costs to buy an X-Box would be better spent on flowers. In fact, according to a study titled the Home Ecology of Flowers Study conducted for the Society of American Florists (SAF) Flower Promotion Organization (FPO), flowers have an amazing affect on those who include them in their lives.

The study was conducted by Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D., who is a faculty member at Harvard Medical School and a practicing psychologist at Massachusetts General Hospital. One of the findings of the study was that they fuel compassionate feelings in people. Participants in the study began to experience more feelings of compassion towards other people after living with flowers for less than one week.

The study also showed that flowers help people to feel less anxious, worried, and depressed when they were at home. When participants were at home with flowers they quickly began to feel less negative. Because they wanted to see the flowers as much as possible and as soon as they woke up each day, the participants placed their flowers in areas where they would be spending a great deal of time, such as the kitchen, dining room, and living room.

Another finding of the study was that they improve the energy and enthusiasm of people who live with them even when the flowers aren't present. Participants felt better and happier in their workplaces just because they had flowers at home.

To help spread the great news of the positive impact of flowers, Dr. Etcoff will serve as the spokesperson for the SAF/FPO alliance for a major public relations campaign set to begin soon. The campaign will make the findings of the Home Ecology of Flowers Study public and keep generating information about flowers. Included in the campaign will be a press kit for print media, a satellite television tour, and other materials.

Incredible news like this is definitely cause for celebration. May I suggest a party complete with gifts? But, forget the X-Box, give flowers, instead.

Secret Tips For Shopping for the Right Wrist Watch for You

The earliest of watches were first carried on a chain and worn around a ladies neck, and were also carried in the seam or a waistband of their dress. Conversely, a man would store their watch in the pocket of their waistcoat. Back in those days the women had more options, as they had the ability to wear their watches on rings or as brooches as well.

Present-Day Watches

Nowadays the most likely way to carry a watch is on your wrist. It is convenient, simple, and can show the time in the most efficient manner. Nevertheless, ever since they first appeared wrist watches have progressed a long way, and nowadays a watch stands for so much more than just simply being a time telling device.

For every occasion there is a wristwatch, and due to the fact that they are so readily available in an extensive assortment at reasonable cost, the majority of people will have more than a few of them to match their every need.

Some likely occasions for which the majority of individuals will have a designated wristwatch; a watch for common everyday use (in regards to our occupation), an additional one for formal wear, and a watch for sports for the times that you go to the gymnasium or practice other types of sports such as, for instance, swimming.

Shopping for a Wristwatch

Since the choice is so extensive, the first thing you must realize is for what occasion or event you are buying a watch, and then appropriate the necessary funds you have for it, this will narrow down your choice. It is crucial that you shop around prior to making your selection, particularly if you are thinking about buying an expensive brand-name watch.

You will find that there are numerous designer brands that make beautiful wristwatches, some of which are considered jewelry pieces in and of themselves. When you are intending on buying this kind of watch, you must be mindful of the quality of the actual jewels themselves and not just the primary function of the watch, because it will not be purchased completely for that sole purpose.

Helpful Tip

Wristwatches that are less expensive are typically bought for everyday use, sports, or other rough types of usage you have intentions for such as camping, hiking etc.. In the event that they break down on you the loss will not be as significant and you can quite easily replace it by purchasing another inexpensive watch.

Brands that are well-known will always give you assurance with great guarantees and always a Swiss movement due to the fact that they have the best. Thus, it is not so much the mechanism itself you should concern itself with, but more to the point if the brand as well as the cost that you are going to pay is actually what you are looking for.

Living Wills – Everyone Should Have One

An advanced care directive, commonly known as a living will is something everyone should have. A living will is a legal document that states specific directives regarding medical treatments that must be followed by caregivers or the person appointed power of attorney for health care decisions if you are unable to give informed consent. A living will ensures that your wishes are carried out.

What Does a Living Will Cover?

There are some people that think a living will is used only to direct health care providers to withhold necessary medical treatment. While many do use a living will for this type of instruction, a living will is also a way for a person to ask for all available medical techniques and treatments should they want them. Living wills are complicated because they deal with medical issues so it is always a good idea to consult with your doctor so he can clarify any treatments or techniques you are unsure of.

