Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-11-18T07:01:00

(BPT) – Your health plan plays a big role in keeping you healthy as you age. It can support key parts of healthy aging, like preventive care, taking prescribed medications, regular exercise and staying socially active. Medicare Advantage plans, for example, offer a more complete approach to health and wellness, helping you manage these important areas of your life. Choosing the right Medicare Advantage plan is important during this year’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), when Medicare-eligible people can sign up or make changes to their coverage.

Dr. Ali Khan, chief medical officer for Aetna^® Medicare, is a practicing board-certified internist who sees primarily Medicare patients and discusses these aspects of healthy aging with them nearly every day. To help people understand how these plans support healthy aging, Dr. Khan shares four key tips:

1. Focus on preventive care

Getting regular checkups and screenings from your doctor can help catch health problems early, which can stop them from becoming more serious. It’s important to review your Medicare Advantage plan as many cover various health screenings, such as colonoscopies and mammograms, at no additional cost.

Don’t forget about the importance of regular dental, vision and hearing care, too. Many Medicare Advantage plans also include dental, vision and hearing benefits. Poor oral health can harm other parts of the body as you age, which can lead to heart disease, stroke and certain cancers. It can also reduce your quality of life and impact your overall health. Poor vision or hearing can sometimes point to bigger health conditions such as dementia.

You might not even have to leave your own home for some preventive care. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer an annual Healthy Home Visit from a licensed clinician with Signify Health^®. During these visits, a clinician can assess your health and check your home for fall risks and social support needs, helping to keep you safe and healthy. After the visit, the clinician will share a summary report with your doctor and help coordinate any care needs.

An Aetna Medicare Advantage plan member shared feedback related to their preventive care experience: “I believe Aetna’s focus on health care versus sick care is a better way to go. They understand that maintaining a person’s health is better than trying to get them healthy after they’re sick.”

2. Stay physically active

Regular physical exercise is a big part of healthy aging. Not only does it help keep muscles and bones strong, but it also helps improve heart health and lowers the risk of chronic conditions. Medicare Advantage plans can also provide benefits related to exercise, such as offering a SilverSneakers^® basic fitness membership. Many older adults experience social isolation or loneliness, so signing up for group fitness classes also helps to stay socially connected.

3. Take medications as prescribed

It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when taking medications. Life’s demands can make it easy to forget to take medications. However, setting up a daily routine can help you remember to take them, such as taking your medicine at the same time every day or pairing it with a task like brushing your teeth. Pill organizers can also help ensure you take the right dose at the right time.

4. Prevent falls

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older and over 14 million older adults report falling every year. To prevent falls, stay active to help maintain balance, get your vision and hearing checked regularly, and remove hazards like loose rugs from your home.

Some Medicare Advantage plans offer home health assessments to identify risks, and they may cover vision and hearing tests that can increase awareness of the surrounding environment.

This is an important time of year to be thinking about your health plan and what health benefits matter most to your overall health and wellness. The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is already underway and runs through December 7. People who are eligible can sign up for Medicare or switch plans during this time. To learn more about 2025 Aetna Medicare plans, call Aetna at 1-844-588-0041 (TTY: 711), 7 days a week, 8 AM to 8 PM. A licensed agent may answer your call. Or visit AetnaMedicare.com. Aetna and Signify Health are part of the CVS Health^® family of companies.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area.

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2024-11-18T08:01:00

(BPT) – Few experiences compare to the excitement of finding out you are pregnant and the anticipation of your growing family. Along with natural concerns about the childbirth process and health of your child, you have many other questions and curiosities. What will your baby be like? Will your child resemble one parent or the other? How will they act, smile, learn and grow? And one of the most intriguing questions: Will your baby be a boy or a girl?

The unknowns you face as a parent can feel overwhelming, so wouldn’t it be great to have at least one of these questions answered sooner? According to a survey commissioned by Myriad Genetics, 82% of parents want to know the gender of their baby in advance, and of those parents who did find out ahead of time, almost all of them (94%) said they would do it again.¹

Answering the age-old question

For generations, there were many tales about how to determine your baby’s gender, including the shape and position of the mother’s “baby bump,” which were not very scientifically accurate. While these tales still hold popularity, many parents seek out more verifiable ways of determining their baby’s gender, like an ultrasound, which typically does not happen until 20 weeks into pregnancy.

