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Time to think harder about your checking account

2019-08-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – When we imagine “financial literacy,” we often think about credit cards, loans and debt. But these building blocks of our financial infrastructures tend to cloud our perspective, pushing important details, like checking accounts, to the sidelines.

Checking accounts are often overlooked but are actually the backbone of personal finance and money management. Routinely using a well-kept checking account allows people to responsibly spend their money. For many, checking accounts are often children, teens and young adults’ first financial accounts, and serve as an introduction to money management and responsible spending.

Because checking accounts are so important, it’s critical that individuals find options that work with their lifestyle and are accessible anywhere. To make the most of your money, here’s what you should look for in a checking account:

1. Read the small print and avoid fees

Opening a checking account feels like a fairly standard practice, so it’s tempting to overlook the fine print. But that’s where hidden fees and charges often linger. The onus is generally on consumers to assess which options work best for them. When reading the fine print, focus on how much — and how often — charges will arise. If a financial institution claims to charge no fee on an account, confirm that there aren’t hidden fees that kick in after a certain amount of time. You don’t want to be surprised later on.

“Look for accounts that are ‘fee-free’ or boast ‘no monthly fees’ so that you ensure your money stays yours,” says Katie Miller, senior vice president of savings products at Navy Federal Credit Union. “It’s worth the time on the front end to save money on needless expenses in the long run.”

2. Access cash anywhere

Take a look at a checking account with a financial institution whose ATMs are scattered around your work, grocery stores and other favorite places that you frequent often. Many checking accounts offer solutions that make your cash even more accessible like ATM fee rebates. Sometimes, your bank of choice will charge you a fee to use an unaffiliated ATM; other times, the ATM itself will charge you a fee to access your money. Rather than pay extra to extract your own cash, some accounts allow you to use any ATM, fee-free. Offers like Navy Federal Credit Union’s Free eChecking account pay up to $120 a year in ATM fee rebates. Use any ATM, anywhere, regardless of fees, and receive up to $10 per statement period to cover those expenses.

3. Accomplish your goals with ease

Free eChecking is a great option for people who are always on the go. Being able to access your money with a few touches of your smartphone makes it easy to budget, plan and manage your money.

“You should bank the way you live,” continues Miller. “Look for offers that allow you to transfer money between accounts, for when you file away a percentage of your paycheck into your savings account. Select a checking account that takes the work out of managing your budget.”

4. Make your money work for you

Find an account that earns you monthly dividends to reward your loyalty and use. “Choosing a checking account that allows your money to earn dividends lets you make money without thinking about it,” says Miller. Some accounts even offer built-in money management tools that let you look at your spending to inform future budgeting endeavors.

Checking accounts teach us the basics of money management: They show us how much money we have and how much we’ve spent in real time. With the right checking account, you can take ownership over your money in a way that can be both impactful and instructive. And when one has the proper insights to avoid unnecessary fees and obstacles, this tool can be the perfect foundation for a healthy financial path.


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5 easy relaxation techniques to reduce stress at home

2019-08-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Moms have to-do lists that are never done. From getting the kids to school, prepping family meals and everything in between, it’s a 24/7 job and can be hard to find a moment to stop and take a breath of fresh air. While the home should be a sanctuary to relax and de-stress, the reality is that a lot of life’s biggest activities happen there. The good news is that it only takes a few minutes to ground yourself through meditation. In fact, recent studies by the National Institutes of Health indicate that meditation can improve relaxation, lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety. Learning a few easy meditation techniques will give you the ability to power through even the toughest days.

To give back to busy moms, Air Wick has provided five easy ways you can take a moment to de-stress before tackling your to-do list.

Unplug for just 5 minutes

One of the biggest culprits of stress today is technology. When you’re at home, set your phone on airplane mode, turn off the radio or TV, close the laptop — and just shut your eyes. Breathe deeply, in through the nose and out through the mouth, at least five times. Repeat a word or phrase in your mind like “Relax,” “Calm” or “Breathe in, breathe out.” When you’re ready, slowly re-acclimate to your surroundings and gently get back to your busy day.

The one-minute breath

For just a minute, commit to practicing this breathing technique to quiet your mind and restore energy.

  • Breathe in for 5 seconds.
  • Hold your breath for 5 seconds.
  • Release the breath for 5 seconds.
  • Hold for 5 seconds.

Repeat just long enough to feel yourself become calmer.

Peace begins with you

When you’re standing in a long line, stuck in a meeting or even during a stressful argument, try this Kundalini meditation technique to help you stay centered even when you’re feeling frazzled.

