Posted on

5 car seat tips to keep your kids safe

2020-08-25T11:11:00

(BPT) – From the moment your child is born, you do everything in your power to keep them safe. Most parents and caregivers know the importance of car seats for protecting children, but it’s also important to make sure you are choosing and using them correctly. Free online resources can help.

Child Passenger Safety Week (Sept. 20-26) is the perfect time to brush up on these tips to help your family travel safely.

1. Always buckle up

According to the latest 2018 crash data from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 1 in 3 children under 12 killed in car crashes were not using a car seat, booster seat or seat belt at all. For kids between the ages of 8 and 14, nearly half of those killed (45%) weren’t wearing their seat belts. Always remember to check that your kids are buckled up before you start the car, especially as they get older and more independent.

2. Brush up on your car seat skills

Even if you’ve been buckling your child into a car seat for years, it’s a good idea to periodically review the basics, making sure you aren’t skipping any important safety steps. Don’t rush things. Take some time to practice how to properly buckle your child, using the car seat manual as a guide.

3. Consider a virtual car seat check

Certified technicians are available across the country to help you install and use your child’s car seat correctly — often at no cost to you. Many also offer virtual seat checks, allowing you to speak with an expert from your own home. Look up car seat inspection options in your community at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat.

4. Find the right seat for your child

In addition to installing the car seat correctly, it’s also important to make sure your child is in the right seat for their age and size. Check the limits on your child’s car seat or booster seat to know when it’s time to change the seat they are using. For maximum protection in a crash, kids should not move to the next car seat type until they exceed the height or weight limits of their current seat.

5. Get to know your vehicle

Every vehicle is different. Whether you drive a pickup truck, minivan, sedan or SUV can make a difference in how your child’s car seat should be installed. Check your vehicle’s manual for step-by-step guidance.

You can check if your child is in the right car seat, register your car seat, and find more tips and guidance at NHTSA.gov/TheRightSeat.


Posted on

Making Everyday Meals that Connect to Your Hispanic Heritage

2020-08-25T10:01:00

(BPT) – Across the U.S., over half of consumers have reported cooking at home more often during the pandemic and 49% of consumers have reported eating together as a family more often due to COVID-19.1 In turn, Google searches for “online cooking classes” have increased fivefold2 and “cook with me” videos on YouTube have experienced a 100% increase in average daily views.3

While many consumers are just beginning their journey in the kitchen, scratch cooking and traditional home-cooked meals have long been a staple and tradition with Hispanic families.

For Hispanic families, cooking traditional family meals and recipes is often viewed as a labor of love — passed from generation to generation — and a strong way to stay connected to their heritage. These dishes are often cooked from scratch; require long and slow cook times; and call for extensive lists of fresh ingredients, herbs, spices and meats.4

Yet with increasingly busy schedules and limited time to spend in the kitchen, Hispanic families across the nation are confronted with the challenge of building traditional family meals within a limited timeframe. A recent Rumba Meats® survey found that Hispanic consumers have turned to grocery items and solutions that help to get dinner on the table quickly.5 Research also found that, despite their love for their traditional cuisine, younger Hispanics confessed to lacking the time and knowledge to cook complicated traditional meals.1

Recently, convenient fresh meat products, such as pre-sliced and pre-diced, have grown in popularity among Hispanic consumers.5 These proteins are helping consumers cook traditional recipes with fresh ingredients and the timeless flavors they love, while saving time in the kitchen on weekdays when time is tight.

Hispanic consumers are planful shoppers and center their meals around high-quality meat, and as they are planning meals, they are increasingly turning to time-saving recipes. One of the most frequently purchased meats for Hispanic consumers is beef. In a recent survey, nine out of 10 Hispanic consumers reported purchasing beef regularly, and 44% reported purchasing a wide range of non-traditional cuts of beef regularly.5

Rumba Meats has introduced an array of fresh meat products and recipes that help to save time while packing the traditional flavors Hispanic families hold close. Three key solutions including: speed scratch recipes; meal prepping — or setting aside time to cook things that can be enjoyed throughout the week for easy meals; and recipe shortcuts, are ways in which Hispanic families can ease the cooking process while enjoying traditional meals.

“Speed scratch” recipes are great examples of ways to create some beloved, traditional recipes while taking fewer steps to build the recipe. Typically, for example, salsas start with a long list of fresh ingredients when made from scratch. One way to save time is a speed-scratch salsa recipe, which starts with a salsa base that can be purchased at the grocery store and incorporates Roma tomatoes and chopped cilantro for a quick, fresh salsa. With this pre-made base, this salsa requires only two additional ingredients for a salsa that packs fresh flavor and is easily paired with carne picada bowls for a delicious family meal.

