Judy H. Wright's Blog, page 7

Fighting For SSI For Your Sick Child

Fighting For SSI For Your Sick Child

Most women physically experience euphoria after the birth of a baby. Unfortunately, sometimes this euphoria is short-lived because the pregnancy resulted in an ill baby, due to prematurity or other health problems.

Possible Health Problems

Some of the more common health problems that newborns experience are jaundice and breathing problems. More serious complications include exposed spinal structures (spina bifida), too much fluid inside or around the brain (hydrocephalus), exposed bowel.

Premature babies, those who are born before 37 weeks gestation, may have some of these issues on top of other complications, such as brain bleeds, seizures, undeveloped lungs, fluid in the lungs, apnea, anemia, and infections.

When your child has been born with a disability or is born prematurely, they may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This program was designed to help provide financial stability for individuals in this country who are unable to care for themselves due to their disability.

Born Too Soon

SSI also takes into account babies who were born prematurely, before 37 weeks, or born at a very low birth weight. But delivery date and weight are not the only factors taken into account for determining if the baby qualifies for disability, because premature babies are known to have significant health issues, developmental problems being some of them.

The only exceptions made so that the baby receives benefits right away are if the baby is born with the following conditions:

• HIV

• Total Blindness or Deafness

• Down Syndrome

• Cerebral Palsy

• Muscular Dystrophy

• Birth weight that is below 2 pounds 10 ounces.

The Approval Process

This program requires the parents or guardians of an ill baby to apply for benefits. The approval process is not automatic and can take anywhere from six months to a year to approve.

Approval by the Department for Disability Determinations is based on the child’s medical history. This can be an intimidating process. You will work with many different people at the Social Security Office and each will require specific documentation to prove the child’s condition. In many cases, it will be a request for duplicate files and forms. You will need infinite patience. You will also need to provide contact information for doctors, caregivers, family members and friends who can all verify the condition of your baby.

The process will also be very time consuming, and in many cases your application will be denied. You will have the right to appeal this decision, but it will extend the process for another six months to a year.

Parents must also realize that once benefits are approved, it is only good for one year and must be re-determined following that time period. The health problems that the baby has must also be a long-term or ongoing condition.

Help With Approval

To ensure that your baby receives all of the benefits that they are entitled to, it is recommended that parents or guardians seek the assistance of a long term disability lawyer. You can enlist their services at any time in the process, even if you initially received a denial when you applied on your own.

A SSD (Social Security Disability) lawyer has the experience and knowledge on how this system works and will be able to guide you through the process of navigating the red tape involved. They will know how to present your baby’s case so that it is effective in gaining him benefits.

They know exactly what the Social Security Administration is looking for in medical documentation, and they will make sure that you have the correct information to submit in a timely manner that will expedite the approval.

In addition, the attorney can also make sure that your child receives all of the help that they are entitled to under disability programs. This may include the supplemental SSI, enrollment in the appropriate health care plan, respite care, and even vouchers for groceries. In most cases, children are automatically enrolled into Medicaid when they qualify for SSD; however this varies from state to state.

Caring for a child with a disability is a lifelong commitment. It is something that a parent or guardian does with love and compassion. It is a good thing that financial aid is available for these children and their families so that parents can help these children to the best of their abilities. Many times, other health problems arise which require ongoing treatment for the child, that the family is financially unable to take care of.

A denial for benefits is common, but it does not have to be permanent. Fight for the benefits that your child deserves by using a qualified SSD attorney.

Debbie Nguyen’s firstborn was a preemie, born with a long list of health complications. He was able to receive SSI because he was born at 27 weeks and weighed 2 pounds, 7 ounces. A long term disability lawyer helped ensure that he got benefits up until the age of 2, even though many of his seizures ceased at 18 months.

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/crincon/...

Thank you for being part of our community of kind, thoughtful people who have respect for all.  Be sure to claim your  free download and find out how to have Judy Helm Wright aka “Auntie Artichoke” speak at your next convention or in-service.  You can contact her at http://www.judyhwright.com   You will be glad you did.