  • Gently press the thumb of one hand against that hand’s index finger, middle finger, ring finger, then pinkie finger.
  • When you touch your index finger to your thumb, say to yourself, “Peace.”
  • When you touch your middle finger, say to yourself, “Begins.”
  • When you touch your ring finger, say to yourself, “With.”
  • When you touch your pinkie finger to your thumb, says to yourself, “Me.”
  • Breathe deeply as you think each word, and go as slowly or as quickly as you like.

Peace is in your pulse

For meditation beginners, this practice can help improve concentration and bring calm.

  • Sit comfortably cross-legged on the floor.
  • Close your eyes and focus on the space between your eyebrows.
  • Place the four fingers of your right hand on your left wrist and feel your pulse.
  • The fingers are in a straight line, lightly pressed on the wrist so you can feel your pulse in each fingertip.
  • On each beat of your pulse, mentally hear the sound “Sat Nam,” which means “truth identified.”

Walk it out

When you’re feeling stressed, you feel disconnected from your body as well as the outside world. You can add meditation to your walking, even if you’re just going through the grocery store or from your car to your office. If you can get outside, just being outdoors can improve your mood. Between the vitamin D from the sun and the tendency to breathe more deeply when you’re around fresh air, trees or flowers, just getting outside for a little while can both relax and energize you.

  • Take a deep breath with every step or two.
  • Feel your feet and focus on being more grounded with every step.
  • Repeat a phrase or mantra while you walk, like “I am calm now.”

Moms have a lot on their plate, so worrying about lingering odors in the home (whether they’re from the kids’ sweaty sports equipment, a wet dog or last night’s dinner) shouldn’t add to their stress. Air Wick Pure Automatic Spray provides continuous odor neutralization from common household odors found in living rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms, hallways and offices, so she can check that stress right off her to-do list and make more time for herself. Mom can enjoy the scents of Pure Ocean Breeze, Lavender & Chamomile, Summer Delights and Sparkling Citrus filling every corner of the home with freshness while she breathes deeply and relaxes.


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Rising child star and mom share their top 5 tips for preparing to go back to school proud

2019-08-15T06:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Office Depot and OfficeMax

It’s that time of year again, when families start preparing their kids to head back to school. From basic supplies like folders and pencils, to technology, books and backpacks, each student’s needs for back to school change and grow each year.

LaRisa McCrary, along with her son, 12-year-old “The Lion King” actor and singer JD McCrary, share the top tips that they follow to help their family feel confident, proud and prepared to start the school year.

1. Always have a list

“My sons have busy schedules, so it’s a must to have a list to do our back-to-school shopping,” says LaRisa. “As your child moves up to the next grade, it’s important to spend time talking about the things that matter most to them on their list, not just trying to find all the items the school requires.”

For some extra help, parents can take advantage of Office Depot’s “School List with a Click” option. It taps into a database of millions of teachers’ school supply lists and tells you exactly what your teacher recommends. Plus, when buying supplies online, you can choose to pick up your list purchases in-store at Office Depot — or have it all delivered to your front door the next day, giving you more time to prepare your kids for that first day of class.

2. Keep it fun, fresh and functional

In addition to discussing the shopping list, get kids excited about the upcoming school year by letting them pick out and customize their individual supplies. By allowing them to choose products that reflect their interests and personal style, back-to-school shopping is less of a chore and more of a fun, family outing.

JD describes how he and his brother Josh, 11, like to participate in back-to-school shopping with their parents: “We really love picking supplies that are colorful, cool and reflect our individual personalities.”

JD says his brother and parents looked to Office Depot this year to find exclusive back-to-school essentials and accessories like TUL® pens and notebooks, the Texas Instruments Graphing Calculator in teal, binders and backpacks that are rich in vibrant colors and trending styles to help make learning fun and fresh — while lasting the entire year.

3. Make learning fun outside of the classroom — and promote learning as a family

To help encourage active learning, whether in school or at home, LaRisa recommends Office Depot’s Juku STEAM kits, that provide fun, engaging hands-on projects and experiments to help kids develop creativity, discovery and problem-solving skills in the areas of science, technology, engineering, art and math.

“These kits are a great way for JD and Josh to expand their minds with cool activities like robotics, game coding and designing art with a 3D printing pen,” explains LaRisa. “My husband Jay is going to have a blast creating these projects with the boys!”

4. Don’t forget Mom and Dad

The kids aren’t the only ones who will need some supplies to help them get ready for the new school year.