Another emerging method is setting aside time on the weekends when schedules are less busy to cook once and use the leftovers to make different meals throughout the week. One example is a slow-cooked beef cheek barbacoa recipe that can be used right away for delicious tacos, and frozen and heated up later to build easy barbacoa quesadillas. An Instant Pot friendly bone broth recipe is also a great make-ahead recipe that can be frozen and later used in a quick menudo.

Lastly, recipe shortcuts have continued to grow in popularity, or ways in which to make a recipe quicker or easier altogether. A great way to build in a recipe shortcut is to use the slow cooker for hands-off, easy cooking. This slow cooker adobado braised beef, for example, can be cooked in the crockpot for a delicious meal that doesn’t require supervision. This recipe in particular enables Hispanic consumers to build on traditional meals that can be shared as a family while away at work or while running errands.

These recipe shortcuts and time-saving tricks, paired with widely available, convenient fresh meat products, enable Hispanic families to cook their favorite recipes that have been passed on for generations without expending hours of preparation and cooking time in the kitchen. On any night of the week, families can carefully plan meals that foster the important connection to their heritage through nourishing, delicious food.

1 https://www.hunterpr.com/foodstudy_coronavirus/

2 https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?q=online%20cooking%20classes&geo=US

3 https://www.theverge.com/2020/3/27/21197642/youtube-with-me-style-videos-views-coronavirus-cook-workout-study-home-beauty

4 Cargill Proprietary Primary Research, August 2019

5 Cargill Proprietary Primary Research, January 2020


Posted on

Don’t let COVID-19 Prevent Your Child’s Annual Doctor Visit

2020-08-25T01:01:00

(BPT) – The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted the way of life in our state, in our country and across the world. In recent months, stay-at-home orders, mask wearing and social distancing measures have created a “new normal,” and all of us have put activities on hold to reduce the spread of the virus. But one activity that you should not put on hold is a child’s annual doctor visit.

As we start preparing for fall, there is no better time than now to schedule a well-child visit and make sure your child’s immunization records are up to date. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “stay-at-home and shelter-in-place orders have resulted in declines in outpatient pediatric visits and fewer vaccine doses being administered, leaving children at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases.”

Well-child visits are essential for tracking growth and developmental milestones, examining social behaviors, and getting scheduled immunizations to prevent illnesses like measles, polio and whooping cough. Just last year, the U.S. had more than 1,250 cases of measles — the greatest number of cases reported in the U.S. since 1992, which is all the more striking when we consider that 20 years ago, measles was declared eliminated from the U.S. because of our success in immunity through vaccination.

And don’t forget about getting a flu shot, recommended annually by the CDC for all children 6 months of age and older. Every year, flu causes serious illness and death. This is especially important this year since it’s still unknown if being sick with COVID-19 and the flu at the same time will result in a more severe illness.

Dr. Donna O’Shea, UnitedHealthcare chief medical officer of population health management, suggests families discuss the following questions and topics with their child’s doctor:

  • Ask what vaccines are appropriate for your child’s age and how to make up any that have been missed.
  • Learn more about vaccines, including what infectious diseases they prevent, the effectiveness of vaccines, and how they are developed and tested.
  • Discuss the common side effects of childhood vaccines, which are typically very mild, such as pain or swelling at the injection site, and can include low-grade fever or rash.
  • Find out what extra steps your clinic is taking to see children safely during COVID-19, such as dedicated or specific hours just for children, the use of masks, and maintaining secure and properly cleaned waiting areas.
  • Be sure to bring home a copy of the immunization record so you can keep track of your child’s tests and shots, and also request a copy for school.

Remember, regular appointments with your pediatrician or family physician can be essential to help maintain your child’s health. To learn more about recommended preventive care for your child, visit CDC and UHC.com.


Posted on

Financial expert reveals top grocery store savings tips

2020-08-25T05:01:00

(BPT) – Now more than ever, parents are struggling to provide for their families during these uncertain and challenging times. A recent survey conducted by the Brookings Institution finds 1 in 5 young children in the U.S. are not getting enough food during this pandemic, and food insecurity is rising at an unprecedented rate.

