As people get older, health issues bring special challenges. But, when steps are taken to stay healthier and manage chronic conditions associated with aging, a person can feel better and be more active as they age. In the United States, the number of people over the age of 65 is projected to double by 2060. It will be more and more important to help older adults live with age-associated diseases and stay active and healthy.

Four Chronic Conditions Associated With Aging

Almost 67% of deaths among older adults are caused by these four conditions or diseases:

• Cancer
• Heart disease or cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol
• Stroke
• Diabetes

These and other chronic diseases may cause another condition called Dysphagia which is a swallowing disorder. This difficulty in swallowing can affect as many as one in twenty-five adults each year. There are products to add to liquids to make swallowing easier and safer. Facebook posts from SimplyThick are one way to learn about a product that can be helpful.

There are other chronic health conditions that affect quality of life without causing death. A person can have more than one chronic condition to deal with. Regular health checkups and some lifestyle changes can help a person age in a more healthy way. Healthy lifestyle choices can include quitting smoking, managing weight, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol intake.

Aging adults can have one or more of these conditions in addition to the above four diseases:

• Respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, and other chronic respiratory diseases
• Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia
• Osteoporosis
• Obesity
• Depression
• Arthritis
• Pneumonia and influenza
• Shingles
• Hearing impairment

Modern medicine has treatments for most of these conditions. Having a good physician can make a huge difference in the physical well-being of a person. Medically managing any of the common diseases and conditions can make a difference in the comfort level and overall health of an older person. Proper health care can help a senior person stay more active and control conditions that might have been fatal in the past.

A person with heart disease can be monitored and take medication such as blood pressure and cholesterol pills to control those conditions. There are operations to correct many heart conditions and there are even heart transplants.

Cancer treatment and prevention have improved greatly in the last few decades. Many forms of cancer that were fatal in the past can now be treated with medications to give the patients years longer to live. Cancer surgery and post-operation treatment have improved and saved many lives. Cancer screening tests catch cancers at an earlier stage when they are most treatable.

Diabetes medications and treatment have improved greatly and new legislation has made the diabetes medications that save lives more affordable. When diabetes is diagnosed early with blood tests, it can be prevented or managed more effectively. Weight loss, diet changes, and increased exercise have all been found to help keep diabetes at bay.

There is even hope for stroke victims. Signs that warn of a possible stroke have been identified. If a stroke is identified and treated early, the damage can be limited. Treatment and rehabilitation after a stroke allow patients to recover more fully.

America is aging and senior citizens are living longer with a better quality of life. It has been found that healthy lifestyles beginning in early childhood can lead to a better quality of life as one ages.

With an aging population comes a host of challenges for families. As the population faces an increase in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, families are grasping for answers and help to keep their loved ones safe. Memory care often becomes a lifeline for individuals who cannot live alone safely. Learning about these homes and the care they provide becomes essential.

What Is Memory Care?

Before searching for a home with memory care, it helps to know what they offer. Memory care homes specialize in providing consistent care for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Unlike assisted living homes, memory care provides extensive safety integrations to protect residents from accidents or leaving the grounds. They also offer specialized staff and activities that help engage residents’ minds and slow the progression of dementia. 

As dementia progresses, individuals may experience cognitive dysfunction. They may become more agitated and confused, which can cause them to wander away. With secure entrances, security cameras, extra staff members, and easy-to-navigate grounds, residents stay safer and feel less confused. 

Specialized Staff Members

Memory care staff members undergo specialized training to help them handle the complexities of caring for dementia residents. These medical professionals manage behavioral changes and use critical communication skills to communicate with residents who may have difficulty with conversations. They also maintain a calm environment that soothes residents and helps prevent agitation. 

Memory care staff use various methods to keep residents safe and free of agitation, including the following:

• Redirection
• Validation therapy
• Reminisce therapy
• Person-centered care
• Non-verbal communication techniques
• Music therapy

Routine and structure are critical for those with dementia. Consistent routines and surroundings lessen confusion and make residents feel more secure. Staff members work to provide meals, activities, and personal care routines at set times. These structured schedules give residents peace of mind and help them maintain a sense of normalcy and stability. 

