Doctor-Led Startups Offer New Career Path, Public Benefit

(MedPage Today) -- Innovating health care from the inside out

RheumNow: Drug Shortage Bulletin -- August 2015

(MedPage Today) -- Recent information on drug shortages in rheumatology

Second PCSK9 Inhibitor Wins FDA Approval

(MedPage Today) -- Also: CMS targets wasteful spending in nursing facilities

Tips for Acing Your Next Job Interview: Healthcare Career Insights

(MedPage Today) -- Must reads about the latest news and trends in healthcare careers

Friday Feedback: Spotlight on Celebrity Disease Diagnoses

(MedPage Today) -- Pros and cons of celebrities going public with their health problems

DPP-4 Inhibitors Linked to Severe Joint Pain, FDA Warns

(MedPage Today) -- The agency has identified 33 cases since 2006

Janssen Accused of Withholding Data on Risperdal Side Effect in Autism

(MedPage Today) -- Company charged with trying to cover up gynecomastia effect in boys

What to Make of Vitamin D, MS, & Mendelian Randomization (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- It depends who you ask, study author found

Physicians Should Speak Out on Mass Deportation of Immigrants

(MedPage Today) -- Such policies would have devastating health consequences, says ACP's Bob Doherty

ACR Joins Outcry Against ABIM's MOC Program

(MedPage Today) -- Calls it an "overreach" and questions ABIM's financial stewardship

Morning Break: Really Big Bullies, Creative Daydreaming, Poop Donors

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

Another PCSK9 Drug Wins FDA Approval

(MedPage Today) -- Evolocumab will be available next week

Bed Bug Resurgence a Multifactorial Issue

(MedPage Today) -- Hygiene, insecticide bans, globalization all contribute

Getting the Phone to Stop Ringing

(MedPage Today) -- The dream: a patient-staff communication system that meets needs of both

CMS: 'Healthier People, Smarter Spending' With ACOs

(MedPage Today) -- Report credits accountable care organizations with more care coordination

OncoBreak: Early Test for Relapse, False Mammograms, Cancer and Sex

(MedPage Today) -- News, features, and commentary about cancer-related issues

The Hospital Leader: Catch Me If You Can (With Dirty Hands, That Is)

(MedPage Today) -- Time for sticks as well as carrots to boost hand hygiene?

Worried About Your Teaching Evaluations? Read This First.

(MedPage Today) -- Welcome to the new school year -- and mindless teaching evaluations

Amgen's PCSK9 Drug Wins FDA Approval

(MedPage Today) -- Repatha is second PCSK9 approved

'Basket' Cancer Trial Hints at Promise (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Presence of mutation did not universally predict activity

Clear Health Costs: Having Insurance Doesn't Always Pay

(MedPage Today) -- The case of the $1,700 mammogram

Cancer Survivor Plan Fails to Up Patient Satisfaction (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- More information fails to produce clear benefit

Morning Break: Killer Surgeon, Botched Penis Injection, Medicaid and HCV

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

Exercise, Supplements Like Fish Oil Won't Keep Elderly Sharper: Studies

Title: Exercise, Supplements Like Fish Oil Won't Keep Elderly Sharper: Studies
Category: Health News
Created: 8/25/2015 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/26/2015 12:00:00 AM

No Brain Boost for Seniors With Exercise, Supplements (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Time to reassess lifestyle factors?

So You Had a Bad Day

(MedPage Today) -- Keep it in perspective with these three thoughts

Pelzman's Picks: Readmission Penalties for Prisons?

(MedPage Today) -- Also: with a little coordination to allow night rest, hospital patients might heal faster

Patient Satisfaction Surveys: Really, You Need Them

(MedPage Today) -- If done right, they are well worth the cost

Morning Break: Skip the Water; Don't Drink Urine; DIY Erectile Tx a Bummer

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

Women, Minorities Still Underrepresented in Medicine

(MedPage Today) -- Wide variation seen among specialties

Health Plan Merger Madness: HealthLeaders Media

(MedPage Today) -- Also, California hospitals work to save millions of gallons of water each year

Medicine in India: Rough Road to Physician Accountability

(MedPage Today) -- Second in a series

Consider Advance Care Planning Needs for LGBT Patients

(MedPage Today) -- What tools do we need to promote equality at the end of life?