“Jay and I are on the go a lot and definitely need help to keep our family organized,” LaRisa says. “While the kids check out the latest backpacks, Jay and I are picking up TUL® planners. They’re perfect for keeping track of travel, school activities and daily to-dos.”

5. Help others go Back To School Proud™

While planning and shopping for the next school year, the McCrarys have found that helping others helps everyone feel a little more grateful for what they have.

“We’re fortunate enough that we can provide Josh and JD with new school supplies, so they can start the school year with confidence. Unfortunately, not everyone can do that,” LaRisa explains. “When picking out supplies for your kids this year, why not pick out some extra items to give to others who may really need it?”

For example, Office Depot’s “Give Back to Schools” program lets shoppers give five percent of their qualifying school supplies purchase back in credits toward supplies to a school of their choice. Shoppers can also participate in Office Depot’s School Supply Drive by purchasing some extra supplies at the store to go to a local Title 1 school at the beginning of the school year.

To help your kids feel prepared and have an advantage in the classroom this year, visit OfficeDepot.com/backtoschool or stop by your local Office Depot or OfficeMax store to get everything on your list and more.


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How to protect your children from life-threatening allergies

2019-08-14T07:35:00

(BPT) – As a parent or caregiver, you do everything you can to keep your children safe, happy and healthy. You do your best to plan for the expected, but it’s usually the unexpected that can have the most impact.

Terry Barnhart knows this all too well.

“Both of my daughters have nut allergies,” says Barnhart. “My oldest, Fiona, so severe that she was rushed to the hospital on several occasions. We always carry at least two epinephrine injections everywhere we go.”

He describes Fiona’s first severe allergic reaction as frightening.

“The first time she went to the hospital was because she had a severe allergic reaction to eating just one crumb that fell off a friend’s plate. She was six years old at the time, and got very red and started complaining she couldn’t breathe. As a parent, when your child can’t breathe, it is terrifying. We immediately administered an epinephrine injection and rushed to the hospital.”

After this hospital visit Barnhart and his wife, Helen, became paranoid about her safety, and always try to be as proactive as possible. From that point forward, they have taken precautions to protect both of their daughters by looking at all ingredients in everything they eat, and making sure restaurants are aware of their food allergies when dining out. They keep their house free of nuts and always carry two epinephrine injections at all times, in case one doesn’t work correctly or a second dose is needed.

Food and other potentially life-threatening allergies are common in the United States. Reactions can be mild or severe. One in 50 Americans is at risk for anaphylaxis, a severe reaction that affects the whole body and can even lead to death if left untreated, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

Each year in the U.S., 200,000 people require emergency medical care for allergic reactions to food, according to Food Allergy Research and Education. For many of these people, carrying an epinephrine injection is vital to ensuring they have a life-saving treatment if they have a severe allergic reaction.

Due to a nationwide shortage of this emergency medicine from several drug manufacturers, many families are scrambling to find it, or go without it, leaving loved ones vulnerable to anaphylaxis. Fortunately, one company is taking steps to change this reality.

Sandoz, a Novartis division, recently launched SYMJEPI™ (epinephrine) 0.3 mg and 0.15 mg injections, making both the adult and pediatric doses immediately available in local pharmacies across the nation. SYMJEPI is a small, single-dose, pre-filled syringe and device combination as an alternative to epinephrine auto-injectors for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type 1), including anaphylaxis. Please see Important Safety Information for SYMJEPI below.

The SYMJEPI device is small in size and fits into the palm of your hand, with the goal of a simple-to-use application and intuitive, user-friendly design. It has a smaller needle than the most widely used epinephrine auto-injectors. The availability of SYMJEPI may provide confidence to patients given its ease of use, ability to see the medicine as it is being delivered, small size to encourage it being on-person when needed, and confidence there is no shortage of supply. Learn more at www.symjepi.com.

Barnhart is happy that a new treatment option is available. He says that having additional epinephrine suppliers means it’s less likely there will be interruptions in the availability of this critical medicine, but also that competition typically means prices will drop.

“In the fall, you need a new pair of epinephrine injectors for school and a pair for your home – and every parent is buying them at the same time. It’s a burst before school that exacerbates the shortage. This really is a great time to have a new option to protect our kids,” says Barnhart.

* Barnhart works at Sandoz, Inc. but his story and opinions are his own and not provided on behalf of his employer.