 

 

Family Traveling To Europe? Remember The Rules Of The Road!

Traveling To Europe? Remember The Rules Of The Road!

International travel is an exciting way to broaden your family’s horizons, learn about new cultures and dive into new cuisines. One of the most popular destinations is Europe, with the United Kingdom being a particular favorite. After all, not only do you and your family get to travel to a new foreign destination, but you can leave the phrasebook at home and easily communicate with the locals. The only problem? The whole “wrong side of the road” thing.

While this charming difference can be interesting at first, it also poses a huge accident risk for tourists with little to no experience with it. Is it possible to explore the UK without getting behind the wheel?

Just Left Of Center

Getting into an accident on vacation because you’re unfamiliar with the local rules of the road is actually more common than you might think. Worldwide, it’s estimated that up to 25,000 people per year are in accidents while traveling abroad on holiday [Source: Advanced Drivers of America]. Getting out and seeing the United Kingdom doesn’t have to impede on your family’s safety. In fact, the transportation system in the UK is actually so robust, many citizens do not even own a car. If you’re looking to get the most out of your visit, looking for alternative transportation is one of the cheapest and safest things you can do.

Book An airport shuttle

As most guidebooks will tell you, hiring a taxi from the airport is extremely expensive in the United Kingdom. Those who are looking to save money and arrive at their hotel safely can look into pre-booked shuttle services which operate from most major UK airports. These can be arranged to take you to nearly anywhere you want to go, even destinations further afield. Additionally, your family can oftentimes take advantage of great discounts when you book on the web. Visiting websites like Shuttle Direct can help answer questions about how to book a shuttle service and schedule for particular areas.

Use “The Tube”

London is home to one of the best, safest and cleanest transportation networks in the world, and learning to use it is actually easy. If you are planning on being in town for a certain length of time, look into purchasing a travel card for the weekend or week, which will allow you to use the Underground network, buses and trains within the zones you purchase it for as much as you like. Ask your hotel or guest residence where the closest tube is, or if there is a particular bus line to use. The kids will surely get a kick out of riding The Tube!

Investigate Trains And Buses Between Cities

Visiting any city in Great Britain is easy, cheap and convenient with their reliable rail network. If you can, look to book your tickets early to find the best family deals. There are even overnight “sleeper trains” that you can take for longer distances to Scotland, as well as trains that can connect you to ferries to take you to Ireland or France.

Check Out Local Transportation Offerings

Every city in the UK, even the smallest and most quaint villages, have some sort of local transportation to get people around. Buses and trains usually run on schedules, so be sure to look for local information before you set off on your journey. Drivers on public buses are generally quite friendly, so don’t be afraid to ask them to let you know when you’ve arrived at your stop.

Hop On A Tour Bus

While you’re visiting Great Britain, getting a tour bus to some of their most famous sites is a great way to meet other travelers and learn more about the countries. A knowledgeable tour guide can tell you everything you need to know about World Herritage sites such as Stonehenge, and open-topped bus tours of London, Liverpool and Edinburgh are even popular with British citizens. Take a look at various tours offered. There’s generally something for everyone in the family, from British beer tours to a closer look at the grand palaces.

With the great transportation options open to your family, why opt for the hassle of driving on the “wrong” side of the road? The UK’s transportation system can get you virtually anywhere, and generally cheaper and faster than by car. Take a step towards safety when you’re traveling around the UK. 

Journalist Nadine Swayne is familiar with traveling abroad and shares with readers her tips on successfully getting around the UK. She searched websites like Shuttle Direct to learn more about the benefits of shuttle services. If your family travels to the UK, Nadine says it is best to be a passenger and not a drivers, because the wrong side of the road is the right side in the United Kingdom.

Photo Credits: http://www.flickr.com/photos/galfred/120631314/

https://flic.kr/p/5NhiA9

Thank you for being part of our community of kind, thoughtful people who have respect for all.  Be sure to claim your  free download and find out how to have Judy Helm Wright aka “Auntie Artichoke” speak at your next convention or in-service.  You can contact her at http://www.judyhwright.com   You will be glad you did.

