Health Care and ElderCare

Are you one of those adults who is now responsible for taking care of older adults?  Are you responsible for overseeing parents or older family members who now look to you for care? Or, are you someone who is in the business of elder care, and that is either your profession as a caretaker or business owner? Regardless of your status, if you are dealing with issues related to helping seniors or older adults and their health care and lifestyle, then you may need some additional advice along the way.

 

According to LifeHealthPro, elder care planning is essentially a comprehensive strategy that helps define a senior’s wishes and assists designated caregivers and/or advocates in handling the physical, personal and financial affairs of a senior aging into the last phases of life. Long-term care (LTC) is just one, very important segment of total elder care planning.

Unfortunately, LTC as well as other elder care issues are topics of discussion often avoided or delayed by families. But planning for elder care is one of most important discussions a family can have. When planning takes place at the eleventh hour, mistakes can happen and opportunities are lost. Helping clients become aware of what issues should be in order and how important planning is for an elder’s comfort shows the client the total value you bring as an advisor.

Discussing long-term care and elder care issues takes time and should be done step by step, with compassion. Unless you also practice as an attorney, you likely won’t be the person to implement some of the elder care plan’s steps. But you can provide a checklist your clients should consider completing, and if your clients lack the appropriate professionals to help get their plan in order, you can refer them to one of your recommended contacts, such as an attorney. More info can be found at this site: http://www.lifehealthpro.com/2013/08/27/elder-care-planning-an-important-part-of-the-long-?t=ltci.

Senior citizens have difficulty at times processing information. Changes in physical and mental abilities that may occur with age can be difficult to detect—for older adults and their family members, friends, and caregivers too. To help in determining when an older adult may need assistance in the home, according to www.Eldercare.gov, their site has compiled a list of 10 warning signs. Any one of the following behaviors may indicate the need to take action. It is also important to inform the older adult’s physician of these physical or psychological behavior changes. Has your loved one:

·         Changed eating habits, resulting in losing weight, having no appetite, or missing meals?
·         Neglected personal hygiene, including wearing dirty clothes and having body odor, bad breath, neglected nails and teeth, or sores on the skin?
·         Neglected their home, with a noticeable change in cleanliness and sanitation?
·         Exhibited inappropriate behavior, such as being unusually loud, quiet, paranoid, or agitated, or making phone calls at all hours?
·         Changed relationship patterns, causing friends and neighbors to express concerns?
·         Had physical problems, such as burns or injury marks, which may result from general weakness, forgetfulness, or misuse of alcohol or prescribed medications?
·         Decreased or stopped participating in activities that were once important to them, such as bridge or a book club, dining with friends, or attending religious services?
·         Exhibited forgetfulness, resulting in unopened mail, piling of newspapers, not filling their prescriptions, or missing appointments?
·         Mishandled finances, such as not paying bills, losing money, paying bills twice or more, or hiding money?
·         Made unusual purchases, such as buying more than one subscription to the same magazine, entering an unusually large number of contests, or increasing purchases from television advertisements?

As people age and live longer, financial, legal, health care and long term care issues affect families, not just individuals. According to this website, http://www.eldercare.gov/ELDERCARE.NET/Public/Resources/Factsheets/Face_the_Facts.aspx   you can find significant details on this topics. And, here are some key considerations:

·         Figure out what financial benefits are provided by your parents’ Social Security and pension. Determine if they are eligible for other financial programs.
·         Ensure that each family member has a living will. Know where all your parents’ insurance policies, wills, trust documents, tax returns, investment and banking records are located.
·         Investigate what type of long term care insurance coverage may be best for your parents or for yourself! Generally, premiums are lower when policies are purchased at younger ages.
·         Identify what community services are available that can help your parents maintain independence in the home for as long as possible. Learn whether housing options are available to meet their changing needs.
·         Family members may not understand how their parents’ estate planning could impact their own financial status as well as that of their children.

Health care is a high-cost necessity, so it is crucial to know what is available to meet your family member’s needs, and what they are eligible to receive. Most adults over age 65 are covered by Medicare, the federal health insurance program that helps pay medical expenses for older Americans and younger people with disabilities. However, Medicare does not cover all needs, such as long term care including nursing homes or extended care, and Supplemental Insurance (also called Medigap insurance) might be necessary to cover additional health costs, according to Eldercare.gov.

Medicaid, on the other hand, is the federal and state insurance program that helps pay the health care costs of low-income individuals of any age. Long-term care insurance is available through the private market to assist individuals to cover the cost of long-term care services such as home health and nursing home care. Ask...

