Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-07-17T09:01:00

(BPT) – Plus: The when to buy, how to buy, and what to buy.

It’s that time of year again: Time to start back-to-school shopping. (Anyone else feel like summer just started?!) Alas, we’ve reached the final weeks of summer and we’re nearing meet-the-teacher days, school tours, and we’re not far out from the big first day.

This back-to-school season, Carter’s, the leading children’s apparel brand trusted by parents^*, is focusing on styles that get your kids from bed to carpool line in record time. The looks they can’t wait to wear and the active styles they need and want (hello, balletcore!). Here, we take you on a field trip filled with style notes and endless inspiration on how to wear our new faves. Plus, we’re packed with layering options for cool classrooms and iconic denim in new comfort fits. The ultimate goal? To get your kids off to class in style, comfort and in looks that will last all year. To sum it up: We understood the assignment.

Now, let’s break down the must-haves to get your kids looking first-day fresh.

Denim is Back!

You heard it here first: Denim is so back. Back and better than ever, that is. This season, OshKosh denim is all about flares, wide-legs, hidden (fun!) details, and comfort. “We’re definitely seeing wide-leg styles as our biggest back-to-school trend,” said Rebecca Baumbach, Vice President of Design at Carter’s. “Customers are loving the flare fit, so we kept those feeling fresh and new with fun design details.”

Active, Balletcore & More

In the past few years, activewear has taken over the playground. Whether your child is headed to school, tryouts or a weekend playdate, odds are, they want to dress in some sort of active look. And can you blame them? With lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics, and easy pull-on-and-off ‘fits, it’s no wonder they’re reaching for their activewear every day.

But this year, it’s not your same old activewear. Enter: Balletcore. For little girls, this means sweet, twirly skirts with hints of shimmer and glitter in spandex material, paired with wrap style tops. For big kids, it’s parachute pants paired with tank tops layered with a crew cropped sweatshirt. Designed in both active drop-needle rib and French terry fabrics, it’s the perfect get-up-and-go school style.

For the boys, Baumbach named the active stretch joggers as one of this season’s “will sell out” items. This pant, complete with functional pockets and drawstring, is guaranteed to become a go-to style on school mornings. Pair with an active tee or stretch quarter-zip pullover and you’ve got a sporty, school-ready outfit in a flash.

The New Uniform

Uniforms and comfort are not mutually exclusive… until now, that is. When shopping back to school this year, parents can expect the typical polos and khaki styles, but in reimagined ways that put comfort — and your child — first. “The Uniform Shop will translate more into activewear,” said Baumbach. That means softer and Be Cool™ moisture-wicking fabrics, more stretch, easy pull-on styles and new silhouettes. “It’s the ‘comfort’ uniform,” added Baumbach. These styles might look like your typical polos and khaki uniform, but they’re anything but.

Cargo & Utility

Cargo is here to stay! From denim to active, there’s plenty of cargo to go around this season. Also on trend are utility styles, especially utility jackets for both boys and girls. “For boys, I think any and all utility styling will be the boys’ top trend for fall,” Baumbach said. “They’re ‘must-have’ items.” Psst … pants and jackets will sell out before you realize. When back-to-school shopping, over 70% of parents plan to purchase a mixture of both warm-weather and cold-weather clothing^†. Don’t wait!

Skirts & Skorts

There’ll be a lot of skirts and skorts in the halls this fall. “We’re seeing skirts continue to grow right now,” shared Baumbach. “Lots of skorts, too, because they make for easy dressing,” she added. These easy match-back skirt and top sets are perfect to throw on for school for an easy, instant outfit that’ll make a splash — especially on their big first day.

Colors, Textures & More to Love

Bring on the color! And the textures! Olives and sage; berries and plums; blues; warm neutrals like cream, oat and terracotta — you’re going to see it all. And add to it lots of textures — think ribbed cotton, waffle-knits and more. “We’re leaning into fashion solids, which is also where the texture comes in. It comes together to feel very new and modern,” shared Baumbach.

“Carter’s and OshKosh have something for everyone. It just depends on what your style is and how you want to show up to the first day,” said Baumbach. Shop back-to-school styles in your local Carter’s store or online today and start the school year off with a fashionable splash. Pro Tip: Don’t wait to shop! Over two-thirds of parents prefer to finish their back-to-school shopping before school starts with half of parents starting as early as July^†. Shoes, socks, pants and short-sleeve tops are the most sought-after categories^†, so be sure to snag those items!

Carter’s. Best dressed looks like this.

*Based on preferences selected in Carter’s Q2’23-Q1’24 survey of 1,582 children’s clothing buyers in the U.S.