 

How Multi DUI’s Can Wreck Your Life

How Multi DUI’s Can Wreck Your Life

While driving comes with numerous responsibilities, you’ll find it also is a privilege to be able to get where you want to go independently. However, driving while intoxicated not only is dangerous to innocent people, it can get your privileges revoked. It can also cause havoc on your life and family with each offense and conviction.

Fines and Penalties

First time penalties are typically steep, no matter what state you reside in. For instance, in the state of Virginia, a first offense can result in one day to 12 months of incarceration, one year of driver’s license suspension, and a fine ranging from $250 to $2,500. Law enforcement officials are cracking down on drunken driving offenses by creating stiffer penalties for individuals who fail to follow the rules of the roadway. Drinking and driving can cause serious injuries and even death to innocent victims. First time offenders can also face a suspended license, community service and jail time.

As noted by DUI attorney, Kevin Wilson,”Most DUI penalties only become reality if there is a conviction. Some DUI consequences are put in place at the time the DUI offense is charged, even though there is no conviction.” Repeat offenders can expect increased penalties for multiple DUI cases with higher fines, loss of a driver’s license and mandatory jail time. Your vehicle may even be impounded and seized for your reckless behavior.

Financial Distress

Multiple DUI offenses can wreak havoc with your finances for your family. If you live on a current tight budget, you may experience more financial hardship with the exorbitant fines and penalties caused by driving drunk. Your insurance rates could also skyrocket and cause you further monetary distress. If you lose your license or find yourself in prison because of your DUI, you could be out of a job, putting further strain on your family. This could be especially traumatic if you’re the primary breadwinner of the family, and they rely on you for your sole income.

Social Hardship

In addition to your financial distress, you could face social hardship with multiple DUI offenses. While one DUI conviction is too many, you could get your life in order with the right direction. However, more than one offense can harm your social life. If you’re single, it could impact how you date and meet new people. You could also become a nuisance with your friends if they have to pick you up for every party or social occasion. Your children could also look upon you with disappointment and anger.

Mental Anguish

Underlying issues may be at the center of your drinking problems and cause you to resort to alcohol as a crutch. Multiple DUI convictions can cause depression and mental anguish, especially if you’ve become a pariah to your family, children and friends. You may also experience feelings of despondency if you’ve disappointed your family with your irresponsibility.

Work and Career

If you’ve a promising career ahead of you, your multiple DUI offenses could be problematic and cause you to miss out on promotions or raises. If you’re in search of better opportunities and currently looking for a job, your DUI will show up on your background check and cause you to be overlooked for employment. For high-powered individuals such as CEOs, bankers and politicians, this can be a substantial blemish and ruin your reputation within the business community.

Drinking and driving offenses can be remedied with an experienced and knowledgeable DUI attorney. You can also take charge of your life by seeking counseling to remedy your drinking problems. Another simple solution if you plan on going out and partying is to designate a driver such as a cab, public transportation or friend to get you to and from your destination safely and without incidence.

Writer Nadine Swayne presents this advice in hopes of making people stop and think before driving drunk. Nadine found informative research on the website of attorney Kevin Wilson, when gathering materials for this article.

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/eklem/3159059547/

Captain Courageous: How Sailing Can Boost Your Self Esteem

Captain Courageous: How Sailing Can Boost Your Self Esteem

Low self-esteem can have a negative impact on the every day aspects of your life. However, a hobby such as sailing can help build your self-esteem and give it the positive focus and happiness that you may be missing out of your life.

Exercise

There are a host of components that sailing can bring to your life. Cardiovascular movements through sailing can boost your endorphins and contribute to your health and wellness. Sailing is a vigorous sport that takes flexibility, agility and concentration. You can also build up muscle endurance with the repetitive movements.

Individuals who are active in a series of sporting activities such as sailing have been shown to have more confidence, especially when taught from a pro. It is very important to get lessons before taking on a sail boat in order to prevent boating accidents. As noted by one attorney at the Perecman Firm,”When a boat accident is caused by driver negligence, or the negligence of a product manufacturer, they can be held responsible for the harm caused.”