While 70% of survey respondents believed you could get an accurate gender result via ultrasound as early as 11-20 weeks into pregnancy,¹ the reality is that the accuracy of gender determination by ultrasound is just over 70% at 11 weeks. The second-most commonly cited method of determining gender by expectant parents is noninvasive prenatal screening, which is offered at 10 weeks or later to detect risk for certain genetic conditions.

Early answers

Thanks to modern science, it’s possible to learn if your new bundle of joy is a male or female as early as six weeks — from the comfort of your own home. The SneakPeek^® At-Home Gender Test uses an innovative DNA-based method to detect fetal sex as early as six weeks with clinically proven over 99% accuracy.²

The only six-week gender test used by more than one million parents, the SneakPeek test requires the collection of a simple, at-home blood sample, which is then analyzed in a lab to detect whether male chromosomes are present or not. If they are present, the baby is predicted to be a boy, and if not, the baby is predicted to be a girl. SneakPeek is also the number one OBGYN-recommended gender test.³

The benefits of knowing early

Why are so many expectant parents eager to know their baby’s gender as soon as possible? Here are the top seven reasons according to survey respondents:

1. Preparedness: You can feel more ready for your baby’s arrival, including decorating their room or nursery, planning a baby shower, buying their clothing and more.

2. Naming: Face it, deciding on a baby’s name is hard! You’ll have a few more weeks to find the perfect fit.

3. Satisfy curiosity and impatience: Nine months is a long time, so why wait if you don’t have to?

4. Bonding with the baby: With more information, it’s easier to imagine your life with your new child and strengthen that early sense of connection.

5. Reducing the number of unknowns: Welcoming a new child can be stressful, and fewer unknowns can help you feel more confident and secure as you go through your pregnancy journey.

6. Celebrating with friends and family: Knowing earlier gives parents the power to plan and decide when to share the your news with everyone.

Whatever your reasons for wanting to know your baby’s gender sooner, you’re not alone. Now expectant parents can enjoy getting to know their newest family member earlier than ever before.

For a “sneak peek” into the future of your family, visit SneakPeekTest.com, or find the test at your local drugstore or retailer.

Survey Methodology: Myriad Genetics SneakPeek Survey was conducted online by Padilla Newsmaker January 2024 among a statistically representative sample (n=1,000) of U.S. women between the ages of 21-45 who intended to get pregnant, are pregnant or have been pregnant.

¹ ©2024 Padilla Newsmaker Online Survey, January 2024, n=1,000.

² In a separated published study run in 2021, fetal sex was accurately determined in 100% of 134 pregnant women at 7 weeks gestational age. In a 2022 scientific study, SneakPeek accurately determined fetal sex for 100% of 103 women at 6 weeks gestational age.

³ SneakPeek recommended six to one among 100 OBGYNs surveyed.

2024-11-15T13:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Boston Scientific

After retiring from his career as a photographer, Pennsylvania resident Bob Skalkowski looked forward to spending his time sailing, gardening, exercising, fixing things around the house and taking photos just for fun — but he never expected atrial fibrillation, or AFib, to interfere with his goals and plans. Although he knew that his parents had AFib in their older years, Bob was still in his early 70s and led a truly active lifestyle.

When he suddenly began experiencing symptoms like lightheadedness and ankle swelling, Bob thought it might be simple dehydration. But his wife, Beverly, was concerned and encouraged him to go to see his doctor. Before he knew it, he was in the hospital for five days, with his doctors trying to lower his resting heart rate of 170 beats per minute (60-100 is considered normal for his age). That was when a doctor first diagnosed Bob with AFib.

“I think there needs to be more education about AFib, because most people don’t know what it is, what it feels like, or they confuse it with something else like I did,” said Bob.

What is atrial fibrillation?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), AFib is an irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia that occurs when the heart beats too fast, too slowly or irregularly. AFib can lead to serious and even fatal events such as blood clots, stroke and heart failure.¹ It is estimated that over 12 million people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with AFib by 2030.²

While symptoms can include irregular heartbeat, palpitations, lightheadedness, fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain,¹ Bob described his AFib as a hollow feeling. He said it was like “a space in my chest was opening up.” After his initial diagnosis, he commonly used a mobile electrocardiogram device linked to his phone to track his pulse. As a first treatment step, patients are often given anti-arrhythmic drugs. However, they aren’t always effective and can cause side effects, which became yet another reason for concern for Bob.