Morning Break: Better Sex, Autism and Creativity, Second Cancers

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

'Mutant' Lice More Hype Than Headache

(MedPage Today) -- Treatment failure doesn't equal clinical resistance

Morning Break: Mutant Head Lice, Guns and Public Health, Coke and Friends

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

Medicine in India: Rampant Quackery, Baffling Drug Landscape

(MedPage Today) -- First of a two-part series

D.C. Week: 'Female Viagra' OK'd; Healthcare Draws Attention in 2016 Race

(MedPage Today) -- Also, House Dem slams GOP for inaction on prescription drug prices

Overcoming Your Fear of Public Speaking: Healthcare Career Insights

(MedPage Today) -- Must reads about the latest news and trends in healthcare careers

Why the Aging Brain Is More Vulnerable to Alzheimer's

Title: Why the Aging Brain Is More Vulnerable to Alzheimer's
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2015 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/20/2015 12:00:00 AM

9 Factors You Can Control May Be Key to Alzheimer's Risk

Title: 9 Factors You Can Control May Be Key to Alzheimer's Risk
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2015 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2015 12:00:00 AM

Better Than Science Fiction

(MedPage Today) -- Reading about workplace trends intrigues David Nash, MD, MBA

Search Tool Shines Light on Docs' Backgrounds

(MedPage Today) -- FSMB unveils one-stop shop for disciplinary, certification records on individual physicians

MD 24 House Call ~ Signs & Symptoms of Diabetes

Diabetes Mellitus is the name given to a group of conditions that occurs when the level of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood becomes higher than normal. Insulin is a hormone that moves glucose from your blood-stream, into the cells of your body where it is used for energy. Diabetics cannot make enough insulin or the insulin that is being made does not work properly. This causes blood glucose levels to become too high while impacting your short and long term health.

In type 1 diabetes, your immune system destroys cells in your pancreas that make insulin. In type 2 diabetes, the pancreas is not under attack. It usually makes enough insulin. But your body does not use it well. The symptoms of the two forms are similar, but usually come on more quickly in people with type 1.

Individuals can experience different signs and symptoms of diabetes, and sometimes there may be no signs. Some of the signs commonly experienced include:

• More thirsty than usual
• passing more urine
• feeling tired and lethargic
• slow-healing wounds
• itching and skin infections, particularly around the genitals
• blurred vision
• nausea and vomiting
• weight loss
• mood swings.

Often in type 2 diabetes signs and symptoms may not be present.

Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. The far more common type 2 diabetes occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or does not make enough insulin.

Various factors may contribute to type 1 diabetes, including genetics and exposure to certain viruses. Although type 1 diabetes usually appears during childhood or adolescence, it also can begin in adults.

Despite active research, type 1 diabetes can be managed but has no cure. With proper treatment offered today, those infected can expect to live longer, healthier lives than those of the past. Type 1 diabetes can happen at any point in life. But it is mostly diagnosed before the age of 19.

Having high blood sugar for a long time can damage many of your body's systems. Type 1 diabetes can make you more likely to have:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Kidney failure
• Blindness or other problems seeing
• Gum disease and tooth loss
• Nerve damage in the hands, feet, and organs

Type 1 diabetes signs and symptoms can surface rapidly and may include:

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Bedwetting in children who previously did not wet the bed during the night
• Extreme hunger
• Unintended weight loss
• Irritability and other mood changes
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision
• In females, a vaginal yeast infection

Type 2 diabetes, once known as adult-onset or noninsulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition that affects the way your body metabolizes sugar (glucose). Your body either resists the effects of insulin — a hormone that regulates the movement of sugar into your cells — or does not produce enough insulin to maintain a normal glucose level.