Positivity

Sailing early is a great way to start your morning. The sunny weather and focusing on something that fills your life with purpose and excitement can help overtake any feelings of inadequacy. The fresh air and enjoying the outdoors can also bring confidence when you’re an active participant in life. So many people with low self-esteem take a back seat and hide from life’s tasks. Sailing can help you find fulfillment and that sense of accomplishment in tackling an activity that takes a great deal of effort to understand.

Expert Training


In order to gain the necessary self-confidence, you need to learn from an expert. Learning to sail properly can take time, especially when you have to learn the appropriate terminology and mechanics of the sail boat. The open waters can be extremely dangerous if you don’t know how to properly navigate them. You’ll find a host of beginner courses for the novice sailor that can aid in your new hobby.

You should also start out simply by learning on a smaller boat. Once you’ve gained the experience, you’ll be ready to move toward something more challenging. An expert can also teach you what to do if you find yourself involved in a maritime accident. The weather, lack of life vests, inexperienced boating, drinking and hot dogging can all contribute to a water accident.

If you find yourself involved in a sailing accident, you want to begin by assessing injuries. You also need to notify the authorities and seek immediate assistance. For accidents of a more serious nature, you may even need the assistance of an accident injury attorney to handle your claim.

Relaxation

Sailing is a sport that can help clear your mind and help rid it of any toxicity. When an individual is experiencing low self-esteem, focusing on the negativity can be the primary train of thought for many. Being out on the open waters and enjoying a picture perfect day can help combat your worries and replace them with reasons to be happy.

Whether your self-esteem took a hit with a recent divorce or you’ve lacked it throughout your life, you can boost your confidence through various sports such as sailing. Physical activity and finding hobbies that are complimentary to your personality, such as sailing, can boost your mood and elevate how you perceive yourself.

Nadine Swayne presents this article to those who are striving to be the captain of their life. She researched the term accident injury attorney and found solid information regarding boating accidents and steps to take to navigate through troubled times.

Photo credit: https://flic.kr/p/9W1hDX

 

 

 

 

 

Getting The Most Out Of Your Health Care

Getting The Most Out Of Your Health Care

As the healthcare market continues to change and adjust to the demands of the public, you may find it difficult to figure out exactly what services you personally need to stay healthy and well. Before you choose a doctor or a healthcare facility, you may be well advised to do your research and learn whether or not the choices in your community are indeed those that are best for you. When you take on this research project, you should keep several important suggestions in mind to make sure that you choose a good doctor and that your healthcare needs will be met in a timely and safe manner.

Read Online Reviews

With a host of websites and forums now available for critiquing healthcare institutions, you should have plenty of patient reviews to discern as you choose a physician, pharmacy, hospital, and other medical components for you and your family. While it is true that many online reviews can be biased and ill formed, it is also true that many of these reports ring true about the quality of care that you may encounter. If a doctor, hospital, or other medical facility has more positive critiques, you may take this as an indication that most patients are happy with the care they receive from that provider.

Read Public Safety Reports

Medical facilities are inspected frequently by the state and federal government. If you want to choose a location that is safe and well-staffed, you should check out  governmental reports and choose providers that meet or exceed state and federal expectations.

However, even with regular inspection, doctors’ offices, pharmacies, and other medical facilities may conceal violations that could put your health at risk. If at some point during your research you come across such violations, you may point out these dangers by reporting them to the appropriate agencies. By whistleblowing, you could protect yourself and other patients from dangers that could put your safety and health at risk.

Get Referrals From Others

Your friends and family members also want you to have access to reliable and safe healthcare. When you want to find a good doctor to provide you with the care you need, you can ask your loved ones for referrals. If you know that they are receiving quality medical attention, you might ask them for the name of their doctor and whether or not that provider is currently accepting new patients. You could also ask your relatives and friends for help in finding a good hospital, particularly if you are new to the area.

Trust Your Gut Instinct

After you begin seeing a provider, you should trust your gut instinct to decide whether or not you want to continue your care under this medical professional. If your questions are brushed aside or if you feel like you are threatened in any way, you should find a new doctor. Likewise, if you observe your physician breaking the rules or skirting common ethical practices, you should locate a new provider promptly and also file a report with the state medical board.