Indication

SYMJEPI is indicated in the emergency treatment of allergic reactions (Type 1) including anaphylaxis to stinging insects (e.g., order Hymenoptera, which include bees, wasps, hornets, yellow jackets and fire ants) and biting insects (e.g., triatoma, mosquitoes), allergen immunotherapy, foods, drugs, diagnostic testing substances (e.g., radiocontrast media) and other allergens, as well as idiopathic anaphylaxis or exercise-induced anaphylaxis.

Important Safety Information

CONTRAINDICATIONS

None

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

  • You should get emergency medical care right away after using the product.
  • You may need to use a second SYMJEPI (epinephrine) injection if symptoms continue or recur. Only a healthcare provider should give additional doses of epinephrine if you need more than 2 injections for a single anaphylaxis episode.
  • Symjepi should only be injected into the middle of your outer thigh (upper leg) with the needle facing downwards. Never inject into any other part of the body. If you accidentally inject SYMJEPI into any other part of your body, go to the nearest emergency room right away. Tell the healthcare provider where on your body you received the accidental injection. Symjepi can be injected through your clothing if needed.
  • The needle cap on the SYMJEPI prefilled syringe helps to prevent needle sticks and accidental injection of epinephrine. Do not remove the needle cap until you are ready to use it.
  • Never put your thumb, fingers, or hand over the exposed needle.
  • If an accidental injection happens, get medical help right away.
  • Do not drop the carrier case or SYMJEPI prefilled syringe. If the carrier case or prefilled syringe is dropped, check for damage and leakage. Dispose of the prefilled syringe and carrier case, and replace if damage or leakage is noticed or suspected.
  • Do not place patient information or any other foreign objects in the carrier case with the prefilled syringe, as this may prevent you from removing the prefilled syringe for use.
  • If you inject a young child with SYMJEPI, hold their leg firmly in place before and during the injection to prevent injuries. Ask your healthcare provider to show you how to properly hold the leg of a young child during injection.
  • Before using SYMJEPI, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
    • have heart problems or high blood pressure.
    • have diabetes.
    • have thyroid problems.
    • have asthma.
    • have a history of depression.
    • have Parkinson’s disease.
    • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if epinephrine will harm your unborn baby.
    • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if epinephrine passes into your breast milk.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Symjepi may cause serious side effects.

  • Rarely, patients who have used SYMJEPI may develop infections at the injection site within a few days of an injection. Some of these infections can be serious. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following at an injection site:
      • redness that does not go away
      • swelling
      • tenderness
      • the area feels warm to the touch
  • Cuts on the skin, bent needles, and needles that remain in the skin after the injection, have happened in young children who do not cooperate and kick or move during the injection.
  • If you have certain medical conditions, or take certain medicines, your condition may get worse or you may have longer lasting side effects when you use your SYMJEPI. Talk to your healthcare provider about all your medical conditions.

Common side effects of SYMJEPI include:

  • fast, irregular or “pounding” heartbeat
  • sweating
  • headache
  • weakness
  • shakiness
  • paleness
  • feelings of over excitement, nervousness or anxiety
  • dizziness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • breathing problems

These side effects may go away with rest. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of SYMJEPI. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

DRUG INTERACTIONS

  • Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
  • Tell your healthcare provider of all known allergies.
  • Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take certain asthma medicines.
  • SYMJEPI and other medicines may affect each other, causing side effects. SYMJEPI may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how SYMJEPI works.
  • Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

See full Prescribing Information for additional safety information.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

For more information, visit the SYMJEPI website (https://www.symjepi.com/) and view the instructional video on how to use the injection device.


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Presenting: America’s top 10 shelter dog makeovers

2019-08-14T14:19:00

(BPT) – Millions of dogs enter shelters each year. Most are dirty and matted, and less than half get the grooming they so desperately need. Sadly, these deserving animals are being perceived as ‘damaged goods’ just because of their appearance. To better their chances at finding a fur-ever family, pet industry leaders Wahl and GreaterGood.org have teamed up to donate funds and grooming supplies to shelters nationwide. The goal this year: transform more than 20,000 dogs so their lovable, adoptable personalities can shine through. Hundreds of these amazing makeovers can be seen in the Dirty Dogs Before & After Photo Gallery — including the following Top 10 Shelter Dog Makeovers of 2019.

1. Griffin was in a kill shelter before being saved by the local Humane Society. He was in horrific shape as the severe matting was causing nerve damage in his back legs and irritating his sensitive eyes. Once groomed, he turned into a completely different little dog. Free from all that fur, Griffin was able to walk and play like a normal pooch.

