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Caring for older adults during extreme weather

2024-09-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – Over the past 20 years, the world has witnessed a staggering rise in extreme weather events. According to a 2020 report from the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction the dramatic increase is largely fueled by rising global temperatures and other climatic changes. These weather trends pose a serious threat to populations worldwide, but especially to vulnerable groups like older adults.

During heat waves, floods, fires, hurricanes, droughts and cold spells, older adults are at significant risk for respiratory, cardiovascular and psychological harm due to existing health conditions like compromised immune systems, dementia and limited mobility.

This problem will only be exacerbated by the “silver tsunami” of Baby Boomers. By 2030, one-fifth of the country’s population will be over age 65, with the fastest-growing segment being ethnic minorities.

“Anyone caring for vulnerable older adults must be knowledgeable about the health effects of climate change events,” said Dr. Ann Kriebel-Gasparro, a Walden University nursing faculty member and president of the Gerontological Advanced Practice Nurses Association.

Heat waves and droughts

Heat waves, heat domes and droughts can lead to poor air quality that worsens lung conditions in elderly patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and allergies. Also, hotter climates increase the risk of dehydration, stressing the cardiovascular and renal systems and leading to kidney failure.

Older people tend to have decreased thirst perception and may take medications that put them at risk for dehydration and heat-related illnesses on normal temperature days. During high-heat days, they may experience a medical emergency like heat stroke, characterized by a temperature of 104° F, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, confusion, blurry vision and falling.

Wildfires

Wildfires pose another significant threat to older adults, particularly those in low-income areas with limited resources to evacuate or relocate to new housing. If they have to stay in an area with an active wildfire, the smoke can contribute to respiratory challenges. In the aftermath, ash that contains hydrocarbons and heavy metals pollutes the water and land, making the area practically unlivable.

Mold

Longer rainy seasons and increased flooding foster the growth of indoor and outdoor molds and fungi. Mold doesn’t just smell unpleasant. It can exacerbate allergies, asthma, emphysema and COPD, increasing the need for emergency services and hospitalizations.

Improving care through education

No one on their own can stop climate change. However, practical steps can be taken to assess and tend to older adults in the face of health threats during extreme weather.

Anyone caring for an elderly person should review medications for ones that can worsen the impact of extreme temperatures and take time to evaluate their living conditions. Older adults on fixed incomes may experience food insecurity and can’t stock up on provisions in case of a disaster. Additionally, their homes may be unprepared for a climate change event.

During a serious weather event, healthcare providers can evaluate older adults via telehealth services. Doing so allows patients to receive care without enduring environmental factors to get to appointments.

Finally, it’s important to educate older adults about steps they can take to mitigate their risks during extreme weather events. For example, they should be reminded of the importance of drinking water even if they’re not thirsty. Not only does this help them avoid dehydration during a typical day, but it can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections, renal damage and heat stroke during high temperatures.

Raising awareness among healthcare professionals

Because traditional nursing curricula include little content about the health impacts of climate change on older people, Dr. Kriebel-Gasparro and her nursing colleagues at Walden University are weaving these topics into their course materials. She says, “It is essential that healthcare providers have the knowledge to evaluate this age group for presentations of heat stress, heat stroke, dehydration, acute kidney injury, and cardiorespiratory illness brought on by extreme temperatures.”

By equipping nursing students with the knowledge and skills needed to care for older adults during environmental crises, the university is creating a new generation of healthcare providers that can make a significant difference during these unprecedented times. To learn more about the Walden University nursing curriculum, visit WaldenU.edu.

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3 important facts about farmed salmon from Chile

2024-09-30T14:31:00

(BPT) – There are many reasons to feel good about consuming farmed salmon from Chile. According to researchers, farmed salmon is one of the healthiest and most environmentally friendly proteins you can eat. The USDA recommends that Americans increase consumption of fatty fish like salmon as part of a healthy diet. To learn more, here are some truths about farmed salmon that help set the record straight.

Farmed salmon: A sustainable animal protein when it comes to emissions

As the planet warms and the global population grows, producing food as sustainably as possible is important. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that less than 2% of the world’s oceans are dedicated to aquaculture yet farmed salmon has the lowest carbon footprint of all animal proteins.

This is because research from Johns Hopkins University found that farmed salmon — including salmon from Chile — contains more edible protein than other animals while requiring less feed and other inputs to grow. This makes salmon’s environmental impact four times smaller than pork’s and eight times smaller than cattle’s. According to a 2018 analysis by the National Centre for Scientific Research, farmed salmon produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions per 100 grams of protein (5.98 kg) than beef (49.9 kg).

