Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-04-23T07:01:00

(BPT) – By Jad Daley, President and CEO of American Forests

Climate change is reshaping our world in unexpected ways, including the worsening of seasonal allergies. This was confirmed by a 2019 study showing a significant positive correlation between long-term temperature increase and an increase in both seasonal duration and pollen load. With fewer frost days leading to earlier springs and later falls, the longer, more intense allergy seasons are leaving millions of people searching for relief.

Many global programs are working to address climate change on a larger scale. However, there are steps we can take at the local level to help improve conditions in communities that may be disproportionally exposed to environmental hazards. For example, residents of urban areas are more likely to suffer from respiratory issues compounded by worsening seasonal allergies, especially in parts of our communities that have higher levels of air pollution. Pollution from car exhaust and heavy industry, specifically pollutants like Ozone, Nitrogen Dioxide, Sulfur Dioxide and particulate matter can exacerbate urban allergies.

Thankfully, there is one simple action we can take right now to help combat climate-fueled heat, air pollution and pollen exposure—plant more trees in our communities. This is especially important in lower income neighborhoods where trees are shown to be systemically lacking, according to American Forests’ Tree Equity Score. This unprecedented analysis of every urban neighborhood in America shows average tree cover deficits of 26-38 percent for these communities, and average temperatures of 7-10 degrees Fahrenheit above citywide norms.

One example of an urban area in need of Tree Equity support is Southwest Detroit. With trucking routes and factories operating alongside neighborhoods and schools, respiratory-related hospitalizations are three times higher than the state average. According to Tree Equity Score, neighborhoods in this part of Detroit have a fraction of the tree cover common in other parts of the city and can be more than 18 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than the citywide average, which further exacerbates air pollution and pollen exposure. With the support of the ZYRTEC^® ReLEAF Project and American Forests, the Detroit Tree Equity Partnership is working toward a goal to plant 75,000 trees over a five-year period. Increased tree canopy cover can cool a city block by as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, while also helping to manage respiratory issues by absorbing and deflecting pollutants.

Additionally, planting more trees in urban areas, such as Southwest Detroit, can help mitigate seasonal allergies. While that might sound surprising, we are able to strategically select the tree species we plant to maximize environmental benefits such as shade coverage and reducing air pollution while minimizing pollen exposure. This is possible by using cutting-edge climate- and health-focused urban forestry techniques developed by American Forests in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. As part of our science-based approach, we use resources like the Ogren Plant Allergy Scale (OPALS™) to help inform a city’s Preferred and Prohibited Planting Species List. For example, OPALS™ indicates that mulberry trees produce pollen that triggers seasonal allergies, while certain species of maple trees have less of an adverse effect on allergy sufferers.

The ZYRTEC^® ReLEAF Project and American Forests are working to help people from all backgrounds have equitable access to resources that advance the well-being of both people and our planet. Climate change continues to impact our environment and allergy sufferers, and we can all do our part to help.

The path to cleaner air and a healthier future lies in our hands, and it starts with the strategic placement of the right trees in the right places for healthier and more climate-resilient cities.

2024-04-23T10:01:00

(BPT) – Do you want to add more variety and nutrition to your meal planning? Consider incorporating Quaker Oats into your diet! While oats are typically associated with breakfast, they’re a versatile ingredient that can also be used in all kinds of crowd-pleasing recipes — hot or cold, sweet or savory, morning or evening.

Quaker Oats is the largest oat miller in the world and has been a trusted household staple making the same quality, delicious, nutritious oats you know and love since 1877. They are 100% whole grain, and provide a great source of energy and heart healthy* soluble fiber.*

“Quaker Oats is a brand that my family grew up eating, and I’ve dreamed of partnering with the brand for decades,” says celebrity chef Carla Hall. “Their products are essential in my kitchen, using them to add variations of texture and flavors in endless recipes — even as the secret ingredient to the moisture in my meatloaf!”

So, are you ready to remix your routine — and your favorite dishes — with Quaker Oats? Check out these fun and flavorful recipes the whole family can enjoy.

