Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-07-15T18:39:00

(BPT) – If you’re an older adult, staying fit may be one of your top wellness goals. But how can you exercise during a heat wave? Concerns about the heat are justified, as seniors are more likely to suffer from the effects of high temperatures.

“As an Arizona native, I fully understand how intense the summer heat can be. It is so important for older adults to know the dangers heat can pose, and how to recognize signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” said Jenny O’Callaghan, national trainer at SilverSneakers by Tivity Health. “But there are many ways to still stay active all summer.”

Here are tips to help you keep exercising — even during a heat wave.

Seniors are more at risk

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat-related illnesses are preventable. Learn the symptoms and what to do if you or a loved one shows signs of having a heat-related illness.

As you get older, your body’s ability to regulate temperature decreases, making you vulnerable to the effects of overheating. You also sweat less — which is a main way your body cools you down. At the same time, your thirst impulse may be dulled, so you may not feel thirsty until you’re dehydrated.

Various health conditions can also be exacerbated by high temperatures, and many medications may also increase your risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

For all these reasons, seniors are more vulnerable to heat, so it’s crucial to take the risk seriously and not overdo it when the thermometer starts to climb. At the same time, the benefits of exercise are well-documented, helping seniors with cardiovascular health, mobility and balance, and mental health and acuity. The good news is, there are ways to both stay safe and active during a heat wave.

Signs to recognize

It’s vital to know when you may need immediate help to cool down. Heat can cause mild symptoms like heat rash (resembling small blisters) or heat edema (when ankles and feet swell during high temps), but it can also cause much more serious conditions.

Heat exhaustion can occur when your body overheats. It’s important to take action quickly, to prevent progression to heat stroke. Symptoms include:

• Wave of weakness or fatigue
• Headache
• Decreased urine
• Profuse sweating
• Thirst
• Lightheadedness
• Rapid pulse
• Irritability

Experiencing just one or two of those symptoms? Don’t wait to see if more symptoms develop. Act quickly:

• Rest in a cool place, preferably air-conditioned
• If you can’t get inside, rest in shade
• Drink small sips of cool fluids like water or sports drinks
• Remove excess clothing like outerwear, shoes and socks
• Use cool compresses (like a cold, damp towel) to lower your temp
• Take a cool shower or bath

Heat stroke is the most dangerous condition, which occurs when your body can no longer control its temperature. Without emergency medical treatment, heat stroke can lead to permanent disability or death.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Confusion
• Elevated body temperature
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Slurred speech

If you think you or someone you’re with is experiencing heat stroke, act immediately: Call 911 and use water or ice to cool the body down while waiting for an ambulance.

Safeguard from heat risks

Heading outside? Check the weather forecast first, not just for the actual temperature, but the “feels like” heat index, which takes humidity into account. When temps approach 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, it may be best to avoid the heat. If you’re planning to head outside to exercise when it’s hot, make sure you:

• Bring cool water and sip often, even if you’re not thirsty
• Seek shade
• Choose cooler hours, like morning or evening
• Pace yourself — reduce exercise intensity and duration, like taking shorter, slower walks

Find cooler alternatives

You can stay fit no matter the temperature by exercising safely indoors. Consider working out in the comfort of your home with programs through SilverSneakers, the nation’s leading fitness program for older adults. You’ll enjoy a variety of online classes, from cardio and strength training to yoga and mindfulness, through SilverSneakers LIVE, which streams hundreds of classes designed for all fitness levels and abilities, seven days a week.

Gyms, community centers and other indoor fitness locations can also help you beat the heat and remain active. SilverSneakers enables you to visit thousands of fitness locations nationwide, including community FLEX locations such as senior centers and community centers.

“Don’t let heat waves stop you from staying active this summer,” said O’Callaghan. “There are plenty of fun and safe options to keep you moving, without risking your health due to the heat.”

If you have Medicare, your plan may include SilverSneakers at no additional cost. You can check your eligibility at Tools.Silversneakers.com/Eligibility.

2024-07-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – In June 2023, an electrical house fire in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, set Emily Dorsheimer, 53, on a difficult health journey. She suffered severe burns to her leg, face and hands in the fire. Little did she know virtual reality (VR) would play an important part in her healing.

Recovery in the hospital was arduous, as Emily endured multiple surgeries. After a month-long stay in the burn unit, half of it spent in a medically induced coma, Emily and her family were relieved and thankful she made it through. But they had to prepare for a long road of rehabilitation.