Salmon’s overlooked health benefits

Chilean salmon is a nutritional powerhouse packed with high-quality protein and important nutrients, such as vitamin D and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats. Research from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that eating fatty fish like salmon may decrease the risk for heart disease, some autoimmune conditions, depression and cognitive decline, while improving eye health and sleep quality.

Because of these many benefits, the USDA’s 2020 Dietary Guidelines recommend that Americans consume seafood two to three times per week, yet 80% of the adult population falls short of meeting that recommendation. The Food and Drug Administration considers farmed salmon a safe choice for the whole family, including pregnant women and children, thanks to its low levels of mercury and exceptionally high omega-3 fat content.

The world needs more aquaculture, not less — according to the U.N.

Aquaculture can help protect the ocean from overfishing, preserving important marine species, while also helping to feed a global population expected to reach 10 billion people by 2050. That’s precisely why organizations like the United Nations are working to expand global aquaculture, including salmon production. The UN’s “blue transformation” aims to increase global aquaculture production between 35% and 40% by 2030.

As salmon farmers work toward this sustainability goal, they are constantly improving their practices to keep fish healthy and safeguard the oceans they depend on. Examples include vaccination programs to prevent disease spread and extensive monitoring programs to ensure optimal conditions for the fish they raise. To hold itself accountable, the industry has partnered with conservation groups to help each farm adhere to these high environmental standards.

To learn more, visit ChileanSalmon.org.

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Living Boldly with Glioma: Jennifer’s Story of Resilience

2024-09-30T08:31:00

(BPT) – One woman shares her story of hope living with a rare and aggressive brain cancer.

Jennifer’s* story begins in a small town in Alabama where she was born into a loving family. From a very young age, it was clear that she had a tenacious spirit and a fierce determination to make the most of her life.

She excelled academically, poured her heart into sports, and always aimed to better herself and those around her. With a clear vision for her future, she aspired to become an attorney. Marriage and children were not part of her plan.

“I always said I was never going to get married or have kids. I was going to be a lawyer and help people who couldn’t help themselves,” Jennifer said. “But life had other plans for me.”

She met a man who completely captured her heart. They got married, and together they built a beautiful life. She ended up changing her career path, earning an MBA instead of a law degree, and her husband secured a job as an engineer. Together, they built their family by having three boys. They instilled in their children the values of volunteerism and community, creating a nurturing and enriching family environment.

Their life was vibrant and fulfilling, with every day bringing new joys and challenges. But in 2015, when Jennifer was 40 years old and her children were ages 11, 8 and 4, their journey took an unexpected turn. One day, Jennifer felt what she described as “off” and looked in the mirror to find that half her face was paralyzed. She brushed it off and told her husband she was going to see a nurse practitioner. What seemed like what she called a “minor inconvenience” turned into a whirlwind of events as Jennifer was advised to go to the emergency room immediately.

“I remember thinking, ‘I don’t have a stroke. I just ran a 5K that morning. I have a meeting to attend,'” Jennifer recalls. “But when I got to the ER, things got serious quickly.”

At the ER, it was discovered that Jennifer had a lesion on her brain. The news was shocking and surreal. She, a strong and healthy person who lived life at full speed, couldn’t fathom having a possible brain tumor. But reality set in. Despite the gravity of the situation, Jennifer remained positive and determined.

“I couldn’t believe it,” Jennifer said. “Me? A brain tumor? It seemed impossible.”

Through a surgical resection, the lesion was identified as glioma, a rare brain cancer. She later found out that she had a specific type of glioma with an IDH­-mutation.

Jen with her husband and her young family on vacation.

Jennifer and her family before her diagnosis.

“A glioma is a type of tumor that develops in the brain or spinal cord. The overwhelming majority of all primary malignant brain tumors are gliomas,” said Dr. Rimas V. Lukas, a neuro­-oncologist and Associate Chief of Neuro­-Oncology, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine. Note, Dr. Lukas was not Jennifer’s healthcare provider. “Of those, approximately 20 percent harbor what’s known as a mutation in the genes encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase, or IDH.”

IDH­-mutant gliomas are malignant and incurable brain tumors that continue to grow and relentlessly infiltrate the brain, even after surgery. Symptoms of glioma vary from patient to patient and are influenced by tumor type and location. Both before and after a glioma diagnosis, patients may experience a wide range of symptoms including changes in mental function, speech difficulties, new weakness or numbness in one or more body parts, seizures, headache, nausea and vomiting.

“IDH­-mutant glioma is a relatively overlooked and generally understudied patient population,” added Dr. Lukas. “Approximately 2,400 patients a year are diagnosed with this aggressive cancer, but there are likely many living with these tumors, either receiving active treatment or being followed clinically and radiographically on what physicians call a ‘watch and wait,’ or active surveillance, protocol.”