*Three grams of soluble fiber from oatmeal daily in a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may help reduce the risk of heart disease. One serving of Quaker Old Fashioned Oats provides about 2 grams of soluble fiber.

1. Triple Berry Oat Smoothie

For a delicious and easy new addition to your breakfast routine, try the Triple Berry Oat Smoothie. Not only does this make for a great add-on to breakfast, it’s also a fun way to enjoy your daily fruits. With blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and bananas, this smoothie is fruity goodness.

2. Oatmeal Pancakes

You’ve just met your new favorite pancake! These wholesome, fluffy Oatmeal Pancakes are an easily customizable and delicious morning option. Whether you add blueberries, bananas, apples, chocolate or your favorite mix-in, this recipe invites everyone to enjoy pancakes their way.

3. Key Lime Bars with Oatmeal Crust

You don’t have to live near the beach to enjoy these bright and citrusy flavors! The Key Lime Bars with Oatmeal crust are full of bright flavors, chewy oats and crunchy nuts that are sure to be a hit for entertaining at your spring and summer gatherings.

4. Whole Grain Banana Muffins

These banana muffins are a tasty treat you can enjoy at any time of day, pair with your breakfast in the morning or grab as a snack during the day. Elevate your muffins by serving warm for a simply delicious, melt-in-your-mouth result.

5. Meatloaf Sliders

Take a classic, cozy weeknight dinner into the warmer months with Carla Hall’s very own Meatloaf Sliders, featuring her secret ingredient – oats! This juicy and tender dish is sure to become a favorite that your family and friends will be asking for on all occasions.

Let these five recipes inspire you to try new dishes and incorporate Quaker Oats into every meal, every day. So, grab Quaker’s classic Old Fashioned Oats — or try one of their other great varieties like Steel Cut Oats or Oat Flour — and get cooking! Visit QuakerOats.com for more recipes and products.

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Meatloaf Sliders:

Ingredients

• 1/4 Cup Quaker^® Oats, finely ground
• 1 Egg, beaten
• 1/4 Cup Milk
• 2 Tsp. Ground Cumin
• 1 Tsp. Ground Cayenne
• 1 Tsp. Kosher Salt
• 1 1/2 Tsp. Freshly Ground Black Pepper, or to taste
• 2.5 Lbs. Coarsely Ground Beef
• 2 Cloves Garlic, minced
• 1/2 Rib Celery
• 1 Medium Carrot
• 1 Tbs. Fresh Thyme, Chopped or 1/2 Tsp. Dried
• 1/4 Cup Fresh Parsley, Chopped or 1/2 Tsp. Dried
• 1 Tbs. Worcestershire Sauce
• Potato Rolls
• Fresh Pesto Topping
  • Fresh Refrigerated Pesto
  • 1 Cup Frozen Peas
• Spring Greens

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine egg, oats, milk, cumin, cayenne, salt and pepper. Let stand for 5 minutes.
2. Process garlic, onion, celery and carrot in a food processor until finely chopped.
3. Add ground beef and finely chopped vegetables to oat mixture. Add herbs to bowl. Gently toss until combined. Be careful to not over mix. Flatten mixture onto a 9”x13” parchment covered sheet pan.
4. Process pesto toppings in food processor until mixed.
5. Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for 7-10 minutes.
6. Bake until the internal temperature of the meatloaf is 155 degrees or until the juices run clear.
7. Allow the meatloaf to cool slightly. Without pulling the rolls apart, separate tops from bottoms.
8. Place the bottoms on to create the sandwich, then cut.
9. Place pesto and spring greens on top of each meatloaf patty.

2024-04-22T11:01:00

(BPT) – Connie Bell’s journey with low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC) began unexpectedly in her 30s. Residing in Madison, Wisconsin, Connie was 36 when she first noticed her unusual symptoms, which she and her gynecologist initially dismissed as being related to existing conditions like interstitial cystitis and irritable bowel syndrome. But her symptoms, which included mild pelvic pain and two unusually heavy, painful periods, persisted. It wasn’t until several months later, after multiple medical visits, tests, and escalating concerns, that she ultimately received a devastating diagnosis of LGSOC, a rare ovarian cancer. This diagnosis, however, was merely the first step in what continues to be an extensive and challenging journey for Connie and many others with LGSOC.

