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Ready to celebrate? 5 surprising facts about Thanksgiving dinner

2022-11-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Thanksgiving is only a few days away, and that means last-minute menu planning and trips to the grocery store. While many consumers may be focused on ordering the perfect turkey, is that really what guests want? In its inaugural State of the Sides report, Campbell’s® discovered that 66% of Americans prefer sides to their holiday entrée. From top side dishes to must-try recipes and flavors, the trends report sets out to find common holiday food preferences and some of the results may surprise you.

1. Americans are not skimping on sides

This holiday season, consumers are shopping more consciously with their wallets in mind. According to the survey, 69% of respondents plan to buy the same or smaller size turkey, with 52% of those planning to go smaller to save money.

One area in which Americans are not cutting costs on their holiday table is the sides. The results show that 90% of consumers plan to serve the same number or more sides this season. Also, more than half plan to buy the best brands when cooking their holiday meal to ensure quality for the special occasion.

2. Popular holiday sides

When it comes to selecting sides to serve at holiday meals, some dishes are more popular than others. The survey found that the top five most popular holiday side dishes include: mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, stuffing and mac and cheese.

By state, two carb-filled sides reign as the clear frontrunners for top side: mashed potatoes or stuffing. While most states have a clear preference for one or the other, Massachusetts is the only state in which folks are evenly split on the topic. If you plan to visit family in Massachusetts, make sure to prepare both so everyone can enjoy!

3. Traditions can be tweaked

While those five classic side dishes remain popular, many people are looking to put a twist on traditional Thanksgiving recipes. In fact, 54% of consumers plan to try new recipes this season.

One popular flavor trend consumers are interested incorporating into their holiday meals is spiciness. For example, a Jacked Up Mac & Cheese adds the super-spicy jalapeno flavor to everyone’s favorite comfort food.

If you’re looking to take your holiday meal to the next level, consider trying something new, like this Hot Honey Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe. This update to the classic sweet potato dish is sure to excite your holiday guests.

4. You’re going to need a bigger plate

If you’re frustrated about not having enough space on your plate for all your holiday dishes, you’re not alone. The nationwide survey revealed that 73% of respondents complained about running out of space on their plates for all their sides.

Some people may even skip turkey to make more room for their favorite dishes, noting half of the United States would be content with only sides on their holiday plate.

5. Thanksgiving lunch or dinner?

While it’s commonly referred to as Thanksgiving dinner, most people actually eat a Thanksgiving lunch. According to the survey, the most popular time to eat a holiday meal is between noon and 3 p.m. Not only does this provide a more casual, relaxed ambiance for your meal, but it also means that there’s plenty of time for people to recover before going back for seconds!

While making your Thanksgiving meal shopping list, keep these five meal trends in mind. Even small tweaks to your usual holiday meal planning can make this year the best gathering yet.

To see the full Campbell’s® State of the Sides report and find recipes for your Thanksgiving meal, visit SidesSeason.com.

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A sweet way you can make a difference for kids with critical illness

2022-11-18T09:01:00

(BPT) – When Bella received a kidney diagnosis, her childhood was turned upside down. Her whole family rallied to help her, but as someone who always puts others first, she wanted to turn her personal experience into something that would bring hope to others.

Bella was connected with Make-A-Wish®, the nonprofit that creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. For kids like Bella, a wish creates a turning point in their treatment and recovery and empowers them to reclaim their childhood. After some consideration of what to wish for, Bella ultimately decided that she wanted a goldendoodle after seeing that her favorite local news anchor, Shelly Ribando, had one. Shelly herself helped Make-A-Wish surprise Bella with a goldendoodle named Captain Rodney Hook and she brought along her own dog Annie.

Now a wish alum, Bella helps bring important attention to Make-A-Wish by attending wish events along with her dog. She knows how much this wish helped her and wants other kids with critical illness to feel the joy of having a wish granted. In fact, she recently attended an event launching a program that allows anyone to make a difference for kids with critical illnesses simply by shopping for some delicious food.

Shop to give back

On Nov. 1, 2022, Bella excitedly attended the event that launched a partnership between Make-A-Wish and WisePies Pizza. The certified minority-owned and female-led company has created the WishPie, a cinnamon apple drizzle dessert pizza made from a stone-fired, cinnamon-infused traditional crust, topped with cinnamon-sugar sauce and diced gala apples. A vanilla icing packet is also included.

The WishPie will be sold exclusively at Walmart stores nationwide for a limited time during the holiday season. One dollar from each dessert pizza sold now through Dec. 24, 2022, will go to Make-A-Wish to grant wishes that help children build the physical and emotional strength needed to fight a critical illness. You can also support by showing off your creativity through the #WishPieChallenge. For more information visit WisePiesPizza.com and Wish.org.

“WisePies Pizza is humbled and honored to offer a limited-edition dessert pizza supporting the Make-A-Wish efforts to grant more wishes to children experiencing critical illness. The goal of this partnership is to generate community involvement through the consumer purchase of a WishPie that allows more wishes to be granted directly to these children with critical illnesses, leading to more positive outcomes,” said Season Chavez, president of WiseChoice Foods.