Fortunately, financial expert and author Tonya Rapley has a few savvy tips to help families tweak their grocery-store routine to reduce spending:

Cut out convenience costs

When shopping for foods such as meat, fruits and vegetables, you pay a premium for pre-cut and specialty items. Although it can seem tempting to grab pre-cut ingredients like chicken breasts to incorporate into family meals, purchasing the whole chicken can offer multiple meal opportunities while reducing costs. Same goes for produce, such as chopped fruit, trimmed veggies and prepacked foods like salads and sandwiches. You’ll save a lot and likely get more food by doing the prep work at home.

Try a flexitarian diet

Meat is often the most expensive item in a family’s shopping cart. By experimenting with a flexitarian diet, you can cut down on grocery spending and instill healthy eating habits in children. By making a meatless meal a couple of times a week, parents can introduce a variety of foods and ingredients to their kids that will expand their taste preferences. You can start simple by skipping meatballs on spaghetti night or using beans instead of meat on taco Tuesday. Then get kids involved in trying new recipes together and expand your meatless dish collection.

Keep your head up, then down when scanning shelves

The most popularly marketed foods are stored at eye level and typically have higher prices than less-known name brands or store-brand alternatives. Your best bet is to look at the higher and lower shelves, as that’s where the most cost-effective products are located. A little effort to look beyond eye level will reward you with a lower grocery bill.

Choose store-brand infant formula

For parents with infants at home, switching to store-brand infant formula can cut costs by up to 50%, resulting in $900 in annual savings. Store-brand infant formulas offer the same complete nutrition and meet the same FDA standards as big-name brands, making them a safe, smart choice for families. Faced with financial stress, some parents may be tempted to make homemade formula or add extra water to stretch formula to save money. These actions can have a harmful effect on baby, so keep an eye out for a store-brand alternative at the grocery store instead to ensure your infant is obtaining the essential nutrients he or she needs to grow and stay healthy.

Learn more at www.storebrandformula.com.

Use coupons and shop the sales

When you enter a store, pick up the weekly flyer if one is available and flip through the coupons and sales. This can help you save money on the items on your list. As you shop, watch for shelf advertisements for sales or bargains like buy one get one free (BOGO). Keep in mind, grocery stores often advertise savings based on multiple purchases. For example, save $3 on two. Unless it specifically states you must buy two to earn the savings, you can still save money when you just buy one item.

Smart grocery shopping can help you save during the pandemic and at any time. Your family will get the food they enjoy, and you get to stay on budget, perhaps with a little extra to put into savings.


Posted on

3 ways to boost eye health amid virtual learning

2020-08-25T07:01:02

(BPT) – Whether students are attending class in person, virtually or a hybrid version of both, there’s one thing everyone has in common: a lot more education will be happening digitally. Screens are a valuable tool in education, but they also can have health implications, including stress on the eyes.

Students of all ages are spending more time on computers, tablets and phone screens in general, but COVID-19 has accelerated this use. In recent months, screen time for kids has increased by 500% as virtual learning was introduced and parents continue to work from home. This is having a direct impact on eye health.

Fortunately, there are simple ways families can support eye health and position students for success no matter what school shapes up to be this year:

Take breaks and set limits

Have a family meeting to get everyone on board for following the 20/20/20 rule. For every 20 minutes you are using a screen you need to take at least 20 seconds to look away at something that is at least 20 feet away. This allows the eyes to rest and refocus, helping to prevent strain. If everyone is working at the same time in the house, you could ring a bell or play a song at these intervals as an eye rest reminder.

In addition to these mini breaks, it’s important to take larger breaks to more thoroughly relieve eyes. This is especially important for children’s eyes that are still growing. For every hour working or playing on a screen, take a 5- to 10-minute break to leave the area and let the eyes rest. Perhaps take a walk or grab a snack before returning to studies.

Wear blue light blocking glasses

The blue light emitted from digital screens can be particularly harsh on eyes, plus it can have a negative impact on sleep patterns. The brain registers blue light as daytime, so it’s especially important to be aware of screen time before bed. Shut off screens at least an hour before bedtime to ensure kids fall to sleep efficiently and get deep, restorative rest.

Beyond limiting evening screen time, you can help filter harsh lights with blue light blocking glasses. These are sometimes called computer glasses because they have no prescription but look like normal glasses. Strive to have students always wear these glasses while using a device. If that’s not possible, research blue light blocking software and apps.

Eat for eye health

What you eat can help support eye health by providing the body essential nutrients to support vision like lutein. Lutein is a powerful antioxidant that plays a key role in shielding eyes from damaging light. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner shares nutritious foods that can help boost eye health amid virtual learning:

Green leafy vegetables like kale or spinach are high in lutein content, as are Eggland’s Best eggs, which contain 38% more lutein compared to ordinary eggs. Lutein found in eggs is also more easily absorbed by the body than leafy greens. Just remember to eat the whole egg since lutein is found in the egg yolk.