More common in adults, type 2 diabetes increasingly affects children as childhood obesity continues to grow. There is yet to be a cure, but you may be able to manage the condition by eating well, exercising and maintaining a healthy weight. If diet and exercise are not enough to manage your blood sugar well, you also may need diabetic medications or insulin therapy.

Type 2 diabetes is sometimes described as a ‘lifestyle disease’ because it is more common in those struggling with obesity while ignoring physical activity. Also known as non-insulin dependent diabetes or mature onset diabetes, It’s strongly associated with high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, or the ‘apple’ body shape. (excess weight around the waist.) While most diabetics are mature adults (over 40), younger people are also now being diagnosed in greater numbers as rates of obesity increase.

Type 2 diabetes symptoms often develop slowly. In fact, you can have type 2 diabetes for years and not know it. Look for:

• Increased thirst and frequent urination. Excess sugar building up in your bloodstream causes fluid to be pulled from the tissues. This may leave you thirsty.
• Increased hunger. Without enough insulin to move sugar into your cells, your muscles and organs become depleted of energy. This triggers intense hunger.
• Weight loss. Despite eating more than usual to relieve hunger, you may lose weight. Without the ability to metabolize glucose, the body uses alternative fuels stored in muscle and fat.
• Fatigue. If your cells are deprived of sugar, you may become tired and irritable.
• Blurred vision. If your blood sugar is too high, fluid may be pulled from the lenses of your eyes. This may affect your ability to focus.
• Slow-healing sores or frequent infections. Type 2 diabetes affects your ability to heal and resist infections.
• Areas of darkened skin. Some diabetics have patches of dark, velvety skin in the folds and creases of their bodies — usually in the armpits and neck. This condition, called acanthosis nigricans, may be a sign of insulin resistance.

Pre-diabetes is a risk factor leading to the development of type 2 diabetes. It’s a condition in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but still not diabetic. There are no defined symptoms, but risk factors include obesity, smoking, heart disease, polycystic ovary syndrome and high blood pressure. Without treatment, 33% of pre-diabetics will develop type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

There are two types of pre-diabetes: Impaired Glucose Tolerance and Impaired Fasting Glucose.

Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than non-diabetic ranges post-meals. IGT typically occurs in overweight and physically inactive people - and a greater risk in those with heavy midsections.

There are often no symptoms associated with IGT and we recommend an immediate assessment if you notice one or more associated risk factors. An oral glucose tolerance test is required to help your doctor determine if you have IGTY. All you need to do is submit a sample of your blood the a lab for your physician to examine.

Impaired Glucose Fasting (IGF) occurs less frequently than IGT and incorporates fasting blood glucose levels that are higher than non diabetic ranges, but not classified as diabetic.

Pre-diabetes is diagnosed by a blood test that checks your blood glucose level. Any blood glucose test that shows higher than normal blood sugar levels needs to be examined and diagnosed. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) may be required and it’s results will show whether your blood sugar levels are normal.

Women, especially those expecting, should be aware of the symptoms of gestational diabetes. The complications of diabetic women are difficult to pinpoint and women can experience the following symptoms:

• Thrush and yeast infections
• Itchiness around the vagina
• Female sexual dysfunction

Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, or vaginal thrush, can be a symptom of diabetes as high blood sugar levels can cause glucose to be excreted through urine. Glucose in urine can create yeast infections. Here are some symptoms to consider:

• Soreness and itching around the vagina
• Reddening of the skin
• A white curd like appearance on the skin
• White vaginal discharge
• Pain during intercourse

Oral yeast infections can also occur as a symptom of diabetes. High blood sugar can also lead to a lack of natural vaginal lubrication which makes sex difficult or painful.