Jennifer’s journey took her out of her local hospital and into a larger one in a nearby city, where she met her neuro­-oncologist for the first time. Her neuro­-oncologist was a true partner to her from the start and someone who she described as “patient, treated me with respect and cared about who I was as a person.” He confirmed the diagnosis because of her age and extensive surgical resection, and instead of prescribing immediate radiation and chemotherapy, placed her on a “watch and wait” protocol. For her, this meant regular MRIs and close monitoring of the tumor’s progression before considering more aggressive forms of treatment.

During this journey, she reconnected with Tara, a former colleague and mother of four daughters, who, coincidentally, had also been diagnosed with a rare brain cancer and was seeking treatment at the same hospital as Jennifer. Tara and Jennifer became each other’s pillars of support. They turned doctor visits into opportunities for camaraderie, sharing laughs and tears along the way.

“Tara and I became each other’s rock,” Jennifer explains. “We turned hospital visits into moments of strength and support, knowing we were in this together.”

Jennifer’s outlook on life changed. She focused on creating memories with her children, ensuring they always remembered her as a loving and fun mother. She took them on trips, engaged in activities they loved, and lived each day to the fullest. She also made practical decisions, ensuring her family’s future was secure financially.

“I took my kids on every adventure I could think of,” Jennifer says. “From road trips to the beach to visiting zoos, I wanted to create as many memories as possible.”

As the days passed, the reality of her condition weighed heavily on Jennifer, but her spirit remained unbroken. Jennifer had a Grade 2 glioma, and the time had come for her to consider more aggressive treatment options.

Jennifer vividly remembers the day she was about to start radiation. As she was being prepped, a nurse suddenly entered the room, bringing everything to a halt.

Wait,” the nurse said urgently. “The doctor has news for you.”

The doctor told Jennifer about a new trial, INDIGO, specifically designed for patients with IDH­-mutant gliomas.

The INDIGO trial was investigating a new oral therapy at the time, Voranigo® (vorasidenib).

See below for additional Important Safety Information, including the benefits and risks of Voranigo® (vorasidenib). Click here for Prescribing Information and discuss with your doctor.

With her neuro­oncologist’s guidance and an understanding of the benefits and risks of Voranigo, Jennifer quickly enrolled in the INDIGO study.

“I was both excited and nervous,” Jennifer recalled.

The journey was challenging, but Jennifer’s unwavering determination and the support of her loved ones carried her through.

While Jennifer was participating in the clinical trial, her friend Tara faced her own challenges. Tara’s condition worsened, and she did not survive the cancer. Jennifer was heartbroken by the loss of her friend but continued to draw strength from the bond they had shared.

“Tara’s passing was a profound loss,” Jennifer said. “She was my rock, and I miss her every day. But her memory drives me to keep fighting and to live fully.”

Today, Jennifer’s brain tumor progression has slowed.

Jen, her husband and her three sons in an apple orchard.

“Every day, I feel grateful,” Jennifer said. “Life is precious, and I’m determined to make the most of every moment. I dream of holding my future grandchildren one day. Despite my condition, I’m thinking about the adventures ahead and hope to take a Mediterranean vacation with my husband soon.”

Dr. Lukas stated: “We are now entering a new era in the treatment of IDH­-mutant gliomas, with the recent approval of the first targeted therapy for this patient population.”

Voranigo, which was approved in the U.S. on August 6, 2024, is an isocitrate dehydrogenase­-1 (IDH1) and isocitrate dehydrogenase­-2 (IDH2) inhibitor, indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with Grade 2 astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma with a susceptible IDH1 or IDH2 mutation following surgery including biopsy, sub­total resection, or gross total resection.

The approval of Voranigo is supported by results from the pivotal Phase 3 INDIGO clinical trial published in The New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the 2023 ASCO plenary, which showed that Voranigo significantly extended progression-­free survival and time­-to-­next intervention, when compared to placebo.

“There are benefits and risks associated with Voranigo. It is important for patients to speak with a doctor to learn more,” said Dr. Lukas.

For more information about Voranigo, please visit www.Voranigo.com.

*Jennifer is a paid consultant for Servier in the U.S. Last name withheld to protect personal privacy.

**Dr. Rimas Lukas is a paid consultant for Servier in the U.S.

What is VORANIGO?

VORANIGO (40 mg tablets) is a prescription medicine used to treat adults and children 12 years of age and older with certain types of brain tumors called astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma with an isocitrate dehydrogenase-­1 (IDH1) or isocitrate dehydrogenase-­2 (IDH2) mutation, following surgery. Your healthcare provider will perform a test to make sure that VORANIGO is right for you. It is not known if VORANIGO is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age.

What are the possible side effects of VORANIGO?