LGSOC, a rare, insidious, and persistent type of ovarian cancer that has an alarming ability to adapt and persist despite current treatments, such as standard chemotherapy, due to its distinct molecular and histopathological profile. Unfortunately, approximately 85% of people with LGSOC will have their cancer recur. Compounding this issue is the absence of FDA-approved therapies tailored specifically for LGSOC, which underscores a tremendous gap in patient care. In response to these challenges, researchers are actively pursuing new therapeutic approaches.

Leading these efforts is Verastem, a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to innovating therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers like LGSOC. Their focus is on RAS/MAPK pathway, a crucial cellular system that fuels the aggressiveness and treatment-resistance of LGSOC, and many other, tumors. Through these innovations, Verastem aims to offer renewed hope to patients like Connie, who urgently need better LGSOC treatments and a greater assurance that their cancer will not return after remission.

People with LGSOC face obstacles in detection and treatment

While current prevalence estimates for low-grade serous carcinoma are not available, it has been estimated that LGSOC represents less than 10% of new epithelial ovarian cancer cases and presents unique complexities that severely hinder diagnosis and treatment. One of the factors that sets LGSOC apart from the more common high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is its impact on younger women. Diagnosed as early as the 20s and 30s, it can often inflict devastating consequences on fertility. But, despite its early presentation, LGSOC typically isn’t diagnosed until its advanced stages when treatment options are limited. This is because, as with Connie Bell, it can begin with easy-to-overlook symptoms like bloating, back pain, and menstrual irregularities, which can delay an accurate diagnosis.

“My original gynecologist was not initially concerned, but thankfully ordered an ultrasound which revealed a suspicious cyst. A follow-up MRI revealed widespread malignancy, at which point she still didn’t think it was cancer but referred me to a cancer center to be sure,” describes Connie. “It was there that a gynecologic oncologist recognized the seriousness and scheduled me for surgery to remove the tumors.”

But Connie still wasn’t clear on her diagnosis. “I entered surgery without knowing whether or not I would wake up with a cancer diagnosis, and I didn’t find out that it was the low-grade serous form until two weeks after my surgery,” said Connie.

Even after an accurate diagnosis is made, people with LGSOC face another daunting journey — finding the right treatment. Treatment options for LGSOC are extremely limited because these tumors harbor distinct biological complexities that make them slow yet persistently growing, inherently less responsive to standard chemotherapy, and highly prone to returning even after achieving remission.

Yet, despite these critical distinctions, patients with LGSOC are often treated with the same regimens as other cancers, such as the standard treatments used for HGSOC, leaving many feeling like they’re receiving “treatment leftovers” instead of therapies tailored to their specific needs. This disparity primarily stems from a long-held misunderstanding of LGSOC’s unique requirements, as it was only officially recognized as a distinct form of ovarian cancer in 2014.

Like many others with LGSOC, Connie’s condition and its treatment journey have had a tremendous impact on her daily life. “I have three nieces and a nephew I can’t keep up with anymore,” she said. “It’s just so sad to me that I’m missing out on those different experiences and life events, that I feel like my life is forever changed and that I’ll have to be on medication for the rest of my life. This is my new normal, and I have to learn to deal with it.”

However, new treatment strategies targeting the molecular intricacies of LGSOC aim to bridge long-standing treatment gaps and offer a brighter “new normal.”

The potential of RAS/MAPK targeting therapies

The RAS/MAPK pathway plays a pivotal role in cell growth and development. However, mutations in RAS genes can drive uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation, which occurs in an astounding ~30% of all human cancers and a whopping ~70% of LGSOC cases.

Unfortunately, while the prominent role of RAS in driving cancer has been widely known for over three decades, many therapeutic approaches have proven unsuccessful. This is because cancer cells can find alternative ways through the RAS/MAPK pathway to bypass their therapeutic effects.