In addition to lutein, Eggland’s Best eggs contain a variety of important micronutrients that support immune health. With six times more vitamin D, 10 times more vitamin E, and more than double the omega-3s and vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs, Eggland’s Best eggs are a perfect ingredient to optimize immune health and incorporate into your family’s diet as you prepare for back to school.

Try new recipes that contain these ingredients and others that help support vision wellness. With both a leafy vegetable and nutrient-rich Eggland’s Best eggs, this is a delicious option you can try at home:

Spinach, Brie and Bacon Mini Quiche

Ingredients

5 Eggland’s Best eggs

1/4 cup fat-free half & half

1/4 cup skim milk

1/2 cup brie cheese, shredded

1/4 small onion, shredded

1 cup fresh spinach leaves, washed & diced

4 slices turkey bacon, cooked & crumbled

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 refrigerated pie crusts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F; spray a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray and set aside.

In a medium-size bowl, whisk eggs together with milk, half & half, salt & pepper; set aside.

In a small skillet over medium heat, cook turkey bacon slices until crispy; drain, cool, and dice or crumble into small pieces and set aside.

Wash spinach well and pat dry; chop into small pieces and set aside.

Using a handheld grater, grate onion and brie cheese.

Add spinach, bacon, onion and brie to egg mixture and blend well.

Roll out refrigerated pie crust and cut in 3 inch circles; line muffin tins with pie crust.

Spoon egg mixture into each muffin cup, filling 3/4 full; place in oven and cook for 25 minutes or until eggs are set.

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Note: You may have extra egg mixture depending on how high the muffin tins are filled. Repeat steps above to create more quiches to finish off egg mixture.


Posted on

5 common home pests and how to eliminate them

2020-08-24T10:45:00

(BPT) – Who’s enjoying your home the most, you or your household pests? Consider this: If you’ve seen just one pest, there could be hundreds that have been living in or around your home for at least a year.

With more time spent at home and the summer heat often sending pests on a quest for cooler environments, now is the best time for pest control before these invaders make your house a home for the winter.

Use this guide from the experts at Aptive Environmental to identify and eliminate the five most common house pests so your family can get back to being the only ones enjoying your home:

1. Ants

One of the most common home invaders, ants are one of the hardest to get rid of without professional help since most consumer products don’t permanently eliminate them. While ants are mostly a nuisance, one thing’s for sure — nobody wants a kitchen full of ants after their food, even if they seem harmless. Some ants do bite, such as fire ants, and often ruin your landscaping by leaving large, unsightly mounds of dirt in the yard. If you see ants inside, on the sidewalk or an ant hill near your home, you may have hundreds, if not thousands, of ants inside searching for food — in other words, your food.

2. Spiders

Spiders are found in nearly every environment, though many prefer dark, damp areas. Most spider bites may only cause irritation and swelling, but others pose serious health risks such as the infamous Black Widow and Brown Recluse spider. Keep an eye out for unsightly webs that can be seen on the outside of your home, in corners or around light fixtures, as these invaders may point to other pests who may also be enjoying the comfort of your home.

3. Wasps

Wasps also build unsightly nests under your eaves or around windows. Even if they don’t get inside, wasps can pose a hazard outside to your family with their painful bite or sting.

4. Rodents

Rats and mice chew through almost anything, making it easy to invade your home — and they can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Rodents chewing through electrical wiring cause up to 25% of house fires each year. They can also transmit dangerous diseases and leave 40-100 unsightly droppings per day throughout your home. And as if that weren’t enough, they may also bring fleas, mites, ticks and lice with them. Keep an eye out for: Droppings, holes, rub marks along the walls or baseboards and even nibbles on your food.

5. Cockroaches

Typically found in kitchens and bathrooms where they have access to food and water, cockroaches are one of the world’s most common house bugs. Even if your home appears clean, they can still find human or pet food to feast on, and they have excellent hiding skills. Cockroaches can cause major health issues, such as allergy and asthma, and contaminate your food. They spread 33 kinds of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella, 6 types of parasitic worms and 7 kinds of human pathogens. And, they are one of the most difficult pests to eliminate without professional help.

How can you get rid of pests?

If you suspect you have pests in your home, it’s crucial to treat the situation as soon as possible. Here are some approaches to prevent and control common household pests:

Walk around your home and seal entry points. Look for entry points or cracks in exterior walls or door frames where pests could enter. Re-caulk, re-screen or repaint these areas.