Emily had to relearn how to walk, talk and carry out activities of daily living like getting herself dressed and eating. Her legs were too weak to stand, and she could barely speak. She was admitted for in-patient therapy at AristaCare Meadow Springs, an acute rehabilitation facility in Pennsylvania, for the specialized care she needed so that she could return home and live independently.

It would be a challenging path to recovery, but Emily had a top-notch team of clinicians, her strong sense of perseverance and an unexpected yet powerful tool to help along the way: an immersive rehabilitation platform called the REAL y-Series.

Recovery with engaging immersive technology

The REAL y-Series by Penumbra is a rehabilitation tool for physical, occupational, speech and recreation therapists to utilize with patients with a variety of rehabilitation goals. Patients who have utilized REAL System include those recovering from stroke, spinal cord injuries, phantom limb pain, orthopaedic injuries and others. REAL y-Series combines virtual reality and full body motion tracking technology with clinically designed activities and progress tracking to keep patients engaged and motivated throughout therapy.[i]

Tim Bullis, director of rehab at AristaCare Meadow Springs, said REAL “gives (therapists) a lot more variety and variability with treatments” and provides a controlled environment for therapists to track progress.

Patients wear a VR headset and six sensors, to be fully immersed in an engaging, virtual world. Activities like Sandwich Shop™ transport them to a deli where they prepare sandwich orders, honing their memory and cognitive skills to put together different combinations of bread, meat, cheese, and veggies. In Creative Canvas™, patients embrace their inner artist. They paint masterpieces with arm movements that exercise their reach and build strength to control their torso and core.

Emily was skeptical when first introduced to the REAL y-Series in her therapy plan. But she was excited and impressed to find, that as she progressed through her therapy sessions with REAL y-Series, her balance improved, and she was able to walk longer distances. “As I was getting into it,” Emily said, “and learning balance, kicking and playing pinball, all the activities that are in (REAL) really helped.” She worked up a sweat as she improved her motor skills and regained her independence, advancing further and faster than she would have through traditional rehab alone.

REAL Pinball™ was one of Emily’s favorite activities as it helped her develop functional movement and balance. By staying engaged and excited with VR, Emily said she “came a long way in a short amount of time.” Emily and her therapists tracked and quantified her progress through automated progress measures collected from the sensors worn during the session. The insights on the TherapyView tablet gave Emily and her therapist objective session measures to help inform her therapy plan.

Triumphing over challenge

Emily was discharged from AristaCare Meadow Springs in January 2024 and was eager to get back to what she loves most: spending time with her husband, trying out new restaurants and shopping.

“At first, I didn’t think I could get back to being out in the world doing everyday activities,” Emily said. “But now I am.”

Across the U.S., hospitals and rehabilitation facilities are embracing the power of immersive healthcare experiences like the REAL y-Series to help patients recover faster from life-changing injuries and conditions. Balance assessment and objective patient progress measures on the REAL y-Series allow therapists to quantify and monitor patient progress over their sessions.

To schedule a demonstration of REAL or learn more about the life-changing impact of VR, visit the REAL System website.

Consents on file at Penumbra, Inc. Procedural and operative techniques and considerations are illustrative examples from healthcare provider experience. Healthcare providers’ treatment and technique decisions will vary based on their medical judgment and other factors. The opinions and clinical experiences presented herein are for informational purposes only. The results may not be predictive for all patients. Individual results may vary depending on patient-specific attributes.

Caution: Federal (USA) law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a healthcare provider. Prior to use, please refer to the Instructions for Use (IFU) for complete product indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, potential adverse events, and detailed instructions for use. Please click here for the complete IFU https://www.realsystem.com/usermanual/. Please contact your local REAL Territory Manager for more information.

[i] Data on file

2024-07-15T08:01:00

(BPT) – Recent shifts in interior design trends have made way for a kitchen style that marries elevated elegance with function: the invisible kitchen. Also known as the no-kitchen kitchen, this design style prioritizes a clutter-free space with a cohesive, luxe aesthetic achieved through the seamless integration of kitchenware and appliances.

Whether you’re planning a full kitchen revamp or simply upgrading certain elements, an invisible kitchen offers a luxurious way to elevate functionality and design. Get to reimagining with these four tips.

1. Seek sleek, invisible storage solutions

Invisible storage solutions can easily clear cluttered countertops and overflowing cabinets, creating a sleek-looking kitchen. Consider introducing pullout pantry shelves, sliding drawers, turntables, and panels to your existing cabinetry. These additions easily conceal food, dishware and kitchen appliances and allow you to quickly access essentials whenever you need.