Verastem is pioneering new approaches to address these issues with their lead candidate, avutometinib. This investigational first-of-its-kind RAF/MEK clamp is designed to block multiple parts of the RAS pathway simultaneously in a single molecule. This multi-pronged approach aims to deliver a more effective and durable solution against adaptive drug resistance issues that have hindered RAS-targeted therapies for years.

In addition, Verastem is developing another drug, defactinib, which targets selective FAK signaling — a separate mechanism that cancer cells use to evade RAS/MAPK-targeting therapies.

The investigational combination has already shown potential benefits for patients with LGSOC as part of Verastem’s RAMP (Raf And Mek Program) and is currently being investigated in the confirmatory Phase 3 RAMP 301 study (GOG-3097; ENGOT-ov81/NCRI).

Exploring a novel combination therapy with RAMP 301

The international Phase 3 RAMP 301 study aims to determine if the novel combination of avutometinib and defactinib may provide clinical benefits compared to standard treatments for recurrent LGSOC. The trial is seeking approximately 270 patients with recurrent LGSOC who have undergone prior platinum-based therapy and whose disease has progressed.

The study, conducted by gynecological cancer specialists, will measure the effectiveness, safety, and quality of life measures of the investigational combination.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about this study, please visit: LGSOCstudy.com

2024-04-22T08:01:00

(BPT) – Volunteering with a senior nutrition program can benefit volunteers as much as it benefits participants.

2024-04-18T10:11:00

(BPT) – By Gopi Sandhu, vice president of Environmental Sustainability at Nestle Purina

Efforts to protect the planet are important for every creature that calls Earth home, including people and their pets. Companies and consumers must make eco-friendly changes now to ensure a lasting impact.

At Purina we are committed to the health of pets and making high-quality products for them. We are also committed to the planet that we all share. Though our climate-focused goal of achieving net zero greenhouse emissions by 2050 drives much of the important work we do across our value chain, our sustainability work also includes water, packaging and biodiversity. Our experts continually look for ways to better steward the Earth’s resources and reduce Purina’s environmental footprint.

Ingredients and sourcing regenerative agriculture

Did you know that each ingredient used in Purina’s products is chosen specifically to meet the nutritional needs of pets based on their health and life stage? Purina has more than 500 pet nutrition and behavior scientists, veterinarians and other credentialed pet experts on staff. For decades, these experts have been studying the nutrients our dogs and cats need, then selecting the right ingredients, like high-quality meat, grains and vegetables, to ensure that every recipe will nourish pets and taste good.

Just as important as the ingredients themselves is how they are sourced — we can trace our ingredients back to our trusted suppliers. Because these ingredients are such an important part of our environmental footprint, we are working with suppliers and sustainability partners in the regions where we source our ingredients throughout the U.S. to promote and accelerate regenerative agriculture, a conservation and rehabilitation approach to food and farming systems that restores soil and ecosystem health and offers climate, water and biodiversity benefits.

Purina is investing with partners like Cargill to support farmers in the Midwest as they transition to regenerative agriculture practices. This work will support soil health and is estimated to reduce the carbon footprint of the Purina grain supply from Cargill by up to 40% over the next three years.

Reduce and renew in manufacturing and logistics

Nearly all of Purina’s products sold in North America are manufactured in our own facilities across the U.S. An increasing portion of our total electricity today comes from clean energy, renewable resources such as solar, hydropower, wind and investments in renewable energy. We are on track to reach our goal to have 100% renewable electricity across all of our factories and distribution centers by 2025. Our factories have been committed to reducing energy, water and waste for decades. Similarly, our transportation network is now undergoing changes to increase the use of low carbon fuels and electric vehicles.

Recycle and reuse in packaging

Today, more than 90% of Purina’s packaging is designed for recycling, and we continue to look for ways to transition the rest of our packaging to recyclable solutions, while also working with trade organizations to promote a better recycling system in the U.S. Nearly half our Tidy Cats litter jugs are made with 60% post-consumer resin (recycled plastic), and by 2025, we’ll reduce our use of virgin plastics by one-third. Together with our partners and pet owners, we can make a difference by reducing waste to landfills.