·         As your health status changes, are you prepared to meet your long term health care needs?
·         Do you have proper health insurance coverage (not too much or too little)?
·         Are you comfortably able to pay for prescription drugs and other out-of pocket health care costs?
·         Who are your doctors and how can they be contacted?
·         Where do you keep your insurance card, Medicare information, and other important health care documents?

One of the most difficult things you may ever have to do is to hand over or share the caregiving of the seniors in your life. For some reason, either you think you know them best and therefore can care for them the best; or because you really feel it is your responsibility, you are very reluctant to trust others to care for your elders, according to www.eldercare.com . But this attitude, although admirable, in most cases is not practical or even doable for the family caregivers. So what can you do to move forward mentally and then actively to change this situation? More details can be found at this site: http://eldercare.com/how-to-ensure-excellent-elder-care.

Eldercare can be a challenge, especially if you have special needs or limited resources. Find resources in your community and online. There are many organizations that can help you. Realize that millions more have walked in your shoes, so you are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and when you may start feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out for assistance. Don’t try to go it alone, and remember that your senior relatives still love you even though they may have difficulty in expressing those feelings.

Until next time.

Health Care and Physical Stamina

How is your physical stamina? In other words, when you exercise or are engaged in any physical acitivity, are you breathless and exhausted within a few minutes, or can you keep going until the task is finished? Do you look for ways to help improve your physical stamina? Stamina means having the strength and energy to endure an activity, illness or stressful situation for an extended period of time.

People most commonly use the word stamina when referring to exercise, sports and other physical activities of the body or cognitive exercises of the brain. Generally, however, increasing stamina means decreasing fatigue when performing the activity. There are several ways to accomplish this task, according to health care writer Claire Walters:

Increased Physical Stamina is Beneficial for All Aspects of Health:

There are many aspects toa healthy lifestyle, and while the majority of the focus seems to be on diet and mental agility, it’s important not to underestimate the long term health benefits of maintaining a good level of physical stamina. Physical exercise has been proven to kick start the body’s basic systems into action and this is something that is particularly important as we grow older. Those who remain physically active for the longest tend to be much healthier in old age than those who have been very unfit for large portions of their later life, and there are many different reasons for this.

Fighting Obesity:

Obesity is one of the largest health issues in the US today, and again, while much of the blame is placed (rightly so) on the worsening standard American diet, a large portion of the blame can also be placed on the reduced amount of physical exercise that the average person is now engaged in. According to the American Health Rankings, two thirds of Americans are considered to be overweight or morbidly obese. The problem often stems from poor diet and lifestyle, both of which are controllable factors, however in most circumstances once a person becomes overweight , exercise becomes more difficult and the rate of exercise decreases with an increase in size. In essence, the bigger people get the less exercise they do, which is a vicious circle. Obesity is known to play a big role in the development of serious illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and diabetes, so it’s vital for overall health to ensure that you are physically fit and active.

Positive Effects of Increased Physical Stamina:

Breaking the cycle of obesity begins with a change of diet and an increase in exercise. When increased physical stamina is the goal, and an exercise plan geared towards this is undertaken, the results can become exponentially positive. Not only does increased physical stamina result in weight loss, it also has numerous other health benefits. Exercise increases endorphin levels in the body, and this is has a positive effect on mood and motivation, and lowers stress. While working hard to increase your physical stamina, your body goes through a range of physical changes, both during and after the exercise, all of which promote a much better level of overall health. One of the reasons that many people opt to conduct exercise in the morning is that it leaves them feeling energized, and in good spirits, ready to take on the day with a positive attitude. This is down the ‘endorphin rush’ that is produced after exercise, and it not only improves mood but also many physical symptoms.

Lack of Physical Stamina can have Adverse Effects:

Many people feel lethargic and struggle with finding motivation and energy, and these are all things which can benefit immensely from an increased level of physical stamina. When a person is extremely unfit, it can affect all areas of their life as it can become extremely de-motivating to struggle to complete basic physical tasks such as walking up hills, running, climbing large flights of stairs, and even engaging in sexual activity. An increase in physical endurance will benefit not only the physical aspect of being able to complete these tasks, but also the mental effects of feeling able and capable once more. The human body was designed to be physical strong and active, and as such, all aspects of it work best when you are having enough exercise. Many people experience health problems which they do not attribute to poor physical fitness, but when exercise levels are increased, the health problems desist.

How to Increase Physical Stamina:

The good news is that there are plenty of different ways to increase physical stamina, and it can be and fun and interesting as you want it to be. The main concept is to increase your heart rate through physical activity for a sustained period of time. It’s a good idea to start off at a level that you are comfortable with and work up the intensity and time period from there. Don’t push yourself too hard at the beginning, but gradually increase over time as your body begins to get fitter. Activities which are beneficial for your physical stamina include strenuous walking, running, football, tennis, swimming, aerobics, cycling, or just about any other physical activity imaginable! 