Personalized Care Plans

In memory care, residents receive individualized care and are never treated like a number. Care plans are tailored to meet each resident’s unique medical requirements and cognitive abilities. Residents can engage in personalized activities based on their interests, including art, music, and physical exercise. Personalized care plans aim to ensure resident safety, happiness, and protection. 

Emotional Support for Families

Caring for a loved one with dementia becomes challenging and can be emotionally taxing. Families face a myriad of emotions, including fear, guilt, helplessness, and grief. Memory care homes provide services not only for dementia residents but also for their loved ones. Family meetings, regular communication, and counseling help families cope with their loved one’s diagnosis. These homes can also offer valuable respite care that helps caregivers find time for themselves while providing loved ones with care. 

Memory Care Services Are a Lifeline

Memory care provides families with a lifeline to help them navigate unfamiliar waters as they cope with a loved one’s dementia diagnosis. The specialized and compassionate approach to care offers residents consistency, safety, and calm. 

A secure environment conducive to cognitive protection is precious to residents and their families. Here, those with dementia can flourish and live life to the fullest without compromising their safety or well-being. These homes provide services that meet the unique needs of those with dementia, helping to enhance their quality of life. Memory care homes will continue to make a genuine difference in countless lives as the demand grows.

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Today, there are millions of people throughout the country whose entire lives are dedicated to caring for others. But many of them never receive the training they need to do the job well. 

That’s where this post can help. We look at how you can become a super-carer, whether you’re doing it as a career or looking after a relative in the family home. 

Foster Independence

Top of your list of priorities should be to foster independence. You want the person you’re caring for to feel like they can do things themselves and not rely on you for everything. 

This aspect of the job is one of the most challenging, but also essential. Fostering independence increases the strength and dignity of the client, giving them the agency they need to feel as if they can do something in the world. It can also build their confidence, enabling them to pursue hobbies and even sports. 

Improve Emotional And Social Well-Being

Super-carers also focus on improving their emotional and social well-being on the subject. They help people with every aspect of their lives, not just their medical conditions. 

Top of the list of priorities to combat isolation. Super-carers understand that just being there for someone can often be sufficient to transform their lives. 

Secondly, many super-carers become advocates for the people they look after. Many take the time to stand up for their rights and ensure they get the respect they deserve. 

Sometimes this advocacy takes place in medical institutions. But it can also occur in other situations, like work, school, and even with other family members. 

Encourage Learning

Just because someone needs a carer, it doesn’t mean learning needs to stop. That’s something super-carers understand. They know that continuous improvement is essential for well-being and overall vitality. It also gives people something to work toward in the future. 

Super-careers are always ready to reflect and improve on their processes and how they do things. Many engage in their own training to learn about new aspects of their work, like caring for someone with dementia. 

Improve Mobility

If you want to be a super-career, it’s also a good idea to look for ways to help clients or family members improve mobility. The more mobile they become, the more they will enjoy their lives. 

The form this takes depends on the condition of the person you’re caring for. Sometimes, it’ll mean using a Sara Stedy so they can get out of bed, while other times, it could be modifying their vehicle so they can travel more freely. 

Develop Compassion

Finally, to become a super-carer, you’ll need to develop compassion. This essential skill puts you in the position of the other person, understanding how they feel.

The purpose of developing compassion isn’t just ethical. It’s also practical. Once you understand the physical and emotional state of the other person, you better understand their daily challenges. 

Being compassionate starts with active listening, and knowing what the other person is saying and what they’re not. It also involves plenty of patience, even when things seem to drag on forever. 

Embarking on the path to becoming an Agile Coach is an exciting journey. It requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for helping teams and organizations improve. Let’s explore the key steps you’ll need to take to excel in this dynamic role.

Start with a Strong Foundation

Begin by mastering Agile methodologies. You’ll find that on the Agile team coaching track, Scrum, Kanban, and Lean are essential. Study their principles, practices, and values. Read the Agile Manifesto and its supporting documents. Understand the philosophy behind Agile, not just the mechanics.

Next, gain hands-on experience. Join an Agile team as a developer, tester, or product owner. Live and breathe Agile daily. This practical experience is invaluable for your future coaching role.

Develop Your Coaching Skills

Coaching is about more than just Agile knowledge. It’s about people. So, hone your communication skills. Learn active listening techniques. Practice giving constructive feedback. Develop your emotional intelligence.