Purina’s sustainability commitment

From the ingredients we source to manufacturing, transporting and packaging our products, Purina is committed to providing families with the healthiest and most nutritious foods possible for their pets, and to remaining focused on our impact on the world we all share. Pets are our passion, and there is nothing quite like the bond we get to share with them. It is our promise to continue working for a better planet today, and for future generations of people and pets.

2024-04-16T23:01:00

(BPT) – Do you struggle to stay focused and alert in the afternoon? The 3 p.m. slump is very real and hard to avoid! Many people feel their energy and productivity tank during this time, but fortunately, you don’t have to give in to the 3 p.m. slump. Registered dietitian and Quest partner Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S., offers her top three tips to help power through this challenging time of day.

1. Choose your afternoon beverage wisely

What you drink in the afternoon can help or hinder your fight against the afternoon slump. Choose your drinks wisely by avoiding sugary beverages. Consuming too much sugar throughout the morning is a sure way to fast-track a midday crash.

When your body has more sugar than it’s used to, it produces an influx of insulin to keep your blood glucose (sugar levels) consistent. This blood sugar spike is quickly followed by a crash caused by a rush of insulin and decreased blood glucose, leaving you tired and unfocused.

Avoid a sugar crash and boost your energy by reaching for a beverage high in protein and minimize sugar. Kirkpatrick recommends keeping Quest Iced Coffees on hand to help you power through your day. Just one serving offers 10 grams of protein, 1 gram of sugar and a whopping 200 milligrams of caffeine, so you can stay alert throughout the day while hitting your nutrition goals.

2. Get moving

A simple yet powerful way to combat the 3 p.m. slump is to get moving! Moving increases blood flow and oxygen to your brain, making you feel more alert and energetic.

When you’re feeling lethargic and unfocused, practice some light stretches, do a few jumping jacks or pushups, or take a walk. With the weather warming up, it’s the perfect excuse to leave your desk and take a stroll around the block or even the office.

In addition to improving your energy and focus, physical activity stimulates brain chemicals that can make you feel happier, relaxed, and less anxious so you can breeze through your day and feel your best.

3. Work on your sleep

Do you regularly feel tired throughout the day? You may not be sleeping enough. If you are getting solid, restful sleep, you’re more likely to stay energized and focused the following day.

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends that adults sleep between seven to nine hours each night. Once you have a consistent sleep schedule, staying awake — even during the afternoon — will become easier.

Consider making time for a nap on days you haven’t slept enough. Surprisingly, even short naps have been found to enhance energy and alertness. Studies show that short naps can potentially reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes!

Don’t let the 3 p.m. slump beat you! With these three tips, you can power through even your sleepiest afternoons and finish your day strong.

2024-04-16T23:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you need groceries for your weekly meal prep, last-minute ingredients for tonight’s dinner or stocking up for upcoming holidays, you can now have your groceries delivered straight to your door from Stop & Shop through DoorDash! Thanks to a new partnership between the grocery retail chain Stop & Shop and local commerce platform DoorDash, shoppers in the North East will have access to thousands of new items, including high-quality fresh produce, meat, seafood, household essentials, convenience items, and more.

The partnership reflects the booming trend of online grocery shopping and delivery. Today, more than half of the U.S. population, some 150 million people, regularly order groceries online and get them delivered, according to Statista.

The trend caught fire during the pandemic. That’s not surprising — people didn’t want to leave their homes to shop in a public place. What has surprised some analysts is the steady increase in online grocery shopping after the pandemic was over. The 2023 Online Grocery Shopping Report found that 56% of consumers were buying groceries online more frequently than the prior year.