Not only will storage solutions create a clean, streamlined and elevated look, but they can help efficiently maximize every inch of kitchen space.

2. Introduce flush-to-cabinet appliances

Seamless integration of appliances is a necessity of the invisible kitchen. When shopping for major appliances like dishwashers and refrigerators, opt for panel-ready flush-to-cabinet models that offer a cohesive, unbroken design of your space.

For example, the daring JennAir^® Fully Integrated Dishwasher offers an integrated design that suits all design aesthetics. Available panel-ready and in JennAir^® RISE™ and NOIR™ design expressions, the dishwasher can camouflage effortlessly with cabinetry for a luxe and cohesive look. Best of all, JennAir is the quietest luxury dishwasher brand based on normal cycle, so it allows users to experience tranquility while it runs, creating a soothing environment while tackling any size mess thanks to the High-Capacity third level rack.

If you’re looking to extend the flush-to-cabinet aesthetic to the rest of your kitchen, JennAir also offers panel-ready, Built-In Refrigerators and Columns that can easily elevate and integrate into your current kitchen setup.

3. Hone in on multifunctionality

Incorporating multifunctional elements into your kitchen creates a dynamic and efficient space that adapts to your diverse needs without sacrificing beauty. A great place to start is the kitchen island.

A kitchen island is a versatile feature in any home. The island serves as a workspace for cooking, a gathering spot for guests, a storage solution for cookware, and can even discreetly house major appliances.

Enhance your kitchen island by integrating a stovetop like the JennAir^® Electric Radiant Cooktop. The sleek oblivion glass with a fully flush install allows you to hide the appliance in plain sight. Plus, intuitive emotive controls are elegantly designed with clear, white LEDs that adjust the cooking temperature with just a light touch. If you’re looking to take your invisible kitchen a step further, this cooktop is also available with built-in downdraft ventilation, eliminating the need for a hood.

You can add even more function to your kitchen island with a JennAir^® panel-ready undercounter refrigerator drawer. Surprise and delight guests by providing a glass of champagne or chilled white without ever leaving the island!

4. Achieve luxury with hidden lights, outlets and handles

Hidden details can turn any standard kitchen into a sophisticated space outfitted to wine, dine and entertain.

Consider installing concealed under-cabinet lighting to illuminate the kitchen area and up the ambiance without ruining the aesthetic. Push-to-open cabinets or integrated handles can also allow you to easily access whatever ingredients or cookware you need while creating a more modern and minimalist look. The same is true for hidden electrical outlets that are recessed or use a pop-up mechanism.

The invisible kitchen does more than just conceal clutter. Using these four tips, you can begin your journey to having a kitchen that’s not just functional, but refined.

2024-07-12T13:13:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Adaptimmune Therapeutics.

“During my treatment, I had scans with Dr. Charlson every three months for two years, then every six months for three years,” said Megan. “Recently, I’ve graduated to yearly scans, which rocks.”

Now determined to raise awareness of this devastating disease, Megan offers this advice to others:

• Trust & Advocate for Yourself — You know your body best. If something feels wrong, trust your instinct and keep pushing for answers. “It’s important to be forthcoming with your providers. Ask questions, even if they seem silly. Speak up if their perspective doesn’t align with your experience. And don’t be afraid to get a second opinion,” stresses Megan.

• Find the Right Resources — Synovial sarcoma is a rare cancer. Not all doctors know what to look for, how to diagnose it or the best options for treatment. Therefore, seeking diagnosis and treatment from medical professionals and interdisciplinary teams with expertise in sarcomas is important. “I was lucky to live close to a medical center that specializes in sarcoma and knew how to manage my disease and treatment,” Megan said. “And I’m so grateful to Dr. Charlson and his entire team for the care and specialized expertise over the last four years.”

“This rare, devastating cancer predominantly often affects young adults, like Megan, but no new, effective treatments have been introduced in over a decade,” said Charlson. “Sarcoma treatment centers have the expertise and resources necessary to provide comprehensive, personalized care for patients with synovial sarcoma.”

This Sarcoma Awareness Month, visit FlagSynovialSarcoma.com to learn more.

Flagsynovialsarcoma.com is provided by Adaptimmune Therapeutics, a company working to redefine how cancer is treated through personalized medicines that use a patient’s own cells to fight their cancer.

This sponsored article is presented by Brandpoint.