Keep your yard tidy. Leaf litter in window sills, plus mulch, wood, plants or tree branches against your home create areas where pests may make a home — or find their way into yours. Areas “left to nature” are where nature will live, so tidying your yard can discourage pests.

Keep your house clean. Vacuum and clean to eliminate crumbs in the kitchen and other living areas. Make sure food is sealed securely in cupboards.

Hire professional pest control. Treating pest problems yourself can often just reroute them — pests are simply trying to survive. Aptive’s team of pest control experts are not only equipped to effectively eliminate existing problems through solutions customized to your home, but also spot potential concerns in advance.

Service begins with a thorough interior and exterior inspection by a certified specialist. Risk areas are identified, then treated using responsibly sourced products that are both family- and pet-friendly. After the first visit, the specialist will return the following month to rid the exterior of any surviving pests and will continue treating the home on a quarterly basis with a customized protection plan designed to keep your home and property pest-free year-round.

To learn more and identify other common pests, visit the Aptive Learning Center.


Posted on

COVID-19 Impacts Treatment Access for Many with Serious Mental Illness — The Mental Health Ecosystem has Responded

2020-08-24T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Alkermes, Inc.

COVID-19 presented new challenges that have taken a toll on our nation’s collective mental health. In fact, nearly half of U.S. adults report that their mental health has been negatively impacted during the pandemic. As the pandemic wears on, the mental health burden will likely increase as measures to slow the spread of the virus—such as social distancing and ongoing closures—can lead to greater isolation and distress.1

As the COVID-19 crisis continues, we can expect the impact on those living with a serious mental illness (SMI), such as schizophrenia, to be amplified.2 During this public health emergency, when access to care and in-person visits have been disrupted, those with SMI are navigating many new obstacles.3

In response to these challenges, the mental health ecosystem has been forced to respond rapidly in innovative and necessary ways in order to help ensure that people living with SMIs continue to get the services, support and care they need. Examples include:

  • Increased adoption of telepsychiatry platforms: Telepsych applies telemedicine to psychiatry4 and allows people to still see their psychiatrist or psychologist, engage in therapy/counseling and maintain their treatment regimen while complying with social distancing guidelines and reducing risk of in-person exposure.3,5 For those without access to video software, audio-only contact is also available and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will now reimburse for some phone-only sessions.3 After many years of slow growth, adoption of telemedicine has grown rapidly across the country in a few short weeks. If the practice of telemedicine extends after the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, it has the potential to continue to help patients, including those in rural communities.5,6
  • Adjustments to treatment options: In light of the pandemic, new restrictions have made it challenging for people to see their healthcare providers in person as often as they may have in the past, so people may want to consider talking to their doctor about their current treatment regimen and whether other treatment options may be appropriate during this time.3 Different treatment options, such as long-acting injectables (LAIs), were recently recommended in guidance from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services administration (SAMHSA) for their potential role in supporting continuity of care.7 At a time when in-person visits are limited, LAIs may be an option.8
  • Expanded patient access and support services: Recognizing the importance of helping patients stay engaged in treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic, the healthcare industry was asked to explore measures that may help ensure patients continue to have access to medications.9 Patients who use LAIs, for example, may now be able to get their injections at pharmacies8 or clinics in their community. The expansion of these types of services could help ensure that treatment continues to be accessible during this crisis.8 In addition, federal guidelines have eased some requirements on in-person visits for medication prescribing10 and some insurers may waive required timeframe between medication refills.9 Please make sure to consult with your healthcare provider and your individual insurer for information about refill frequency. Those who may be struggling to pay for their medications as a result of COVID-19 and its economic impacts may have access to support services to help with the cost of prescriptions.11

The mental health care ecosystem must continue to provide support and strive to find innovative ways to ensure safe delivery of services to those with chronic conditions, including SMIs.12 If you or a loved one suffers from SMI, consider consulting a healthcare provider to determine if these new services and treatment options may meet your needs during this time of social distancing. For additional peer support, groups like the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA) host online discussion groups which are open to individuals with SMI and their loved ones.

This is intended as informational only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical and/or mental health condition.