This effort has special meaning for Chavez, whose family was impacted by Make-A-Wish growing up.

“My brother was granted a wish when he was 12 years old while fighting a rare form of cancer. I know firsthand the positive emotional and physical impact a wish can have on a child and their entire support system including family, friends and their medical team,” she said.

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Small Business Saturday: How shopping with purpose benefits consumers, businesses and communities

2022-11-17T11:01:00

(BPT) – Small actions can have a big impact, which is why many people are choosing to support small businesses for their holiday needs this year. Many of these businesses are taking steps to make a difference and help their community, making shopping small beneficial for everyone.

In 2021, 51 million shoppers participated in Small Business Saturday, according to the National Retail Federation. This annual holiday in the U.S. celebrates small businesses and local entrepreneurs by encouraging shoppers to buy from them. This year, Small Business Saturday falls on November 26, 2022.

This comes at a time when shopping habits and values are shifting. Today, consumers want brands to act with purpose and create positive change because “doing good” positively shapes perceptions of the consumer and the business.

Purposeful work not only resonates with consumers, it speaks to small-business employees, supports retention, growth, collective team passion, community support and engagement. Purpose also empowers teams to buy-in to the company mission and strive to make a positive impact on society, the planet and individuals.

Here are some of the top reasons purpose-driven work is key for small to medium-sized business (SMB) success and why many consumers are choosing to shop small.

Increased Trust and Customer Loyalty

Purpose-driven consumers are now the largest segment of consumers, outranking those driven by value, brand or product, according to the 2022 IBM and National Retail Federation Report, “Consumers want it all.” These consumers are highly valuable in the long term, as they are more likely to evangelize brands/products to their peers, spend more when shopping and engage with the brand overall. Furthermore, more than half, (52%) have recently introduced friends and family to a new brand or retailer so they are likely to serve the brands that align with their values as an informal brand ambassador for others.

According to the Benevity 2022 data and insights from more than 850 companies with 20 million employees, 84% of consumers and 85% of employees agree the more a business engages its consumers in charitable giving decisions, the more trust they have in that business. Consumers will also go out of their way to buy from brands they trust are sustainable — even if it comes at a higher price. According to Deloitte’s 2022 Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey, 64% of global Gen Zs would pay more to purchase an environmentally sustainable product, versus 36% who would choose a cheaper product that is not as sustainable. In another recent study, “Meet the 2020 consumers driving change,” 70% of global consumers said they would pay more for brands that are environmentally responsible.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

Similar to consumers, prospective employees want to join companies that align with their values and have a strong purpose. According to Lenovo’s recent research, “Human-centered insights to fuel IT’s vision,” 75% of small-business employees seek more purpose-driven work that provides opportunities to positively impact society. On the flip side, lack of purpose can detract employees, especially younger generations, with nearly two in five (37% of Gen Zs and 36% of millennials) saying they have rejected a job and/or assignment based on their personal ethics, according to Deloitte.

Gen Zs and millennials who are satisfied with their employers’ societal and environmental impact as well as their company’s efforts to create a diverse and inclusive culture, are more likely to stay with their employer for more than five years, according to Deloitte. More than 70% of IT decision-makers at businesses of all sizes report that their employees are increasingly concerned with working on projects that have a positive impact on society, according to Lenovo’s recent research. Fortunately, most businesses of all sizes (70% on average) believe their company has already conducted a greater number of projects that contribute to the good of the world

Leveraging Technology for Good

In the next chapter of workforce transformation, technology will be a driver of human-centered experiences. Purpose-driven teams can engage and inspire each other and consumers by being equipped with the right technology and tools to collaborate and innovate with purpose. Ultimately, smarter technology supports meaningful work and allows purpose-driven SMBs to be successful.

According to Lenovo research, 52% of all businesses are currently adopting more sustainable technologies and 46% are planning to, indicating there’s a bright light at the end of the tunnel for consumers, employees and brands. What’s more, 32% of businesses on average would like to focus on researching more sustainable technologies to use in the office; 32% would like to increase the office’s energy efficiency; and an average of 35% would like to create new IT asset recycling and disposal programs.

Overall, it’s clear many consumers agree it’s important to spend in a thoughtful way that gives back and makes the world a better place. Consumers — especially the younger generations — expect more from brands and have for years. As we head into the holidays and the new year, it’s important to make conscious choices and support your local community. With ESG and purpose being table stakes, the focus for SMB owners must shift from pure profit to values-based and purpose-driven products, devices and initiatives.

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Duffy’s CAD Comeback: How One Patient Got Back to Where She Belonged After a Rare Blood Disorder Diagnosis

2022-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Article is sponsored and developed by Sanofi

Navigating a rare blood disorder is not easy, but for those with cold agglutinin disease (CAD), there is hope to take back control. Hear about Duffy’s comeback from CAD. The information conveyed in this article is not medical advice.