So why are so many people skipping the trip to the grocery store? For one, consumers are able to access a wide variety of grocery stores from the comfort of their home, offering more options, value, and convenience. See more on online grocery shopping below:

Convenience. In today’s busy world, convenience is key. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, sometimes you just need a flexible option to get all your grocery and home essentials delivered without needing to leave the house. It’s a huge time saver and one more chore off your plate. With the touch of a button you can order all your grocery and household essentials to arrive at your doorstep in just a few hours or you can schedule ahead of time to arrive right when you need it to.

Variety. With the addition of Stop & Shop, consumers can now experience a whole new world of brands from their vast inventory — from locally-sourced produce and pantry staples, to specialty items and more.

Value. When shopping in-store, it can be hard to tally up in your head how much you’re spending. But with ordering online, you see the price as you go, making it easier to stick to your budget. Plus, by shopping at any Stop & Shop location near you, you can rest assured you are getting high-quality items at affordable prices from your local grocery store! Even better, the GO Rewards loyalty program shoppers know and love is available in the app experience. All you have to do is input your loyalty card to save on weekly promotions and earn points with every eligible purchase.

Accessibility. With grocery delivery at your fingertips, you now have the freedom to browse through endless options and purchase exactly what you need, when you need it — all from the comfort of your own home. And if you tend to buy the same few staples week after week, with DoorDash’s reorder feature, you can keep your pantry fully stocked with your everyday essentials — just simple, stress-free grocery shopping.

To offer even more savings to consumers, all Stop & Shop stores will also be available on DashPass, DoorDash’s membership program that offers members $0 delivery fee and reduced service fee on eligible orders plus member-only benefits from thousands of restaurants, grocery, and convenience stores nationwide. DashPass members save $5 per eligible order on average.* Plus, first-time Stop & Shop shoppers can enjoy 40% off their order, up to $20 on orders of $40+ with promo code ‘NEWGROCERY’ on DoorDash**.

So, what are you waiting for? Sit back and relax while DoorDash takes care of the rest.

*DashPass benefits apply only to eligible orders that meet the minimum subtotal requirement listed on DoorDash for each participating merchant. Other fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. After signing up for DashPass, you will be charged the then-current renewal price (plus applicable taxes) automatically on a recurring basis until you cancel. DashPass terms (including how to cancel) here.

40% Off Your Order, up to $20: Offer valid through 4/30/2024. Valid only on orders with a minimum subtotal greater than $40, excluding taxes and fees. Maximum discount value using promo code is $20. Offer available to new customers to Food Lion, Stop & Shop, GIANT, MARTIN’S, GIANT Heirloom, Giant Food, Hannaford on DoorDash only. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. All deliveries subject to availability. Must have or create a valid DoorDash account with a valid form of accepted payment on file. No cash value. Non-transferable. Use promo code NEWGROCERY to redeem. See full terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

2024-04-16T07:01:01

(BPT) – Young parenthood is becoming a thing of the past. In 2021, the mean age of mothers giving birth for the first time was 27.3, a record high for the U.S. As a result, their parents are becoming grandparents later as well, though thanks to longer lifespans, they are still able to enjoy time in this rewarding role. In fact, the number of living grandparents and great-grandparents is rising, which presents new potential benefits. Having more familial connections available can build a stronger family bond and even offer additional childcare options, so long as grandparents are willing and able.

By staying healthy and active, older grandparents can keep up with little ones and reap many of the benefits of providing that care. According to research published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, spending time with grandkids can help with mental sharpness, physical fitness, and even improved mental health. Being an older grandparent, though, may also present a need for better planning, as older adult children may have to juggle caring for their little ones and aging parents.

“Pursuing goals like a healthier lifestyle and preparation for the future are a little bit easier when you have access to tools and resources as a guide,” said Greg Marion, SVP Health Products and Services, AARP Services. “Fortunately, AARP members also have access to many benefits that can help achieve those goals so they can better enjoy this new era of grandparenthood.”

Stay Well

Looking after young children can help you stay fit, but it’s helpful to have some stamina from the start. Activities like walking and strength training can help with endurance, balance and overall fitness. It’s also a good idea to regularly see your primary care physician to stay on top of any issues and ensure you’re taking care of your health. You’ll also want to take preventative measures to minimize illness or ailments.