VORANIGO may cause serious side effects, including:

  • Liver problems. Changes in liver function blood tests may happen during treatment with VORANIGO and can be serious. Your healthcare provider will do blood tests to check your liver function before and during treatment with VORANIGO. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of the following signs and symptoms of liver problems:
    • yellowing of your skin or the white part of your eyes (jaundice) dark tea­-colored urine
    • loss of appetite
    • pain on the upper right side of your stomach area feeling very tired or weak

The most common side effects of VORANIGO include:

  • increased liver enzyme levels in the blood
  • lack of energy, tiredness
  • headache
  • COVID­-19
  • muscle aches or stiffness
  • diarrhea
  • nausea
  • seizure

Your healthcare provider may change your dose, temporarily stop, or permanently stop treatment with VORANIGO if you have certain side effects.

VORANIGO may affect fertility in females and males, which may affect the ability to have children. Talk to your healthcare provider if this is a concern for you.

These are not all of the possible side effects of VORANIGO.

Before taking VORANIGO, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

  • have liver problems
  • have kidney problems or are on dialysis
  • smoke tobacco
  • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. VORANIGO can harm your unborn baby

Females who are able to become pregnant:

  • Your healthcare provider will do a pregnancy test before you start treatment with VORANIGO
  • You should use effective nonhormonal birth control during treatment with VORANIGO and for 3 months after the last dose. VORANIGO may affect how hormonal contraceptives (birth control) work and cause them to not work well. Talk to your healthcare provider about birth control methods that may be right for you during treatment with VORANIGO
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant during treatment with VORANIGO

Males with female partners who are able to become pregnant:

  • You should use effective birth control during treatment with VORANIGO and for 3 months after the last dose
  • Tell your healthcare provider right away if your partner becomes pregnant or thinks she may be pregnant during your treatment with VORANIGO

Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if VORANIGO passes into breast milk. Do not breastfeed during treatment with VORANIGO and for 2 months after the last dose.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-­the-­counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. VORANIGO may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how VORANIGO works.

Please see Full Prescribing Information.

US-03323v1.0 09/24

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What you need to know about electrical safety in your home this fall and winter

2024-09-30T12:01:00

(BPT) – The fall and winter months bring many challenges to homeowners. Temperature changes and storms can overload the power grid and interrupt your electrical service, but did you know how you use electricity at home daily can also cause overloaded circuits?

For the fall and winter seasons, the professional electricians at Mr. Electric, a Neighborly Company, share tips to help you and your family stay prepared, warm and safe throughout the colder seasons.

Preventing dangerous circuit overloads

It’s probably happened to you: You’re running the dishwasher, then use the microwave, and suddenly, you’re in the dark. It may not be a big deal if you have a modern circuit breaker — you just go to your electrical panel and flip the tripped circuit breaker back on. But that’s not the whole story.

Overloading an electrical circuit by using too many appliances on one circuit is common but can cause problems. If it happens frequently, it could mean your system can’t keep up with your home’s electrical demands. Potential hazards caused by overloaded circuits may include fires, fried wiring, destroyed devices, and electrical shocks.

The best way to ensure your electrical system can handle your home’s current demands is by having a professional, trained electrician conduct a Home Safety Check. When Mr. Electric does a Home Safety Check, they conduct a thorough exam of your electrical system to make sure electrical wires, systems and components meet legal safety standards using the National Electrical Code (NEC) as their primary guideline. This is important for the safety of your home and everyone in it and will offer you peace of mind.

After completing a Home Safety Check, your Mr. Electric service professional will provide a detailed, prioritized checklist of areas needing immediate attention, plus recommendations for improvements and potential upgrades.

Weathering any storm

Being prepared for severe wintry weather involves many preparations. You can start by keeping up with the latest weather forecasts in your area, checking and restocking your home’s emergency kit, and reviewing your family’s emergency plans. You’ll also want to check your property’s exterior to ensure your roof, windows, and nearby trees are in good shape before storms bring wind, rain, snow, or other weather-related issues your way.

An electrical Home Safety Check can help determine how prepared your system is for potential severe weather during the winter months. One of the most common—and potentially most dangerous—aspects of these storms can be power outages due to high winds, fallen tree limbs, ice storms, and more. While a short-term power outage is inconvenient, it doesn’t take long for a nuisance to turn into a serious situation, especially when temperatures are frigid.

A whole-house generator can be a lifesaver to help protect your home from power outages no matter the season. Whenever the power goes out, a whole-house generator provides all the power needed to maintain your electricity, keeping your household safe, warm, and functioning through any storm.

The next question is, what type and size generator is best for your home? To help you determine the right generator for your home’s needs, you may want to consult a Mr. Electric service professional. They can help determine the wattage required for all your appliances so you’re not underestimating or overestimating the size of the generator needed. Getting the best fit for your home is important for safety, and can save money in the long run. A professional electrician can also ensure your generator is properly maintained for years to come.