1. “Synovial Sarcoma.” National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/pediatric-adult-rare- tumor/rare-tumors/rare-soft-tissue-tumors/synovial-sarcoma. Accessed 17 May 2024.
2. Aytekin MN, Ozturk R, Amer K, et al. Epidemiology, incidence, and survival of synovial sarcoma subtypes: SEER database analysis. J Orthop Surg (Hong Kong). 2020;28:2309499020936009.
3. “Synovial Sarcoma.” Moffitt Cancer Center. https://www.moffitt.org/cancers/sarcoma/diagnosis-treatment/types/synovial-sarcoma/. Accessed 18 April 2024.
4. Jami SA, Mobarak SA, Jiandang S, et al. Clinical and strategic outcomes of metastatic synovial sarcoma on limb. Int J Health Sci (Qassim). 2020;14:38–43.

2024-07-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Startups are at the forefront of a revolution, harnessing the transformative power of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to drive innovation like never before. Whether creating images, videos, insights from unstructured data, or better, cheaper new medicines, the potential for groundbreaking solutions is vast.

Recognizing this immense opportunity, Amazon Web Services (AWS) is investing heavily in the generative AI space, providing startups with the crucial resources they need to overcome initial costs and develop and deploy foundational models, fine tune and launch AI applications. These investments are not just fueling the next wave of tech advancements but are also empowering startups to make a significant impact on the future of innovation.

Investing in innovation

AWS has committed $230 million in the form of AWS Credits to accelerate the creation of generative AI applications by startups around the world. This commitment was announced as AWS shared it’s now accepting applications for its Generative AI Accelerator program, aimed to turbocharge the development of new generative AI applications and bring innovations to market faster.

The program won’t just provide funds to budding companies, but also provide technical and business support for early-stage companies using AI and machine learning (ML) technologies to build world-changing products on the AWS cloud.

The AWS Generative AI Accelerator program was the first of its kind and has already seen early success. Last year’s cohort of 21 global startups drove unprecedented innovations in media and entertainment, drug discovery, software engineering and more.

Among these trailblazers, Leonardo.AI has made significant strides with its powerful suite of generative AI tools for creators. The support from AWS enabled Leonardo.AI to scale its platform to meet the rapidly growing demand from a global user community. With AWS’s robust generative AI infrastructure, Leonardo.AI reduced inferencing costs by 60% and accelerated language model inference speeds by up to 35%. For the startup, the accelerator program provided invaluable business and technical mentorship and facilitated crucial connections that helped shape Leonardo.AI’s product and strategy, highlighting the transformative potential of the AWS Accelerator program in paving the future of innovation.

Applications for the second cohort of the AWS Generative AI Accelerator program are now open and will be accepted until July 19. This year’s cohort will admit 80 global early-stage startups using generative AI to solve complex challenges. To qualify for the program, startups must advance generative AI by building foundation models, conducting training and inference proof-of-concepts or deploying Large Language Models (LLMs).

This isn’t the first time the company has supported the growth of startups. Through AWS Activate, the company has provided nearly $1 billion in credits annually to startups to build their solutions with little-to-no upfront costs and supported founders with self-service business and technical content. The AWS Generative AI Accelerator program is a natural extension of the company’s goal of nurturing the next generation of innovators.

Providing resources for AI startup success

The 2024 accelerator will provide each participating startup with up to $1 million in AWS credits to access AWS’s world-class cloud infrastructure technologies. These include computing, storage, databases and the best price-performance ML accelerators, AWS Trainium and AWS Inferentia2.

Startups can also use credits on Amazon SageMaker JumpStart, a fully managed service designed to help companies build and train their own foundational models, as well as on third-party models from leading AI companies through Amazon Bedrock.

Beyond funds, the program also offers startup founders mentorship opportunities. During the 10-week program, participants will be matched with business and technical mentors to help them build, train, test and launch their AI solutions.

“AWS has the right combination of technology and network of partners and potential customers in the life sciences space that made it the best fit to support our vision of building the next generation of AI models for drug discovery,” said Nima Alidoust, Ph.D., CEO and co-founder of Vevo Therapeutics, one of the 21 companies to join the program in 2023.

The AI-driven biotechnology startup is building the world’s first platform to generate large-scale, high-resolution, single-cell in vivo data. “Participating in the accelerator provided us with valuable opportunities to tap into this community and to leverage AWS’s infrastructure and expertise in scaling model training and development.”

