Month: July 2023

2023-07-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – Technology jobs continue to evolve, offering career opportunities as well as job security. Traditionally these jobs have been filled by men, but industry leaders and educational experts are calling for change. One strategy that is gaining momentum is engaging girls at a younger age.

Women in tech: The current landscape

There is a sizable gap with women and minorities in tech careers. While women make up approximately half of the U.S. workforce, they are critically underrepresented in the technology sector, making up only 28% of the industry. These numbers are even lower for women of color seeking opportunities in the field, with only 3% of computing-related jobs being filled by African American women, 6% by Asian women and 2% by Hispanic women.

Closing the gap

While hiring initiatives and higher education outreach are fundamental efforts to promote change, some experts believe closing the gap depends on reaching girls while they are still young, ensuring they stay informed, engaged and inspired.

“All girls need to see that women have an important role in the future of technology. Learning about STEM, experiencing activities and seeing women represented in these careers will help fuel the next generation of female technology professionals,” said Dr. La’Quata Sumter, professor at DeVry University’s College of Engineering and Information Sciences.

Sumter knows hands-on experiences matter for younger students. She is also the founder and CEO of Focusing on Me, Inc., which sponsors an initiative that provides teachers and facilitators with the tools and resources to teach drone technology to their students.

Group efforts inspire change

Efforts like Sumter’s are important in reaching girls and ensuring today’s youth is prepared for the careers of tomorrow. More organizations are recognizing the importance of exposing girls to science, technology, engineering, and math — commonly called STEM — and adopting social responsibility programs to make a difference.

One initiative gaining worthwhile attention is HerWorld by DeVry University. The program introduces middle school girls to STEM by building their digital fluency and technology confidence while also encouraging curiosity in tech careers. HerWorld engages young women in underrepresented school districts by sharing stories about the types of careers they could have with technology and to give them hands-on interaction with different types of technology.

Empowering girls during the summer

Even while school is out, it’s important to keep girls engaged in STEM. The summer months can be the ideal time to explore new hobbies and activities that promote curiosity and competency in technology.

Families with young girls should look to their local communities and organizations that have summer programs to keep girls engaged in STEM. One option is Girls Inc., which provides year-round after-school programming, weekend activities, and experiences that expand upon and support girls’ STEM learning.

“Ensuring kids have tech fluency and confidence is more crucial than ever. Girls are able to identify STEM concepts in everyday life and are introduced to women pursuing STEM careers, which makes it more relatable and their goals more feasible,” said LaKesha Jackson, STEM Coordinator for Girls Inc., of Greater Atlanta.

Sumter agrees. “The need to prepare today’s youth for the careers of tomorrow has never been more crucial. By opening the conversation and providing opportunities to young girls, the future will be brighter for everyone,” she added.

2023-07-03T12:15:00

(BPT) – It’s vital to stay active as you age, but how can you keep working toward your fitness goals during the sweltering summer heat? Exercising outdoors as the temps — and humidity — climb may be not only uncomfortable but can risk conditions like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. If you’re beginning any exercise program, it’s also best to check with your healthcare provider first.

Before heading out for a brisk power walk or a lively game of pickleball this summer, Andi Kwapien, a SilverSneakers National Trainer who will be teaching SilverSneakers classes from this year’s National Senior Games, offers tips that hold true whether you’re a competitive athlete or just staying active for your overall health.

1. Be informed

When planning outdoor activities, make sure to check the weather. Your local news station or the National Weather Service can help you decide if it’s a good day to spend outside. Check not only the temperature and humidity but also the air quality where you live. If there are signs it could be hazardous for you to spend much time in the great outdoors, consider an indoor alternative.

2. Pace yourself

Fitness experts advise warming up and cooling down before and after a workout. Start at a slower pace at first, then cool down gradually a few minutes before you end your session, followed by gentle stretching. Choose activities that are easy to do anywhere and that you can adjust to your own pace, such as walking, or that require less strenuous exertion and strength while keeping you active and cool, such as water exercises.

Know your limits and listen to your body’s signals. According to the Mayo Clinic, it can take time for your body to get used to the heat, so start nice and easy, and lower your expectations for how long and hard you exercise. Take breaks, especially if you feel overheated, lightheaded or out of breath.

3. Try an organized exercise program

Getting involved in a fitness program provides many benefits, including expert advice and instruction, plus opportunities to enjoy the social and mental health benefits of fitness.