The symptoms of diabetes in men and women are similar but some are more noticable in men. Specific male diabetic symptoms may include:

• Reduced strength from loss of muscle mass
• Recurrent episodes of thrush around the genitals
• Itching of or around the penis
• Erectile dysfunction

Reduced strength and loss of muscle mass, unexplained loss of muscle mass may be a sign of high sugar levels in men. If blood sugar levels remain high for a long time, the body begins to break down fat and muscle for energy. The resulting weight loss is usually most noticeable in people with type 1 diabetes, but can affect those with long-term undetected type 2.

More than 33% of diabetic cases occur in seniors over the age of 65. At the same time, almost 210,000 U.S. children and adolescents are said to be diabetic - and counting. It’s important to catch children’s diabetic symptoms quickly. Here’s what you should look for:

Early symptoms:

• feeling tired or weak
• Mother comforting daughter in bed
• frequent peeing (urination) in large amounts (polyuria)
• increase in thirst (polydipsia)
• weight loss
• increase in appetite (polyphagia)
• dry mouth or throat

More serious symptoms:

• These symptoms appear if the diabetes is not treated, or in some cases when it is undiagnosed.
• drowsiness
• weight loss
• nausea and vomiting
• heavy, rapid breathing (Kussmaul breathing)
• stomach aches

Excessive thirst and urination are typically the first indications of high blood glucose levels in kids. While younger children may begin enuresis (wetting the bed), some get up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom (nocturia).​. The loss of sugar in the urine, together with dehydration, and lack of blood sugar is a bad combination. This can lead to weight loss despite an increase in appetite (polyphagia). As the symptoms develop and worsen, a child can become tired, drowsy, and weak.

Diabetic signs and symptoms may not be as clear in newborns and toddlers as a language barrier, regular growth spurts, and changes in appetite throw off the analysis. In these cases, your child can develop serious symptoms before diabetes is even recognized. Fungal or yeast diaper rash that doesn’t improve with the use of medicated cream should also be considered as a sign - even though common.

Diabetes is a complex condition, which can affect the entire body. Understanding this disease is truly important even if you don’t have it. In your lifetime, you’ll most likely know a diabetic.

MD24 House Call is one of the leading institutions for Arizona diabetes care. MD24's specialists work closely with diabetic educators, dieticians, and podiatrists to help patients to develop insight into their condition, manage symptoms, and relate more positively to others. The first step in seeking help is to visit MD24 House Call and arrange a health assessment. Call (888) 632-4758 for registration inquiries or visit our website www.md24housecall.com and “Request a Visit.”

MD24 House Call is proud to be able to assist the patients we already serve and look forward to serving the healthcare needs of new residents who register with us.

Visit us online @ www.MD24HouseCall.com

Recreation Services at Haven Senior Horizons of Phoenix

Patients at Haven Senior Horizons of Phoenix have access to a variety of Therapeutic Recreation services. Our staff of Activity Therapists, Social Worker and Behavioral Health Technicians work to meet the individual needs of our patients through a variety of methods.

Within Activity Therapy Groups, patients can enjoy Music Therapy, Hand/Eye Coordination skills, pet therapy or basic life skills. Other activities assist with motor skills or focus on stimulation of senses with the use of essential oils and other mediums. Reminiscence groups are an important part of therapy and focus on memories and sharing.

Social Services Groups provide opportunities for patients to work on processing skills, coping skills and emotional regulation skills to aid in stress management and build self esteem.

In conjunction with Therapeutic Group Activities and Social Services Groups, Haven Senior Horizons also offers Family Support Groups to help families as they experience challenges while caring for their loved one.

Behavioral Health Technicians facilitate several groups each day to meet each individual’s specific needs at varying levels of cognitive ability. These groups offer fun, interactive recreations including karaoke, bingo, current events, trivia and cards.

Haven Senior Horizons is here to serve your family and meet your needs. Please contact us at 623-236-2000 for more information.

Visit us online @ http://phoenix.havenbehavioral.com/

Elmcroft ~ Health & Rehabilitation

OVERVIEW

Our team of dedicated and compassionate nursing professionals works together with the family and physician to provide the highest quality care. Our health and rehabilitation services are tailored to the individual needs of our residents and are delivered by professionals who are trained to honor and enhance the lives of all of our residents.