“My underlying symptom was worry,” said Bob. “I was always worrying, even when I was taking medications.”

Bob didn’t think that the medications were working to resolve his condition, as his AFib episodes still lasted between two and 12 hours. Most of all, he continued to worry that his life would never return to “normal,” and that he would have to constantly monitor his heart rate, preventing him from relaxing and enjoying the things that he loved to do.

A new treatment option

Feeling frustrated by his current AFib treatment, Bob often scoured the internet for news about the latest treatments and to see if there were alternative methods to better manage his AFib. During a discussion, Bob’s doctor shared that there was a technology being studied in a clinical trial called the FARAPULSE™ Pulsed Field Ablation (PFA) System. He was intrigued and asked to learn more.

Some patients with heart arrhythmias, including AFib, undergo thermal ablation — a procedure that uses a catheter to apply extreme heat or cold to target areas of the heart. Bob’s doctor explained that the FARAPULSE PFA System uses electrical fields instead of extreme temperatures to target specific areas of the heart. He added that it was designed to avoid damage to the esophagus and other surrounding structures, which can result in complications or even death in some rare occurrences.

Bob soon became the first person in Pennsylvania to participate in the clinical trial for this innovative technology.

The FARAPULSE PFA System was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January 2024 with an indication to treat paroxysmal (i.e., intermittent) AFib and is a unique, new alternative to standard-of-care thermal ablation therapy.

Feeling like himself again

Following his procedure with the FARAPULSE PFA System, Bob was beginning to feel like his old self again. Overall, he was thrilled with the results and delighted to return to sailing, doing home improvement projects and enjoying his life.

“Once you get to a certain age, you’re not invincible anymore — you need to see your doctor every year,” said Bob. “And if you do have AFib, don’t be afraid to ask about all the treatment options that are available to you, because your life can depend on it.”

There are risks associated with all medical procedures. Please talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of the FARAPULSE PFA System. For more information about AFib treatments and to see if you are a candidate for a FARAPULSE PFA procedure visit www.farapulse.com.

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References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Atrial Fibrillation. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm. Last Reviewed October 14, 2022. Accessed March 2024.
2. Colilla S, Crow A, Petkun W, Singer DE, Simon T, Liu X. Estimates of current and future incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation in the U.S. adult population. Am J Cardiol. 2013;112:1142–1147. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2013.05.063.

2024-11-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – Cooking is so much more than just heating up something for dinner. It’s about feeding your family, gathering in the kitchen while sauces are simmering and talking about the day, and showing love through the meals we make for the people we hold dear. On holidays, all of that is taken up a notch! Many of us grew up with favorite holiday dishes passed from grandmothers on down. But holiday cooking is also about making new traditions. Why not try something new this year?

Here are four new cookbooks from Disney Publishing and National Geographic that are great for everyone and will help you serve up holiday memories along with delicious dishes. Bonus tip: These cookbooks make great holiday gifts!

The Official Disney Parks Celebration Cookbook: 101 Festival Recipes from the Delicious Disney Vault

Create Disney magic at home with this collection of official recipes from festivals at the Disney Parks. While these events are delightfully orchestrated days of live entertainment, art, culture, and beauty, for many guests, the food is the star. Now celebrate all that is joyous about festivals across the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort — in your own kitchen.

With gorgeous food photography and advice from the Disney Chefs, this cookbook offers ideas for appetizers, small plates, main courses, sides, beverages, and sweet treats. Plus, 40 of the 101 recipes are being published for the very first time!

A Confident Cook: Recipes for Joyous, No-Pressure Fun in the Kitchen

by Tamron Hall and Lish Steiling

A new cookbook for beginners and curious cooks by Emmy Award-winning talk show host and journalist Tamron Hall and her good friend, chef and award-winning culinary producer, Lish Steiling.

When Tamron Hall and Lish Steiling first met while working at the Today show, they never imagined their friendship would lead to endless kitchen adventures filled with laughs, learning, and even tears of pure joy. In A Confident Cook, they share that same empowerment and excitement with those who are just starting to cook. Learn how to select which tools you need (and which you don’t!); how to stock your pantry; and how to cook for one, two, or a whole group. Scrumptious recipes include Baked French Toast with Berries for a Crowd, Crispy Fried Chicken, Harissa Roasted Carrots with Queso Fresco, and so many delectable desserts. Plus, family-style crowd pleasers like Sweet-and-Spicy Ham and Garlicky Potato Gratin are perfect for your holiday gathering. Throughout, Lish and Tamron chat, teach, learn, and inspire you to keep it going in the kitchen!