Also, according to VibrantLife.com, twenty-five push-ups a day do not an athlete make, but combine those exercises you do for strength and endurance with a nutritious diet, aerobic conditioning, weight training, and a healthy lifestyle, and you can be at the top of your form-whatever your sport. Consider these 50 suggestions on their website; you may be in for a few surprises: http://www.vibrantlife.com/?p=152.

Here are some additional tips when you are participating in a program to increase physical stamina:

• Motivate yourself to exercise every day, even when you are not feeling very energetic.
• Increase training time by a few minutes each day.
• Give yourself plenty of physical or cognitive breaks: Switch between the two to avoid fatigue.
• Take daily relaxation breaks to help lower stress levels.
• Eat fruits every day.
• Practice meditation and breathing exercises daily.

Also, consider these warnings during any exercise program:

• Don't drink caffeinated drinks such as coffee or energy drinks before aerobic exercise. They speed up your heart rate; and once you start exercising, your heart may be beat too fast, putting you in danger.
• Keep a steady pace and don't break your routine. Taking a day off from the activity may be a helpful break, but allowing yourself to skip your routine for days at a time will make it much harder to get back in the routine.
• Energy drinks are not healthy when consumed on a daily basis. Avoid overuse if you want a strong, healthy body with plenty of stamina.

Improving your physical stamina is a good thing. However, make sure that you consult your doctor or health care specialist for any programs that involve strenuous activities related to exercise. Also, remember the motto: “All things in moderation.” Don’t try to overdo it just to show off or prove something to yourself. Recovering from injury due to overzealous physical activity definitely puts a crimp into your style.

Until next time.

Health Care and Coughing

A cough is a sudden and often repetitively occurring reflex which helps to clear the large breathing passages from secretions, irritants, foreign particles and microbes. The cough reflex consists of three phases: an inhalation, a forced exhalation against a closed glottis, and a violent release of air from the lungs following opening of the glottis, usually accompanied by a distinctive sound. Coughing is either voluntary or involuntary. A cough is the most common reason for visiting a primary care physician in the United States.

According to Healthline, coughing to clear the throat is typically an infrequent action, although there are a number of other conditions that can cause more frequent bouts of coughing. In general, a cough that lasts for less than three weeks is known as an acute cough. A cough that lasts between three weeks and eight weeks, improving by the end of the period, is known as a sabacute cough. A persistent cough that lasts for over eight weeks is known as a chronic cough.

Most coughs will clear up, or at least significantly improve, within two weeks. If you cough up blood or have a “barking” cough, consult with a doctor. Any cough that has not improved after a few weeks may be serious and you should see a doctor. More info can be found here at this website: http://www.healthline.com/health/cough .

Acute coughs can be divided into infectious (caused by an infection) and noninfectious causes, according to emedicinehealth.com. The easiest way to simplify the causes of chronic cough is to divide them into their locations with respect to the lungs. The categories are environmental irritants, conditions within the lungs, conditions along the passages that transmit air from the lungs to the environment, conditions within the chest cavity but outside of the lungs, and digestive causes. Much more detailed description can be found at this site: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/coughs/article_em.htm .

Coughs can be caused by a number of reasons, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Recent upper airway infections, such as the common cold and flu, can cause coughs. Other common causes include:

•ACE inhibitors (medications used to control blood pressure)
•Allergic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose or sinuses)
•Asthma
•Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (emphysema or chronic bronchitis)
•Cigarette smoking
•Exposure to secondhand smoke
•Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
•Lung disease such as bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease, or tumors
•Lung infections such as pneumonia or acute bronchitis
•Sinusitis leading to postnasal drip

Although coughing can be a troubling symptom, it is usually your body's way of healing, according to the NIH. Here are some tips to help ease your cough:

•If you have a dry, tickling cough, try cough drops or hard candy. NEVER give these to a child under age 3, because they can cause choking.
•Use a vaporizer or take a steamy shower. Both these things increase the moisture in the air and can help soothe a dry throat.
•Drink plenty of fluids. Liquids help thin the mucus in your throat and make it easier to cough it up.

NOTE: Medical experts have recommended against using cough and cold drugs in children under age 6. Talk to your doctor before your child takes any type of over-the-counter cough medicine, even if it is labeled for children. These medicines likely will not work for children, and they may have serious side effects. Medications available without a prescription include:

•Guaifenesin helps break up mucus. Drink lots of fluids if you take this medicine.
•Decongestants help clear a runny nose and relieve postnasal drip. Do NOT give children under age 6 an over-the-counter decongestant unless specifically told to do so by your doctor. You should check with your doctor before taking decongestants if you have high blood pressure.