†Based on preferences selected in a Carter’s Q2’24 (June 10-12, 2024) survey of 200 (sample size) children’s clothing buyers in the U.S.

2024-07-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Interest in the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 is influencing how guests are traveling this summer. As of March 31, nights booked during the dates of the Olympics are over five times (400%) higher than they were in the Paris region the same time a year ago¹. Paris, the most searched city on the platform during the event², has seen an all-time high for active listings. There’s an increase of nearly 40% in the Paris region compared to a year ago³, as hosts prepare to welcome domestic and international travelers.

Top countries for nights booked during the Olympics

While guests from over 160 countries and regions⁴ have already booked their stays during the event, travelers coming from the U.S. are leading Olympics-related travel, booking more than 20% of stays in or near host cities during the Games. The big medal-winning countries of 2020 are also strongly represented in terms of the nationality of guests traveling to France during the Olympic Games: most of the 10 countries that have booked the most travel to France are among the top medal winners from Tokyo 2020. French guests are currently in third place in terms of nights booked, but domestic bookings are expected to increase closer to the event as the majority of ticket-holders are French⁵.

In terms of growth, Asian countries are in the leaderboard: Airbnb has witnessed the highest increase in travelers coming from Mainland China, India, Hong Kong (SAR) and Japan. This is followed by Czechia, Mexico, Ireland, Brazil, Luxembourg and Colombia.

Tourism dispersal across France

It’s not just central Paris drawing visitors this summer. Places like Saint-Denis, Châteauroux and Lille have also seen a significant rise in interest thanks to the strategic decision to host Paris 2024 throughout France.

Airbnb data reveals some of the top destinations outside of central Paris favored by different nationalities looking to support their national teams during the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024:

• Dutch and Australian guests, who are among the top of the medal table for field hockey, booked the most nights to the Colombes area, where the sport will be played.
• One of the top destinations for Spaniards and Brazillians is Bordeaux, where their national football teams play two matches.
• One of the top destinations for Chinese guests is Vanves, near the venue for table tennis, a sport which the Chinese have long dominated.

Benefits for local communities

According to a study⁷, stays on Airbnb during the dates of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 are estimated to generate €2,000 (over $2,170 USD) for a typical host in the Paris region, having a total economic impact of almost 1 billion euros (over 1 billion USD) and supporting almost 7,300 full-time equivalent jobs in the country.

Many local families have joined the platform to benefit from this opportunity. In the Paris region alone, there is a 40% rise in active listings in the first quarter, compared to the same period in 2023.

“Airbnb will play an important role in accommodating the increased influx of visitors coming for the Games, providing varied and affordable lodging options and supporting the overall economic growth in areas that haven’t always benefited from tourism. The Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024 highlights how Airbnb helps disperse travel and spreads economic benefits by allowing people to stay in local neighborhoods, close to Olympics venues, like Saint-Denis or smaller cities like Chateauroux,” said Clément Eulry, Country Manager for France and Belgium at Airbnb.

Families and groups flock to the Olympics

More than 50% of travelers to the Games are looking for accommodation that can welcome families or groups of three or more⁸ — which can be a better value than traditional accommodations. Some of the nationalities with a higher preference for group travel during the Games include travelers from the Netherlands, Switzerland, the U.S., Spain and the U.K⁹. Airbnb recently introduced new features that make planning group trips easier than ever including shared wishlists, a redesigned messages tab that allows everyone on a trip to message with the host in a group thread and more.

As a Worldwide Partner of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Airbnb can help you find homes close to the action with the amenities you want most. Find out more at Airbnb.com.

1. Data in this newsroom post is as of end of Q1 2024

2. Searches made January 1 through March 31, 2024

3. Jan to March 2023 vs January to March 2024

4. Nights booked until April 1, 2024

5. According to the Paris 2024 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

6. Nights booked to host areas between January 1, 2023 through March 31, 2024 versus the same time in 2023.

7. Report carried out by Deloitte on behalf of Airbnb titled “Airbnb’s economic and social contributions in France during Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games”. Published April, 2023.

8. Based on bookings made by guests between 1 January 2023 and 31 March 2024, for stays in and around the host cities during the period of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

9. Average guest count by country for bookings made by guests between 1 January 2023 and 31 March 2024, for stays in and around the host cities during the period of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

2024-07-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re thinking about selling your home or just making some updates, it’s always smart to consider renovations that will enhance the enjoyment of your home and increase your property’s long-term value. One key improvement many homeowners consider is updating their home’s flooring to solid or engineered hardwood, an investment that can maximize a home’s style and value.