Big Moe’s Big Book of BBQ

by Moe Cason

In this mouthwatering debut cookbook by pitmaster Moe Cason — who has competed in more than 250 barbecue competitions — find 75 of his family-favorite recipes, including his beloved brisket and competition-winning ribs.

From bone-in Tomahawk steak to Big Moe’s famous burgers, the mouth-watering recipes gathered in these beautifully photographed pages showcase a breadth of time-tested techniques and recipes. And let’s not forget the sides! Savor a secret-ingredient mac-n-cheese that wowed Steve Harvey, enjoy a generations-old sweet-and-savory Jalapeño Cornbread, and get a taste of perfectly seasoned collard greens. Plus, Cason offers expert guidance on working with different types of smokers and grills, filling the pantry with award-winning spice rubs and marinades, selecting the perfect cuts of meat, and more.

The Blue Zones Kitchen

by Dan Buettner

Building on decades of research, longevity expert Dan Buettner has gathered 100 recipes inspired by the Blue Zones, home to the healthiest and happiest communities in the world. Each dish, like Sardinian Minestrone, Costa Rican Hearts of Palm Ceviche, Cornmeal Waffles from Loma Linda, California, and Okinawan Sweet Potatoes, uses ingredients and cooking methods proven to increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. Complemented by mouthwatering photography, the recipes also feature lifestyle tips (including the best times to eat dinner and proper portion sizes), all gleaned from locations as far away as Japan and as near as Blue Zones project cities in Texas. Innovative, easy to follow, and delicious, these healthy living recipes make the Blue Zones lifestyle attainable, so you can improve your health, extend your life, and fill your kitchen with happiness.

These cookbooks make great gifts for all the home chefs in your life. You can find these delicious and educational titles from Disney Publishing and National Geographic wherever you love to buy your books.

2024-11-14T08:01:00

When you’re busy celebrating the holidays, taking your heart medication may slip your mind. However, skipping doses can have serious consequences for your heart health. To help take care of your heart health, set reminders on your phone and keep track of your prescribed regimen.

For instance, if your cardiologist or physician has you taking a statin, a blood pressure drug or low-dose colchicine, 0.5 mg be sure to remain consistent in taking your medications to effectively reduce the risk of cardiac events along with a healthy diet and exercise. Make sure you also have your prescriptions renewed and on hand for the holidays and any holiday travel so you don’t have to worry about holiday pharmacy hours or getting a renewal at the last minute.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind

This holiday season, take a proactive approach to your heart health. Using these five tips, you can support your cardiovascular well-being and still enjoy your usual holiday traditions with friends, family, and loved ones.

Learn more about your risk and steps you can take to support your cardiac health at CVDInflammation.com.

2024-11-14T15:01:00

(BPT) – SunBriteTV, creators of the world’s first all-weather TV for outdoor use, celebrates its 20th anniversary this November. To commemorate delivering a safe, worry-free entertainment experience for two decades, SunBrite is offering world-class savings this winter.

In November 2004, the founders of SunBriteTV took matters into their own hands after witnessing the consistent dilemma many sports fans face: to watch the game and stay inside, or spend a beautiful day outdoors. They asked, “Why not enjoy both?” Through passion, technology and a vision, a line of true, all-weather, outdoor SunBrite TVs was born.

If you’re in the market for a full-shade outdoor TV, now through December 1, you can save $600 off the 43″ Veranda 2 Series, now priced at $1,058.95, or $900 off the 55″ Veranda 3 Series, now priced at $1,998.95. With built-in smart TV features, 4K resolution, and an ultra-bright 1,000 nit direct-lit screen, the Veranda 3 is perfect for outdoor cinematic experiences, and hosting in the darker months ahead.

If you’re looking for a partial sun outdoor TV, you can save $2,000 off the 55″ Signature 2 Series, now priced at $2,868.95, or $4,000 off the 65″ Signature 2 Series, now priced at $4,658.95. This sale is valid now through December 29, while supplies last. With its anti-glare technology, OptiView™ with day and night modes, and a temperature range of -24 to 122°F, the Signature 2 Series is an excellent choice for a year-round outdoor TV.