The future of AI is at your fingertips

Do you want to be part of shaping the future of AI? Applications for the program are open today. Selected startups will be announced Sept. 10, 2024, and the program will kick off Oct. 1, 2024, with in-person sessions at Amazon’s HQ1 in Seattle, Washington.

The program will culminate at re:Invent 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada, where all 80 participants will be invited to attend and join activities, including showcasing their solutions to potential investors, customers, partners and AWS leaders.

To learn more about the opportunities for generative AI startups with AWS and the application process for the AWS Generative AI Accelerator, visit Startups.AWS.

2024-07-11T08:31:00

(BPT) – As a sleep medicine specialist, Dr. Christopher J. Allen knows well the importance of sleep health, which is not only defined by the number of hours the individual sleeps, but also the quality of the sleep and the absence of sleep disorders¹. He regularly sees patients who have conditions like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where obesity can be a significant risk factor. And when it comes to helping those patients address weight challenges, he knows another doctor who comes highly recommended: weight management specialist Dr. Dafina Allen. As a husband-and-wife team, the Allens often share patients between them because of the significant interplay between obesity and sleep health.

OSA is sleep disordered breathing that occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, blocking the airway, and it affects more than 54 million Americans². It can lead to drowsiness and fatigue during the day, but can also increase the risk for heart attack, heart failure, stroke and contributes to high blood pressure³. By some estimates, moderate-to-severe OSA can increase mortality risk by 33%⁴. Obesity is a significant risk factor for OSA, occurring in an estimated 41% to 70% of patients with the condition^5,6.

Sleep health and the challenge of weight loss

“When patients come to see me, they often know that weight plays some role with sleep apnea,” says Chris. “And it’s true that, for many patients, weight loss can reduce the severity of sleep apnea. But achieving that is where getting the right treatment and support matters.”

“I have patients — many of whom wind up working with Chris — who realize that their weight loss isn’t progressing because they’re not getting quality sleep,” Dafina adds. “When you aren’t sleeping well, your cortisol levels are higher, increasing your visceral fat. You tend to be more irritable; you may want to snack more and be less motivated to be active. Having an untreated sleep condition like OSA is going to be a major barrier to managing your weight in a healthy way.”

Research has shown that the relationship between OSA and weight can be reciprocal with some studies showing that obesity increases the risks of developing OSA, but also that treating OSA may help spur weight loss⁷.

Chris relies on positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, using a device such as ResMed CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines as the first line treatment for OSA. CPAP uses airflow to keep the airways open during sleep, and provides relief from the symptoms of OSA, which can make it easier to make the lifestyle changes needed to address obesity concerns, according to Chris.

“Sleep apnea can be overwhelming, but once a patient begins using CPAP, they often start to notice a difference,” adds Chris. “That extra energy from proper sleep may help kickstart healthier lifestyle choices. When we work with patients on sleep health issues and start to educate them about how weight may affect those conditions, they are in a better spot to adhere to treatment plans and achieve better health outcomes.”

“Simply starting the conversation is a critical part of a health journey, and with the addition of GLP-1 medications as a tool for weight management, we are seeing more people interested in engaging their doctors about weight and health in general,” Dafina adds. “As part of that, I’ve heard many more questions about sleep health. Sleep is such a critical piece of the weight loss puzzle. If a patient isn’t sleeping well, it’s going to be harder to follow a plan that requires them to change how they eat and increase their activity level, even with the help of new medications.”

Healthy weight management and successful OSA treatment

“We’ve been prescribing these medications for diabetes for some time, and with more people being prescribed GLP-1s for obesity, we’re constantly increasing what we know about how effective they are and the role they can play in healthy weight management,” adds Dafina.

While weight loss can reduce the severity of sleep apnea, her husband chimes in that it’s important to keep your healthcare professional involved in your sleep health decisions even if you have lost significant weight and feel less tired during the day.

“I’d usually want to do a sleep study to determine the impact of the weight loss on the sleep apnea before making any changes to treatment,” he says. “But we also want to make sure that if you are using one of these new medications that the weight you’ve lost remains or continues to improve once you come off the medication. If it goes back up, you are at risk of your sleep apnea getting worse once again, so we want to see people making long-term sustainable changes and make sure they stay vigilant if anything changes regarding their sleep health.”

Sleep apnea: Are you at risk?

“The hardest part of my job is that I have to talk to patients about things that happen when they’re unconscious,” adds Chris. “Many people don’t know that they have a sleep disorder and so it’s important to know your risk factors. If you have a bed partner, rely on them to let you know if you’re snoring or gasping for air at night, because that is a common sign of sleep apnea.”