Do not expect a doctor to prescribe antibiotics for viral infections like colds or flu. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. Antibiotics also will not help coughs from allergies. More details about coughing can also be found at this website: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003072.htm .

A persistent cough (chronic cough) is a common symptom prompting people to visit the doctor. Annoying effects of coughing, such as loss of sleep, sore chest muscles and leaking urine, can affect your quality of life and interfere with your daily activities, according to About.com. What does it mean if you have a cough that just won't go away?

A persistent cough doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be worried about lung cancer. There are many possible causes of this symptom, only one of which is lung cancer. But since the less common causes are often missed for some time, it is important to make an appointment to see your doctor even if you believe there is a good explanation. More detailed info can be viewed on this site: http://lungcancer.about.com/od/symptoms/a/Persistent-Cough.htm .

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the following measures to contain respiratory secretions from coughing are recommended for all individuals with signs and symptoms of a respiratory infection.

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
• Use in the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of the tissue after use;
• Perform hand hygiene (e.g., hand washing with non-antimicrobial soap and water, alcohol-based hand rub, or antiseptic handwash) after having contact with respiratory secretions and contaminated objects/materials.

Healthcare facilities should ensure the availability of materials for adhering to Respiratory Hygiene/Cough Etiquette in waiting areas for patients and visitors.

• Provide tissues and no-touch receptacles for used tissue disposal.
• Provide conveniently located dispensers of alcohol-based hand rub; where sinks are available, ensure that supplies for hand washing (i.e., soap, disposable towels) are consistently available.

More details about this topic can be found at this site: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/infectioncontrol/resphygiene.htm , and this one: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/covercough.htm .

Coughing may be very temporary or more serious. The determination of the cause of a cough usually begins by determining if it is specific or nonspecific in nature. A specific cough is one associated with other symptoms and further workup is dependent on these symptoms while a non specific cough occurs without other signs and symptoms. If your cough is consistent with no real apparent reason, it’s time to see your doctor. Always be pro-active with your health and practice preventive measures. See your family physician or go to a medical clinic to seek a diagnosis. Don’t try to figure it out on your own, especially if you are not a licensed health care practitioner. Coughing is inconvenient, but it can also be a sign of something more serious.

Until next time.

Health Care and Colorectal Cancer

A story in www.DoctorsLounge.com says that although significant progress has been made in treating cancer, more than 1.6 million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis in 2013, according to the third American Association for Cancer Research's Cancer Progress Report 2013. The number of cancer survivors increased from three million in 1971 (one in 69) to 13.7 million in 2012 (one in 23). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved 11 new drugs, three new uses for previously approved drugs, and three new imaging technologies, from Sept. 1, 2012, to July 31, 2013.

Despite this progress, in 2013, more than 1.6 million Americans are projected to receive a cancer diagnosis, and more than 580,350 are predicted to die of the disease. Cancer will account for nearly one in four deaths. More than half of cancers are related to preventable causes, including tobacco use, obesity and overweight, lack of physical activity, and poor nutrition. Cancer is the most costly disease to the United States, according to DoctorsLounge.com.

One of the most severe forms of cancer forms in the colon, often appearing there with no advance signs for months or years until the disease is discovered by medical tests. Getting a colonoscopy is not something most people look forward to, according to the Los Angeles Times -- but a new analysis suggests that it's worth it to follow screening recommendations and have the test done every 10 years (or every five for those at high risk.)

According to the Colon Cancer Alliance, no one knows the exact causes of colon cancer. Doctors often cannot explain why one person develops this disease and another does not. However, it is clear that colon cancer is not contagious. No one can catch this disease from another person. Research has shown that people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to develop colon cancer. A risk factor is something that may increase the chance of developing a disease. Studies have found the following risk factors for colon cancer:

--Age over 50: Colon cancer is more likely to occur as people get older. More than 90 percent of people with this disease are diagnosed after age 50. The average age at diagnosis is 72.

--Colon polyps: Polyps are growths on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. They are common in people over age 50. Most polyps are benign (not cancer), but some polyps (adenomas) can become cancer. Finding and removing polyps may reduce the risk of colon cancer.

--Family history of colon cancer: Close relatives (parents, brothers, sisters, or children) of a person with a history of colon cancer are somewhat more likely to develop this disease themselves, especially if the relative had the cancer at a young age. If many close relatives have a history of colon cancer, the risk is even greater.

--Genetic alterations: Changes in certain genes increase the risk of colon cancer.

--Personal history of cancer: A person who has already had colon cancer may develop colon cancer a second time. Also, women with a history of cancer of the ovary, uterus (endometrium), or breast are at a somewhat higher risk of developing colon cancer.

--Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease: A person who has had a condition that causes inflammation of the colon (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease) for many years is at increased risk of developing colon cancer.