Look for a physician who accepts your insurance plan so you can stay well. Oak Street Health, for example, provides primary care for adults on Medicare and focuses on prevention with personalized care to help keep you healthy — physically, mentally and socially. Benefits include same-day/next-day appointments (where available), convenient locations, a dedicated care team, and a 24/7 patient support line.

Stay Prepared

The opportunity to care for grandchildren can be fun and joyful, but it’s also a significant responsibility. Being aware of your surroundings and staying physically fit can help prevent injuries during playtime. In addition, it’s good to be prepared with first aid supplies and have an action plan in place in the case of an emergency.

At home or away, Lifeline’s medical alert systems offer peace of mind, especially when caring for a grandchild who may be unable to call for help. Help can be called 24/7/365 with just the press of a button, or automatically with fall detection enabled. AARP members save 15% on medical alert service and get free shipping and activation. You can choose the system that suits your lifestyle for fast access to help anytime.

While enjoying the present, it’s a good idea to prepare for the long term as well, like planning for circumstances where you might need assistance with getting dressed, driving to appointments, or making meals, either at home or within a facility.

With young children and established careers, today’s adults may be less able to provide aging parents with adequate support. Planning for long-term care can make getting that help easier and more financially manageable. You have access to information on long-term care options to help you prepare for the future with customized solutions to help protect your assets and lifestyle.

Save Up

Living longer might mean stretching a fixed income further, which can be challenging with medical expenses and the added cost of wanting to spoil grandchildren. Finding ways to save on medical costs can be a big help.

AARP^® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum RX^® can help with savings on prescriptions. This program offers a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on FDA-approved medications. The program is open to anyone, but AARP members receive additional benefits, including deeper discounts on medications, home delivery, coverage for your dependents and more.

If you’re visiting with your grandchildren for extended periods of time, learn about Medicare-Related Options to ensure that you have the right coverage to fit your lifestyle and financial situation when traveling. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) can help pay for hospital costs, inpatient and outpatient care and doctor visits, but it does not cover all costs.

Enjoy It

It’s a gift to be able to meet your grandchildren, and the opportunity to be an active part of their childhood is priceless. By being prepared and taking preventative steps to manage your health, you can enjoy today’s version of grandparenthood for many fruitful years. To learn more about AARP member benefits, visit aarp.org/benefits.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2024-04-16T11:35:00

(BPT) – Do you have good flushing habits? Flushing may seem like a simple, routine task, but unfortunately, many people flush items that can cause major problems for local and national sewage systems.

Wastewater agencies and wipes industry experts recently collaborated on the largest known domestic sewage collection study to help determine what exactly is clogging sewer lines and equipment. The final study results are now available, and they add up to a massive problem.

What do the numbers say?

The study captured, sorted and identified over 1,700 items collected during peak flow times. The materials found included:

• 34.1% non-flushable wipes labeled with the “Do Not Flush” symbol (baby wipes, cleaning wipes, makeup wipes, etc.)
• 64.9% other non-flushable items (paper towels, period products, trash, etc.)
• 0.9% wipes labeled as flushable

Wipes labeled as “flushable” accounted for less than 1% of sewer system debris and were in the process of breaking apart, while the majority of the non-flushable items collected were fully intact.

What’s the big deal?

It can be tempting to assume that flushing a non-flushable item occasionally may not be a big deal. However, items like paper towels, baby wipes, makeup wipes, rags and more are not designed to pass through sewage systems at any point in their lifetime.

Unlike flushable wipes made from natural fibers that break down easily, non-flushable items can clog the pipes in your home. Even if they pass through your home’s waste system, they can cause problems in your local sewer system and beyond.

The pumps, augurs and pipe networks of municipal wastewater systems are not made to transport or break down these materials. When enough non-flushable items come together, they can congeal to form cement-like fatbergs, which are expensive to remove.

Each year, a significant number of sewer spills occur, many caused when non-flushable products make their way into the wastewater system. These wastewater spills are messy and expensive to clean up. More importantly, wastewater spills threaten public health and the environment.