2. Gallagher was rescued from animal control where he arrived as a stray. A dirty, matted and miserable mess, Gallagher had to lose most of his fur during his grooming. However, while Gallagher lost his fluff, he got to keep a bit of flair on his ears and tail.

3. Dexter was found living on the streets, and it was clear he’d had it hard for a long time. He was a mess of matted dreadlocks so long he could barely see. However, under all that uncomfortable fur was a sweet boy who sat patiently as burrs, foxtails and even pieces of plastic were cut out of his coat.

4. Arlo was found by the side of a country highway. He was taken to the local shelter where he was quickly groomed to remove painful mats. His rescuers didn’t know much about his prior life, but at about 10 years old, it was clear he’d had a long, rough road.

5. Berkeley was living a life with little to no care, never even being allowed inside. What’s worse, his one companion, a senior Saint Bernard, had recently passed away. Luckily things turned around for Berkeley. Once rescued, he was swiftly groomed and freed from nearly five pounds of muddy fur so matted a fishing lure was found tangled in it.

6. Ollie was originally found by animal control, but thankfully found his way to a rescue. Once safe, he was given a desperately needed grooming to remove painful mats. The transformation revealed a happy, adorable dog.

7. Gaston arrived at his rescue nearly unrecognizable as a dog, let alone a poodle. Neglected for years and only used for breeding, his life was bleak. After hours of grooming, Gaston’s transformation was incredible and his personality blossomed.

8. Zorro was rescued from a rural field at only seven months old. With nearly no fur and crusty scabs covering his skin, his rescuers couldn’t even tell what kind of dog he was. Due to some health issues as well as neglect, this sweet puppy was in constant discomfort. However, after a long road of restorative baths and medications, a gentle German shepherd emerged.

9. Odie’s owners lost their home and had to surrender him to a rescue. He arrived scared and with thick, matted fur. With temperatures at nearly 100 degrees, he desperately needed to be groomed. Once he had a fresh, clean coat he was instantly more comfortable and his character shined.

10. Jasper was surrendered to a shelter when his owners decided he wasn’t a good fit for their family. At just two years old, Jasper was a world of energy, and it was clear he wasn’t getting the exercise, care or attention he deserved. After a proper grooming, an adorable dog appeared. Now, with some training, Jasper is well on his way to becoming the perfect addition to a forever family.

You can help shelter dogs get a fresh start too — just by giving your own pooch a bath. For the month of August, when you purchase a bottle of shampoo at WahlUSA.com using promo code BUY1GIVE1, a bottle of shampoo will also be donated to a shelter in need.


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5 budget-friendly projects that boost your home’s value

2019-08-14T06:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you plan to sell your home soon or you simply want to make your property more modern and livable, there are many things you can do to increase the value of your house. The good news is you don’t need a massive budget to make a big impact. Here are five affordable things you can do to boost your home’s bottom line.

Update the entryway

Updating the entryway provides a warm welcome to guests. Clean the space of clutter and consider adding a new sturdy doormat and plant or wreath to add a splash of style. Of course, the focal point of the entryway is the front door, so if yours is looking drab, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. If it’s dented and worn, consider a replacement that doesn’t cost a ton but has great return on investment: Remodeling Magazine’s 2019 Cost vs. Value reports an average national job cost of $1,826 with a 74% ROI.

Replace appliances

A kitchen remodel certainly boosts a home’s value, but even a minor kitchen remodeling can surpass $20,000, with upscale remodels costing $100,000 or more. To get that new kitchen look and feel without the big price tag, consider putting funds toward new appliances instead. Coordinating appliances for a cohesive look enhances the aesthetic of the room. Stainless steel continues to dominate in interior design, but choose the right colors for your kitchen’s unique look and you’ll love the results.

Add a bathroom

A bathroom addition certainly boosts a home’s value, and if you are strategic about the remodel, it doesn’t have to be costly. Don’t feel limited if the space where you want to add a bathroom doesn’t have existing, below-floor drainage. With smart alternatives like Saniflo, you can add a complete bathroom virtually anywhere, thanks to above-floor plumbing technology that pumps drainage from the fixtures up to the sewer or septic-tank line. The Sanibest Pro is ideal for full baths, especially those used frequently by guests and children. Designed to handle sanitary products that normally should not be flushed down the toilet, the Sanibest Pro can also handle drainage from two other bath fixtures, such as a sink and a tub or shower. Keep in mind, a mid-range bathroom addition recoups 60% of cost, according to the 2019 Cost vs. Value report.