Throughout her entire life, Duffy has remained very active. Whether it was participating in half marathons, volunteering at her local hospital, or baking for her grandchildren, Duffy was always on the move. One day in November 2017, she began walking up a flight of stairs and started to feel breathless – this is when she knew there was something seriously wrong.

Charting Unknown Territory

Based on her blood tests, her physician thought she may have lymphoma or liver cancer and immediately ordered a battery of tests to try and diagnose the problem. Duffy was concerned and afraid. “I thought doctors had all the answers, so it frightened me that we were in the unknown,” she said.

While waiting for blood test results and hopefully answers, Duffy and her family went on vacation to Utah, where the altitude was 11,000 feet above sea level. To her surprise, she was so cold, and couldn’t breathe and was gasping for air, which was terrifying to her.

Understanding Cold Agglutinin Disease (CAD)

Shortly after that trip, she was diagnosed with cold agglutinin disease (CAD), a rare autoimmune disease in which the body attacks and destroys its own red blood cells (the destruction of red blood cells is called hemolysis).1,2 Initially, Duffy’s reaction to her diagnosis was one of deep fear. At the time there was little information about this condition available online. She quickly learned that in addition to fatigue and irregular heartbeat, CAD can also cause other symptoms including weakness, shortness of breath, light-headedness, chest pain, and a bluish color or discomfort in the hands and feet.3,4

Given that CAD is a rare disorder,1 sometimes hematologists and other physicians may not be aware of this disease and how to treat it. After finding a hematologist who specialized in treating people with CAD, Duffy learned about ENJAYMO® (sutimlimab-jome), a breakthrough treatment that has been proven to decrease the need for red blood cell transfusion due to hemolysis in adults with CAD.5

The doctor told Duffy that the most common side effects of ENJAYMO are respiratory tract infection, viral infection, diarrhea, indigestion, cough, joint pain, joint inflammation (arthritis), and swelling of the lower legs, ankles, and feet.5 The doctor also explained that she would need at least two hours of monitoring after her first infusion and then at least one hour for subsequent treatments, and that vaccinations against infections caused by certain types of bacteria may be needed before beginning treatment.5

At first, Duffy was hesitant to begin the treatment, but after discussing options with her doctor and family members, she realized that for her, the benefits outweighed the cost by trying ENJAYMO. It seemed to her like a viable option that showed real promise. ENJAYMO works by targeting C1s, a component of the first protein in the classical complement pathway, where Duffy’s immune system was going haywire from this disease, and it has shown improvement in hemoglobin levels in clinical trials for some people living with CAD.5 Duffy and her doctor filled out an enrollment form to be connected to ENJAYMO Patient Solutions, to access education and support for patients. Her case manager helped her navigate the necessary insurance approvals so she could start taking ENJAYMO.

ENJAYMO’s Role in a CAD Comeback

The CARDINAL clinical study evaluated the safety and efficacy of ENJAYMO in 24 patients with CAD with a history of transfusion during the 6 months prior to starting the study. 54% of the patients taking ENJAYMO (13/24) met all three of the following criteria: increases in levels of hemoglobin (the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) from the start of the study (an increase of ≥ 2 g/dL or hemoglobin ≥ 12 g/dL at treatment assessment, from a baseline hemoglobin level of 8.6g/dL), did not receive transfusions from Week 5 until the end of the 6-month study (Average transfusions at baseline: 2 within the last 6 months; 2 within the last 12 months), and had no additional treatment for CAD beyond what was permitted in the study from Week 5 until the end of the study. Of the 54% of patients who met all three criteria, looking at each criteria separately, 63% of patients (15/24) had increases in hemoglobin levels from the start of the study (an increase of ≥ 2 g/dL or hemoglobin ≥ 12 g/dL at treatment assessment), 71% (17/24) did not receive transfusions from Week 5 until the end of the 6-month study, and 92% (22/24) had no additional treatment for CAD beyond what was permitted in the study. Patient experiences on ENJAYMO may vary so please talk to your doctor when making treatment decisions. To learn more about ENJAYMO and clinical trial data results, please visit ENJAYMO.com.

Charting Duffy’s CAD Comeback

Duffy considers the day she made the decision to begin ENJAYMO as one of great celebration and the beginning of her comeback from CAD. She started receiving ENJAYMO infusions at her doctor’s office, and now Duffy is able to receive infusions at home from a visiting nurse to make her treatment more convenient.

With ongoing ENJAYMO treatment every two weeks, she is now able to continue being active with her hemolysis better managed.5 Since starting ENJAYMO, Duffy’s hemoglobin numbers increased within a few weeks,5 which has positively impacted her anemia. She can focus more on her family, volunteering, and hobbies she had previously paused due to her diagnosis. She is now an advocate for the CAD patient community and encourages others to be their own advocates when it comes to managing CAD.

INDICATION

ENJAYMO is a prescription medicine used to decrease the need for red blood cell transfusion due to the breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis) in adults with cold agglutinin disease (CAD).