Hardwood flooring instantly transforms a space, and you can choose from many types and hues of wood to suit the design style that’s just right for you. You can also stay on-trend by using hardwood flooring throughout your home to achieve a seamless, cohesive look.

“Hardwood flooring is always a standout feature that brings timeless, stylish appeal to any home,” says Jennifer Meska, Head of Merchandising at LL Flooring. “Solid or engineered hardwood flooring provides a natural look that can vary across colors, finishes and styles, instantly adding updated style and sophistication to any home.”

The National Realtor Association’s 2022 Remodeling Impact Report found that homeowners who install new hardwood flooring get an average return on investment (ROI) of up to 118%. On top of that, the National Wood Flooring Association has found that 99% of real estate agents believe homes with quality hardwood floors are easier to sell, and 90% believe they sell for a higher price. All of this means that hardwood floors can essentially pay for themselves in resale value.

The timeless appeal of hardwood flooring

Hardwood floors have been around for a long time, and for good reason. They can create the perfect complement to a wide range of home design styles, offering natural tone, beauty and sophistication that’s hard to duplicate with any other material.

On top of that, hardwood floors are known for their timeless quality — hardwood has been a trusted flooring material for hundreds of years, and it’s near-assured that they will stay in style for generations to come.

Another advantage of hardwood flooring is that you can choose from a wide variety of styles and species of wood to achieve different looks, and you can consider either solid or engineered hardwood for even more options depending on the needs of your home.

Here are just a couple of examples of selections available to today’s homeowners from LL Flooring’s Bellawood premium line of solid and engineered hardwood, which offers a 100-year residential warranty.

Classic, enduring style

Hickory is the hardest of all North American woods, making it perfect for those who want beauty and long-lasting quality, especially for high-traffic areas. The 5-inch-wide planks in LL Flooring’s Natural Hickory Solid Hardwood Flooring are factory finished with premium aluminum oxide for a fortified finish, offering excellent resistance to stains, scuffs and scratches.

This natural option in hickory flooring stands out for its high-contrast color variations and unique grain patterns, with colors running from light tans to deep browns and reddish tones laced throughout. Hickory floors are equally attractive in a more classic or traditional style home, for a sophisticated and modern city loft or a rustic country cabin.

Modern engineered elegance

LL Flooring’s Claire Gardens Oak Engineered Hardwood Flooring gives you the option for on-trend, wider planks (8.5 inches wide). The buttery cream coloring of this classic white oak flooring gives these blonde planks an inviting lightness and beauty that complements a variety of today’s preferred styles, ranging from modern farmhouse, minimalist and Scandinavian to biophilic, eclectic and bohemian designs.

Engineered hardwood is an enhanced wood product that offers improved performance, and lighter tones can help to reflect the light in any room of your home for a more open, bright and airy ambience.

Whichever hardwood flooring option you choose, you can relax and enjoy its beauty now and for years to come — or prepare your home to sell — knowing that you’ve made a sound investment in the future of your home.

Explore all of the possibilities for hardwood flooring in your home at LLFlooring.com.

2024-07-16T10:01:01

(BPT) – Do you snore? You may be tempted to dismiss it as an annoying but nonserious condition. You may even have a family history of snoring or think of it as an unavoidable side effect of aging. However, snoring is often the first sign of sleep apnea.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person to repeatedly stop and start breathing. If you snore or feel tired even after adequate sleep, you may have sleep apnea. If left untreated, the condition can have a major impact on your health and quality of life.

How sleep apnea affects you

Sleep apnea can affect your life on a daily basis. For example, because of the lack of quality sleep, you can experience daytime drowsiness, which can increase your risk of a car or workplace accident. You may also feel irritable and have difficulty concentrating.

Also, sleep apnea can increase your risk of other health conditions. According to the National Council on Aging, these conditions include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Heart problems
• Kidney disease
• Stroke
• Liver problems
• Sexual dysfunction

How can you treat sleep apnea?

There are several sleep apnea treatments. A safe, effective and simple treatment option to consider is a custom oral appliance therapy (OAT) device. OATs are comfortable, easy to use and work well to treat sleep apnea in a nonintrusive manner. When the mouthpiece is inserted, it holds your jaw or tongue in a stable position, opening your airway to help you breathe during sleep.

Another sleep apnea treatment you may be familiar with is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. A CPAP opens your airway and provides constant, steady air pressure through a mask to help you breathe while you sleep.

Depending on the severity of the condition, a doctor may recommend hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS). This treatment requires surgery to implant a device that stimulates a nerve under the tongue to keep the airway open.