After the storm

Following severe weather, schedule an electrical safety inspection to ease your mind about potential unseen issues. Always ask a professional before trying to fix or operate storm-damaged electrical devices.

Another way to protect your home from the consequences of outages is with a whole house surge protector. During a power outage, the loss of power is later followed by a sudden surge when power is restored — which is enough to overload your home’s electrical system. Without a whole house surge protector, your electronics can get fried, including everything from your TV and microwave to large appliances. A whole house surge protector helps protect all your electronics and appliances.

Weather is unpredictable, and being unprepared for severe weather can be serious. Take steps now to be better prepared when severe weather strikes. Mr. Electric has the experience and expertise to help prepare your home to keep your family safe, so visit MrElectric.com/prepared to find a trained, experienced electrician near you.

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Adorable Baby Fits for Every Fall Photo Opp

2024-09-30T09:01:00

(BPT) – Hello, fall! Crisp air, colorful leaves and cozy sweaters are here, marking the perfect time to embrace outdoor activities and family traditions. As you plan your fall adventures — whether it’s carving pumpkins, attending football games or apple picking — the curated selection from Little Planet by Carter’s new fall collection ensures your family will be prepared. With timeless, heirloom-quality pieces that are simple, sustainable and designed to span seasons, parents can focus on enjoying every moment.

1. For the Pumpkin Patch

The arrival of local pumpkin patches signals the start of fall, inviting families to enjoy the mild weather. Dress your baby in heirloom-quality pieces like this Organic Cotton Waffle Knit Jumpsuit or the Harvest Pumpkins Organic Cotton Set. These designs are crafted from so-soft organic cotton and made to last from this little one to the next. And don’t forget to capture the moment with a photo — tag @littleplanet on Instagram to share your family photos!

Sweet knitted henley onesie and knitted hat with cute little ears.

2. For Apple Picking

Apple picking is sweeter with littles by your side. Little Planet’s new fall collection offers organic and sustainable pieces that are both practical for exploring the orchard and perfect for family photos.

4 little outfits hanging in a closet near a basket with stuffed animals on one shelf and books and cute little shoes on the other shelf.

3. For All the Fall Festivals

Fall festivals are a wonderful time for families to gather and enjoy crafts, delicious food and the beauty of the season. These moments are all about creating memories together, and Little Planet’s heirloom-quality pieces make it easy to dress your family in timeless fashion.

Five pretty little guaze dresses in a variety of colors hanging on hangers.

4. For Their First Halloween

Halloween is a holiday for fun and creativity, but it’s hard to find outfits with lasting wearability. Keep it simple in styles inspired by spooky season that can be worn again and again, year after year.

Halloween themed sweat shirt and pants outfit wih black cat, bat and spider designs.

5. For Football Games

Cheering for your favorite team? Comfort and style are key. Little Planet’s collection offers versatile outfits perfect for game day:

Green and white striped henley with matching green pants with a pair of binoculars near by.

Crafted in the purest organic fabrics and sustainable materials, Little Planet by Carter’s is a return to simplicity. Thoughtful essentials and timeless pieces to gift or to hold on to.

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Your options to get out of credit card debt

2024-09-30T15:01:00

(BPT) – Many people have a hard time keeping up with their bills. More than three-fourths of Americans have some type of debt.

Fortunately, there are several options to get out of debt, including working directly with your credit card company or a non-profit credit counselor.

As the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau highlights, the best option is to contact your credit card or financial institution directly. Banks can sometimes offer a “hardship program,” also called a lender workout, which is an agreement between you and your creditor to address the situation, for example by lowering your monthly payment or waiving fees. It is in the card company’s best interest to help you with a manageable repayment plan. Working with your lender may offer a solution that does not result in losing your card or damaging credit. Since this doesn’t involve a third-party, these workouts are usually faster and safer than other options.

“When late payments pile up, many people avoid answering the phone when their credit card company calls. But as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau notes in its own research, it’s the card company that can often get you back on track. Card companies want to protect their greatest asset — their customers,” said Lindsey Johnson, President and CEO of the Consumer Bankers Association.

If you’re struggling with debt across many different creditors, another option is to talk to a credit counselor. An accredited, non-profit credit counselor offers advice on how to manage multiple debts and provides free education. Importantly, these agencies can also negotiate with lenders on your behalf and create a debt management plan that allows for one monthly payment. This option protects your credit and can be less expensive than debt settlement companies because they are not for profit.

Debt settlement companies are a third option; but they can come with some serious risk. Debt settlement companies market and advertise aggressively and, people may think because they offer one point of contact, they’re a good option. The fact is, however, working with a debt settlement company can make your financial situation worse.