“We’re very proud to reach this incredible 20-year milestone,” said Jonathan Johnson, Director of Retail and Consumer Sales at SunBriteTV. “We look forward to continuing our mission of designing and supplying the highest quality outdoor entertainment products. And to celebrate and say thank you, we’re offering some incredible savings this holiday season.”

About SunBriteTV

SunBriteTV engineers and manufactures award-winning televisions and displays built specifically for outdoor use. SunBriteTV developed the industry’s first all-weather TV in 2004 and its products have been time-tested in in-home installations, outdoor sports arenas, including Wrigley Field and Yankee Field, restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, colleges, and airports.

2024-11-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – This season we’re teaming up with singer and actress Chloe Bailey to fulfill some ultimate holiday wish lists. Drop your child’s letter to S’Auntie Claus here now through November 29, and, while you wait, shop holiday picks from all four of our brands. (Psst … share your gift list with your favorite gift-givers, too!)

Chloe Bailey’s Holiday Picks

Baby 2-Piece Hooded Bodysuit Pant Set

As someone who just became a favorite auntie for her nephew, Chloe Bailey added this bear-y fave 2-piece set to her holiday wish list. An outfit in a snap is the perfect gift for baby and parents on the go.

Baby Faux Fur Vest

For baby girl, we’re loving this faux fur vest (of course!). The perfect dress-up accessory as you head out for holiday festivities. Bonus: She’ll be equal parts stylish and snuggly.

Toddler 2-Piece Zip-Up Fleece Hoodie & Pants Set

An outfit set made to stand the test of toddlerhood (aka their messy era!). Any parent — and toddler boy — will love this fleece hoodie and pant set. Not only is it an easy wear-together or mix-and-match style, it’s also comfortable for all day play.

Heart Sweatshirt

One of this season’s “it” sweaters, the little fashionista in your life will adore this gift. Dress it up for winter activities, or dress down for a quick, easy school outfit or when running to the park. A versatile look and a bang for your buck!

OshKosh B’gosh^®

Classic Denim Jacket

It’s classic for a reason, and rest assured this gift will get some goooood use. The classic denim jacket is one of those gifts that becomes a closet staple, and before you realize it, you’re grabbing for it every day.

Baby B’Jolly Waffle Knit Jumpsuit

This thermal bodysuit is the perfect cozy holiday look — and is there anything cuter than a slogan on a baby booty? We think not. Browse more of our favorite pint-size looks here.

World’s Best Overalls

There’s a reason they’re the best, and they’ve made a great gift for nearly 130 years now. Choose from a variety of styles, from classic denim to archived favorites to seasonal must-haves. Can’t go wrong here!

Iconic Denim

From skinny to straight to classic, OshKosh B’gosh is every parent’s go-to for durable denim your kids will love wearing. Grab a pair of the tried-and-true fits or pick up one of our fashion or trend styles. We’re loving a fun flare for girls this year, like this pair with flower applique detail.

Skip Hop^®

Discoverosity 3-In-1 Toddler Sensory Table

Developed in collaboration with a sensory play expert, this 24-piece sensory set from Skip Hop offers toddlers limitless ways to explore, learn, create and play. Designed to grow with them, this is one gift that’ll last growing littles more than a season. Added Bonus: The included activity guide offers parents tons of ideas, plus inspo for your own sensory fillers.

Baby Stack & Crawl 4-In-1 Crab Baby Crawl Toy

Not only is this toy great for crawlers from beginner to experienced, it also features four grow-with-baby stages to play with along the way. Start baby off with rattle and teething play, then move onto sorting and stacking as your little one learns, grows and develops. A four-in-one gift: less stuff, less mess — something every parent will appreciate.

Silver Lining Cloud 3-In-1 Grow With Me Set with Activity Center & Toddler Chairs

Another multifaceted gift for growing littles, this activity center is an action-packed take on Skip Hop’s best-selling Silver Lining Cloud gym. The décor-friendly (read that again!) design features a 360-degree rotating seat, light-up piano and four toys that can be rearranged for customized play. Convert the activity center for easy cruising for growing babies, and, for toddler-aged, into a sturdy table with plastic chalkboard surface. The bow on top of this perfect gift? Two modern chairs with detachable legs make for easy, compact storing.