--Diet and Lifestyle: Studies suggest that diets high in red meat and fat (especially animal fat) and low in calcium, folate, and fiber may increase the risk of colon cancer. Also, some studies suggest that people who eat a diet very low in fruits and vegetables may have a higher risk of colon cancer. However, results from diet studies do not always agree, and more research is needed to better understand how diet affects the risk of colon cancer.

--Inactivity and obesity have also been linked to higher risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that daily physical activity can decrease colon cancer risk by as much as 50 percent.

--Cigarette smoking: A person who smokes cigarettes may be at increased risk of developing polyps and colon cancer.

Because people who have colon cancer may develop colon cancer a second time, it is important to have checkups. If you have colon cancer, you also may be concerned that your family members may develop the disease. People who think they may be at risk should talk to their doctor. Much more material on this subject can be found at this website: http://www.ccalliance.org/ .

In order to understand colorectal cancer, it helps to know something about the structure of the digestive system and how it works. After food is chewed and swallowed, it travels to the stomach. There it is partly broken down and sent to the small intestine. The small intestine is only called small because it isn’t very wide compared to the colon. In fact, the small intestine is the longest part of the digestive system -- about 20 feet. The small intestine also breaks down the food and absorbs most of the nutrients.

What remains goes into the colon (large intestine), a muscular tube about 5 feet long. The colon absorbs water and nutrients from the food and also serves as a storage place for waste matter (stool). Stool moves from the colon into the rectum, which is the last 6 inches of the digestive system. From there, stool passes out of the body through the opening called the anus.

The colon begins at the end of the small intestine – on the right side of the body at a place called the cecum. It goes up and bends to go across the top of the belly and turns down again on the left side. The rectum is in the lower part of the pelvis. More details can be found at this site: http://www.cancer.org/cancer/colonandrectumcancer/overviewguide/colorectal-cancer-overview-what-is-colorectal-cancer .

According to the National Cancer Institute, the estimated new cases and deaths from colon and rectal cancer in the United States in 2013 are as follows:

• New cases: 102,480 (colon); 40,340 (rectal)
• Deaths: 50,830 (colon and rectal combined)

To learn more about colon and rectal cancer symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and questions to ask, see your doctor. A significant amount of info on colorectal cancer can also be found at this site: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/colon-and-rectal . You’ll especially want to ask your physician about the following topics and focus discussion about details if you are diagnosed or have the potential to develop colorectal cancer:

--Prevention, Genetics, Causes: Information related to prevention, genetics, and risk factors.

--Screening and Testing: Information about methods of cancer detection including new imaging technologies, tumor markers, and biopsy procedures.

--Treatment: Information about treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and vaccine therapy.

Cancer is deadly, and not seeking regular checkups from your doctor can be fatal if you are diagnosed too late with the disease. Always use preventive care with your health care provider to keep your medical history up to date. Schedule a colonoscopy if you meet the typical criteria, and get regular blood tests as part of your annual medical screenings. Colon cancer and rectal cancer are serious, and getting regular checkups and exams help determine an early diagnosis for treatment. In cases like this, no news is not necessarily good news.

Until next time.

Health Care and Baby Formula

Infants require regular feeding, and common knowledge in pediatric medicine confirms the importance of breast feeding newborns and babies until they are weaned from their mother’s milk. However, in some cases, babies are unable to be nursed. In those situations, baby formula is a good substitute to help with growth, nutrition, and oral stimulation.

Baby formula has been around as a substitute food for infants for decades. Since the development of the first commercial infant formula more than 135 years ago, each decade has brought new advancements and the constant refinement of infant formula products’ nutrient composition to ensure that non-breastfed infants receive the essential nutrients needed to thrive.

Today’s baby formulas contain energy-providing nutrients (protein, carbohydrates, and fat as well as water), which provide the calories necessary to maintain bodily functions, support activity, and promote growth, according to this website: http://www.infantformula.org/news-room/press-releases-and-statements/positive-health-contributions-infant-formula .

They also promote desirable immune functions as an outcome of overall nutrition. Protein provides the building blocks necessary to form and repair tissue. Additionally, baby formulas contain appropriate vitamins and minerals, which are essential in the metabolism of the energy nutrients. Minerals play an important part in bone structure, regulate certain body functions and, together with water, help maintain the body’s water balance.

The baby formula industry, through ongoing research and innovation, has continually developed new products that can help infants thrive. These formulas are helping to improve the survival rates and long-term health outcomes of many infants, including helping to significantly reduce the rate of iron-deficiency anemia in specific populations, according to www.InfantFormula.org .