Skilled Nursing services include, but are not limited to, wound care, dressing changes, administering and monitoring I.V. therapy, administering medications and injections. Elmcroft provides the following care and therapy options:

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical Therapy is the treatment of the musculoskeletal system (muscles, tendons and bones) and neuromuscular problems that affect movement and functioning.

Our carefully selected therapists work with patients on strengthening and retraining to allow them to become more independent with walking and mobility. They also use exercise and therapeutic techniques to increase joint movement, muscle strength, endurance, balance, coordination and mobility, and to alleviate pain.

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

Patients work with the occupational therapists to regain or retain daily living skills while recovering from an illness or injury, especially after a hospital stay. These skills include bathing, dressing, eating and home management.

SPEECH THERAPY

Our skilled language pathologists provide specialized programs for patients coping with speech, language, comprehension or swallowing difficulties. 
We provide evaluations and treatment to maximize communication, swallowing abilities, cognition, nutrition and hydration.

PERSONAL CARE

(Personal care is not offered at all facilities)

Personal Care Services give patients a higher level of personalized care in a nurturing, comfortable and home-like environment. We offer accommodations for those who may require assistance with medications, bathing, dressing or other activities of daily living. Services include a vibrant activity program with three daily nutritious meals.

A thorough assessment by our team of professionals ensures patients receive a customized program of care that meets their individual needs.

We are staffed around-the-clock with licensed nurses who provide the exact level of care needed – and know how important it is for patients to maintain their independence.

Our apartments provide optimal privacy, and allow patients to be surrounded by familiar furnishings and personal treasures. Basic utilities and housekeeping services are included to help patients enjoy the most carefree lifestyle possible.

Visit us online @ http://www.elmcroft.com/community/elmcroft-of-tempe/

Home Instead Senior Care ~ Avoiding Med Mismanagement

Prescription drugs are a scary business and sometimes, with the best will in the world, it’s easy for seniors and their loved ones to get a little mixed up on what they’re taking, when they should be taking it, where it’s stored, and what might cause a negative interaction.

In a survey, more than half of the seniors polled said they took at least five different prescription drugs regularly, and about 25 percent of the seniors took between 10 and 19 pills each day. So it’s really no surprise why they get confused!

Unfortunately, because many of these drugs are very strong, and medication regimens are often customized to a senior’s specific health condition and the other meds they are taking, there is precious little room for error.

Here are some ways you can help:

Make a List: This should include every prescription medicine your senior is taking, as well as anything over the counter such as a vitamin supplement, probiotic or low-dose aspirin. Other items to include:

• Your senior's name and date of birth
• Each drug’s name
• Dosage
• Time/frequency taken
• Whether food or liquid should be taken with it
• Food or beverages to be avoided (i.e. leafy greens for blood thinners; alcohol)
• Pharmacy and health care provider names, addresses and telephone numbers
• Family emergency contact information

Keep a copy of the list prominently posted in your senior’s home and make sure one or two family members also have a copy. When filling prescriptions, bring it to the pharmacist for review.

One-stop shop for meds: Consolidating all prescriptions at one pharmacy is not only more convenient, it can help the pharmacist keep better track of any drugs your senior is taking and any possible interactions or side effects.

Mail-order?: If this is an option, it might help you take care of ordering your senior’s meds for them so they don’t run out. Just be sure to regularly consult a pharmacist in-person to red flag possible interactions or side effects.

Read and save the literature: We know, we know, it can seem like reams of paper come with every prescription, but it really is valuable information to prevent or alert you to new complications.

Get a med tray: They come in all shapes and sizes (consult your pharmacist for the one that suits your senior’s medicine regimen best). This will help both you and your senior keep track of what’s being taken.

For inquiring about medicine reminders or more information about caring for seniors, please contact us!