Swap out hardware

Sometimes it all comes down to the details to make a space more visually appealing. It’s costly to get new vanities and cabinets in bathrooms, kitchens and entertaining spaces, but you can give the space a new look by updating the hardware. Knobs, handles, hooks and more become dated and dingy over time. Head to your local home improvement store to select new hardware in a design and finish that reflects your personality and the home’s style. Satin chrome and oil-rubbed bronze are trending in 2019.

Add crown molding

If you think crown molding is reserved just for upscale homes, you’re mistaken. Crown molding is an affordable way to add a touch of luxury to any space, boosting value and enhancing the interior design. Crown molding is available in a variety of materials, including wood, plastic and foam. You can paint it to the color of your choice, although white is always a classic crown molding hue that adds a clean, eye-catching appearance. Not only does crown molding boost design, it also is a clever way to cover any gaps that can emerge over time between the walls and ceiling.

You don’t need a big budget to give your home’s value a big boost. These five projects are a great way to enhance your property today with a great return on investment tomorrow.

With Saniflo, you can add a complete bathroom where no drainage existed before thanks to above-floor plumbing features like a macerating toilet and drain pumps. The Saniaccess3 is a smart choice for full baths, and the Saniaccess2 is ideal for powder rooms.


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4 back-to-school essentials to help keep kids healthy

2019-08-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – New backpack? Check. Cool new shoes? Check. The right 24-pack of crayons? Check.

As a parent, you want to give your child everything needed for a successful new school year, and sometimes that means thinking outside the crayon box. Are you keeping these less obvious things front of mind?

“Being a mom means being prepared, especially as kids begin to explore their independence,” says Whitney Port, TV personality, fashion designer and author. “I try my best to keep my son Sonny healthy through any of life’s adventures, and this means thinking beyond the standard lists.”

Every parent wants their child to feel their best. That’s why it’s important to add a few key items to your back-to-school supply list that help keep your child healthy:

Water bottle – Staying hydrated is important for kids of all ages, so add a new water bottle to your supply list to help encourage your children to drink up. If you let your child pick out the water bottle (from a few choices) that may encourage them to use it more too. Many teachers even allow students to keep water bottles at their desk, so they can stay hydrated without having to leave class to visit the drinking fountain. Bonus: A cool water bottle may discourage kids from wanting sugary alternatives.

Sunscreen – Sunburns can occur in as little as 15 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What’s more, sunburn can happen at any time of year. Moms of younger students may want to stock up on sunscreen and apply to kids before school, paying attention to exposed areas like the face and neck. For older kids, consider tucking a sunscreen stick in their backpack, particularly if they play after-school sports outdoors.

Topical antiseptic – Whether at home, at school or during extracurricular activities, kids are bound to get minor cuts and scrapes. It’s important to stock your first aid kit with products to help handle any mishaps. When it comes to treating minor cuts, scrapes and burns, Betadine, a topical antiseptic, is your first line of defense to help prevent infection and support healthy healing. It also has a no-sting promise. Learn more at betadine.com.

Healthy snacks – The start of school means packing snacks and lunches again. To encourage healthy eating at school and on-the-go in the morning and evening, stock the kitchen with nutritious snacks that give kids energy while fighting hunger pangs. Chopped fresh fruit and veggies are always a smart choice that are easy to eat on the run. Other filling and wholesome ideas include nuts, whole wheat crackers, popcorn and dried fruit.

“My child’s health is a top priority,” says Port. “For me that means staying one step ahead and anticipating any mishaps. That’s why it’s important to remain mindful of what I’m buying for Sonny, whether it’s sunscreen to avoid sunburns or first-aid supplies like Betadine antiseptic cream to help prevent infection, to give me peace of mind that he is safe and healthy.”


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The cost of complacency: How auto-pay can drain your dollars

2019-08-13T14:35:00

(BPT) – When it comes to managing your monthly bills, it doesn’t get much more convenient than auto-pay. Because this option eliminates missed payments and late fees, it’s easy to see why three-quarters of Americans have opted in, with anywhere between one and seven monthly payments, according to recent survey findings.

However, consumers are also discovering that enlisting in auto-pay isn’t without its financial downsides. The following survey findings from TheZebra.com (an insurance comparison site) show how auto-pay can make consumers complacent.

* Nearly a quarter of people (23%) admit to not paying attention to what’s coming out of their bank accounts. If the result is an overdrawn account or a billing error slipping through, that can prove to be a costly mistake.