Having access to quality medical care is important. When you are on the lookout for a new doctor, hospital, pharmacy, and other healthcare facilities, you may wonder what criteria to consider in your search. These reminders can help you locate providers who will give you the safe and effective care you need.

Navigating through the healthcare system for her husband gives Nadine Swayne the insight to present this information to help others with their medical care decisions. While it is never an easy task, finding under par providers can make the situation even more taxing and emotional for families with sick loved ones. The importance of reporting infractions by the medical community will help shed light on these problems to help others to choose the best care.

 

 

 

Ditch The Lampshade! Party Safe

Ditch The Lampshade! Party Safe

One of the biggest party nights of the year has come and gone. Ringing out the old by ushering in the New Year with promises of a fresh start put many in the celebratory spirit, with big parties and overindulgence going hand in hand. But a great celebration doesn’t always mean excessive drinking. There are plenty of safe and sober activities that can ensure a night to remember!

Alcohol Free Beverages

You don’t need to imbibe to have a good time at your celebration. You’ll find a host of beverage ideas and activities that are sure to make your evening fun and festive. It will also make getting up the next morning easy and headache-free.

Bowls of festive punch can be mixed together and set out on your buffet table. With delicious concoctions of juices, seltzers and flavored ice creams, your guests won’t even miss the alcohol. You can even serve warm beverages such as hot chocolate, espresso drinks and mock-tails. Trivia games, charades and electronic games can liven up any party.

Be A Responsible Host

If you plan on serving alcohol at your party, you can be a great host by staying alert to your guests needs. This includes knowing when to cut off friends or loved ones who have had too much to drink and finding alternative methods of transportation for their ride home. You can also set a time to stop serving alcohol by switching to dessert and coffee beverages. Try visiting sites online to find alcohol alternatives to parties and what the repercussions can be from driving while intoxicated.

Designate A Driver

When your guests arrive, you can ensure their safety by having them turn in their keys at the door. If they’ve had too much to drink throughout the course of the evening, you can keep their keys and hand them to someone who hasn’t been drinking. A designated driver can still have fun and ensure that their friends and family members get home safely.

Have A Healthy Menu

At parties, many of us indulge in decadent foods and beverages, but you can turn your future festive gigs into healthy celebrations. You can begin by opting for a menu that includes fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole-grain pastas. You’ll find an array of easy menu options that are both delicious and won’t add inches to your waistline. Dessert is another area you can lighten up by replacing unhealthy fats with applesauce or Greek yogurt.

Alternate Transportation

If you decide to have a party, and you plan on serving alcohol, you need to have alternate transportation ideas at the ready to help guests avoid driving home intoxicated. This includes calling a taxi service ahead of time to ensure they are available to transport guests who have had too much to drink. You can also prepare extra rooms in your home for overnight guests who aren’t able to drive home. Let your guests know that this is an option.

Getting together with friends, loved ones and neighbors should always be a joyous occasion. However, alcohol related accidents and DUI’s are always a concerning matter and unfortunately, on the rise. While you want your guests to have a great time, you can still host a festive and fun celebration by keeping everyone safe.

Always the conscious party hostess, Nadine Swayne offers these helpful tips. While scouting for information, she found the site www.kellislaw.com, where a host of knowledge was available regarding legal matters and DUI.

Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/codyryanphotography/4459226586/

 

 

 

 

Jake’s Law And Its Impact On Distracted Driving

Jake’s Law And Its Impact On Distracted Driving

A recent study published by the Pew Research Institute indicated that more than 90% of the population in this country now owns at least one cell phone. With more mobile users than ever, it is little wonder that cell phone usage extends beyond simple phone calls or text messages made at home or the office. In fact, many people think nothing of holding a conversation or sending off a few texts while they are driving their car.

However, using a mobile device while driving is increasingly being called into question, and many states have taken steps to ban it altogether. The passing of Jake’s Law in Maryland, as well as other legal steps taken in other states, can cut back on incidents of distracted driving because of cell phone use in several critical ways.