See more at: https://www.homeinstead.com/195/blog/avoiding-med-mismanagement#sthash.yWagohT2.dpuf

FDA: Scope Makers Failed to Report Violations

(MedPage Today) -- One manufacturer withheld information for 3 years on infections linked to duodenoscopes

Escaping the Echo Chamber

(MedPage Today) -- Don't always surround yourself with the like-minded, says ACP's Bob Doherty

Confused about Biosimilar Meds? Rheumatology Network and ConsultantLive

(MedPage Today) -- Also, erectile dysfunction associated with increased risk of diabetes

Pelzman's Picks: The Doc Down on the Farm

(MedPage Today) -- Also, the patient as care coordinator and why the FDA shouldn't lose its power

Ability Center ~ Which Wheelchair Van is Right for You?

Which Wheelchair Van is Right For You – Side Entry or Rear Entry?

Posted on August 11, 2015

At Ability Center, we specialize in helping our valued customers find the right accessible van for their needs, budget and lifestyle. Many times families are curious as to what type of wheelchair van is best; a side-entry handicap van or a van with a ramp that comes out the rear of the vehicle.

When thinking of these two options, we have four things we will discuss to help you make the best decision; Parking, Position of the wheelchair, Passengers and Price(4 P’s).

Parking
One consideration when thinking about what type of wheelchair accessible van to purchase is parking. Rear entry vehicles have an easier time in crowded parking spots because the entry and exit of the wheelchair passenger can take place in any parking spot; it doesn’t necessarily have to be a large handicap parking spot. However, keep in mind that you will be loading and unloading the wheelchair passenger into the flow of traffic. In areas of the country where much of the parking is done curbside/parallel, a rear entry van may not be the best option because you’ll need significant room behind the vehicle to load the wheelchair. Side entry vans have the opposite benefits; it’s easier for parallel parking because the ramp can be deployed on curbs. However, parking lot parking can be difficult at times with so many limited large handicap parking spaces that allow 8′ for the ramp to deploy.

Position of the wheelchair
Ask yourself this question, where would I like the wheelchair to be positioned and where is the person using the wheelchair going to sit. Some people with disabilities have the ability to transfer out of their wheelchair onto the front driver or passenger position. If this is the case, a side-entry van is best suited for you since the whole floor of the vehicle is cut out making for an easy transfer. Some people like to remain in their wheelchair and sit in their chairs in the front driver or passenger position after removing the front seat of the van. If this is the case, a side-entry is best suited for you as the seats are on bases that are removable. Rear entry vans have a portion of their floor lowered which makes for a nearly impossible option for the wheelchair passenger to sit in the front two seats. If the person in the wheelchair has a caregiver and will not drive or sit in the front passenger position, a rear entry van is a great option. Some rear entry vans have jump seats so the person in the wheelchair can be positioned in the middle of the van with brothers, sisters, grandchildren, etc. sitting next to them.

Passengers
The third thing to consider is how many passengers will be transported with the wheelchair van? Rear entry vans can accommodate more people because many have fold down seat options in the middle. However, there are some side-entry vans that have jump seats in the middle as well. This question goes hand in hand with the position of the wheelchair; look at the family as a whole and how you will be using your van.

Price
Lastly let’s talk money. In many cases rear entry vans are less expensive because they are geared towards caregivers so many of the conversion features are manual. However, in the last couple of years there have been some reasonably priced side entry manual wheelchair conversions that are a great option as well.

One more thing to think about is to try before you buy. At Ability Center, we offer wheelchair vans for rent. Try a side-entry one weekend and a rear-entry the next weekend. Many times, we will put the cost of the rental towards the van you purchase from us. Our goal is to make sure you have the right van for your family.