For example, SilverSneakers^® by Tivity Health^® is a health and fitness program for adults 65+ and is included for free in many Medicare Advantage plans. It includes live, online fitness classes, on-demand videos and access to a network of up to 22,000 fitness locations nationwide, including community fitness locations.

SilverSneakers is sponsoring the 2023 National Senior Games presented by Humana from July 7-18, 2023, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to cheer on the more than 11,500 seniors competing. SilverSneakers has 18 million eligible members nationwide, and supports physical activity for all fitness levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. As part of the National Senior Games, SilverSneakers will offer on-site workouts and special events from the games through SilverSneakers LIVE and will be the presenting sponsor of Pickleball and Power Walk events.

As a member, you can access multiple locations, and use the SilverSneakers GO mobile app to be active wherever and whenever you choose to work out. Learn more at SilverSneakersLetsGo.com.

4. Stay hydrated

Always keep water or beverages containing electrolytes (like sports drinks) nearby anytime you’re working out, especially out in the heat. Take sips often, even before you feel thirsty, to help you regulate your temperature and replace moisture lost through sweating. The American Heart Association recommends drinking before, during and after your workout to help prevent health problems that could be exacerbated by dehydration.

5. Prepare for heat and sun

The Mayo Clinic also recommends taking other precautions outdoors in the summer, like wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and avoiding exertion during the hottest time of day (from around noon through 3 p.m.) To avoid too much sun exposure, stay in the shade when possible, wear a wide-brimmed hat and apply sunscreen. You may need to reapply it after swimming or sweating.

Using these tips should help you stay active even when it’s hot outside. Commonsense measures can help you enjoy your favorite activities, no matter what the weather.

2023-07-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – While summertime is wonderful for kids — full of playtime and new experiences — it can be challenging for parents to maintain healthy routines for them. Between schedule disruptions and longer days, helping kids stick to important habits for their well-being — like sleep and personal hygiene — can be tough. But with a few simple choices, parents and caregivers can reinforce positive routines, even during the summer.

Here are some tips to help your children focus on healthier habits this summer.

1. Make sure they get their zzz’s

Even when kids don’t have school, frequent changes in waking and sleeping schedules can be disruptive for children, who need a good night’s sleep to function well. No matter what’s happening during the summer, try to keep the same sleeping and waking times — even on weekends — so everyone gets their essential restorative sleep. The CDC recommends kids aged 6-12 get 9-12 hours of sleep per night, and teens aged 13-18 need 8-10 hours.

Create a simple bedtime routine appropriate for your kids’ ages (brushing teeth, reading a story, taking a bath) and stick to it every night.

2. Snack smarter and stay hydrated

Making sure kids eat well can also be challenging during the summer. Fortunately, it’s also the best time of year to boost servings of fruits and veggies. Visit pick-your-own orchards, farmers markets or even grow some produce so kids can learn more about healthy foods — and taste them when they’re at their peak freshness and flavor.

Make the foods you want them to eat accessible. For example, keep bowls of fruit or other healthy snacks on the counter, and store pre-cut fruits and veggies in easy-to-open, see-through containers at your kids’ eye level in the fridge, so they’re the first things they notice when hunting for snacks.

It’s also crucial to stay hydrated. Give your kids sturdy water bottles filled with fresh, cold water (and ice!) to take along, wherever they’re headed. When temps are hot and kids are active, encourage them to take frequent water breaks, even before they feel thirsty. It can be all too easy to get involved in playing and forget to hydrate.

3. Encourage consistent oral hygiene

Oral hygiene is vital, and according to the Mayo Clinic is a window to a person’s overall health. At minimum, kids should be flossing and brushing at least twice daily to help ensure they are taking good care of their teeth and gums. For extra protection for children six and older, they should also use dentist-formulated TheraBreath for Kids, a new great-tasting anti-cavity oral rinse in three certified-organic flavors: Grapes Galore, Strawberry Splash and Wacky Watermelon. With no dyes or added colors, these vegan and gluten-free mouthwashes are powered by fluoride to strengthen children’s teeth and enamel, help them fight cavities and prevent tooth decay.

“It can be challenging to ensure children maintain good oral health habits, and many parents struggle to find products that are healthy and safe,” said Dr. Harold Katz, dentist and founder of the TheraBreath brand. “Combining the expertise of a dentist and the care of a parent, we’re proud to introduce the new TheraBreath for Kids, for parents looking for safe and effective oral care products for their children.”