CPAP and HNS can be effective sleep apnea treatments. That said, they are invasive and are associated with some health risks. Recently, certain CPAP machines have been recalled because of reports of serious injuries. An HNS implant was also recently recalled because of electrical malfunctions that rendered the device ineffective and dangerous to users.

Why you should choose Oral Appliance Therapy

Before you try CPAP or HNS, consider asking your doctor to prescribe you a custom OAT. A custom OAT like the ProSomnus intraoral medical device is fitted to your mouth and engineered to precisely track your treatment plan and unique anatomy. With the help of a sleep physician and qualified sleep dentist, you can get fitted for a custom ProSomnus device to address your sleep apnea symptoms.

There are over-the-counter OATs that you can purchase online or at your local pharmacy. However, these devices are not as effective at managing sleep apnea as custom devices. When prescribing an OAT, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends using a custom product over a non-custom appliance. The academy’s research suggests that custom OATs increase oxygen saturation to a greater extent than non-custom OAs. Furthermore, treatment with custom oral devices is a covered benefit for most medical insurance plans and Medicare. The over-the-counter OATs are not covered.

Patients prefer ProSomnus over other sleep apnea treatments because it’s easy to use and non-invasive. Also, ProSomnus devices have demonstrated excellent efficacy, safety, adherence and overall health outcomes for patients in a number of clinical studies.

Linda, a patient from Detroit, Michigan, has used a ProSomnus device for over a year. She used to wear a CPAP machine, but she found herself tossing and turning all night, causing the machine’s wires to move and also push air out when she’d turn on her side.

“The ProSomnus is comfortable, and I’m so used to wearing it now that it’s weird to go to bed without it,” she said. “I’m not tired, so I know it’s working all right. It doesn’t wake me up, and I don’t want to throw it across the room, unlike the CPAP.”

Are you ready for a restful night’s sleep?

It’s time to take control of your sleep. ProSomnus is the leading non-CPAP OSA therapy, FDA-cleared, patented and covered by commercial medical insurance, Medicare, TRICARE and many government-sponsored health care plans around the world. You can get started by visiting ProSomnus.com/Find-A-Provider to find a qualified Provider who can walk you through your treatment options.

2024-07-12T09:01:00

(BPT) – What’s the number one reason pet parents bring their dogs to the veterinarian? If you thought the answer was annual vaccinations or stomach issues, you might be surprised to find out the answer is skin allergies.(1) This condition is also called allergic dermatitis, and it can lead to allergic itch. How common is it? Around 30 million households in the U.S. have a dog with pruritus,(2) affecting up to 15% of the dog population. Itching caused by allergic skin disease can be acute (or short-term), recurrent, seasonal, or chronic, and it can impact the quality of life for both the dog and its owner.

While it can be challenging to recognize the signs of allergic itch, here are five tips to ensure your canine family member is getting the best care.

1. DO keep track of your dog’s behavior if you suspect allergic itch

Some of the signs of allergic itch may be obvious, while other signs are less recognizable and can be confused for typical dog behavior. For example, scratching and licking can be normal dog behaviors when done occasionally. These actions become problematic when they occur more than usual or frequently in dogs. Other signs of allergic itch include chewing or biting at the skin, excessive rolling, rubbing or scooting, recurrent ear problems, hair loss, body odor and/or rash, redness, and greasy skin. The best advice is to pay attention to your dog’s daily behaviors and call your veterinarian for a skin health visit if you think there’s been a change.

2. DON’T try to treat your dog’s itching on your own

While it may be frustrating to see your dog scratching at an itch that never seems to go away, resist the temptation to treat your dog’s allergic itch with over-the-counter antihistamines, like those found in common allergy medicines for humans, or anti-itch shampoos or sprays. These may only provide temporary relief because they do not get to the source of the itch in most dogs. Almost 8 million dogs go untreated by a veterinarian for itch.(2) That’s a huge number of dogs that go untreated — make sure your dog isn’t one of them.

3. DO make regular wellness visits part of your dog’s care routine

August is Itchy Pet Awareness Month. Even if you don’t think your dog is showing signs of allergic itch, you can take part in celebrating this month by scheduling a wellness visit with your veterinarian, which includes a skin health check. In fact, more than 1.9 million dogs with allergic itch were given a prescription during Itchy Pet Awareness Month in 2023,(3) which shows just how common this condition truly is across the country.

4. DON’T wait to see your veterinarian if you see signs of allergic itch

Allergic itch is an urgent medical condition that can lead to skin and ear infections, especially if not treated promptly. Pet owners shouldn’t wait since their dog’s signs can worsen from a delay in receiving effective treatment. The best way to be certain about the cause of your dog’s allergic itch is to schedule a visit with your veterinarian.