Ramifications Beyond Misdemeanors and Fines

Many people believe that when they are involved in an accident, that obtaining legal help will be costly. Most people don’t realize that the attorney is actually paid by the insurance company. However, there are other fines and fees associated with a distracted driving case.

Up until recently, drivers who caused crashes because they were talking or texting on a mobile phone typically faced few significant ramifications for their behavior. The confines of the laws stipulated that these offenders could only be punished with misdemeanor traffic charges or monetary fines that arguably, amounted to little.

With the passing of Jake’s Law by the Maryland General Assembly, however, drivers convicted of causing a wreck because of using a phone while driving, now face at least one year in jail. The idea of going to jail, let alone causing a crash that takes an innocent victim’s life, has proven effective in sending the message that calling, texting, or otherwise using a mobile device while driving will not be tolerated in that state.

Other States are Following Suit

Other states have taken the lead that Maryland has offered by considering or passing similar legislation. In fact, the Governor’s Highway Safety Administration notes on its website that 12 states, as well as the territories of Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Washington D.C, have passed legislation banning any use of a cell phone while operating a motor vehicle. These states and territories now allow police officers to pull over and cite a driver for using a mobile device while driving, even if that individual was not committing any other traffic offense, such as speeding or failing to use a turn signal. The law banning mobile devices is now considered a primary traffic offense in these states.

Text Messaging and Novice Drivers

While other states have yet to pass laws making this activity a primary traffic offense, many continue to pass and consider legislation that prohibits novice drivers from using phones in any form while operating a car. Likewise, more states are passing laws that ban text messaging while a person is driving, with the state of Washington taking the lead in this legal action in 2007. While some people argue that they should have the right to make calls or send texts as needed while they are in their cars, states like Maryland understand that tragedies can occur with little notice, all because people were too busy calling or sending messages instead of paying attention the road before them.

With more people than ever owning and using cell phones on a daily basis, states are quickly catching on to the risks that come from mobile device usage while driving. Maryland and other state assemblies are now passing legislation such as Jake’s Law that are helping to put the dent in distracted driving.

Understanding that cellphone use can wait if you’re driving prompted Nadine Swayne to write this article. Distracted driving has become an ever growing problem that legislation is fighting hard to put the brakes on. With new laws being put in place, this dangerous practice will hopefully end.

Photo credit: https://flic.kr/p/9qQCXp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4 Step Model For Setting Boundaries–Be Firm, But Kind (EXPERT)

We teach other people how to treat us. If we want to others to respect our boundaries then we must make changes in our behavior.

You can make the choice to be more self-confident and assured. It is your responsibility to set boundaries in a firm, kind but strong voice.

To be effective in changing your old patterns and your expectations in others, you must be:

1. Firm

2. Kind

3. Consistent

Use the following dialog to practice this new skill. Remember to keep your tone of voice neutral or non-agressive. With your facial expression, body language and verbal language give the message; “I want you to pay attention to what I am telling you. This is important to me and I am serious.”

INFORM the person in a non-combative tone of voice of your boundary. “I can hear you when you speak in a regular tone of voice. Did you realize you were yelling?”

REQUEST that they honor your boundary and heed your wishes. “I am asking that you talk to me in a respectful voice without yelling.”

INSIST that they honor your boundary, again with a firm but kind voice, shoulders back and looking at them in the eye. “I insist that when we are talking that we use appropriate voices and do not yell.”

LEAVE THE SITUATION Perhaps now is not the time or place to continue communicating with someone who refuses to respect your boundaries and treat you with respect. Leave the door open to talk later when you both can speak in a more polite manner. Continue to maintain a calm but firm voice and say, “I will not continue this conversation in this way. I welcome an opportunity to talk with you without yelling or screaming. Let me know if you decide to visit without raised voices.”

What Boundary Would You Like To Establish?

If there are old patterns, it may take some time to convince others that you are serious about sticking to your boundaries. Everyone has the right to be treated with respect and courtesy. At first, people you know may be surprised when you tell them they have crossed the line, but with persistence they will eventually respect you more.