It is not known if ENJAYMO is safe and effective in children.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

Do not receive ENJAYMO if you are allergic to sutimlimab-jome or any of the ingredients in ENJAYMO.

ENJAYMO can cause serious side effects, including:

  • Serious Infections: ENJAYMO is a prescription medicine that affects a part of your immune system. ENJAYMO can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. People who take ENJAYMO may have an increased risk of getting infections caused by certain kinds of bacteria such as Neisseria meningitides, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae. These infections may be serious or life-threatening. Some infections may quickly become life-threatening or cause death if not recognized and treated early.
    • You need to receive vaccinations against infections caused by certain kinds of bacteria at least 2 weeks before your first dose of ENJAYMO. You may need to have additional vaccinations during treatment
    • If your healthcare provider decides that urgent treatment with ENJAYMO is needed, you should receive vaccinations as soon as possible.
    • Vaccinations may reduce the risk of these infections, but do not prevent all infections. Call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away if you get any new signs and symptoms of an infection, including:
      • fever
      • severe headache with stiff
        neck or back
      • pain during urination or urinating
        more often than usual
      • cough or difficulty breathing
      • flu-like symptoms
      • pain, redness or
        swelling of the skin
  • Infusion-related reactions: Treatment with ENJAYMO may cause infusion-related reactions, including allergic reactions that may be serious or life-threatening. Your healthcare provider may slow down or stop your ENJAYMO infusion if you have an infusion-related reaction, and will treat your symptoms if needed. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop symptoms during your ENJAYMO infusion that may mean you are having an infusion-related reaction, including:
    • shortness of breath
    • rapid heartbeat
    • nausea
    • flushing
    • headache
  • Risk of autoimmune disease: ENJAYMO may increase your risk for developing an autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Tell your healthcare provider and get medical help if you develop any symptoms of SLE, including:
    • joint pain or swelling
    • rash on the cheeks and nose
    • unexplained fever
  • If you have CAD and you stop receiving ENJAYMO, your healthcare provider should monitor you closely for return of your symptoms after you stop ENJAYMO. Stopping ENJAYMO may cause the breakdown of your red blood cells due to CAD to return. Symptoms or problems that can happen due to red blood cell breakdown include:
    • tiredness
    • shortness of breath
    • rapid heart rate
    • blood in your urine or dark urine

The most common side effects of ENJAYMO include:

  • respiratory tract infection
  • viral infection
  • diarrhea
  • indigestion
  • cough
  • joint pain
  • joint inflammation (arthritis)
  • swelling of the lower legs, ankles, and feet

These are not all the possible side effects of ENJAYMO. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.

Before receiving ENJAYMO, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have a fever or infection, including a history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B, or hepatitis C.
  • have an autoimmune disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus.
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if ENJAYMO will harm your unborn baby.
  • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if ENJAYMO passes into your breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Please see Full Prescribing Information, including Medication Guide.

References

  1. Collie J C. Cold agglutinin disease. Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology. Medscape. February 7, 2022. Accessed September 20, 2022. https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/135327-overview
  2. Mullins M, Jiang X, Bylsma LC, et al. Cold agglutinin disease burden: a longitudinal analysis of anemia, medications, transfusions, and health care utilization. Blood Adv. 2017;1(13):839-848. Published 2017 May 19. doi:10.1182/bloodadvances.2017004390
  3. Badireddy M, Baradhi KM. Chronic Anemia. StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing; 2022.
  4. Das S, Maiti A. Acrocyanosis: an overview. Indian J Dermatol. 2013;58(6):417-420. doi:10.4103/0019-5154.119946
  5. Enjamyo (sutimlimab-jome) [package insert]. Sanofi; 2022.

MAT-US-2207482-v1.0-10/2022

© 2022 Genzyme Corporation. All rights reserved.

ENJAYMO and Sanofi are trademarks of Sanofi or an affiliate.

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The power of caregivers: How one mom helped her son through a series of misdiagnoses

2022-11-17T11:01:00

(BPT) – A mystery illness. Decades of unexplained pain and fatigue. A mother’s boundless love. This might seem like a description from a movie, but this is reality for Bryan Bosch who credits his mother’s support for helping him finally get answers about the rare disease disrupting many aspects of his life.

A childhood filled with illness

“Ever since I was little, I was always sick,” said Bryan. His childhood was plagued by illnesses, including a prolonged battle with a highly contagious infection and spending time in and out of hospitals searching for an explanation for Bryan’s poor health. For several years, doctors believed hyperthyroidism was the cause. In the meantime, Bryan struggled with things that his peers took for granted, having trouble holding objects and suffering from extreme tiredness.

“My mom is the first person who noticed something was not right,” said Bryan. “I started dropping stuff, and she said, ‘That’s not normal.’” Faced with these mysterious symptoms and desperate to get answers, Bryan’s mom knew she would have to take charge and advocate on behalf of her son to get him the care he needed. She started by watching him closely and writing down everything she noticed, including how his symptoms and behaviors changed.