Little Planet^®

Baby Organic Cotton Gauze Wearable Blanket

Wearable blanket or cozy cocoon? It’s one and the same with this long-time favorite from Little Planet. You can’t go wrong with this gift, just tell the parents about its two-way zip feature — making nighttime changes quick and easy — plus it’s safe and keeps baby snug and at just the right temp for sound sleep.

Baby Organic Cotton Sweater Knit Pullover Set in Aqua Slate

This thoughtful essential is the perfect piece to gift. In a neutral color, this set can be worn over and over or passed down from one little one to the next. It’s crafted in 100% organic cotton and features details like a sweet front pocket and faux wood buttons.

Baby Organic Cotton Sleep & Play Pajamas in Pink

You can’t go wrong with a 5-Star Sleep & Play. Made for daily adventures in tummy time, nap time and beyond, this piece is blooming with thoughtful details like a 2-way zipper to keep baby’s arms and torso warm during diaper changes, plus built-in footies to keep tiny toes cozy.

2024-11-14T10:01:00

(BPT) – For centuries, the Roman Colosseum has been the stage for epic battles and legendary gladiators. Now, for the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum returns to its original purpose as a venue for performances, inviting daring warriors to step foot inside the historic arena to forge their own paths and shape their destinies.

Those brave enough to rise to the challenge will follow in the footsteps once traversed by victorious fighters, suit up in historically accurate armor, and put their skills to the test to determine their fate in battle. May you emerge triumphant and establish yourself as the ultimate gladiator, earning your place in history.

“Think you have what it takes to become the supreme gladiator?” asks Lucius. “This trial will separate the weak from the strong, where only those with true strength and honor will rise above. For the courageous who accept the challenge, I open the gates of the Colosseum for you to prove your worth before the highest of Rome. Suit up and get ready for battle, for what we do in life echoes in eternity…”

About the Experience

Located at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, guests can request to book one of two, three-hour experiences occurring May 7 to 8, 2025, at $0 per person¹. Each experience has capacity for up to 16 guests each (8 guests and their +1). As young warriors step foot inside the historic arena, here’s what awaits:

• The patron will meet you at the Colosseum after sunset and lead you inside. Whether you emerge from this night victor or vanquished, know this — your eyes will embrace a sight not often seen. The memory of the Colosseum aglimmer in candlelight will be yours.
• Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators prepare for battle. There, you will don armor that most closely reflects your gladiator type, whether that be murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius or contrarete. Choose wisely.
• Traverse the torch-lit, labyrinthine bowels of the Colosseum where Maximus and countless other warriors walked before you. Reflect on their fate, and yours, as you trace their historic steps.
• Savor the symphony of swords and shields as seasoned gladiators engage in a thrilling showdown for your benefit. You must study them — for your turn will soon follow.
• Enjoy a spread of victuals like grapes, pomegranates, almonds and walnuts. You’re a gladiator, not an emperor. You cannot afford to be gluttonous. Overindulgence will dull your senses and slow your reflexes.
• Train in the art of gladiator combat and test your mettle as you face off against your fellow warriors. A summa rudis — your referee — will ultimately determine your fate. May you taste the sweetness of glory with infestus pollex and join the ranks of victorious gladiators since time immemorial.

And don’t forget to catch Gladiator II, only in cinemas this November.

How to Request to Book

Courageous souls ready to step into history can request to book¹ the Colosseum for an exclusive gladiator experience starting November 27 at 6:00 AM PT at airbnb.com/gladiatormovie through December 9 at 11:59 PM PT when request periods close. Guests are responsible for their own travel to and from Rome, Italy.

Interested in other Airbnb Icons? Learn more at airbnb.com/icons.

Airbnb’s commitment to heritage

These special experiences at the Colosseum follow a series of measures and commitments by the platform to revitalize heritage tourism in Europe, including donations to heritage across Europe for over ten millions dollars.

As part of this program, Airbnb is offering its support to the restoration and enhancement of Colosseum’s heritage, including an ongoing project to restore the permanent exhibition at the Colosseum.

¹ Brought to you by Airbnb. There is no cost to submit a request. See full rules for terms, including age and geographic eligibility, and how data is used.