The cost to the public and you

Fixing problems caused by non-flushable products is quite expensive. A home clog can cost homeowners anywhere from $175 to more than $1,000 to fix. Even if you don’t pay for a plumber for your pipes, you may end up paying for damage to wastewater systems.

The National Association of Clean Water Agencies estimates that local public agencies throughout the U.S. (and the ratepayers they represent) spend more than $440 million each year to respond to sewer overflows caused by inappropriately flushing “Do Not Flush” labeled wet wipes and repair wastewater treatment equipment.

How can you help?

While non-flushable products clogging the nation’s sewer systems is a massive problem, everyone can do their part to solve it. You can help by learning and practicing smart flushing habits.

Common household items that you should NEVER flush include:

• Baby wipes, household cleaning wipes and makeup wipes
• Paper towels and facial tissues
• Fats, oils and grease
• Food, trash and plastic bags
• Rags, cloth and disposable gloves
• Cotton balls, cotton swabs and dental floss
• Feminine products
• Hair and hair weaves
• Medications and syringes

Be especially cautious when flushing wipes. In the U.S., 90% of wipes sold are non-flushable. When purchasing and using wipes, look for the “Do Not Flush” symbol on the front of the packaging. If you can’t find the symbol, err on the side of caution and dispose of the wipes in your garbage can.

Take care of your pipes and help reduce damage to the nation’s sewage systems by practicing smart flushing habits. To learn more about the study, visit FlushSmart.org/CA-Collection-Study-Report.

2024-04-16T07:01:01

(BPT) – At first glance, building credit can seem like a challenge. How can you get the credit you need when you have little or negative credit history to start with? Don’t get discouraged, though; there are many ways you can build, rebuild or improve your credit.

Best ways to build credit

• Apply for a secured credit card. A secured credit card works just like an unsecured card, but it’s guaranteed upfront by a cash deposit. Making on-time payments and keeping a low credit card balance helps your credit-building.
• Ask a family member to add you as an authorized user on their own credit card. You’ll get your own card, but the primary card holder sets the limit on how much you can charge. It can be good for both of you: You’ll learn how to manage a credit line, and the account holder can earn rewards on what you buy. Just keep in mind that if the main cardholder misses or makes late payments, it could end up on your credit report.
• Manage loans soundly. A history of on-time payments shows you can responsibly manage your line of credit. Consider having a cosigner on a loan if you aren’t able to qualify on your own.

Maintaining good credit habits

• Make payments on time, all the time. Pay credit card companies, utility bills and other accounts on time and always for at least the minimum payment. Consider using calendar reminders and tools like automatic payments and money transfers. Missed payments will lower your credit score quickly, but on-time payments show that you use credit carefully.
• Use different types of accounts. Your credit score improves when you responsibly use more than one type of credit account, including personal loans and installment loans, like a car loan. Be mindful of how many new credit accounts you apply for as too many hard inquiries into your credit file can negatively affect your credit score.
• Use your credit card regularly but keep your utilization low. Your credit utilization ratio is the percentage of your available credit that you actually use. Try not to use more than 30 percent of your available credit. For example, if you have a $1,000 credit limit, try to keep your balance under $300.
• Keep current credit card accounts open. Unless you have a reason to close an account, consider keeping it open even if you don’t use it. Keeping an unused account open increases available credit, improving your use ratio.

Get your credit back on track

• Check your credit report for errors and know your credit score. Your credit score is a snapshot of your credit history and shows lenders how responsible you may be as a borrower. Your credit report outlines your credit activity, your credit history and the status of your accounts. It’s important to check your credit report every year and dispute any errors. Also consider using a tool like Navy Federal Credit Union’s credit score simulator to see how you can affect your score, for good or bad.
• Create a budget or use a budget worksheet comparing your income and expenses. The best way to live within your budget and avoid bad credit is to catch problems early. With a realistic budget and a close eye on your bank account, you can see where you need to change course to get back on track quickly.

The more you practice good credit habits, the more your credit history will improve — helping prepare you for the future financing you may need.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.