Link to full article:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/PET-scan-can-help-early-detection-of-Alzheimers/articleshow/11406159.cms

Brightstar – Your homecare partner. There when you need us – Always.

Basically then, aerobic exercise appears to improve higher cognitive functions (planning, organization and working memory) in the elderly. Another way physical training may help cognitive function in the elderly is by increasing their confidence in their abilities.

Full Article: http://bit.ly/sQpOwm

The Costco at 18, Route 9 N in Morganville NJ will be holding a FREE Osteo Screening Clinic on December 3, 2011.  The clinic will go from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.  It is recommended that you call and make a reservation but walk-ins are welcome.  The clinic is sponsored by Costco and staffed by Brightstar.

There was a 10 percent drop in cancer risk for every 10 grams of dietary or cereal fiber people ate each day. Eat three servings a day (that’s only three ounces total) of whole grains and the risk was reduced by 20 percent.

Full Article (AARP): http://aarp.us/rtpILg

High Fiber Foods (Mayo Clinic): http://bit.ly/auUEPG

This test will kick off at 2:00 p.m. (EST). The test will be nationwide, running concurrently across all time zones.

Again, this system test is the first of its kind. It is designed to broadcast a nationwide message to the American public. Nothing like it has been conducted in the history of the country. There have been tests in the past but none to all parts of the Nation at the same time.

The test will air on every broadcast, cable and satellite TV station in the nation, as well as every AM, FM and satellite radio station. But it will not be sent to landline or cell phones, pagers or computers, which millions of people monitor for news and information.

The test will run anywhere from 30 seconds to 1 minute.

There is great concern in local police and emergency management circles about undue public anxiety over this test. The test message on TV might not indicate that it is just a test. Fear is that the lack of an explanation message might create panic.

Please share this information with your family, friends and staff so they are aware of the test.

Below are some websites that will provide more information…
http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm
https://nationaldialogue-emergencyalertsystem.ideascale.com/
http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test

Including a cost table from the article for quick reference….. 

Full Article: http://nyti.ms/uS7LHL

Charging higher contributions for dependent coverage and dropping retiree accounts, are among the steps companies are considering as they fight rising medical costs and new expenses tied to health reform, according to a new report Thursday from human resources consulting firm Towers Watson.

Full article: http://cnnmon.ie/fqo8hH

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, one year of care in a nursing home (based on the 2006 national average) will cost over $62,000 for a semi-private room. One year of care at home, assuming someone needs periodic personal care help from a home health aide (the average is about three times a week), could cost almost $16,000 a year.

Full Article: http://bit.ly/ouVsW6

You certainly do not want to fall and risk an injury.  Most serious falls occur in and around the home.  Some simple precautions may help maintain your independence and reduce your risk of falling at home.

A Checklist For Preventing Falls in Your Home  

Stairways –

• Make sure all handrails are are securely fastened.
• Both sides of the steps should have handrails.
• Stairways should be evenly and brightly lit 

Floors and rugs - 

• Make sure all floor are even and free of clutter.
• Rugs, including area rugs, must be secured to the floor with tacks, non-skid pads or double-sided tape. 
• Keep frequently traveled paths of furniture as it may present a tripping hazard.

Bathroom - 

• Place non-slip strips in bath/shower.
• Mount grab bars at the toilet, bath and shower on walls with secure reinforcements, to prevent the bars from coming loose. 
• Keep the floor dry and always keep a phone handy.

Kitchen -

• Items that you use frequently should be easy to reach.
• Heavy items should be kept at waste height.
• Always keep a fire extinguisher handy and familiarize yourself with use and safety instructions.

Lighting - 

• Place nightlights in hallways, bedrooms, bathrooms, and stairways.
• Install light switches at the top and bottom of stairs.
• Place a lamp and telephone, within easy reach, near your bed.

Outside of your home -

• Repair holes, uneven joints on walkways.
• Stairs and walkways should be free of leaves, snow, and ice.  Use salt and/or sand throughout the winter months.
• Make sure outside lighting is working in entryways and walkways.  Use motion sensing lights to prevent waste.
• Check that handrails are securely fastened.  Both sides of steps should have handrails.

Resources

Many states and local communities have low or no-interest loans, tax credits or other programs for home modifications for those who are older or disabled. 

Many Area Agencies on Aging also offer a variety of services for assessing the safety of your home and making the appropriate modifications to prevent falls.  To find out more about what’s available in your own community, contact the key resources listed below.

http://www.co.middlesex.nj.us/aging/index.asp – Middlesex County Dept. of Aging

http://www.state.nj.us/health/senior/sa_aaa.shtml – Area Agencies on Aging

http://www.state.nj.us/health/ – Dept. of Health and Senior Services