5. DO make sure your dog takes their medication

Safe and effective prescription medications are available to help control allergic itch, but they only work if your dog is taking them. Here are two important points owners whose dogs have allergic itch should consider:

1. 65% of dog owners reported challenges when giving their itchy dog tablet-based treatments.(4)
2. 30% of owners with itchy dogs build extra time into their day, or interrupt their daily routine, to administer a tablet medication.(4)

Fortunately, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Apoquel^® Chewable (oclacitinib chewable tablet) in 2023 for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and control of atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months of age. With Apoquel Chewable — the first and only chewable treatment for allergic itch in dogs — owners can now offer their pet the easy-to-give medication that is accepted by over 91% of dogs.(5) This may improve owner compliance and make daily dosing easier, which can help maintain the unique bond they share with their pet.

Don’t let allergic itch interrupt the quality time you spend with your canine family members. Visit ApoquelDogs.com to learn more about Apoquel Chewable and take a quiz that can help you find out if your dog may have signs of allergic itch.

APOQUEL CHEWABLE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION: Do not use Apoquel Chewable in dogs less than 12 months of age or those with serious infections. Apoquel Chewable may increase the chances of developing serious infections, and may cause existing parasitic skin infestations or pre-existing cancers to get worse. Consider the risks and benefits of treatment in dogs with a history of recurrence of these conditions. New neoplastic conditions (benign and malignant) were observed in clinical studies and post-approval. Apoquel Chewable has not been tested in dogs receiving some medications including some commonly used to treat skin conditions such as corticosteroids and cyclosporines. Do not use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Most common side effects are vomiting and diarrhea. Apoquel Chewable has been used safely with many common medications including parasiticides, antibiotics and vaccines. See full Prescribing Information for Apoquel Chewable at ApoquelChewablePI.com.

Apoquel Chewable Indications
Control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis and control of atopic dermatitis in dogs at least 12 months of age.

2024-07-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is here! The warm weather is the perfect excuse to spend time outdoors doing what you enjoy with the people you love. To maximize your time for relaxation and enjoyment, it’s a smart idea to simplify daily tasks.

For example, simple kitchen upgrades that streamline cooking and cleaning can save you time to better enjoy your well-earned summer vacation. Summer is ideal for home renovations, big or small. The risk of weather delays is low, and multiple holiday sales make it the perfect time to purchase something you’ve been saving for! Plus, you’ll be thanking yourself when fall and winter hosting picks back up.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these five simple kitchen upgrades.

1. Organizational items and systems

Taking time to revamp your kitchen with organizational items and systems can streamline your kitchen routine. Look at your space and see where you can add shelves, drawer dividers and pantry organizers to create designated spaces for every kitchen item. Kitchen organization will allow you to quickly find what you need when you need it and help you maintain a clutter-free environment.

2. Touchless technology

Touchless kitchen faucet technology is a time-saving innovation that cuts down on cleaning and makes everyday tasks easier so you can spend more days in the sun. When looking for a faucet with touchless technology, consider models like those from the Delta Faucet Touch2O^® with Touchless™ Technology line.

To operate, simply place your hand near the faucet, tap the faucet surface with your wrist or forearm or use standard handle activation to stop and start the flow of water. Touch-free activation helps keep your faucet clean, even when your hands aren’t. Best of all, the Touch2O^® with Touchless™ Technology is available in three different designs with a variety of finishes that complement your personal style.

3. Undercabinet lighting

Installing undercabinet lighting is an easy way to enhance the functionality and ambiance of your kitchen. Choose LED light strips that are energy-efficient and easy to install. Not only will this simple upgrade add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen, but it will also create a well-lit environment for all your culinary adventures.

4. Workstation kitchen sink

Upgrade your kitchen sink to a workstation model designed for versatility and daily kitchen tasks. A model like the Delta^® workstation sink with a built-in WorkFlow™ ledge creates a multi-functional space and reduces counter clutter by allowing you to work right over the sink.

The ledge provides plenty of space for food prep, washing and drying, all in one convenient location. Whether you are washing pots and pans after hosting, filling vases for cut flowers from the garden or rinsing sandy items from a day at the beach, a workstation sink has all the space you need.

5. Change hardware

Want a quick and simple way to elevate your kitchen and refresh your style this summer? Swap out your hardware! Look at the handles and knobs on your cabinets and drawers and think about what colors and finishes speak to your vision of the ideal kitchen. Opt for modern, stylish handles and knobs that will stand the test of time and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.

Savor the joys of summer by incorporating these five simple but smart kitchen upgrades. The time you spend now creating a more efficient home environment will give you more time to create summer memories that will last a lifetime.

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.