The next decade was an incredibly difficult one for Bryan and his mom, as Bryan’s health continued to decline. He suffered from extreme pain and tiredness and experienced a range of symptoms that impacted his ability to study, work or fully live life. For some time, Bryan was unable to work because of his severe fatigue and chronic pain. His right eye drooped and he experienced double vision that prevented him from driving. He struggled with basic functions like chewing, swallowing and even breathing properly.

Throughout this time, Bryan was incorrectly diagnosed with a range of diseases that doctors believed might explain his symptoms. First, doctors thought he had multiple sclerosis (MS). Then he was told he had fibromyalgia. Next, he was diagnosed with ALS, also called Lou Gehrig’s disease, and was told to make end-of-life preparations.

“I was told I had ALS, but I didn’t believe it. It just didn’t make sense. My mom encouraged me to keep going back. She said I needed a new opinion. She would encourage me to [go back to] my specialists and primary doctor. She knew there was something missing,” he said.

Through this difficult period, Bryan’s mother was a constant source of support, assistance and courage, no matter how challenging his health became. With Bryan unable to drive himself, his mother took responsibility for getting him to his appointments. Once there, she helped him explain his symptoms and self-advocate to his health care team.

Thanks to the perseverance of his mom, after seeing seven different neurologists over a decade, Bryan finally got the answers he so urgently needed when he was correctly diagnosed with generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG).

“My mom knows me better than I know myself,” said Bryan. “I am so lucky to have her.”

What is generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG)?

Generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) is a rare, chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by loss of muscle function and muscle weakness. The disease affects approximately 90,000 adults in the U.S., most commonly beginning for women before the age of 40 and for men after the age of 60.

Myasthenia gravis often begins with weakness in the muscles that control movement of the eyes and the eyelids, with droopy eyelids and double vision. These are some of the earliest symptoms patients experience, along with slurred speech and lack of balance. The disease often progresses into gMG, a more severe and generalized form. At this point, the muscle weakness may spread to the rest of the body and can cause more severe symptoms, including impaired swallowing, choking, extreme fatigue and respiratory failure.

Over three decades, Alexion has spearheaded pioneering research demonstrating the role of the complement system in certain rare diseases, including gMG, leading to innovative treatment advances. The complement system is a part of the immune system and is essential to the body’s defense against infection. But when the system is thrown out of balance, a dangerous, uncontrolled series of reactions occurs, where cells and tissues are attacked, resulting in harmful inflammation and the destruction of healthy cells. In gMG, the complement system can inappropriately cause the immune system to attack the neuromuscular junction (NMJ), a connection point between nerve cells and the muscles they control. Clinical studies conducted by Alexion in patients with gMG have shown that inhibiting the complement system can prevent the body’s attack on the NMJ, reducing damage and helping prevent the breakdown in communication between the brain and muscles.

Bryan’s message for others

No matter the ups and downs of his personal health journey, there was one steadfast positive factor for Bryan: his incredible mom. November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor the important role caregivers play in helping loved ones manage their health. Being a caregiver can be challenging in many ways, including mentally, physically and financially. But their dedication changes lives, and they deserve the utmost gratitude and appreciation.

Correctly diagnosed at age 35, Bryan is grateful to finally have answers for what he’s been experiencing — and he encourages others in similar situations to keep searching for an accurate diagnosis and lean on their loved ones for support.

“My mom continues to help me and make me a better person,” said Bryan. “She’s pushed me to become more social and I’ve joined my local gMG association to help out. Making connections has helped me in so many ways. My mom is amazing, and I don’t know what I’d do without her.”

Brought to you by Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

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Do you have the winter sniffles? 5 ways you can manage indoor winter allergies

2022-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Do you suffer from itchy eyes, a runny nose or a scratchy throat during winter? Do you often find yourself coughing, sneezing and having trouble breathing? Chances are you may have indoor allergies.

Allergens are not just found outside in trees or grass. The indoors can host many allergy triggers like mold related to water leaks, pet allergens, and dust mite and cockroach allergens.

Indoor allergies are a year-round problem, but you’ll notice them more during the winter because you spend more time at home. Also, because of the colder weather, you’re likely keeping doors and windows shut to keep the cold out. By doing that, you’re also sealing allergens indoors with you, and your heating system will recirculate the indoor air and any allergy triggers.

You don’t have to accept indoor allergies as an inevitable fact of the winter season. Using these five tips from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI), you can be proactive and manage your winter allergies.

1. Clean regularly

It may seem like a simple solution, but cleaning house is one of the easiest ways to deal with indoor winter allergies. Dust, mold, pet dander and dust mite and cockroach droppings can hide anywhere and cause sneezing, coughing and congestion.

To limit your exposure to these indoor allergens, keep a regular cleaning schedule. Dust and vacuum frequently, especially under and behind furniture, where allergens can easily build up. Wipe down counters and other surfaces that you use often. During the holidays, wipe off holiday decorations, especially if you’ve stored them in areas where dust and mold proliferate.