According to the Mayo Clinic, your baby needs iron to grow and develop, especially during infancy. If you're not breast-feeding, using iron-fortified formula is the easiest way to provide this essential nutrient. Some infant formulas are enhanced with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA). These are omega-3 fatty acids found in breast milk and certain foods, such as fish and eggs. Some studies suggest that including DHA and ARA in infant formula can help infant eyesight and brain development, but other research has shown no benefit.

Additionally, many infant formulas include pre- and probiotics — substances that promote the presence of healthy bacteria in the intestines — in an effort to mimic the immune benefits of breast milk. Early studies are encouraging, but long-term benefits of these substances are unknown. If you're unsure about enhanced infant formula, ask your child's doctor for guidance.

Don't buy or use outdated infant formula. If the expiration date has passed, you can't be sure of the formula's quality. While checking the expiration date, also inspect the condition of the formula container. Don't buy or use formula from containers with bulges, dents, leaks or rust spots. Formula in a damaged container may be unsafe. Infant formula is generally recommended until age 1, followed by whole milk until age 2 — but talk to your child's doctor for specific guidance. Reduced-fat or skim milk generally isn't appropriate before age 2 because it doesn't have enough calories or fat to promote early development. Much more detail about this subject is available at this website: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/infant-formula/PR00058/NSECTIONGROUP=2 .

Preparing baby formula isn't hard, but it's important to mix it in the proper ratio of formula to water to make sure that your baby is getting just the right amount of nutrients. Also, because your baby doesn't have much immunity to germs just yet, especially as a newborn, it's important to take precautions to protect him from foodborne illnesses, according to BabyCenter.com. Quite a bit if detailed information about preparing formula can be found at this particular site: http://www.babycenter.com/0_how-to-use-baby-formula-safely_1334673.bc .

There are several types of formula available but the two that are most used are milk formula and soy formula. Both of these are as nutritious and usually both are fortified with the same amount of nutrients. However, the soy based formula is important for those babies who have a problem digesting cow’s milk. It is not advisable to use soy formulas unless the doctor specifically recommends it. This is because soy formulas have very high estrogen levels and has been linked to several thyroid autoimmune conditions. Another important thing to consider while feeding your baby is that the formula should be hypoallergenic, according to http://www.pregnancy-baby-care.com/baby-nutrition/baby-nutrition-formula.html#continued .

If a mother didn’t receive the right nutrition when pregnant, the baby may be underweight and susceptible to various disorders. In such a case, the infant may need a protein based high calorie nutrition formula. A special 24 calorie infant formula is available which can give your child 24 calories per ounce of the formula. Such a diet is recommended for babies who are underweight at birth or those who are prematurely born.

According to Parents.com, choosing a formula for your baby can be a bit overwhelming. There are three types of formula: powders, which are mixed with water; concentrates, which are liquids that must be diluted with water; and ready-to-use liquids that can be poured directly into bottles. The formula type you choose depends on your budget (powder is the least expensive; ready-to-use is the most costly) and your baby's preference. To help you decide which formula to choose, ask your pediatrician which brand he/she recommends. Some parents find they need to try a few different kinds before finding the right match. Most pediatricians recommend staying with a formula for at least one week to see how a baby reacts to it.

Between birth and 6 months of age, your little one will need an average of 2-2.5 ounces of formula per pound per day. So if your baby weighs 10 pounds, she will need 20-25 ounces per day. Keep in mind that no baby -- regardless of age -- should have more than 32 ounces of formula each day. Here is an easy guide:

• Newborns may take only an ounce or two at each feeding
• 1-2 months: 3-4 ounces per feeding
• 2-6 months: 4-6 ounces per feeding
• 6 months to a year: as much as 8 ounces at a feeding

More info can be found at this site: http://www.parents.com/baby/feeding/formula/formula-must-knows/ .

Pediatricians can help guide new mothers through the feeding and care of newborns and infants. When you find the use of baby formula can be confusing at times, take time to talk with your family doctor, your pediatrician, or certified medical professionals to help guide you through the maze of choices available in the marketplace. There are valuable tools online and at your local health care offices to help you figure out what is best for your baby and you.

Until next time.

Health Care and 9/11--the Second Decade

We shall never forget! That has been the motto for twelve years as America remembers the tragic events that unfolded on a bright fall morning on Tuesday, September 11, 2001. Almost every adult that was awake that day saw the tragedy of lives lost in New York, Washington DC, and Pennsylvania as four planes loaded with unsuspecting crews and passengers became missiles in the hands of terrorists bent on destruction and death. Anyone who was alive then and recognized the terror of the day knows that the ones who gave up their lives either on a willing or unwilling basis is owed the deepest respect and honor.