References:

1 Kirzinger, A., Hamel, L., Muñana, C., Kearney, A., & Brodie, M. (2020, April 24). KFF Health Tracking Poll – Late April 2020: Coronavirus, Social Distancing, and Contact Tracing. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/issue-brief/kff-health-tracking-poll-late-april-2020/

2 Kozloff, N., Mulsant, B. H., Stergiopoulos, V., & Voineskos, A. N. (2020, April 28). The COVID-19 Global Pandemic: Implications for People With Schizophrenia and Related Disorders. Schizophrenia bulletin, sbaa051. doi:10.1093/schbul/sbaa051

3 American Psychological Association (2020, May 1). Serious mental illness and COVID-19: How to help your patients right now.Retrieved from https://www.apaservices.org/practice/legal/technology/serious-mental-illness-covid-19

4 American Psychiatric Association (2017, January). What is Telepsychiatry? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-telepsychiatry

5 Weigel G., Ramaswamy A., Sobel L., Salganicoff A., Cubanski J., & Freed M. (2020, May 11). Opportunities and Barriers for Telemedicine in the U.S. During the COVID-19 Emergency and Beyond. Retrieved from https://www.kff.org/womens-health-policy/issue-brief/opportunities-and-barriers-for-telemedicine-in-the-u-s-during-the-covid-19-emergency-and-beyond/

6 Kelly A Hirko, PhD, Jean M Kerver, PhD, Sabrina Ford, PhD, Chelsea Szafranski, MHA, John Beckett, MD, Chris Kitchen, RRT, Andrea L Wendling, MD (2020, June 26). Telehealth in Response to the Covid-19 Pandemic: Implications for Rural Health Disparities, Journal of the American Medical Informatics Association, , ocaa156, https://doi.org/10.1093/jamia/ocaa156

7 Anzia D., Fochtmann L., Keepers G., et al.(2019, Dec). The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for The Treatment Of Patients With Schizophrenia. American Psychiatry Association. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/File%20Library/Psychiatrists/Practice/Clinical%20Practice%20Guidelines/APA-Draft-Schizophrenia-Treatment-Guideline-Dec2019.pdf

8 SMI Advisor. What are clinical considerations for giving LAIs during the COVID-19 public health emergency? (2020, March 25). Retrieved from https://smiadviser.org/knowledge_post/what-are-clinical-considerations-for-giving-lais-during-the-covid-19-public-health-emergency

9 Alexander GC, Qato DM. Ensuring Access to Medications in the US During the COVID-19 Pandemic. JAMA. 2020;324(1):31–32. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.6016

10 SMI Advisor. How has the U.S. public sector behavioral health system been changing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic? What will the “new normal” look like for the treatment of SMI? (2020, May 29). Retrieved from https://smiadviser.org/knowledge_post/how-has-the-u-s-public-sector-behavioral-health-system-been-changing-in-response-to-the-covid-19-pandemic-what-will-the-new-normal-look-like-for-the-treatment-of-smi

11 Mental Health America. Medication Access During COVID-19 (2020). Retrieved from https://mhanational.org/medication-access-during-covid-19

12 Druss BG. (2020, April 3). Addressing the COVID-19 Pandemic in Populations With Serious Mental Illness. JAMA Psychiatry. Retrieved from: doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.0894

ALKERMES® is a registered trademark of Alkermes, Inc. ©2020 Alkermes, Inc. All rights reserved. UNB-003074


Posted on

Heart attacks and strokes don’t stop during a pandemic

2020-08-24T11:36:56

(BPT) – During the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors across the nation are reporting a sharp decline in patients coming to the hospital for heart attacks and strokes. These conditions don’t stop during a pandemic, and the decline has doctors worried that many people experiencing symptoms may not be seeking treatment, or that they are seeking treatment only after their condition has worsened. Delaying care could pose a significant threat to your health.

“Heart attacks and strokes required emergency care before the COVID-19 pandemic, and they continue to require emergency care now,” said Dr. Sean D. Pokorney, MBA, assistant professor of medicine in the division of cardiology at Duke University School of Medicine. “If you are experiencing symptoms, contact your doctor or call 911 now, as you may need immediate care to save your life.”

Contact your doctor for these heart attack and stroke symptoms

You may be having a heart attack if you have symptoms such as:

  • chest pain
  • difficulty breathing
  • discomfort in your chest, arms, back, neck, shoulder or jaw

You may be having a stroke if you are experiencing:

  • numbness, weakness or loss of movement in your face, leg or arm, especially on one side
  • loss of balance
  • confusion, including trouble speaking or understanding

Health experts urge you to contact your doctor or call 911 if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.

Hospitals have safety measures in place to protect you

Patients may be understandably nervous about going to a hospital during COVID-19, but hospitals have implemented many safety measures to protect you from the coronavirus. These facilities are ready now to safely care for you if you are experiencing serious health issues.