Call us at 866-405-6806 or email info@abilitycenter.com or visit us online @

www.AbilityCenter.com

Bias Suggested in PCSK9 Inhibitor Findings (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Questions raised on studies that suggested halving in CV events

ADL Solutions ~ Bathing Solutions

Comfortable, Relaxing, Accessible Bathing is now Possible With the Best Bath ADL Spa in Scottsdale AZ

Who doesn’t love the luxury of siting in a nice, big, comfortable bath tub where you can sit back, relax, have some bubbles, and enjoy some peaceful time to yourself? It is a wonderful feeling and a great way to relax while also being able to bath. The hard part is that when someone acquires a disability, or has some very limited mobility, due to various reasons, they might not be able to enjoy that because they can’t access their current bath tub. It has become inaccessible. Luckily Best Bath has come up with the ADL Spa bath tub that is accessible for anyone of any age. So let’s take a look at the features and benefits of this amazing spa bath tub.

ADL Spa

• The tubs’ pressure-sealed door slides open, allowing users to transition into the tub directly from a wheelchair or walker, or for assisted entry via a lift.
• The optional jetted system, which includes an Ozone3 Sanitation System, combines a seven-jet hydro massage and a 15-jet air massage.
• The hydrotherapy system relieves stiff muscles and joints, features rotational jets for additional relief to the feet and lower back, and uses the Syllent water pump, the quietest on the market.
• The tubs are available with a right-hand or left-hand opening, and come standard in white with a white cabinet base; biscuit, bone, linen, and almond tub colors are available as upgrades.
• A range of special-order colors and a selection of 12 wood-grain cabinet faces can be specified for a custom look to match any décor. Additional options include a two- or three-wall surround, grab bars for the wall surround, and a harness and seat strap system.

With the improved access provided by the bathtub, individuals of all abilities may be able to remain in their homes longer. And it also has the benefit for parents as well. They would no longer have to strain their backs bending over a bathtub to bath their children.

So if you still want to enjoy a comfortable, relaxing, and accessible bathing look no further than with the Best Bath ADL Spa in Scottsdale AZ.

Caring Senior Service ~ The 5 Main Do's & Don't to Planning Retirement

The 5 Main Do's & Don't To Planning Retirement

Retirement planning can be overwhelming, but getting it right can make a huge difference in your future. These are a few things that you should remember when working on your retirement planning, no matter what your age is.

1. Don't Wait Too Long

It can be easy to put off retirement planning until the last minute, especially if funds are tight. However, the sooner that you can get started, the better. It's never too late to start planning, but it's never too early, either. No matter how old or young you are, now is the time to start taking steps to save money, invest and otherwise plan for the future.

2. Do Work With a Financial Adviser

Many people attempt to do their own retirement planning, but there are a lot of tax breaks, types of accounts, investment opportunities and more that you probably don't know about. If you sit down with a financial adviser, you can get pro advice to help you make the most of your money and your future.

3. Don't Take Out Your Social Security Early

Many people take out their social security early so that they have the money as soon as possible. This can cause your payments to be dramatically reduced for the rest of your life, so you should look for other options so that you can withdraw later.

4. Do Make Arrangements for Living Changes Early

If you are thinking about refinancing your home so that you can enjoy lower payments during retirement, you should do so before you retire. Otherwise, you could have a tough time getting approved for a loan if you don't have a job. If you are planning on moving into a retirement community or other setting, you should also start planning for these things while you are still working.

5. Do Create a Budget

You might not work with a strict budget now, but you are going to need one in retirement. Start keeping track of how much you spend on things like food, medication, clothing, gas and more now. Then, you will have accurate numbers to work with when writing up this budget.

Now is the time to start thinking about your future, so remember these do's and don't's to planning retirement while you are making important decisions. For more assistance for seniors, you can also contact us at Caring Senior Service http://phoenix.caringseniorservice.com/

BrightStar Care ~ Diagnosing Cataracts

This month, we’re focusing on Eye Health and honing in on cataracts. According to Prevent Blindness America’s Vision Problems in the U.S. report, more than 24 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts. By age 80, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts. Every year in the U.S., more than one million cataract surgeries are performed. Cataract surgeries are performed without complication in 95 percent of cases.