2. Reduce pet allergy triggers

It can be difficult to balance your love for your pets and indoor allergy management. Just like you, your pets are spending more time indoors, increasing your exposure to pet dander and saliva.

While you may enjoy snuggling with your pets before bed, keeping them out of the bedroom will help with any allergies you experience at night that can disrupt your sleep. During the day, keep the door to your bedroom closed, so your furry family members aren’t tempted to go in.

When petting your cat or dog, make sure to wash your hands afterward, so you don’t accidentally touch your face and provoke an allergic reaction. Finally, remember to groom your pets regularly to reduce indoor air allergens.

3. Protect your bedding from dust mites

According to the ACAAI, dust mites live and multiply in warm, humid places and are often found in pillows, mattresses, carpeting and upholstered furniture. Even if your home is visibly clean, dust mite allergen particles are too small to be seen.

Use mite-proof zippered cases for your mattress and pillows to limit your exposure to dust mites. Every week, wash and change your sheets, blankets and other bedding in hot water to eliminate any lingering dust mite droppings.

4. Find and prevent indoor mold

Did you know that there are roughly 1,000 species of mold in the U.S.? Many molds aren’t visible to the naked eye, and mold spores can cause allergic reactions when they become airborne. Because mold can grow in your basement, bathroom and under the sink, avoiding mold allergens can be difficult.

If you suspect you have indoor mold, it’s best to contact a professional who can find and clean up existing mold in your home. To prevent mold related to water leaks, quickly stop and clean up any standing water. Also, make sure to reduce moisture and humidity in bathrooms and kitchens. If humidity control is a problem, consider a dehumidifier.

5. Find an allergist

Consulting an allergist is the best way to identify and treat your winter indoor allergies.

“Allergists are the best trained medical professionals to treat allergies and asthma,” said Kathleen May, M.D., ACAAI president. “They can help you get tested, get treated and get better so you can enjoy the holiday season and beyond.”

After a consultation, your allergist may perform tests to diagnose your allergies and identify potential causes. An allergist can also prescribe a variety of treatments to give you relief from your allergic symptoms.

Using these five tips, you can better manage your indoor allergies this winter so you can enjoy the cozy colder months without suffering from allergies. To learn more about indoor allergies and find an allergist, visit ACAAI.org/Locate-An-Allergist.

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5 Ways to Foster Purpose with Age

2022-11-17T10:01:00

(BPT) – Each phase of life provides an opportunity to find new things that provide a sense of purpose, activities that get us up in the morning and bring fulfillment. Beyond the feeling, there is mounting evidence that shows a higher sense of purpose in life is associated with a lower risk of chronic conditions.

Intentionally fostering a sense of purpose is especially important as we age and the things that once kept us going no longer require our attention, like a job or raising children. Fortunately, many things can deliver a sense of purpose, and they don’t need to be exotic or extravagant. They need only capture your interest and keep you motivated, giving you an extra push to overcome any obstacle that might arise. With the results of a recent national AARP Services survey as inspiration, here are five ways to do just that. Your AARP member benefits give you access to products and services that you can use to foster your purpose.

1. Pursue a Passion for Food

There’s a saying, “Some eat to live, others live to eat.” According to AARP Services research, 73% of surveyed individuals agree that a good meal makes life worth living. Fortunately, with more time comes more opportunity to try out new restaurants or recipes, so explore the local dining scene, take a cooking class or use a new cookbook.

To ensure you are able to enjoy those delicious meals, keep your mouth healthy with frequent brushing and flossing, and by visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. AARP members have access to Dental Insurance Options that help make it easier to maintain good dental health with individual or family coverage for the most common dental procedures.

2. Discover Who You Are

Becoming a grandparent and watching your family grow is an exciting life change. As you sprout new branches on the family tree, you might be inspired to learn more about your roots through genealogy research.

Ancestry provides a great resource to access records and online tools to search, save and share family history. AARP members save 30% on the first year of an All Access or a World Explorer subscription. If you’re new to Ancestry, you’ll receive the discount on the first year of your subscription only. If you already have an account, you’ll receive the discount when you renew your subscription for a year.

3. Find New Outlets for Fun

Retirement can mean the freedom to find new sources of fun. Most people over 50 agree that it is time well spent. Only 24% of those surveyed felt that spending money on fun is frivolous. It is, after all, a great way to relieve stress, boost mental health and renew your sense of purpose.

Why not pursue a passion for live entertainment? Enjoy a local concert or a trip to the theater with your friends or family members. AARP members save on tickets to select shows and events through Ticketmaster. Offers include 2-for-1 tickets, Me + 3 (4-packs) and events with select tickets under $40. (Conditions apply.)

To make sure you don’t miss a minute of the performance, get your hearing checked by taking advantage of AARP® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare® Hearing. AARP members can save 20% on hearing aids and 15% on accessories, plus receive a hearing test at no cost and personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers.