“Hospitals are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of patients who need critical care,” said Pokorney. “With all of these measures, going to the hospital is probably at least as safe as going to the grocery store. Certainly the consequences of not seeking timely care for heart attacks and strokes are far greater than the risk of COVID-19 exposure in the hospital.”

Facilities have implemented routine screening procedures to evaluate if any visitors entering the facility might have a risk of COVID-19 exposure, even before they step foot inside the building. Many facilities are separating COVID-19 patients into separate wards or buildings to ensure other patients are protected and not exposed. Routinely checking temperatures, masks and protective equipment for healthcare workers and other staff are some of the other measures that help to ensure a safe environment.

Waiting now can cause complications later

Delaying treatment for a heart attack or stroke can have serious consequences, causing a bad condition to worsen and making recovery more difficult. For some patients, postponing care can be the difference between life and death.

“I’ve talked to patients who are experiencing symptoms of a heart attack or warning signs for sudden cardiac death and some are choosing to take their chances at home,” explained Pokorney. “The unfortunate result is that those patients may die at home or have worse long-term outcomes from the delays in care — and that’s avoidable.”

The recovery period after a heart attack may also require critical care. “A heart attack is a potential risk factor for sudden cardiac arrest, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating,” said Mary Newman, executive director of the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Foundation. “If you’ve had a heart attack, your doctor can help to determine if you are at risk and can discuss treatment options to keep you safe. But they can only help if you follow up on your symptoms.”

If you are having symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, getting care quickly is critical to your treatment and recovery. When you seek help immediately, the care you receive is more likely to be lifesaving, you can likely get better more quickly, and you can limit the damage to your heart and your overall health.


Posted on

Social distancing brings us closer to a virtual universe

2020-08-24T11:33:00

(BPT) – It’s unlikely anyone could have predicted all the effects of social distancing on our lives — especially our social lives, friendships and relationships. One thing is certain, however. Human beings crave connection, so people worldwide who have been forced to limit their social activity are turning to technology to recreate that feeling of social connection everyone needs.

What’s missing from social media and communication apps

We’ve been sheltering in place for long enough that social media and video chats are no longer satisfying the human need for real connection. Despite many attempts to connect online, from casual get-togethers to in-depth conversations, you probably know how unsatisfying it can be. You can see the person on a video chat, you can talk to them in messages, and you can keep up with their daily lives in photos — all of the same ways you’ve connected with them before. But access to your friends isn’t the issue — what’s missing is feeling like you’re with them.

But what are the alternatives?

Welcome to the metaverse

Escaping through virtual worlds — otherwise known as metaverses — has a very strong appeal right now. The ideal of a metaverse is a virtual domain that is free of physical constraints and societal status, filled with endless possibilities limited only by our imagination. The metaverse enables you to navigate virtual worlds with your avatar, which empowers your real-life self to explore and get closer to the sensation of “being there.” You experience your avatar ride a Ferris wheel and feel the physical sensation of the drop on a roller coaster, and then look over and realize you are not alone because another avatar is sharing that experience with you. In a metaverse, it’s called “presence” — the feeling of being next to someone as if you’re physically together.

Presence within a metaverse is just the beginning, but add conversation and shared experiences to that and you get closer to the connection you’re missing in traditional forms of social media — connection that, at its best, becomes friendship. IMVU, the largest avatar social platform with over seven million monthly active users, is leading the development of this friendship-focused metaverse. On IMVU, people have found community, fun, friendship and more in a non-competitive environment.

When you enter the platform, the fun starts in creating an avatar, which is an idealized version of yourself. You can get really creative when choosing your appearance, and you can alter it as often as you change your moods. Then you explore IMVU’s 40,000+ unique chat rooms to find a place to hang out, an adventure to explore or your ideal escape for the day. Maybe you say hello and strike up a conversation with other avatars in the room from around the world. Someone shares a personal story that you can relate to, which triggers an emotional response of empathy — and then you’re hooked. You feel it.

“I can see the reaction from my avatar friend when I say something witty,” explains Daren Tsui, IMVU CEO. “I feel the elation of a high five, and I sense the warmth of a hug.”

Over one million people are daily active users on IMVU. As you engage with old and new friends on the platform, you share experiences like going to the park or hanging out at a coffee shop. As you bond over conversations and interactions, you’re much more likely to make truly meaningful connections, leading to genuine friendships or even romantic relationships. This process of friendship formation is backed by science and makes intuitive sense. After all, this is what people would normally do with friends in real life — hang out and talk, dance and shop together. IMVU is such an effective friendship platform that many regular users have become friends or even married IRL (in real life).