One thing to keep in mind is that a living will's legality does not take effect until the patient has been medically determined to be terminally ill or is in a permanent vegetative state, unable to communicate medical wishes.

The Difference between a Living Will and Durable Power of Attorney

Some functions of a living will can be performed by a durable power of attorney. The document gives the attorney legal power to make any health care decision for a person who is unable to make those decisions for themselves, in some cases it also allows the durable power of attorney to use his/her own judgment. Unlike a living will, a durable power of attorney does not depend on a vegetative state or terminal illness in order to be used. A good example of someone who would be incapable of making their own sound medical decisions is someone with Alzheimer's.

If you choose not to have a living will or appoint a durable power of attorney your family members may end up fighting and arguing over what treatment you should or should not be receiving. Even though a doctor will consult with your family they still may be split in the decision making. Since doctors only consult with family members, if you are unmarried the living will and durable power of attorney will enable them to have a say in your health care decisions.

An Attorney-In-Fact

An Attorney-in-Fact is the person you assign power of attorney. Whomever you chose as the proxy for health care decisions or attorney-in-fact needs to be someone you trust and is comfortable talking about medical issues. An assertive and diplomatic individual is the preferred choice because you are choosing someone to be your advocacy. They may need to argue with the doctors and even your family members, and in some cases, go to court and fight on your behalf. You need someone who is aware of the choices your have made and will support any and all instructions you have laid out.

More people are choosing to have a living will as it takes the pressure off family members when it comes to making important medical decisions. Medical decisions should never be made with your emotions, but unfortunately it happens too often. This is why a living will is a very important document to have.

Rain Sensors? In Most States It's The Law!

Does your sprinkler system know if it's raining? It can by adding a simple devise known as a "rain sensor."

For this reason every lawn sprinkler system should have a rain sensor. The rain sensor determines whether or not enough rainfall has occurred in order to skip an irrigation cycle.

There are three basic types of rain sensors. They all serve the same purpose: keeping your system from over-watering the turf or your garden. How does it do that?

The electrical connection between the sensor and your sprinkler system controller is interrupted when a certain amount of rain triggers the device. The sensor breaks the electrical connection so that electricity cannot flow to either the sprinkler valves or to a pump start (if your system is on a well without a pressure tank).

One type breaks the connection by weighing the water in a rainfall collection cup. The problem with this type is that leaves, sticks, or the occasional lizard will find its way into the collection cup and therefore turning off the system.

The next type uses electrodes to determine how much water is in the collection cup. This kind of rain sensor device also has a system problem of collecting things other than rainfall in the collection cup.

The expansion disk type seems to be the most popular. This kind of sensor does not use a collection cup; instead rainfall causes cork disks to expand. This device uses a pressure switch to break the electrical connection. These can be adjusted in increments of ¼" to the desired rain fall setting. These adjustments can be configured to kick in from 1 to a 1/2" of rain has fallen.

The most important aspect of installing a rain sensor is where to place it. It should be installed in an area that is unobstructed by trees, roof over hangs, or anything else that might block rain from getting to the sensor.

Wired rain sensors are usually installed by the timer. The wires should be connected inside the controller's valve wiring panel. This allows for easier electrical trouble-shooting of the system as the sensor can be easily disconnected.

Year by year, as technology improves, FM sensors have become more popular. Although they are more expensive than the wired devices, the ease of installation and increased placement options offset the cost. Most wireless units come with by-pass switches built into the device.

Some digital controllers also offer by-pass options for both wired devices and wireless rain sensors. No matter the type of rain sensor type that you choose, all rain sensors offer many advantages over not adding this detector to your automatic sprinkler system.

Some of the immediate and long term benefits include:

- Saves Money. Whether you pay for city water or spend electricity running a pump, the money you save over time will more than pay for the rain sensor.

- Extends Sprinkler System Life Span. Sprinklers are made up of gears and other parts that move. The less the sprinkler parts are used, the longer they last.

- Protects Water Resources. By limiting the over use of your sprinkler system, rain sensors reduce excess water run-off that carries fertilizers and pest control chemicals into our shared water supply.

- Conserves Water. Less water is wasted when less supplemental water is needed for your turf and in your garden.

How much money can you save with a rain sensor device? It will vary based on your water source (city, re-claim, or well) and where you live (water costs, electrical rate, climate).