For people who sleep alone, other signs that may indicate OSA include waking up frequently during the night or waking up with headaches. Diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea requires talking to a health professional, but signs and symptoms include feeling tired during the day, snoring loudly at night, waking in the middle of the night gasping for air, having a body mass index over 30, or history of high blood pressure⁸.

It’s estimated that up to 80% of adults with sleep apnea are undiagnosed and untreated, so knowing your risk factors and having a conversation with your doctor is critical⁹.

To learn more about the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea and to find out how to talk to your healthcare professional about them, take a look at the sleep resource page at resmed.com.

2024-07-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – According to a 2024 survey from HireAHelper, family was the number one reason older adults and retirees moved to a new location. Moving closer to family is an exciting and happy time, though navigating new neighborhoods, meeting new people and getting into a different routine can be a little intimidating. Fortunately, having your kids and grandkids close by can be a tremendous help in finding your footing. Plus, by using your AARP member benefits, which can be accessed anywhere, you can help make the transition even easier.

“The goal of moving closer to family is to feel safe and content, and AARP members can enjoy their relaunch closer to family while saving on everyday expenses,” said Jason Mugg, AARP Services Senior Vice President of Lifestyle. “From savings on food delivery services, to home security and phone lines, your member benefits may give you access to products and services to ease the stress of moving.”

1. Staying in Touch

While moving closer to family is an exciting time, it can also be hard to leave behind your community. As you work to build a new one, keep those ties and stay in touch with old friends, easily and affordably.

AARP member benefits have the savings you need to stay connected. Members save 5% on monthly service and usage charges with Consumer Cellular and 30% on accessories, with talk, text and data plans starting at $20 per month per line. If you need unlimited access, members can open two lines of unlimited talk, text and data for $55 per month. No contract is required and it includes free activation and an extended, 45-day risk-free guarantee.

2. Making the Big Move

Do you ever look at your furniture and wonder how you’d ever move it all? Well, for those who are relocating, it all starts with renting a truck that is big enough to fit your furniture and making sure it all arrives at your new home safely. While some rental trucks can be expensive, AARP member benefits can help knock the price down.

With Budget Truck Rentals, members can save 20% on local or one-way truck rentals on Sunday through Thursday and 10% on Friday and Saturday, plus receive a $10-per-day Physical Damage Waiver.

3. Find Your Healthcare Providers

Having family close by has many benefits, especially if they’ve been part of your new community for a while. They can be a great resource for finding some new healthcare providers, like a dentist, for example. Regular visits to the dentist brighten your smile, but they can also monitor and prevent disease, so it’s a good idea to find one quickly to maintain good oral health. AARP members have access to information on dental insurance options for a variety of budgets and needs, so you can make sure your family’s recommendations are right for you.

When it comes to finding physicians who specialize in older adults, though, younger family members might not be in the loop. In those situations, finding a local physician who is part of a nationwide network can be a huge help. Oak Street Health provides primary care for adults on Medicare, focusing on prevention with personalized care to help keep you healthy — physically, mentally and socially. AARP members and non-members can visit the Oak Street Health website to find a doctor and schedule an appointment. Benefits include same-day/next-day appointments where available, convenient locations, a dedicated care team and a 24/7 patient support line.

Similarly, with AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing, members can receive a hearing exam and consultation at no cost and personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers. Members can save an average of $2,000 per pair on prescription hearing aids and 15% on accessories — no insurance needed!

You’ve worked hard to make sure that you have the financial security you want for you and your family. And, you’ve tried to prepare for the surprises that life may bring in the future. But even the most well-thought-out strategy may not be enough to prepare you for the unexpected costs associated with long-term care. Reviewing information on long-term care options can help you prepare for the future with customized solutions to help protect your assets and lifestyle.

4. Securing Your Home & Budget

The sooner you start feeling safe in your new neighborhood, the sooner it’ll feel like home. AARP members can take advantage of benefits to ensure safety all day long while saving money at the same time. Alexa Emergency Assist from Amazon provides access to 24/7 emergency assistance through any Echo device. Members save 25% off monthly and annual subscription plans. Alexa Emergency Assist offers hands-free access to Urgent Response agents, 24/7, by simply saying “Alexa, call for help.” Your emergency contacts will be alerted if you call Urgent Response and you will receive expedited help by pre-saving your critical information.