Here is what you need to know about debt settlement companies: Debt settlement companies may not resolve all your debt and can hurt your credit score for up to seven years. In fact, the industry itself concedes that 25% of their clients do not settle any accounts. In addition, debt settlement companies charge big fees — sometimes up to 25% of the balance on a card, which can add up over time.

Yet, according to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, often the “deal” that debt settlement companies are selling is similar to what you can get by talking directly to your credit card company or financial institution — without your having to pay excessive fees. Working with a debt settlement company may also have you paying more in taxes. And sometimes creditors, who are wary of debt settlement companies, may refuse to work with them or file a lawsuit against you.

If you are confused about the options, you can turn to a trusted source such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for reliable information. There is helpful information available on their website and you can find out more about your options at the Consumer Bankers Association’s own website: www.aboutdebtrelief.com.

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5 Mexican Caribbean wellness experiences to achieve total Zen

2024-09-30T16:01:01

(BPT) – Crystal clear turquoise seas, lush palm trees swaying in the breeze, powder soft white sand beaches … this is the Mexican Caribbean. From boho chic Holbox to luxurious Costa Mujeres, laid back Bacalar and beyond, the region offers pristine beaches, world-class entertainment, and breathtaking archeological sites steeped in Mayan heritage. It is also the perfect place for travelers seeking to recharge, rejuvenate and restore their souls while absorbing the natural beauty and magic of this signature paradise.

If this sounds like pure bliss, here are five types of Mexican Caribbean wellness experiences to incorporate into your winter escape.

1. Spas and luxury wellness centers

Where to stay in paradise? While there is no wrong answer, the renowned MICHELIN Guide recently unveiled its first-ever MICHELIN Key distinctions for the most outstanding hotels in Mexico. It is no surprise that 18 resorts and hotels in the Mexican Caribbean region were recognized with this distinctive honor, including several with exceptional wellness programs.

The Three Key Hotel Esencia in Tulum connects guests to nature through accommodations in individual beachfront bungalows and an organic spa with treatments incorporating local ingredients and practices inspired by ancient Mayan medicine. Palmaïa-The House of AïA in Playa del Carmen, a Two Key resort, is known for its plant-based culinary program, onsite cenotes, and all-inclusive wellness offerings rooted in local traditions such as meditation, breathwork, and sound healing. The One Key Nômade Holbox is a peaceful retreat surrounded by a nature preserve. Guests at Nômade are invited on a wellness journey through activities such as lucid dreaming, tarot readings, numerology and yoga.

2. Holistic healing and ancient rituals

The spiritualism of the Mayan culture permeates the Mexican Caribbean, and visitors can take part with holistic practices rooted in ancient rituals. Many opt for temazcal ceremonies led by a shaman in an insulated dome designed to promote spiritual healing, connection and physical cleansing. Mia Bacalar, Rosewood Mayakoba in Riviera Maya, and Xcaret in Riviera Maya are just a few of the properties where guests can experience the Pre-Hispanic rituals of the temazcal. Cacao ceremonies are another popular experience, fostering connection and self-exploration in a group setting through the consumption of pure cacao bean paste. Tulum hotels including Holistika, Dos Ceibas, and Jungle Lodge Boutique Hotel regularly offer cacao ceremonies. Guests at Nizuc, home to the first ESPA-branded spa in the Mexican Caribbean, can become acquainted with the healing properties of cacao during the Mayan Cacao treatment that includes a body exfoliation, soothing facial cleanse and de-stressing scalp massage.

3. Eco-friendly and sustainable fitness

The Mexican Caribbean offers fitness experiences that connect travelers with nature. Visit Tulum Jungle Gym on the beach or in town for a one-of-a-kind workout using equipment made from wood, stone, bamboo and other natural materials. Also in Tulum, Amansala is home of the beach bootcamp. Regular in-house retreats are offered for men and women that take advantage of the outdoors in activities like beach runs, sculpt classes, circuit training and more.

4. Rejuvenation

Hands-on treatments available at the numerous spas throughout the Mexican Caribbean provide truly rejuvenating effects inspired by Mayan culture. At Viceroy Riviera Maya’s Wayak Spa, the Akbal invigorating massage evoking ancestral blanket stretching techniques helps adjust posture and improve flexibility. The Yo’ki’b hot stone massage incorporates copal, a tree resin used as incense in ancient Mayan ceremonies to free bodily tension. At Habitas Bacalar, the traditional Mexican sobada uses cupping techniques and traditional Mexican cotton garments to achieve physical and spiritual alignment.