Here is one example that demonstrates the benefits listed above: Seminole County, Florida. System Description:

Intended to sprinkle a 1/4 acre of turf calibrated to precipitate a half inch" of water every time the system runs.

- This schedule would equal 6,788 gallons per irrigation cycle.

- This system (on City Water) pays $2.30 per thousand gallons.

- Every time the rains sensor interrupts a sprinkler cycle, you would save $15.61

According to a recent study in Florida, the use of a rain sensor device averaged a 45% savings in water for single-family residential water usage. The next time you see a sprinkler system running in the rain, you now know it doesn't have to be that way. Rain sensors are affordable solutions to conserving our water, protecting our water resources, and saving you money.

Baby Birth Announcement

We all know practically that there's nothing more exciting in this world of having a baby. It is difficult for you to appreciate this kind of stuff if you are younger. It's not uncommon for children, teens and even adults to comment on how annoying babies and toddlers are. For them, they are annoying but, if you have your own, that point in life will change. The rules suddenly don't apply to your child. He or she's not annoying and complaining like the rest of them. And even if he or she is, you don't really mind. Of course you don't; because this small miracle is a part of you. Some mother want to scream out loud to the entire world in order to let others know that they now a baby. They send notifications by mail such as baby girl birth announcements with decorative borders and adorable photos. Although acquaintances receive a head-ups, is this truly a wise route in this day and age? Several says it's not.

As a matter of fact, the birth of a child is an exciting time. Parents make phone calls to tell all their family and friends and everyone buys presents for the newest person in their world. Proud parents and excited grandparents want the world to know about this great little person that has entered their life. As a logical parents they want to announce their child's birth formally with baby birth announcements.

Honestly speaking, i don't think many new parents give baby boy and baby girl birth announcements a second thought. All they can think about is how proud and excited they are having a beautiful child has come into their life. However, spreading the word about your new, little joy can be somewhat dangerous. Check this out. Let's say you and your spouse just had a baby boy. Like many couples, you tie beautiful balloons to your mailbox. Their baby blue color gives away the fact that you just brought home a baby boy. Now anyone that may pass by your home, knows that a newborn boy is inside. Hmmm, this is not something I would advertise to every unpleasant person, pervert and criminal in town. Especially in 2007.

Having a baby birth announcement this is the first impression that your child makes in the minds of friends and families that do not live close by so you likely want to make it a good impression to them. our baby’s birth announcement will be seen on fridges, mantel pieces, and in wallets of those who just can’t wait to boast a little. This idea of having a baby birth announcement is something that people save in their scrapbooks to show off to future generations to come and send across the world to help distant family members feel more to keep in touch. You can make a good impressions by making your baby birth announcement unique and pleasing to the eye.

You can find a beautiful baby card announcements with many contemporary designs that allow you to add your favorite baby photo to create it more special. Designs that help make the color come alive accentuate the announcement and make it unforgettable. A special verse or quotation can be chosen to individualize it. Or simply buy the finished card to the stores and choose the best one that fits to your baby and more unique.

If you're in love with the idea of sending baby girl birth or boy birth announcement out there, then I highly suggest you to keep it to close family and friends. You tell one person, he or she informs ten more. Before you know it, half the town knows about your newborn child. Lastly, consider drugstore baby boy or baby girl birth announcements, as opposed to the fancy ones. We all know that once people read cards, they go straight to the trash can.

By then, if you are having a problem in finding baby birth announcements that are as unique and as special as your child, you can log on online using online catalogue to broaden your choices. You can find great scope of selections to choose from online. And also, you can find places online where you can design your own birth announcements. You can add special graphics, the names of the other members of the family, pictures of the baby, fancy backgrounds, and other things to make your baby birth announcements extraordinary. You can add up also, a special Bible verse, a few lines of a poem, or sincere thought from the proud parents may be that extra-special touch that will make it memorable. You can find a great array of affordable, elegant, and stylish custom designs to choose from. Birth announcements that you order online can be printed out and mailed to you or you can send a baby announcement e-card to as many people as you like.

If you want your baby birth announcement to be remembered, memorable and will be treasured by families and friends and also by other people, make it stylish and unique. Remember, your baby birth announcements are the first impressions that many will have of your new family addition, so isn’t it worth your time and effort to make it exceptional?