Consider taking formal coaching courses. These will teach you proven techniques for guiding individuals and teams. Remember, a great coach brings out the best in others rather than simply telling them what to do.

Expand Your Agile Expertise

As you gain experience, broaden your Agile horizons. Explore different frameworks like SAFe, LeSS, or Nexus. Understand how Agile principles apply at scale. Learn about DevOps and its intersection with Agile.

Attend Agile conferences and meetups. Network with other professionals. Share experiences and learn from others in the field. The Agile community is collaborative and supportive. Take advantage of this.

Obtain Relevant Certifications

While not always necessary, certifications can boost your credibility. Consider pursuing certifications like Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Professional Scrum Master (PSM), or ICAgile Certified Professional (ICP). These demonstrate your commitment to the field and validate your knowledge.

Don’t stop at entry-level certifications. As you progress, look into advanced options like Certified Agile Leadership (CAL) or Certified Enterprise Coach (CEC). These higher-level certifications can set you apart in the job market.

Gain Leadership Experience

Agile Coaches often work with organizational leaders. To be effective, you need to understand their perspective. Seek opportunities to lead teams or projects. This experience will help you relate to the challenges leaders face when implementing Agile.

Learn about organizational change management. Agile transformations are complex. Understanding how to guide organizations through change is crucial for success as an Agile Coach.

Develop a Coaching Mindset

Adopt a growth mindset. Be open to new ideas and approaches. Recognize that there’s always more to learn. Stay curious and keep exploring new concepts in Agile and related fields.

Practice self-reflection. Regularly assess your own performance and seek feedback from others. Great coaches are always looking to improve themselves.

Build Your Reputation

Start sharing your knowledge. Write blog posts or articles about Agile topics. Speak at local meetups or conferences. Contribute to open-source projects or online Agile communities. Building your reputation as an Agile expert will open doors to coaching opportunities.

Consider mentoring less experienced Agile practitioners. This gives you valuable coaching practice and helps build your network.

Land Your First Agile Coaching Role

With a strong foundation, relevant experience, and a growing reputation, you’re ready to pursue Agile Coaching roles. Look for opportunities within your current organization or explore openings at other companies.

Remember, becoming an Agile Coach is a journey, not a destination. The field is constantly evolving. Commit to lifelong learning and continuous improvement. With dedication and persistence, you can build a rewarding career helping organizations and individuals realize the full potential of Agile.

Bean bags have existed since the 1960s, but today’s versions look nothing like their predecessors. They come in various styles, shapes, and colors to suit any space. As these pieces are very comfortable, every person should look into buying one. What benefits come with having a bean bag in the home? 

A Style for Every Decor

One reason people look into buying an oversized bean bag is that they know they will find something that matches their existing decor. Some bean bags are round, while others are long and flat, like a body pillow. However, these pieces mold to fit the user’s body, so they are always cozy and comfortable and offer the perfect place for lounging until another family member wants a turn. A fight may break out if only one bean bag is available. 

Body Awareness and Pain Relief

Bean bags greatly benefit individuals with sensory processing disorders. They help them become more aware of their bodies and learn how their bodies fill a space. The bean bag also makes people more aware of their posture. It provides support for the entire body and even pressure distribution. Sitting in a bean bag often relieves joint and muscle pain and relaxes muscles.

A Welcoming Space

Bean bags invite people to come in and sit down. The deep pressure provided by the bean bag soothes those with anxiety or sensory issues and makes any person feel like they are being wrapped in a hug. The bean bag adds warmth to the space and allows users to relax. 

Affordable Furnishings

Furniture prices have climbed in recent years, leading to people buying pieces of inferior quality or doing without in many cases. There’s an alternative many people overlook. Bean bags are affordable, and the buyer doesn’t have to sacrifice quality to protect their bank account. The bean bags can serve multiple purposes in the home, allowing the owner to save more. 

Where Can a Bean Bag Be Used?

Many individuals have bean bags in their living rooms, but some reserve them for gaming. Others choose to use bean bags in their family room or playroom, and children love having one in their bedrooms. They are ideal for use in a home office because they encourage good posture and reduce the stiffness that comes with sitting for long periods. Some beanbags can be taken outdoors and used on a deck or patio. 