ADT™ Home Security can also keep you safe and sound while cozied up in your home. AARP members save 5% on monthly home security monitoring that covers your smart home security systems including intrusion monitoring, connected smoke and CO detection, and smart automation from video doorbells and security cameras to smart locks. This offer can also be combined with other ADT offers, for additional savings.

A new move takes adjustment, and a little extra cash, but by using your AARP member benefits you can appreciate the joy of being close to family.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for your relaunch, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2024-07-11T08:33:00

(BPT) – Did you know there is an urgent need for nearly 800,000 skilled technicians to enter the American workforce by 2027 in order to meet demand? This pressing shortage has proven challenging to remedy, particularly due to the underrepresentation of diverse groups in skilled trades. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that women are particularly underrepresented, accounting for less than 3% of employed technicians.

At the same time, students across the U.S. are questioning the value of a traditional four-year college education, fueling a 16% surge in enrollment for vocational training programs in the last year alone. Young Americans are exploring alternative career paths more than ever, yet the significant gender gap in automotive, diesel, collision repair, aviation and avionics fields — to name a few — remains.

The evidence shows that trade industries are at a crossroads. Luckily, a recent survey by California winery Rebellious Wines revealed that most Americans (55%) believe in breaking gender norms through their career choices, suggesting an exciting solution.

Rebellious Wines, in partnership with TechForce Foundation, has taken decisive action to empower a diverse workforce while also helping to fill the urgent skills gap, by creating the Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program. This new scholarship aims to inspire individuals from all backgrounds to pursue successful careers in the skilled trades and provides more than financial aid; it opens doors for underrepresented students by empowering them to thrive in rewarding and essential careers.

“This scholarship champions the spirit of rebelling for good by empowering students from underrepresented populations to pursue careers in non-traditional fields,” said Bob DeRoose, president and CEO of Kobrand Corporation, the parent company of Rebellious Wines. “We’re committed to breaking barriers that have kept many people out of these lucrative careers. Their drive and determination will ultimately bridge the skills gap in today’s labor market, proving that the future of these industries will be both inclusive and rebellious.”

The Rebellious Riveters Scholarship Program is accepting applications now through August 2024. Scholarships will be available for eligible students enrolled in any post-secondary technician program across the U.S.

To learn more about how you or students in your communities can become trailblazers and pursue these vital career paths, visit RebelliousWine.com/rebelliousriveters.

2024-07-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – Are you preparing to send your student off to college next semester? As you collaborate on a Back-To-College checklist, make sure to add insurance shopping.

If you haven’t considered any type of insurance for your college-bound student, the time to do so is now! To protect your peace of mind and their academic journey, consider the following types of insurance policies.

1. Health insurance

Whether your student gets a run-of-the-mill cold or experiences a medical emergency, you’ll want to make sure they’re covered. Per federal law, they can stay on your health insurance plan until age 26. However, your plan may not provide coverage if your student attends school out of state.

Check to make sure your health insurance provides adequate coverage. If not, you should consider a student health insurance policy. No matter which plan you choose, make sure you aren’t billed twice, as some schools automatically bill for health insurance.

2. Tuition insurance

No one wants to think about their child withdrawing from school, but it may happen, and not just because of a physical illness. According to a 2024 study, 64% of students currently enrolled in higher education considered withdrawing because of emotional stress or mental health concerns.

If your student withdraws from school, getting a tuition refund can be incredibly difficult. Most colleges only offer tuition refunds within the first few weeks of the term, and virtually none provide any refunds for housing or fees. Luckily, you can safeguard your investment in your student’s education with tuition insurance.

Tuition insurance plans can provide reimbursement for a variety of expenses, including tuition, housing and academic fees. GradGuard’s plans can provide reimbursement when a student needs to withdraw from the covered academic term due to an unforeseen, covered accident, injury or other covered reason.*

3. Travel insurance

Is your child planning to travel during the holidays or study abroad next semester? Then you’ll need to protect them with travel insurance.

Travel insurance is often overlooked but is an important form of coverage for college students. Whether your student has to cancel a trip, loses their luggage, has a medical emergency or experiences other travel-related risks, travel insurance has you covered.

4. Auto insurance

If your student plans to have a car on campus, they’re legally required to have car insurance. You could keep your child on your auto insurance family policy, but it’s wise to compare rates. In fact, there are auto insurance policies tailored to the needs of college students that could save them (and you) money.

When shopping for student auto insurance, look for plans that offer student discounts. GradGuard can help you find car insurance policies that offer good student discounts and automatically compare rates before your renewal.