The metaverse in the time of coronavirus

Not surprisingly, virtual worlds have seen a huge uptick since the global pandemic began. For example, daily registration on IMVU’s desktop, web and mobile platforms combined is up 76 percent.

When you miss going out to a club or bar, restaurant or coffee shop to hang out with friends or meet new people, IMVU is the next best thing — and for some, it’s even better. You can meet people from around the world — beyond the limits of physical location. If you’re a little shy or uncomfortable in social settings, your avatar gives you a sense of protection and anonymity, letting you experiment with socializing in a way you can’t in real life. You’ll feel bolder about approaching someone, starting a conversation — or even asking them to dance. Fortunately, your avatar’s dance moves are pre-programmed, so don’t be afraid to get out there!

Virtual creative expression

Beyond the potential for social experimentation and connection, you also have an outlet for your creative impulses in the metaverse. You can have fun customizing your own avatar as well as designing destinations to hang out in and experiences to share with friends. Many IMVU users have even created virtual products like furniture, art and fashion that other users can buy — and for real money. This collaborative economy is yet another way people can meet new friends as they work together to build something special.

So next time you’re wondering how to meet your social and creative needs while maintaining safe social distancing, look no further than your phone, tablet or computer.

Explore all the virtual possibilities at IMVU.com.


Posted on

Have pets, will travel? Check out these pro tips on traveling with your furry friends

2020-08-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – There’s nothing like hitting the open road with your best friend, especially when they happen to have a furry face, four legs and a tail. While dogs and cats love being around their favorite humans 24-7, travel can be stressful for pets, especially if they’re out of their routine and staying overnight in an unfamiliar place.

Before you pack, check out these useful tips from Dr. Rhonda Phillips, a longtime veterinarian and founding board member of Patriot PAWS Service Dogs, an organization committed to training and providing service dogs to American veterans at no cost.

Be health conscious: Social distancing also applies to pets! Humans may be able to transmit COVID-19 to pets through close direct contact, though most cats and dogs are non-symptomatic and cannot transmit it to humans or other animals. Limit non-family members from getting close to your pet’s face, and instead have them show their love from six feet away. For more information, review the CDC’s guidelines.

Keep pets contained: When traveling by car, dogs need to be harnessed or leashed while cats need to be in a carrier to provide accident protection and keep them from jumping out. When staying in a pet-friendly hotel, bring a collapsible kennel or carrier to prevent pets from running out the door if a housekeeper walks in. This also ensures the safety of the housekeeping staff when you’re not around.

Scope out pet-friendly stops: Do your research before you leave to find pet-friendly pit stops on your route. Pets need regular bathroom breaks and an opportunity to stretch their legs, just like humans. Confirm that any hotels you book are pet-friendly ahead of time to avoid surprises like extra fees. Motel 6 is one of the few economy hotel brands where pets can stay free!

Beat the heat: Never leave your pet in the car, even with the windows cracked! The temperature in your vehicle can rise almost 20 degrees in 10 minutes, and can continue to rise the longer you are away, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Heat strokes can be fatal to animals within minutes when there is no air movement inside. If heading to the beach, know that sunburns can occur in dogs with light or white-colored fur. Just as it is with humans, these sunburns can lead to cancer, so take special care.

Don’t pack light: Bring your pet’s own food, water (if possible) and toys when traveling, as the familiarity can help ease anxiety. Travel with an assortment of entertainment to keep your pet’s mind busy. Catnip toys for cats, and tug toys, ice cubes or a frozen Kong with peanut butter inside for dogs are good ways to keep them from feeling bored or isolated during your trip. Additionally, make sure to pack a pet emergency kit filled with an adequate supply of any of your furry friend’s medications, light bandage material, roll gauze, medical tape, topical triple antibiotic ointment and eye wash to be safe.

Have a check-in with your vet: If your travels take you and your pet across state lines, talk to your vet before you leave. Some states require a health certificate if you’re visiting for more than 10 days. It’s also a good idea to give them a call if your pet is prone to anxiety or nausea during travel so you can be prepared to offer relief to your four-legged friend when they need it. You can easily search for veterinarians across the nation using the American Animal Hospital Association website.

When you’re booking a place to stay during your travels, pets stay free at Motel 6, which has more than 1,400 properties across the U.S. That’s because they understand pets are a part of the family. Just keep in mind, the pet limit is two per room. To learn more and book your stay, visit motel6.com.