4. See the World

Travel is a popular pursuit as we age. Crossing new destinations off your list is a rewarding endeavor, especially as many are eager to try something new, with 67% of those 50+ agreeing that new experiences are important. AARP members save $50 per person on select river cruises with Collette. Destinations include the fjords of Norway, China’s Yangtze River and the Nile River in Egypt.

Traveling by land more your speed? AARP members save 5% on worldwide rail vacations, tours and select train tickets in the U.S., Canada, Europe and beyond with Vacations by Rail. Itineraries include the Canadian Rockies, America’s National Parks & Monuments and many more.

Traveling and being on the go doesn’t mean you have to fall behind on prescriptions. AARP® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx® gives you access to a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on all FDA-approved medications. If you’re an AARP member, you can receive additional benefits such as deeper discounts and home delivery, so you can save time while packing or traveling.

5. Take Care (of Others)

Just because your children are grown doesn’t mean your days of caring for others are over. Most people (89%) consider taking care of family to be a priority and there are myriad ways to do that. Offering support, whether it’s babysitting, picking up from school or running errands, is generally appreciated and provides a significant sense of purpose.

Taking care of family also means ensuring the unexpected doesn’t become their responsibility. Fortunately, long-term care options can help protect your assets and lifestyle. You can access customized solutions that can help address your specific needs and budget.

You can also flex your caregiving muscles with a four-legged family member. Pets are lovable and fun and help boost your mood and keep you active. Making sure they’re healthy, happy and fed instills a great sense of purpose, and pet insurance can make caring for them easier and more affordable. With Fetch by The Dodo Pet Insurance, AARP members save up to 10% on monthly premiums for the lifetime of their pet’s policy. Plans can cover qualifying care, treatments and procedures at any licensed veterinarian in the U.S. and Canada.

As we age, our purpose doesn’t disappear; it simply changes. Consider it an opportunity to expand your horizons and try something new. Whether it’s a hobby, activity or taking care of family, AARP members likely have member benefits available to support it. To discover more options, visit aarp.org/save.

Neither AARP nor its affiliates is the insurer. AARP and its affiliates are not insurance producers, agents or brokers, and do not sell or service insurance products. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

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It’s the most wonderful (read: stressful) time of the year: A look at how Americans are feeling this holiday season

2022-11-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you excited about the holiday season or are you dreading it? While this time of year can be filled with cheer and joy, it can also be incredibly overwhelming. In fact, 2 in 3 Americans are stressed about this holiday season.

What exactly are they stressing about? Their budgets, according to the latest Consumer Spend Report from Affirm.

Affirm’s survey found that 9 in 10 Americans plan to shop for the holidays this year, yet 1 in 3 will do so without saving money beforehand. Read on for some other surprising results.

Buying gifts is stretching wallets — and patience

Budgeting and buying gifts for friends and family are at the very top of Americans’ lists of concerns this holiday season. So, it’s no surprise that Americans reported to be nearly just as stressed out about Black Friday and Cyber Monday (38%) as they are for Thanksgiving (43%).

Money isn’t the only pain point when it comes to holiday shopping. Stressed gift shoppers pointed to waiting in long lines (68%) and getting stuck in traffic or crowded transit (54%) as the things they dread the most.

“While the burden of gifting, budgeting, long lines and holiday traffic may take away some of your holiday cheer, Affirm can help bring it back. A valuable budgeting tool, paying with Affirm is one smart choice you can make this holiday season to stay in control of your finances,” said Ashmi Pancholi, Affirm’s Trends Expert.

Americans are dodging their holiday obligations

Whether it’s attending the mandatory office gift swap or a crowded road trip to Grandma’s, it’s no secret that holiday obligations can be anything but jolly. The result? 1 in 5 Americans admitted to getting out of their unwanted holiday plans.

Of the guilty ones, 36% have lied about their availability, 24% have faked an illness and 22% ghosted without any excuse. Nearly 1 in 10 have gone so far as to intentionally miss a flight.

Some people are even willing to spend money to get out of their holiday obligations. 70% of men would spend more than $50 to avoid unwanted to-do’s like the obligatory holiday party or awkward family dinner, compared to 51% of women.

Gen Z & Millennials are especially stressed, but they are focused on the future

75% of Gen Zers are stressed about the holidays, compared to 67% of Boomers and 65% of Millennials. But, many are especially focused on improving their financial health: almost half of Gen Z (42%) and over a quarter of Millennials (28%) say saving money is their #1 New Year’s resolution.

Unlike most credit cards and other pay-over-time options, Affirm shows you exactly what you’ll pay upfront, never increases that amount, and never charges any late or hidden fees. Using its pay over time option allows you to buy all the holiday gifts on your list without draining your savings or building unhealthy debt.

To learn more, visit Affirm.com. While you’re there, check out the gift guides, which can help you find and finance the perfect gifts for all your loved ones.

Results are based on a survey of 1,007 respondents conducted by Suzy on behalf of Affirm November 2, 2022.