Likely, this date will never be forgotten, much like the generation that experienced the “Day of Infamy” that took place December 7, 1941. Although those who were there, and those who were alive that day, are disappearing of old age and illness at a rate of thousands per day, America still remembers and pays tribute to the lives that were also lost that day. Americans do not forget tragic events. Those times are emblazoned into the conscious memory of the nation. When people remember, they become emboldened.

Americans also know that the events that took place twelve years ago this month remind everyone that the nation is vulnerable and needs constant vigilance. The country was rocked out of its comfortable bed that day in 2001 and shaken to its core. That day changed the way America lives, and the way the world has become.

Yes, air travel has become more inconvenient, but it has become safer. Yes, there are more cameras around, but that has reduced the amount of crime as a side effect. Yes, people are edgier and a little more jumpy now than they were before 9/11, but the price for heightened awareness by the military, police, and first responders is worth payment as the watch care is better than it ever has been. Let no one forget that their call is to serve and to protect against all enemies both foreign and domestic—they swear an oath of allegiance to the Constitution of the United States. They are willing to die for it, and so should every American.

According to USA Today, The 12th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks will be marked by formal events such as public readings of victims' names, wreath-laying ceremonies and charity fundraisers. But across the country, there will also be countless modest actions to honor the heroes and memorialize the victims of that day, such as a family blowing out the candles on a special cake. People will donate blood, fly American flags, attend religious services and take baked goods to firehouses. They will spend extra time with family, give money to charity and volunteer at soup kitchens.

Some who take these small but significant actions have a direct link to the horrors of Sept. 11, such as losing a loved one. Others don't have a close connection but want to commemorate the day. Nearly half of Americans plan to observe this anniversary in an informal way, such as saying a prayer or taking a moment of silence, according to a new American Pulse survey. Thirteen percent will do it in a more formal manner such as attending a memorial service. Even with the passage of time, the desire to recognize each anniversary remains strong.

There also are service projects available for people to do. The Points of Light Foundation believes that bringing people together in service builds a permanent and positive legacy that rekindles the spirit of unity that existed immediately after September 11, 2001. It brings together cultures, bridges differences and unites citizens of goodwill around the world. Points of Light and the Hands On Network affiliates will mobilize thousands of people in disaster preparedness training and building the capacity of nonprofit organizations to equip and mobilize volunteers in times of disaster.

One unfortunate aspect of the distance in time between then and now is the spiritual decline of Americans. When an event that galvanized the human spirit of every person in the nation on September 11, 2011, and then pulled the country together in a spirit of humility and worship, has waned, that is a problem. Perhaps, what individuals should remember is the reason America was founded and exists. Perhaps Americans need to focus on the One who protects from the evil one. Today, as you remember and pray, keep a watchful eye on the future and remember the words of President Reagan:

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children's children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.”

But today is also a day of hope, celebration, and patriotism. Officially, today is now Patriot Day. This is in honor of the resolve as Americans have shown in the face of adversity. Patriot Day is a day to remind your children and grandchildren what it takes to defend liberty and freedom. That democracy and a free people are ideas that must be defended throughout every generation.

While this tragedy left America and its people shaken, it also uncovered a steely national resolve and a commitment to justice that is uniquely American. Founded in democracy and a belief in divine providence and committed to personal liberty, the United States remains a beacon of freedom to the world. There are those who still grieve, and those who harbor hate in their hearts, but the spirit of forgiveness provides strength in times of need. The spirit of love provides the ability to forgive.

As you reflect on the events of that fateful day, lift America up in prayer, to intercede on behalf of the men and women in uniform who have fought and are fighting to preserve the freedom won in armed combat on remote battlefields. Remember, too, our first responders, our firefighters and peace officers who patrol our communities every day. Finally, please pray for national leaders, that they might be blessed with God's wisdom in the choices they make on the nation’s behalf at home and abroad. As well, say a prayer to help you depend on Him who shelters His children with His wings of protection and His Spirit of peace.

Until next time. We shall never forget.

Health Care and Exhaustion

When you are completely worn out physically, or mentally, you come to a state of exhaustion. Being “tired to the bone” is a common expression, and it usually means you are so tired you have a hard time doing another thing in your daily routine. If you get so incapacitated during your daily activities that you find it almost impossible to accomplish just one more task, then it’s time to take a break.

Americans have more sleep loss and longer work schedules than residents of most other industrialized countries, and both factors can lead to physical and emotional collapse, according to a study by the University of Chicago and reported in the Chicago Tribune. Experts say chronic stress can trigger a cascade of negative health effects.

When you're stressed, for example, the body's "flight or fight" response causes a surge in adrenaline, which can result in valves in the upper digestive tract staying open. When this happens, food and digestive enzymes can travel the wrong way, resulting in reflux, heartburn and other stomach problems. Sleep loss and fatigue also lead to problems with people's circadian rhythm, which can promote inflammation throughout the body and cause gastrointestinal issues.