Don’t take it personally if they reject your request to be treated with respect. You cannot assume responsibility for other people’s feeling, agendas or methods of communications. You can only state how you desire to be treated in life with a firm but kind voice as you set boundaries. Hopefully, family and friends will model this communication style and it will make for more honest and open relationships in your life.

Be sure to claim your free eBook on Use Encouraging Words at http://www.ArtichokePress.com You will be glad you did. Thanks from center of my artichoke heart for joining our community of kind, thoughtful people who want respect for all. (c) Judy Helm Wright aka “Auntie Artichoke” a wise woman with a global message.

10 Signs-It Is Time For Assisted Living For Your Loved One (EXPERT GUEST POST)

10 Signs It’s Time For Assisted Living For Your Loved One

It can be difficult to determine if a loved one needs the aid of an assisted living community.

IT IS NOT AN EASY DECISION TO MOVE LOVED ONES TO ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES.

While you want to ensure their safety, you also want to make sure they are physically and mentally ready for the move. The following are 10 signs your loved one is ready for assisted living.



1. Obvious Red Flags 

Accidents or close calls can place your family member in danger and cause injuries or a fatality. Whether it was from a fall, vehicle accident or medical emergency, you want to assess their health condition and recovery.10 Signs It’s Time For Assisted Living For Your Loved One–

You can also ascertain their state of mind by asking questions such as:

•    Who is the president?

•    What state do you live in?

•    What year is it?

Having a loved one at an assisted living facility means being attentively sure they receive the care and support they need.  Successful assisted living facilities, such as Chateau Vestavia in Alabama for instance, will make sure that your loved one will complete daily tasks and ensure good nutrition.



2. Daily Living

 A lot can go into the care of a person’s daily activities such as getting dressed, personal hygiene, taking care of the home and shopping. Give your loved one a hug when greeting them. Are they bathing regularly? Do they remain in their pajamas daily? Check out the refrigerator. Is there spoiled food or lack of food on the shelves?  If you notice any of them to be lacking, it typically means that they can no longer keep up with their care and maintenance.



3. Close and Personal

 A good hug can also allow you to determine if your family member has a noticeable weight loss. You’ll also be able to assess if they feel frail or their nutrition has taken a hit.



4. Social Connection

 As a person ages, their social circle can take a dramatic hit. The loss of special friends and family members can leave them feeling lonely and abandoned. The depression onset is particularly high with senior citizens due to this frequent loss. A special hobby or group membership may also lose their appeal and leave them with nothing to do all day except watch T.V.

A wonderful resource and activity is to get them to share stories of their life. See http://www.MontanaStoryKeepers.com

5. Financial Obligations 

It can be difficult for most people to keep up with the demands of bills and other financial obligations. However, you can stay alert to money issues by paying attention to your loved one’s mail. Unopened mail, second notices on bills and large donations to charitable organizations can be serious signs that your family members need help. Consider helping or taking over their finances to keep problems at bay. Monthly bill payments can become overwhelming to seniors when monetary or mental issues come into play.

They may find ways to make a little extra money from home by checking out http://www.WelcomeAbundance.com

6. Driving Ability

Most individuals want to enjoy the independence of being able to drive into their golden years. Unfortunately, signs of dangerous driving can be hazardous to your loved ones life, and you need to check their driving abilities by assessing the vehicle for dents. You can also do your own determination by allowing them to drive to the local market.



7. Kitchen and Cupboards

Take a look into their kitchen. Stale or expired foods may be stored in the pantry or refrigerator and include items such as milk, cheese, lunchmeat and yogurts. You should also take notice of a refrigerator that is lacking in nutritious food. Look around the house to see if there are plates of uneaten food that has spoiled. This will help to assess if they are capable of making wise choices regarding their health.



8. Clutter

 and a lack of proper housekeeping can be serious signs your loved one is in need of assisted living. When entering the home, do you notice a foul odor? Are areas, such as the kitchen or bathroom, dirty or uninhabitable? If so, this can be another sign of the need for assisted living. A build-up of dust, newspapers and other debris can be hazardous to their health and welfare.