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More than just fresh air, time spent outdoors has the power to boost physical and emotional strength

2022-11-17T09:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re taking a stroll in a local park or ambitiously hiking a new trail, being outdoors helps you feel more grounded and connected to nature. But you may not realize the numerous physical and mental benefits that time spent outdoors has on the human body.

Mother Nature has a profound positive impact on people of all ages, but especially kids. Children’s natural curiosity makes the outdoors a place with endless possibilities. It’s where imaginations can take flight, they can observe biodiversity and learn more about their world around them, not to mention, move their bodies and breathe in some fresh air.

With an increasing number of popular TV shows focusing on different aspects of being outdoors — from travel spotlights to survival skills — more children than ever are inspired to get outside and explore. For 14-year-old Cameron, no one excited him more about the outdoors than adventurer and TV star Bear Grylls. However, because he has a critical illness that required a kidney transplant, Cameron was not always able to do as many things outdoors as he’d like.

Following the launch of their new batteries with Power Boost Ingredients, and with a strong desire to inspire kids about the importance of spending time outdoors, America’s most trusted battery brand, Duracell, joined forces with Bear Grylls and Make-A-Wish® to grant a dozen wishes this past summer for kids across the country, including Cameron and wish kids like him.

Through this unique collaboration, Duracell and Make-A-Wish were able to power some incredible outdoor wishes as a life-changing source of hope for wish kids and their families. To learn more and see Cameron’s story, visit Duracell.com/Powerboost.

Be inspired by these strong kids who have a passion for the outdoors and plan your next adventure with your family. Remember to stock up on Duracell batteries with Power Boost Ingredients, designed to help you get the most out of the moments that matter — so regardless of the outdoor adventure you choose, your devices stay powered to keep the fun going. Here are some outdoor ideas that you can do any time of year with your family:

1. Visit a hiking trail you’ve never been to before, or try an evening hike and bring along a headlamp or flashlight to guide the way.

2. Explore free outdoor programs in your community at parks and nature centers.

3. Learn about astronomy and head outdoors at night to observe the stars.

4. Try your hand at geocaching, where you use a free app on your mobile device to find hidden spots.

5. Organize a game of backyard flashlight tag with family, friends and neighbors.

6. Try a new outdoor activity you haven’t done yet, especially in the winter months, like skating, snowshoeing or skiing.

7. Go outside and talk about how nature impacts the different senses — How does it feel, taste, sound, etc.?

9. Have a picnic outdoors! Or even try eating outside in the evening with flashlights and headlamps for extra fun.

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Plan ahead for your perfect deck

2022-11-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – A big part of building your dream deck is the planning. In fact, a typical deck project can take six months (or more) from inspiration to installation. To help make your dream a reality, the following are tips for keeping your deck project on track, on trend and on budget.

Visualize the Possibilities – When it comes to your deck’s design, there are countless possibilities — from simple ground-level styles to more elaborate multi-level decks. Ultimately, a deck should be designed around how you plan to use it. In addition to function, consider your views, neighbors, the prevalence of sun or shade, as well as the entrances and exits from the home and into the yard. All these factors will have an impact on your deck’s size and configuration. Once you have a general design in mind, there are great tools available to help bring your visions to life. Trex offers an AR visualizer app that allows users to experiment with different decking shapes, board colors and railing combinations against the backdrop of your own house. There are also hundreds of downloadable deck plans and other resources available online to help guide you through your deck building journey.

Consider Codes and Permits – Consult your state, county or city offices regarding building code requirements and to learn what permits are necessary for building a deck in your area. Factor permitting into your project timeline so that progress is not stalled by waiting for inspections and approvals. If your neighborhood has a homeowner association (HOA), make sure you understand any rules regarding deck size, color, product type or design. And don’t forget to check with your local utilities to locate any underground cables, wires or pipes before construction begins. Your deck builder should be able to help with this, or you can call the North American One-Call Referral system at 888-258-0808 if you plan to DIY.

Be Mindful of Materials – When choosing materials for your deck, think long term. It’s important to choose quality materials that will withstand years of wear and tear from both weather and use. High-performance, wood-alternative composite decking is resistant to fading, staining, scratching and mold. And, unlike wood, it never has to be sanded, stripped or stained, resulting in less maintenance and more time for outdoor enjoyment. High-performance Trex® composite decking is also sustainably made from 95% recycled and reclaimed materials, making it an eco-conscious choice that feels as good as it looks. Sample boards may be ordered online so you can see firsthand how different colors and collections work with your home’s architecture and style.

Budgeting and Beyond – When it comes to budgeting for a new deck, keep in mind that several factors will affect costs, including the size, shape and elevation of the deck, along with labor and the materials you choose. For the latter, you can use an online cost calculator to get a rough estimate for material costs based on the size, substructure and decking products being considered. As for labor, do your research and request multiple quotes to ensure you find the best contractor for your project and budget. Keep in mind that quality deck builders book projects well in advance and often have a waiting list by spring.

With proper planning, it’s possible to make all your outdoor living dreams come true. For more information and inspiration, visit Trex.com/Academy.