5. Renters insurance

Beyond tuition, room and board and other school fees, you and your student may also invest in belongings like cell phones, laptops, clothing, bikes and other expensive items. Can you afford to replace them if they become damaged, destroyed or stolen?

Whether your student plans to live in an on-campus residence hall or in off-campus housing, make sure they’re protected with renters insurance. Not only can renters insurance cover property damage from burst pipes and other household problems, but it can also help replace expensive items.

Choose a policy like GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance. With the option for monthly or annual policies and flexible deductibles starting at $100, you can provide your student with personal liability and worldwide property coverage. Best of all, no credit score is needed and filing a claim won’t raise your premium.

Secure your student’s future and protect your peace of mind. By considering these five types of insurance plans, you can help your student focus on their education and personal growth without worrying about the potential financial loss that can come with unexpected risks.

*Terms, conditions, and exclusions (including for pre-existing conditions) apply. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Insurance benefits are underwritten by Jefferson Insurance Company. Grad Guard, a service of Next Generation Insurance Group, LLC (NGI), is the licensed agent for all insurance programs. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Non-insurance benefits/services, and claims administration, are provided by AGA Service Company.

2024-07-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Five years ago, in the prime of her fitness career, longtime Peloton instructor Hannah Corbin was teaching several classes a week and never running short on energy. Always having maintained a healthy lifestyle — formerly as a professional dancer, an aerial artist and now as a fitness instructor — Hannah was surprised when she began experiencing extreme exhaustion. Soon she was only able to stay awake for four hours before needing a nap, even after sleeping 10 to 12 hours the night before. Hannah’s exhaustion became so severe that she would fall asleep in odd places like the New York City subway, and for the first time, she had to start pulling back from work.

Over the next two years, Hannah visited countless doctors, only to be told her exhaustion was likely due to her physically demanding job and that her weight gain wasn’t “enough” to cause concern. Eventually, Hannah took matters into her own hands, trying different fitness regimens and eating plans, with little success. Then, following an alarming blood test result and discovery of her family’s thyroid disease history, Hannah was immediately referred to an endocrinologist. During that consultation, Hannah’s endocrinologist found her thyroid was severely under functioning and she was merely a month away from slipping into a thyroid coma.

Jarring, but finally an answer. Hannah was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease — an autoimmune condition and the most common form of hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid disorder. Hannah’s thyroid was producing very low levels of thyroid hormone, causing her energy and metabolism to slow down.

An Eye-Catching Surprise

Many people don’t know living with a thyroid condition may also put you at a higher risk of developing other conditions, like Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), a separate but related autoimmune condition that requires separate care.

Symptoms of TED can vary and include:

• Eye bulging, double vision, eye pain, redness, and even vision loss in some cases.

TED can also have a profound effect on people’s emotional well-being and ability to partake in daily activities like reading, driving and working.

While everyone with a thyroid condition is at risk, that risk increases if you live with Graves’ disease — which is the most common form of hyperthyroidism. In fact, up to 50% of people with Graves’ disease may develop TED and women are also 5x more likely to develop TED than men.

“Now that I know my risks for TED, I’m watching my eyes closely, so I don’t take any chances,” Hannah said. “Like I always say, treat your body like it belongs to someone you love.”

Taking “Autoimmune” to “Auto-Amazing”

With Hashimoto’s under control, Hannah was able to resume her busy, energetic routine. But today, five years since her diagnosis, she’s keeping her eyes on something new.

“At first, I felt my body had let me down, but I decided to flip the script and to reframe ‘autoimmune’ as ‘auto-amazing,’ in my own mind,” Hannah said. “Now, I choose to focus on all the things my body CAN do.”

Today, five years after her diagnosis, Hannah feels more like herself. When she’s not coaching, leading Peloton enthusiasts through high energy workouts or working out for fun, she’s encouraging others with autoimmune conditions to keep finding their strength to press forward, despite their diagnosis. Amid several new projects, Hannah’s also sharing what she’s learned through her own health journey to help others.

Finding the Right Care Team

If you have a thyroid condition like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease and notice any changes in your eyes — like eye bulging, eye pain or double vision — schedule an eye exam with a TED Eye Specialist. Not all eye doctors have experience diagnosing and managing TED. That’s why it’s important to see an oculoplastic surgeon or neuro-ophthalmologist. To learn more about TED and to find a TED Eye Specialist near you, visit TEDAwareness.com.