In some cases, fatigue is a sign of an underlying disease, including cancer, low thyroid, anemia or other metabolic abnormalities, such as adrenal insufficiency. Exhaustion is commonly seen with depression and is a possible side effect of many prescription drugs, including beta blockers, muscle relaxants and mood stabilizers, according to the study. Plus, fatigue caused by dehydration, infection, drug or alcohol abuse, or lack of sleep — either due to insomnia or just burning the candle at both ends — is treatable in the outpatient realm. Exhaustion can also lead to low serotonin, which causes depression, anxiety and insomnia. But it's not accurate if the real diagnosis is drug or alcohol intoxication or overdose.

“Busy," "stressed," and "tired" are intimately connected. They describe the ethos of current times -- and its inevitable aftermath. You try to balance work, family, friends, and various self-improvement programs. You take in a steady stream of information from the people, screens, phones, and sounds that surround you every day. You may not sleep enough. You likely multitask like crazy, striving to get more done in less time. A recent CDC study found that 16 percent of women ages 18 to 44 reported feeling “very tired,” “exhausted,” or otherwise worn out most days, compared with 9 percent of men in the same age range.

For a while, maybe even years, it's easy to feel like you can handle this frantic pace -- or even thrive at it. But ultimately, it works against you. "Stress is pervasive in our society, and it's only getting worse," says integrative-medicine expert Woodson Merrell, M.D., author of "The Source: Unleash Your Natural Energy, Power Up Your Health, and Feel 10 Years Younger."

"And people do not necessarily have the coping skills to deal with it, even when they think they do." You often don't realize how much of your days are spent dealing with stressful situations, and on a physiological level, the effects of stress add up. "You don't start every day with a clean slate," he says. "You start the day with all the stress you've accumulated in your life, and you add to that." At this website, http://www.wholeliving.com/134966/exhaustion-cure , there are 10 tips listed to help you deal with exhaustion.

Children also get exhausted. According to the National Institutes of Health, a good night's sleep, along with healthy eating and exercise, is the crucial third leg in a child's health triangle. Long overlooked, lack of sleep is now considered a key contributor to children's behavior problems and physical well-being. Studies have shown that kids who don't sleep enough are inattentive, restless, irritable, and more likely to injure themselves. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine estimates that one in three kids is sleep-deprived on any given day.

Sleeping well means more than putting in the hours, and the quality of sleep matters as well. Good sleep is uninterrupted, allowing your child to cycle through its five stages. By 6 months, a baby's sleep pattern resembles an adult's: the child progresses into deeper sleep for nearly 90 minutes and then enters a lighter rapid eye movement (REM) phase, when dreaming occurs.

And our kids aren't just resting when they're off in the land of Nod. During the deeper phases of sleep, energy is restored, damaged tissue is repaired, and growth hormones are released, according to Rafael Pelayo, M.D., head of the pediatric sleep service at the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. Much more detail on this subject can be found at this website: http://www.parenting.com/article/exhaustion-epidemic .

There are other types of exhaustion that are separate topics for discussion, but have equally devastating effects on the body and mind, such as heat exhaustion. According to this website, http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/heat-exhaustion , heat exhaustion is one of those critical health care situations. Heat exhaustion occurs when your body gets too hot. The hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls thirst and hunger, also controls the body's core temperature. Normally, the body cools itself by sweating.

When you are exposed to high temperatures for a long time (working outdoors in the summer, for example) and don't replace the fluids you lose, the body systems that regulate temperature become overwhelmed. As a result, your body produces more heat than it can release. Heat exhaustion requires immediate attention because it can progress to heat stroke, a life threatening illness.

And, mental exhaustion can be its own topic. If constant stress has you feeling disillusioned, helpless, and completely worn out, you may be suffering from burnout. When you’re burned out, problems seem insurmountable, everything looks bleak, and it’s difficult to muster up the energy to care—let alone do something about your situation. The unhappiness and detachment burnout causes can threaten your job, your relationships, and your health. But burnout can be healed. You can regain your balance by reassessing priorities, making time for yourself, and seeking support. More details about mental exhaustion can be found at this site: http://www.helpguide.org/mental/burnout_signs_symptoms.htm .

Regardless of the type, exhaustion is a serious health issue. Don’t push yourself to the ultimate collapse of your physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual end. Take time for yourself. Make plans to remove yourself from stressful, time consuming projects and routines that zap your strength, energy, and ability to function at a normal pace. If you don’t, you risk more traumatic issues; and some of that can be seriously problematic from not only a medical point of view, but also your mental state of well being can be significantly affected.

Until next time.