5. Nutrition and nourishment

Travelers seeking transformation inside and out can visit SHA Mexico in Costa Mujeres, one of only two locations of this renowned wellness center that helps guests regain health and restore balance. At SHA, fully customized programs are built for each guest based upon principles like healthy nutrition, natural therapies, preventive medicine, and more. Personalized healthy nutrition programs, cooking classes and three levels of diets to choose from are available to guests. Visitors in other areas of the Mexican Caribbean can find plenty of healthy dining options including Vegan Style and Herbívoro in Cancun, Vegan Caribe in Bacalar and Raw Love in Tulum.

Whatever the journey, especially if it’s the journey within, let the Mexican Caribbean be the guide.

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Only Three in 10 Drivers Know This Crucial Winter Driving Fact

2024-09-30T09:01:00

(BPT) – When you’re on the road in wintry conditions, what you don’t know can hurt you. That’s why it’s alarming that only three in 10 drivers know this vital fact: All-season drivers aren’t designed for winter roads.

Yes, “all-season” is their name. But most tires sold in the United States are designed for durability and performance at the expense of winter safety. When temperatures fall below 45 degrees, their rubber compounds harden like hockey pucks and begin to lose their grip on the road. And all-season tires’ tread patterns are designed to channel water away from the road, not carve through snow or slush.

That’s a problem Nokian Tyres has spent 25 years fighting. This year, the global tiremaker from Finland is celebrating the silver anniversary of a true four-season driving solution — all-weather tires, which it introduced to North America in 1999.

Unlike their all-season counterparts, all-weather tires are certified with the three-peak mountain snowflake emblem that indicates they are equipped for snow, slush and temperatures below 45 degrees. Unlike winter tires, they can be used year-round.

“While all-season tires are great in the spring and summer, all-weather tires are made for all types of weather,” said Nokian Tyres North America Director of Products Steve Bourassa. “If snow is unlikely where you live, all-season tires are an excellent choice. But all-weather tires are an ideal option for drivers who visit winter or have winter visit them.”

Close up of Nokian tire on a car in the snow.

All-weather tires can be considered a jack of all trades. They’re capable in wintry weather, even if they aren’t a substitute for dedicated winter tires in areas that experience sustained snow and ice. They’re built to thrive in rain and heat, too, even if they don’t typically have the same tread life as an all-season tire.

To ensure that all-weather tires are as versatile as possible, tiremakers test them in diverse conditions around the globe. Nokian Tyres subjects its all-weather products to frigid temperatures north of the Arctic Circle at the largest company-owned test facility in the world in Ivalo, Finland. It also tests them in the Spanish desert south of Madrid, as well as at remote sites in the U.S.

How can drivers make sure they’re riding on a set of winter-certified all-weather tires? Look for a snowflake symbol inside a mountain peak on the sidewall. The severe service emblem, or three-peak mountain snowflake, certifies that a tire has passed a snow traction test.

What drivers don’t know about four-season driving can hurt them. All-weather tires offer a versatile remedy. Learn more about all-weather tires at NokianTyres.com/Weather.

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Digital fraud is on the rise: 6 ways to prevent it

2024-09-30T08:01:00

(BPT) – Are you more worried about fraud than you were a few years ago? According to the 2024 Trust Index Report by Telesign, almost 60% of people worldwide and nearly half of all Americans are more fearful of becoming fraud victims than they were just two years ago. Not only do we need to stay vigilant about the traditional forms of digital fraud, but now there is increased global anxiety fueled by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI).

This is not a nebulous fear, nor is it an idle threat. People are more anxious about fraud because there’s more fraud, period. Considering we need to watch out for data breaches, online attacks, telephone scams, phishing, and bank and mail fraud, just to name a few, if you’re not concerned, you’re not paying attention.

According to the Trust Index, nearly one-third of people in the U.S. have been victims of fraud in the past three years. Of those, most have said it happened during the past six months alone. That uptick is troubling. Part of the problem stems from the fact that fraud tactics evolve rapidly, especially in this new era of AI. The report found that 68% of Americans believe they or their family members are vulnerable to digital fraud. The most common fraud tactics include:

Phishing. This is when you get an email, text, or phone call from a fraudster claiming they’re from a reputable company or organization. For example, you might get an “alert” that you need to update your information. A link in the email goes to a fake site that looks like the real thing. Generative AI has enabled fraudsters to super-charge phishing attacks.

Social engineering. Social engineering attacks occur when fraudsters combine publicly accessible information with manipulative tactics to pressure you to provide sensitive identification data. Bad actors often begin the attacks by collecting information about their targets on social media and websites. Next, they contact you directly and pose as a trusted connection, such as your employer. Combining these tactics can quickly lead to compromised credentials and the potential for account takeover, resulting in damage and theft.

Fake accounts. This is one of the most troubling aspects of AI. According to the Trust Index, 14% of people believe they have recently been exposed to deep fake videos or voice clones, and this number is expected to rise in the future. While technology firms are making strides in how quickly they can identify, label, and remove AI-generated images and videos from the digital world, not enough attention is paid to how this content is distributed. One of the primary ways is through fake accounts, both online and via social media.