9. Fire Safety

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors can keep your loved ones safe. It is an essential for every household.  You can check the home for general upkeep and change of batteries. You can also ascertain charred stove knobs or pots and pans. This could be a sign of disconnect of your loved one and basic fire safety in the kitchen.



10. Pet and Plant Care

If your loved one has pets or plants that need tending, you can determine their level of care such as proper nutrition and grooming. If these have been neglected, there might be memory issues that could prove harmful to them.

A loved one who is showing signs of strain and lack of upkeep may need the love and care of an assisted living community. These facilities can help to ensure the proper care and attention for they need in daily life. Proper communication can open the doors to their fears and make the moving transition a fun and exciting prospect.

Nadine Swayne understands how emotionally daunting it must be to make the decision to place a loved one in an assisted living community. In her research for this article, she looked online at facilities like Chateau Vestavia to get the questions and answers sought by family members of those needing care. Judy Helm Wright has been an author, personal historian and Hospice volunteer for many years. Learn more about her work at http://www.Artichokepress.com

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Helicopter Moms & Stressed Out Babies (EXPERT GUEST POST)

The Art of Alpha Mom-ism

As a new mom, you may find your day filled with chaos and mayhem. While time with your child can be the most amazing experience, you may also find it exhausting and overwhelming. The following tips will help you gain sanity, while enjoying your new bundle of joy.

There are a number of toys and gadgets that can aid parents in entertaining

Toddlers need freedom to explore and experience life through their environment. http://www.ArtichokePress.com

stimulating their senses. An activity gym is an essential piece of equipment that allows your child

to play in a safe and germ-free environment on the floor. The mat comes in a variety of designs,

styles and colors with toys and other objects sewn into the fabric.

It also comes with a toy bar to engage your infant’s senses and strengthen their core muscles. As they grow, you can incorporate tummy time activities and games of peek-a-boo.

Safety and Security

While you can’t entertain your child every hour of the day, you want to find activities and toys that can ensure the safety and security of your infant. A play yard is easily transported to any room

in the home and gives them an opportunity to enjoy independent play. Toys, mobiles and other gadgets can make their time all the more enjoyable.

It also allows a parent to get things done around the home such as pay bills, clean, and enjoy a bit of “me” time. Since the play yard is mobile, you can keep an eye on your child while they nap and play from any room in your home.

Reminders and Organization

Staying on task can give you more precious moments for play time with your infant. Smartphone applications have come up with an assortment of ideas that can help busy moms. The Baby Connect allows a busy parent to keep track of their infant’s growth and development through the years. It can also record your child’s reminders, medications and vaccination schedule.

Baby monitoring and alarm system applications offer parents other options than an infant monitor.

The applications can notify you of a child’s sounds or movements in the room. They also pull songs to lull your infant back to sleep should they wake-up.

Whether you have a notebook, tablet or cellphone, you can also stay on task with your daily chores and keep things organized and tidy through cooking, work and planning applications.

Keeping Your Child Busy

Finding things for you and your baby to do can be easy. Whether you visit your local park district

or research online, you’re sure to find a host of activities for your newborn. “Mommy and me” yoga classes incorporates movements for everyone. Infant massage is another excellent way to soothe and bond with your child.

The library is an excellent free resource facility that has a variety of activities for your child. Here you can find story time, play and songs.

A new baby can bring a lot of joy and happiness to your household. It can also cause serious disruptions into an otherwise normal routine. To help organize your life and incorporate fun and entertainment, you’ll find the above tips beneficial. Babies appreciate calm envioroments, rather than helicopter parents who hover over their every move.  Breathe deeply.

Knowing many Alpha moms enables Nadine Swayne to present this article. Try visiting sites online, like http://www.toysrus.com/buy/babies-r-us-exclusives/play-yards/ingenuity-deluxe-washable-play-yard-with-dream-centre-shiloh-60072-12761407, for helpful tips and products to make being the greatest mother on Earth a breeze!

 

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