* One-third (29%) of respondents confess to forgetting to cancel services linked to autopay after they’ve stopped using the services. A couple prime examples of this are a music streaming service subscription or a gym membership.

* Nearly half of consumers indicate that once auto-pay is set up for their car insurance payments, they never get around to re-evaluating their fees. Considering the market value of our cars depreciates every year, this suggests that many consumers are missing an opportunity to get the best coverage at the best price, as car insurance rates can change daily.

* Finally, by not taking time to evaluate costs or cancel unused services, consumers are paying the price. Some 29% of respondents estimate they’re losing $100 annually, but for high-ticket items like a gym membership, the savings could be in the thousands.

Now that you know the high price you may be paying for the convenience of auto-pay, here are some tips to help you stay in control of your finances.

1. Keep track of your statements. Because money is withdrawn from your account each month, it’s easy to lose track of your spending. Otherwise, if a price hike takes effect or if you end up consuming more services than expected, the consequence can be a higher-than-expected bill. If your bank account lacks the funds to cover it, you’ll end up with an overdraft, which can end up costing you more than any late fee! So when auto-pay takes effect, make sure you review the monthly statements. If you see an additional charge or a price hike take effect, follow up immediately.

2. Research rates at least twice a year. While your service provider may offer excellent service at a great rate, it’s always possible there’s a better deal for you somewhere else. Take time to research and compare the going rates for things like internet service and car insurance — you may be pleasantly surprised. To make sure you follow this step, set up six-month reminders on your phone or calendar and commit yourself to following through. If you end up using the service less often than you planned — or not at all — this reminder can give that much-needed nudge to reevaluate.

3. Take time to fully understand your options. As you know, some service agreements, such as gym memberships and mobile phone contracts, can’t be canceled without penalty — at least, not until you’ve reached a specific end date. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this rule applies to all service agreements. For example, did you know you can switch your car insurance anytime without paying a penalty? It’s true! In fact, once you switch, your old insurer will send you a rebate for the balance, even if time remains on your six- or one-month policy. So go ahead and shop around. If you find a car insurance provider that’s more affordable and provides the coverage you need, you can reap the benefits right away. Just remember, if you do decide to switch, don’t cancel the old policy until the new one is officially in place. Otherwise you might get charged a penalty for the gap in coverage.

How to save on a big bill: Car insurance

Looking for a better price on car insurance? TheZebra.com allows you to see how your current policy stacks up to the rest. The Zebra is the only auto insurance comparison site that shows you all your options side by side, and never sells your data. When you shop around with The Zebra, you can rest assured knowing you won’t get any unwanted calls or emails. Visit www.thezebra.com and see how much you could be saving on car insurance.


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How to prevent the most common summer accidents

2019-08-13T13:01:00

(BPT) – The warm summer months typically mean more people are outdoors participating in their favorite activities. With more daylight hours and celebrations come more accidents and injuries.

Craig Hospital in Denver specializes in the rehabilitation of people who have sustained a spinal cord and/or brain injury. And during the summer, they see an increase in injuries as a result of catastrophic accidents.

Craig’s medical team and former patients offer advice for preventing the most common summer accidents.

Cycling:

Cycling continues to become more popular, for recreation as well as commuting. However, with more bikes on the road — especially during the summer months — the possibility for accidents increases as well. In 2018 alone, nearly 70 percent of the patients at Craig Hospital who had sustained injuries from cycling accidents were admitted between May and September.

Tricia Downing has been an athlete since an early age. After spending a summer as an intern with USA Cycling, she fell in love with the sport and eventually became a competitive cyclist. Out on a training ride with a friend in September of 2000, Tricia was struck by a driver who didn’t see her, leaving her seriously injured. She broke several bones, including her ribs, scapula and vertebrae, which resulted in a spinal cord injury.

Tricia went to Craig Hospital for rehabilitation where she learned to cycle again through the hospital’s therapeutic recreation program. She offers the following advice.

  • Always wear a helmet, and make sure the strap is snug under your chin.
  • Cyclists should always look into a driver’s eyes. If you don’t make eye contact to confirm they see you, don’t go.
  • Be as visible as possible; wear bright colors, have flashing lights — even in the daytime — and make sure you have reflective clothing and gear.

For drivers, Tricia says to avoid distractions while driving, and don’t go forward if you can’t see what you’re driving into due to glare, something obstructing your sightline or a distraction elsewhere in your car.

Water Sports:

Diving is the fourth leading cause of spinal cord injury in men, and fifth for women, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.