Although artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML) provide benefits to many companies and consumers, they have also ushered in a new era of sophisticated tools that facilitate fraud. As businesses fight to protect you and your personal information from bad actors, they’re learning it’s often necessary to use those same AI and ML capabilities to defend against them.

How best to protect yourself from fraud in this rapidly evolving AI landscape? Here are six tips from Telesign:

Use two-factor authentication whenever it’s available. It will be more annoying to have to deal with the aftermath if your identity is stolen.

Use antivirus software to help protect your personal information. It scans for and detects malware that could infect your computer.

Never click on links from unfamiliar sources and pay special attention to those that look legit but might set off your internal radar. Bogus links can infect your computer with malware or lead you to phishing sites that can trick you into sharing your personal information.

Never share personal information via email. Most companies state clearly that they do not ask for sensitive information over email.

Use complex passwords and don’t reuse passwords. A password manager can help by storing and managing all of your current and past passwords, so you don’t have to remember them all.

Use online security alerts for your digital accounts when available, such as banking or other financial services.

Telesign solutions provide fraud protection, secure communications, and enable the digital economy by helping companies and customers to engage with confidence. To learn more about the latest fraud trends, read the full 2024 Trust Index Report.

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3 Things to Know About Learning AI for Career Advancement

2024-09-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – Artificial intelligence (AI) undeniably continues to shape the workplace. Companies across the globe are navigating how to integrate AI into their business operations and strategies — making it increasingly paramount for professionals to keep pace with these modern tech advancements.

This AI-focused landscape might be overwhelming for some, but there is a significant opportunity for workers to excel by learning new skills and enhancing existing ones. Based on new research conducted by Reputation Leaders and sponsored by DeVry University, there are several considerations individuals should keep in mind when working to progress in an economy influenced by AI.

1. AI skills are no longer a nice-to-have

Gone are the days when AI was a distant concept; it is now a present-day reality shifting current roles and creating new ones. From automating routine tasks to providing data-driven insights, AI tools are changing what businesses, and their workers, need to succeed in the future. Employers recognize this, with the research finding that 73% believe hiring more people with AI skills will benefit their organization. Meanwhile, most workers (83%) say AI skills will have some impact on their ability to remain employable.

The challenge is that while nearly 9 in 10 employers (87%) are offering upskilling opportunities, they estimate on average only about half of workers (55%) participate. While employers continue to identify how to best train on AI, this signals a vast opportunity for workers to take advantage of their company’s continuing education offerings. If they are not sure how to align their skills with the future needs of their company, they can proactively ask how they should be upskilling for their specific career advancement.

2. Responsible AI use is imperative

Most workers already see the benefits of AI, such as an increased ease of working and productivity, and only 1 in 5 workers (19%) feel their job security has decreased because of the technology. In addition, AI can allow employees to concentrate on work involving things like strategic decision-making and collaboration, rather than administrative or other mundane tasks.

“The future of work is all about the synergy between the individual capabilities and AI technologies,” said Shantanu Bose, Ph.D., provost and chief academic officer at DeVry University. “Embracing AI as a partner in your work can enable you to engage in higher-value activities that foster innovation and growth.”

With that, it is important for workers to abide by the guidelines set by their employers to make sure they are using the technology responsibly and can take advantage of its benefits. In fact, half of employers say AI poses potential data privacy and confidentiality risks for their organization. If workers are not sure how or when to use AI in their roles, they should be cautious when experimenting with the technology and ask their manager about the best options for proper training.

3. Learning for the future doesn’t require a traditional degree

There are a variety of options for workers to acquire new skills, and this does not always necessitate a four-year college degree. Engaging with academic institutions that offer flexible, accessible and personalized alternate learning pathways can help workers pursue their desired career ambitions while balancing other commitments.

Seventy-five percent of employers agree that people who take the initiative to upskill or reskill, including in AI, will get ahead in their careers. If a worker is unsure about their employer’s professional development offerings, they should ask their HR department about available resources for ongoing learning. This could include earning certifications, certificates or participating in other targeted skills development opportunities funded by employers.

“Asking about AI training opportunities not only demonstrates your willingness to learn, but it also signals to your employer that you are invested in the future of the company,” said Dave Barnett, chief administrative officer at DeVry University. “I’d remind anyone who feels they are not being adequately trained on AI that it is not too late to build the skills for the future you want.”

Lifelong learning can have a positive impact on career mobility. While workers should not be alone in their quest to learn, this quest requires a sense of individual ambition to keep up in an AI-driven era. To learn more about continuing education opportunities and preparing for the modern workplace, visit DeVry.edu.