Don’t overlook furry companions when purchasing bean bags. Dogs love to use these bags as their beds and enjoy lounging in a bean bag when the family is in the room. Choose a bag that accommodates the dog’s size, and it will be their favorite seat in the home. Cats may not love them as much as dogs do, but they might find it is the perfect place for their daily nap and grooming session. As these animals are finicky, owners can never know what their cats will do. 

Bean bags provide a comfy place for people to relax and unwind, regardless of where the owner places them. Thanks to the many options offered today, finding the right bean bag for every room of the home has never been easier. Check out the styles available and furnish the house with these bags. Family members will love having them easily accessible when they want to take a load off and spend time with family and friends. 

Fiber internet is getting far more popular today because of the benefits it provides, but a common concern is when to tell if it’s time to upgrade. Of course, it’s possible to upgrade at any time as long as there is fiber going to the neighborhood. However, there are a few signs that now might be a good time to think about upgrading and seeing the difference. 

Internet Connection is Unreliable

If the internet connection goes down, it can be frustrating to be online. It’s hard to stream movies, get work done, play games, and more. If the internet goes out too frequently or you’re tired of being unable to do things online, you may want a fiber internet service provider to install fiber internet in your home. 

Internet Slows Down When More Devices are Connected

Many people today are working from home part-time or full-time, which means they need internet. If the kids get home and the internet immediately slows down, it’s harder to get work done. Often, the reason people struggle to work from home is because of slow internet speeds, so this can be a huge issue. With fiber internet, though, websites will still load fast no matter how many devices are connected. 

Spots in the Home Without Internet

With cable internet, there may end up being spots in the home without any internet. Called dead zones, if someone is moving through the house while using the internet, they may end up losing the connection. If a dead zone is located in the bedrooms, it may not be possible to stream videos there or play games. With fiber internet, though, dead zones are a thing of the past. 

Video Calls are Frequently Dropped

A slow internet connection will mean that video calls are frequently dropped. This is an inconvenience when talking with friends, but it can be problematic for those who need to attend video conferences from home for work. With fiber internet, the connection will remain solid, so there’s no need to worry about the call dropping. 

Data Caps for Internet Use

Many providers have introduced data caps to help limit the amount of internet used by each home. This can mean the internet runs out before the end of the month, leading to no internet in the home or huge additional charges. With fiber internet, there are no data caps, so everyone is free to use the internet throughout the month. 

More Data Will Soon be Necessary

If there is a significant change in someone’s life, they may start to need more internet at home. Someone who is starting to work remotely or homeschooling kids online may require a lot more internet than they did before. With fiber internet, everything will connect and the connection will be solid, so there’s no need to worry about the additional usage. 

Issues Playing Games Online

Gamers may find that their internet connection causes lagging, especially when they’re playing with others in their home. By switching to fiber, they can have a better internet connection that will handle everyone’s devices without lagging or the internet going down. 

If you’re struggling with the internet at home or you could benefit from faster and more reliable speeds, now is a great time to think about upgrading. Check to see if fiber is available in your area and, if so, look into having it installed in your home. You may be amazed at the difference. 

A broken window lets in pests, rain, and more. When a window does break, it’s important to get it fixed right away. However, the cost can be a concern, especially for those who are on a budget. When it’s necessary to replace a window, there are some things that can impact the cost and may cause it to be higher than expected. 

The Size of the Window

The size is a big consideration when replacing a broken window, as larger windows are going to be far more expensive to replace than smaller ones. However, other factors do come into play that could make smaller windows more expensive, such as how easy it is to reach and replace the pane of glass or whether the whole window needs to be replaced instead of just the glass. 

The Location of the Window

The location of the window inside the home can impact the cost. Ones that are on ground level and easy to reach are going to be less expensive than ones that are located on a second story. A skylight is going to be more expensive because it is far more difficult to reach and there are safety considerations for the installation that aren’t there for a window on the ground floor. 

Window Disposal Costs

In some cases, there may be a disposal cost added to the overall estimate. Some places will charge to take away the older window and dispose of it for the homeowner. However, the homeowner may be able to dispose of it themselves and avoid paying this cost. 