4. Stay active

The CDC recommends children have 60 minutes of physical activity each day, so be sure to provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor play. Kids feeling bored? Set up lawn games like badminton or bean bag toss — or create an obstacle course or scavenger hunt. Hot outside? Run through the sprinkler, visit a pool or head to the beach. Make sure to keep sunscreen handy to minimize exposure to UV rays.

Joining your kids in active play can be especially fun and motivating. When did you last go on a family hike or bike ride? Or consider playing tourist by visiting area parks or outdoor attractions together.

5. Keep their brains healthy, too

You can help prevent the “summer slide” in learning by keeping children engaged in reading throughout the summer. Participating in local library programs, reading to and with your child, providing age-appropriate books and incentives for reading every day can help keep their minds active when they’re out of school.

Even though kids are on summer vacation, that doesn’t mean all their healthy habits have to go out the window. Keep the most important habits for optimal well-being as part of your family’s routine, all summer long.

2023-06-30T22:59:00

(BPT) – At age 22, Gail Devers was living her dream. She was a senior in college, already an American record holder in the 100-meter hurdles and on her way to competing at her first Olympic Games in Seoul, Korea. Then suddenly, it became evident something was off. Within a couple of months, Gail went from posting her personal best to running slower than ever before, causing her to miss the Olympic finals. Soon, Gail had lost nearly 40 pounds, her skin was flakey, her hair was thinning and she was suffering from pain in her eyes, too.

Eager for answers, Gail met with a multitude of doctors, all who said: nothing was wrong, she was stressed, she’d peaked too early with her training, or worst of all, she was imagining things. With no answer in sight and her track career on hold, Gail’s physical health began to take an emotional toll. She stopped leaving her house, covered up all the mirrors and just wanted to black out the world. Her body and eyes had changed so much to where she didn’t recognize the person staring back at her. But even in the toughest moments, Gail was determined to find answers and come back even stronger.

Nearly three years later, Gail was finally diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune condition where the thyroid becomes overactive and produces more thyroid hormones than necessary, also known as hyperthyroidism. “The diagnosis was both a relief and a turning point, as I had the motivation to take the next step in my health journey,” Gail said. “I still had my goals and dreams, and as someone who knows hurdles, I decided this was just another one I had to figure out how to get over.”

With Graves’ disease finally under control and with a lot of grit, determination and support from coaches, family and friends, Gail qualified for the Barcelona Olympic Games, where she won her first of three Olympic gold medals. Yet, Gail continued to suffer from her eye symptoms. Gail’s eyes were bulging, irritated and dry, and she couldn’t close them fully when she slept.

For decades, Gail learned to live with her eye symptoms. “It got so bad, there were times I couldn’t even see the hurdles in front of me,” Gail added.

It would take 30 years before Gail was finally diagnosed with Thyroid Eye Disease, also known as TED; a separate but related condition to Graves’ disease, that requires separate care and treatment. “In all that time, not a single doctor mentioned that I was at risk for another condition or that my eye symptoms were separate from Graves’,” said Gail.

Now, Gail manages her eye symptoms with a team of doctors — a TED Eye Specialist, an ophthalmologist with special training in diagnosing and treating TED, and an endocrinologist who continues to manage her Graves’ disease.

It’s Not Too Late

As a mentor to the next generation of athletes and an impassioned health advocate, Gail is determined to pass along her knowledge to help others. “Whether you’ve been living with Graves’ disease for a long time like me, or were recently diagnosed, it’s not too late to know your risk for TED, learn the signs and symptoms, and take action if necessary.”

Signs and Symptoms of TED

• Dry or gritty feeling in your eyes
• Feeling like something’s stuck in your eyes
• Watery, teary eyes
• Redness
• Eye pain and pressure behind your eyes
• Bulging eyes and/or swollen eyelids
• Eyelid retraction (pulled back eyelids)
• Misaligned eyes (eyes point in different directions)
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry and/or double vision
• Loss of vision/color vision (occurs in a small number of patients)

For people living with a thyroid condition

• Know you’re at an increased risk of developing TED
• If you notice any changes in your eyes, write them down and bring those notes to your appointments
• Make an appointment with a TED Eye Specialist at the first signs of any changes in your eye symptoms and request a comprehensive eye exam. Find a TED Eye Specialist near you at TEDdoctors.com.