2024-11-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – As a caregiver, focusing on someone else’s well-being is, quite literally, a full-time job, leaving little time or energy to focus on personal care. If you’re unwell, though, it can be especially difficult to fulfill a caregiving role, not simply because you won’t be feeling up to the task, but also because you might put others at risk.

This is especially true during cooler months when people spend more time indoors. Being in close quarters can make it easier for viruses to spread, while the drier air enables those viruses to linger longer. Colder, drier weather may even weaken our resistance to illness.

“Doing your best to stay healthy and energized during the fall and winter months can help reduce those risks and make the chilly season more enjoyable,” said Greg Marion, Senior Vice President of Health Products and Services at AARP Services. “Look for resources that can help keep you and those you care for healthy. AARP members can use their benefits to help them achieve their wellness goals and by keeping these tips in mind.”

1. Stay Well

As a caregiver, it’s important to be in tune with your health, especially to ensure you aren’t passing on illness to others. Primary care is important for both prevention and treatment. Schedule an annual wellness visit heading into the fall season to establish a baseline and check for any underlying conditions. If you’re not feeling well, you may want to schedule an appointment with a physician to determine if medication or other treatment is necessary.

If you haven’t yet established care with a primary care physician, and you are on Medicare, you can check whether there is an Oak Street Health location near you. Oak Street Health 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. AARP membership is not required to visit an Oak Street location.

2. Eat Well

When we eat well and get proper nutrition, we tend to feel better. A well-rounded diet can also help your immune system be at its best. When you’re busy and tired after providing care all day, cooking a healthy meal for yourself might be the last thing you want to do.

Fortunately, you can have someone else handle the cooking without resorting to take-out. Silver Cuisine™ by bistroMD provides chef-prepared meals, including specialty diet meals such as heart-healthy, gluten-free, diabetic-friendly and more, directly to your door. AARP members save 25% and get free shipping on their first order of $99 or more, and save 10% and get free shipping on all subsequent orders of $99 or more. It’s a delicious, easy and healthy way to feed yourself and your family.

3. Get Outside

While cooler temperatures might make it more difficult to get outside, spending some time outdoors can be a nice reprieve. Put on a few extra layers and enjoy the fresh air, especially when the sun is shining, and get in some physical activity if you are able. It can boost your physical and mental well-being.

If caregiving keeps you inside for the better part of the day, try taking a quick walk in the evening. Wear reflective or bright clothing and bring along a flashlight or headlamp to light your way. Taking that little break will make the return to the warm indoors that much more enjoyable.

4. Take a Break

Whether you’re feeling unwell or simply need some time off, it’s important that you feel comfortable and well-supported to step away from caregiving. There are many resources that can make it easier to do so while ensuring the person being cared for is safe.

CareLinx In-Home Care is a nationwide online network that connects families with pre-screened, professional caregivers who can step in while you recover. AARP members who are new to CareLinx receive a 3% discount on in-home caregiving services.

With Consumer Cellular paired with the IRIS Ally device, any individual can have the confidence of reliable coverage with medical assistance at their fingertips. Plus, there are no long-term contracts and activation is free. The IRIS Ally Medical Alert Device and monthly service with Consumer Cellular provides one-touch emergency response, fall detection, GPS location tracking, two-way voice communication and is water resistant and shower safe, so even if you’re not there to provide care, support is available with the push of a button. AARP members save 5% on monthly subscription fees.

5. Take Advantage of Caregiving Tools

Having the right equipment in place can make your job a bit easier and give you more freedom to step away or take on other tasks. If a medication regimen is involved, simplifying prescription management can greatly reduce the time and stress involved in tracking it. Hero Smart Pill Dispenser stores, sorts and dispenses up to a 90-day supply of ten different medications. The connected medication management app helps you manage medication routines, track your supply and understand your adherence. AARP members get exclusive savings on a Hero subscription.

And should a caregiving recipient fall or have a medical emergency, you can rest assured that they can easily send for help even if you’re not at their side. Lifeline Medical Alert Service offers medical alert systems that provide fast access to help at the press of a button, and with automatic fall detection, the device can alert responders even if the person can’t press the button. AARP members save 15% on medical alert service and get free shipping and activation. You can select the service option that fits your lifestyle and get fast, 24/7/365 access to help when and where you need it.