Emergency Replacements

If a window needs to be replaced in a hurry, it is going to be more expensive. The installer may need to rearrange their schedule to fit in the replacement, so they may end up charging more for this. If it’s possible to board up the window and wait to get on the installer’s schedule, it may be possible to save some money on the cost of replacement. 

Structural Changes

Some sizes of windows are used less often, so it’s not as easy to get replacement parts. In other situations, the homeowner may want to take the opportunity to install a larger window to bring in more light. If there will need to be any structural changes to the home, it’s going to be more expensive. It’s best to plan structural changes carefully to save money. 

Historic Considerations

Older homes that are designated as historic may require windows from that time period to keep up with the appearance of the home. This doesn’t apply to all homes, but those who are required to or would like to keep historical accuracy for their home may want to research the history of the home to determine what windows would be used. If historic options must be used, it can cause the price of the installation to be a little bit higher. 

If you have a broken window in your home and need to replace it, make sure your budget includes all potential factors that could impact the price. Take the time to speak with a professional to get an estimate for the replacement. They can help with temporarily covering the window, too, in case it’s necessary to wait a little bit to replace the window. 

If you’re a recipient of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), you may be eligible for extra grocery EBT benefits, especially during challenging times such as public health emergencies or economic downturns. These additional benefits can significantly help you stretch your grocery budget. Here are some effective steps to maximize your extra grocery EBT benefits.

1. Understand Your Benefits

The first step to maximizing your extra grocery EBT benefits is understanding how they work. SNAP benefits are loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at authorized grocery stores. Extra benefits may be issued automatically, depending on state policies or federal disaster declarations. Familiarize yourself with your state’s SNAP website or contact your local SNAP office to get the most accurate information about your benefits, including eligibility for additional assistance.

2. Plan Your Meals

Meal planning is essential to making the most of your extra grocery EBT benefits. By planning your meals for the week, you can create a shopping list that focuses on nutritious, cost-effective ingredients. Look for recipes that incorporate similar ingredients to minimize waste. Planning meals in advance also helps you avoid impulse purchases that can quickly eat away at your budget.

3. Utilize Local Food Resources

In addition to your EBT benefits, explore local food resources that can supplement your grocery shopping. Many communities have food banks, pantries, and community gardens that provide free or low-cost food. Some local organizations may also offer cooking classes or nutritional workshops to help you make the most of your extra grocery EBT benefits. Utilizing these resources can help you stretch your budget even further.

4. Shop Smart

When it’s time to go grocery shopping, make smart choices to maximize your extra grocery EBT benefits. Look for sales, discounts, and store promotions. Consider buying generic or store-brand products, which are often cheaper than name-brand items but provide similar quality. Utilize coupons and loyalty programs to further reduce your grocery expenses. Always stick to your shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases.

5. Buy in Bulk

Purchasing items in bulk can save you money in the long run, especially for non-perishable items like rice, pasta, canned goods, and frozen fruits and vegetables. Many grocery stores offer bulk pricing, allowing you to buy larger quantities at a lower unit price. Just ensure that the items you choose have a long shelf life and can be used in various recipes. This strategy will help you make the most of your extra grocery EBT benefits while minimizing waste.

6. Prioritize Nutrient-Dense Foods

While maximizing your extra grocery EBT benefits, focus on purchasing nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products should be your primary focus. These foods will not only keep you healthy but also help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

7. Keep Track of Your Spending

Monitoring your spending can help you stay within your budget and maximize your extra grocery EBT benefits. Keep receipts and track how much you spend on groceries each month. By evaluating your purchases, you can identify areas where you may be overspending and adjust your shopping habits accordingly. Many people find it helpful to use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to keep track of their expenses.

8. Educate Yourself on Nutrition

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to nutrition. Take the time to educate yourself about healthy eating and cooking. Numerous resources are available online, including websites, blogs, and videos dedicated to nutrition education. Learning about healthy meal preparation can empower you to make better food choices and get the most out of your extra grocery EBT benefits.

Conclusion

Maximizing your extra grocery EBT benefits requires a combination of planning, smart shopping, and resourcefulness. By understanding your benefits, meal planning, utilizing local resources, and prioritizing nutritious foods, you can stretch your grocery budget further. With these strategies in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to make the most of your extra grocery EBT benefits and support your health and well-being.