Elizabeth “EB” Forst is a self-described “water baby” — she grew up swimming, worked as an aquatic physical therapist and had just acquired an advanced scuba diving certification in 2014 when a diving accident changed her life forever.

While hanging out with friends on a hot summer night, EB dove headfirst from the side of an unmarked, unlit pool, hitting the slope between the shallow and deep end and instantly impacting her neck and shoulder. In a split second, she was paralyzed from the neck down, leaving her a quadriplegic for the rest of her life. She was 36 years old.

At Craig, EB learned to love the water again and has since reengaged in scuba diving adaptively in coordination with the hospital’s therapeutic recreation program and its aquatic recreation partner, A-1 Scuba. With the help of adaptive scuba diving buddies, she has since completed more than 30 dives in places like Mexico and the Cayman Islands. “There is life after a spinal cord injury and getting back in the water was a great way for me to tackle demons,” says EB.

EB offers some important tips on how to avoid water-related accidents:

  • Know your environment — who you’re with, what’s around and any potential risks.
  • Make sure you can see under the water — whether it’s the shallow end of a swimming pool, coral ocean bottom or a murky sand bar.
  • Never dive headfirst into any body of water; lead with your feet to avoid contact with the head, neck or shoulders.
  • Avoid aquatic activities if impaired, as judgment and caution are negatively affected with the use of alcohol and drugs.

“We’d never tell anyone to not go out and enjoy the outdoors or the water, doing the fun things they want to do in the summer,” said Chris Ravotti, CTRS, Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor at Craig. “But there are ways people can avoid and prevent the common accidents that can come with summer activities.”


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An aging family member is struggling with their chronic condition – what can you do?

2019-08-13T09:24:01

(BPT) – As we get older, the ones we love inevitably age too. For many, there comes a time where you are no longer just a son, daughter or family member — you’re a caregiver. Ensuring your aging parent or loved one is able to manage and afford their medical treatments can have an enormous impact on their health and quality of life.

Dan Klein, president and CEO of the Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation, the largest independent charitable organization dedicated to helping people pay their out-of-pocket costs for prescribed treatments, offers five simple ways you can help an aging family member manage their treatment — so you can both live healthier and happier lives.

1. Meet with their doctor or healthcare provider.

Building a relationship with their healthcare provider will help lay the groundwork for future communication and care management. Before attending an appointment, talk to your parent or family member about their needs and concerns, make a list of the medications they are taking and the renewals they may need and determine together what you’d like to accomplish. If drug costs are a financial burden, don’t be shy about asking for samples or if there are less expensive generic equivalents available.

2. Check in with the pharmacist.

Connecting with your parent or family member’s pharmacist is an excellent way to become familiar with their treatment plan and ask questions about potential side effects and interactions of prescribed drugs. Be sure to ask about mail order options offered by some insurance plans and specialty pharmacies, which can save money and time by delivering a three-month supply of medication directly to their home.

3. De-clutter the medicine cabinet.

It is common for those struggling with chronic or multiple illnesses, particularly in old age, to have multiple prescriptions from different healthcare providers, each with complicated regimens that may make it difficult to keep track of what pills to take and when. You can help by ensuring their medicines are organized, accessible and stored appropriately.

Auditing their medicine cabinet is a good place to start. Make note of anything that is running low and order refills where needed. You can visit fda.gov for information on how to appropriately dispose of medications that have expired or are no longer necessary.

A pill organizer box can help keep track of complicated treatment schedules and reduce the risk of missing a dose or doses. Free pill reminder apps, such as Medisafe Pill & Med Reminder, allow you to manage the accounts of multiple family members.

4. Review Medicare or insurance coverage.

Diagnoses and treatments can frequently change and it’s therefore important to ensure your parent or family member’s Medicare or insurance plan still meets their needs. It is worth paying particular attention to their prescription drug plan, which can differ year to year. Online tools, like The National Council on Aging’s Benefits Checkup Tool and Medicare Interactive sponsored by the Medicare Rights Center can help you review benefits and find the best option for them.

They may also be eligible for other Medicare programs — like a Low-Income Subsidy — that can lower out-of-pocket costs.

5. Find out if charitable financial assistance is available.

The PAN Foundation is one of several charities that provides financial assistance for out-of-pocket costs. You can learn more about patient assistance charities at panfoundation.org. You can also download FundFinder, a free app developed by the PAN Foundation that notifies you when assistance becomes available from any of the major charitable patient assistance foundations.