Taking steps to stay well during colder weather is a good idea for everyone, and especially so for caregivers. Remember that you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill yours by seeking out resources that can help you stay physically and mentally well. 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.

2024-11-14T06:01:00

(BPT) – Dreaming about a trip to Italy? Italy is a magical, mystical blend of timeless history and artistic masterpieces, scenery that will take your breath away, warm, friendly people who will make you feel like family, and all of it wrapped up in un amorè per la cucina Italiana — a love of Italian food.

Long, leisurely meals with family and friends are not just a tradition here, they are the heart and soul of the Italian people. Regions in Italy are revered for their specialties, and for travelers, a must-do experience is enjoying these regional dishes in the places they originated. You will never have heavenly, silky pasta carbonara better than in Rome. The most delicious pizza of your life? Look no further than Naples.

But planning a trip around Italy’s legendary cuisine can be a bit daunting. How do you know where to go and what to eat when you’re there? That’s where Steve Perillo comes in. The third-generation owner of Perillo Tours, Steve Perillo is an expert in all things Italia, especially its cuisine and culture. With deep roots in Italy, travelers can feel confident that Perillo will deliver unforgettable Italian experiences at an exceptional value, whether traveling on an escorted tour or an independent custom vacation.

Here are some regions where Perillo Tours takes visitors, and the dishes Steve says are must-haves when you’re there.

Rome. In the spring, Roman markets are filled with just-picked artichokes. If you’re lucky enough to be in the Eternal City during this season, you are in for a culinary treat you can’t get anywhere else on the planet. Rome is known for Carciofi alla Romana, or Roman-style artichokes, an otherworldly concoction of whole artichokes, lemon juice, parsley, mint, garlic, olive oil and white wine, braised to perfection. The braising brings out the artichoke’s flavor like no other cooking method, elevating it to “food of the Gods” status. They’re a perfect side dish or a light supper with crusty bread.

Tuscany. The light in Tuscany is different than the light anywhere else in the world. It bathes the landscape in a golden glow that makes everything more beautiful, including their tables. Siena and Florence are known for many hearty wild boar stews and soups using cannelli beans and stale bread, but the one must-have here is Bistecca alla Fiorentina, which is a Chianina beef steak, cut to exact specifications and grilled rare. Perillo offers a Taste of Siena tour that includes a cooking class in the home of a local chef, who can teach you the secrets of local Tuscan cuisine.

Naples. Pizza was invented in Naples in the 18th century as a quick, affordable meal for the working class and people soon started visiting those neighborhoods just to get a taste of it. You haven’t had pizza until you’ve had it in Naples, and Perillo Tours offers a 15-Day North Classic tour that includes a pizza-making class in this beautiful city. News you can use: Steve Perillo’s top three pizza places, all in Naples: Starita (Always crowded with locals. One of the best pizzas Steve has ever had!), Sorbillo (Long lines but the pizza is worth the wait!) and Pizzeria Brandi (Delicious pizza with a special story behind it. This is where the Margherita pizza was invented!)

Sicily. This legendary Mediterranean island is familiar to many Americans from “The Godfather” film, but it is most famous for its food. Perillo is offering a new 8-Day Taste of Sicily tour that includes wine tastings, strolls through medieval villages and a visit to Mount Etna. Palermo’s bustling street markets are a highlight. What to eat when you’re there? Cannoli, of course. It’s a crisp pastry shell stuffed with sweetened ricotta cheese and sometimes sprinkled with pistachios or chocolate. Another must-have: Arancino, a fried rice ball stuffed with tomato sauce, peas and meat, or get one with ham, béchamel and cheese.

Venice. This city of romance, with gondolas floating down lazy canals and shops along winding, ancient cobblestoned streets and alleyways, is a treat for the senses. Try the Cicchetti, which is a bit like the Venetian version of tapas. Small portions of several dishes that are served to the table, meant to be shared. You’ll get crostini topped with a variety of spreads, panini sandwiches, shrimp or other seafood, and polpette, fried balls with tuna, meats or potato. And do not miss the tiramisu. Trust us on this one.

One popular food you won’t find in Italy? Spaghetti and meatballs. That’s a creation of Italian Americans. Try the Bolognese or wild boar ragu instead.

Since 1945, three generations of the Perillo family have perfected the art of traveling to Italy. To start planning for your dream vacation, visit www.perillotours.com.