Why do cataracts form?

Cataract is probably caused by changes related to aging. Throughout our lives, our bodies replace old cells with new ones. As we grow older, the old cells in our eye’s lens build up and block light as it tries to pass through. The end result is cloudy vision. Besides getting older, other factors may cause cataract to form. Eye infections, some medicines (such as steroids), injuries or exposure to intense heat or radiation may cause cataract. Too much exposure to non-visible sunlight (called UV or ultraviolet light) and various diseases, such as diabetes or metabolic disorders, may also contribute to cataracts.

What are the types of cataract?

Age-related: 95 of cataract are age-related, usually after age 40.

Congential: These are present at birth, usually caused by infection or inflammation during pregnancy, possibly inherited.

Traumatic: Lens damage from a hard blow, cut, puncture, intense heat or chemical burn may cause cataract.

Secondary: Some medicines, eye disease, eye infection, or diseases cause these cataracts.

How can the eye doctor tell if I have cataracts?

Everyone who gets cataracts experiences it differently. But a person with cataracts commonly experiences cloudy or blurry vision. Lights may cause a glare, seem too dim or seem too bright. It may be hard to read or drive, especially at night. If you have cataracts, you may see halos around lights, such as car headlights, that make it hard to focus clearly. Colors may not seem as bright as they used to be. Or you may have to change your eyeglass prescription often. To find out if you have cataracts, your eye doctor will want to:

• Find out your general medical history
• Test your vision (visual acuity)
• Test your side vision (peripheral vision)
• Test your eye movement
• Test you for glaucoma
• Do a microscopic exam of the front of the eye to assess the density of the cataract and how it interferes with light passing through the lens
• Widen the pupils of your eyes to examine the retina, the optic nerve and the macula
• Test you to see how glare affects your vision

Visit us online @ http://www.brightstarcare.com/mesachandlergilbert/

GOP Candidates' Health Plans Draw Mixed Reviews

(MedPage Today) -- Plans by Walker, Rubio seek larger role for health savings accounts

Bias Charged in PCSK9 Inhibitor Findings (CME/CE)

(MedPage Today) -- Questions raised on studies that suggested halving in CV events

CMS Sepsis Measures Spark Controversy

(MedPage Today) -- Measures would likely result in overtreatment, critics say

Vaginal Mesh Debacle Breeds Questionable Profit Schemes

(MedPage Today) -- A behind-the-scenes look at medical device litigation

Cost Of Diabetes Drugs Often Overlooked, But Shouldn’t Be

(MedPage Today) -- Cost increases have patients scrambling to pay for their drugs

And the Silos Came Tumbling Down

(MedPage Today) -- James C. Salwitz, MD, envisions a more interconnected healthcare system

Combo Immunotherapy Promising for Melanoma: Clin Onc News Report

(MedPage Today) -- Also, two generic drugs can improve breast cancer survival

Morning Break: Pelvic Mesh Scandal, Off-Label No-Nos

(MedPage Today) -- Health news and commentary from around the Web, gathered by the MedPage Today staff

FDA Approves 'Female Viagra' Amid Cheers and Jeers

(MedPage Today) -- Addyi is intended to increase libido in pre-menopausal women

MOC Protests Still Raging: HealthLeaders Media

(MedPage Today) -- Also, efforts to improve patient engagement with doctors

Evidence Lacking in Studies of Hospital Cleanliness

(MedPage Today) -- Review finds evidence-based research into hospital cleaning practices uncommon

Trust Your Instincts When Treating Patients: Healthcare Career Insights

(MedPage Today) -- Must reads about the latest news and trends in healthcare careers

Alzheimer's Disease

Title: Alzheimer's Disease
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 8/26/2008 12:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/13/2015 12:00:00 AM

Medicare Switches Gears: Will Pay for Amgen's Pricey Leukemia Drug

(MedPage Today) -- Experts say FDA blinked on Blincyto stand-off