Holiday Spirit Issue
12
Habits to Break in the New Year
Ultimate Gift Ideas & Guide Celebrate with Religious Sights & Sounds
Naomi Watts
Barefaced Beauty
OCT OBER2013 az heal t handl i vi ng. com
DECEMBER 2014
VOLUME 5, ISSUE 64 azhealthandliving.com
Don’t be a Stooge When It Comes to Marketing Emphasize Safety When Buying Gifts for Children
How to Prevent Frostbite Who is Liable if a Guest Gets Food Poisoning or Drives Drunk?
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FINDING YOUR WAY THROUGH THE
“MEDICARE MAZE”
Do you need answers to any of the following questions? What is Medicare? What does it cover? How much does it cost? When is it available to me? Is “traditional” Medicare all I need? Does Medicare cover my prescriptions? What are the A, B, C, & D’s of Medicare? What options are available to me with Medicare? These are only a few of the many questions that require honest and accurate answers before a wellinformed health care decision should be made. Knowing what your options are and choosing the plan that best meets your individual needs and expectations can be very confusing. I’ve been serving the Medicare community for 16 years, and can provide the answers and options available to those eligible or soon to be eligible for Medicare.
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Contents
A Division of
Publisher Great Central Sun Media Group Executive Editor Lisa Padilla Celebrity Photo Editor Pure Intent B.C. Group Graphic Design Pure Intent B.C. Group
Contributing Writers Grey Stafford Katie Snyder Nidah Chatriwala Alison Bailin Batz Rachel Brockway Todd Patkin Jane Schwartzberg Marsha Friedman Trusted Choice® The Big “I” Shelley Alexander Ted Bernstein Chris Orestis
COMMUNITY
LIFESTYLE & LIVING
14-22 Inside Arizona
44-47 Family, Kids & Relationships
Know Your Neighbors; Heart of the Community; Neighborhood Buzz
Could You Be Liable for Your Guests Food Poisoning or Drunk Driving?; Emphasize Safety When Buying Gifts for Children; Celebrate with Religious Sights & Sounds
HEALTH & WELLNESS
48 Fitness, Nutrition & Sports
Contact us: Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC 16845 N. 29th Ave. Ste. #754 Phoenix, Arizona ,85053 623.335.0771 Advertise@, Editor@, Press@ @azhealthandliving.com www.azhealthandliving.com www.facebook.com/ArizonaHealthandLiving www.twitter.com/AzHealthLiving
26-29 Health
Tips for Quick & Convenient Healthy Eating During the Holidays
Giving Blood: A Simple Way to Save Lives; How to Prevent Frostbite;Would Your Holidays be Different if You Knew You Had a Terminal Illness?
30 Mind, Body & Spirit
About us: Great Central Sun Media Group, a media and marketing firm, was founded in 2009 to empower individuals and businesses to make positive decisions that not only impact their health, but the health of the communities they call home. We are on a mission of successfully publishing community magazines, to be used as a powerful source by which the new generation can follow to be encouraged, motivated, inspired, and educated to live a healthier lifestyle. We strive with faith to spread healthy living information that will enlighten everyone to know that the word "health" is not just about physical fitness, but rather a combination of the mind, body, and spirit - and when balanced, creates a synergy of well-being and healthy living.
Twelve Habits to Break in the New Year
Special thanks to God, our advertisers, community partners, contributors, and readers for making this magazine possible. Arizona Health & Living is published monthly. All rights are reserved. The entire contents of Arizona Health & Living are copyright 2014 by Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC. Reproduction in whole or part, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, pictorial, or design content, including electronic retrieval systems is prohibited in the United States & foreign countries. The trademark and tradename, Arizona Health & Living, is owned by Great Central Sun Media Group, LLC.
50 Celebrity Barefaced Beauty Naomi Watts
52-56 Special Feature
The publisher does not assume responsibility for statements or work by advertisers. The contents in Arizona Health & Living, such as text, graphics and other material ("Content") are intended for educational purposes only. The Content is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions you have regarding your medical condition. Events and the neighborhood buzz section presented are provided as a service, and do not represent an endorsement or recommendation of specific events or sponsors. The publisher in no way sponsors, endorses, promotes, or administers any products that are featured within the publication.
Arizona Locally Owned Business
Holiday Gift Guide
58 Career, Business & Finance Don’t be a Stooge When It Comes to Marketing
Pick up a free copy inside
SENIOR LIVING
locations. 34-41 Healthy Chatter Local Doctors, Experts & Business Owners Answering Frequently Asked Questions
12 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
60-63 Aging Well What Will You Discover When Visiting Your Parents this Holiday Season?; Low-Tech Holiday Gifts the Grandkids Will Remember
Together We Can Make a Difference...
“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” ~ Romans 15:13
W
elcome to our Holiday Spirit Issue. I believe spirit is the spark that ignites the light within each person to do, know – and become our best selves! I further believe that education is the is the foundation that builds character and fills the spirit— and when our first teaching originates, first by the word of God—from the first text book that should be read—the Bible —our spirit is filled and overflowing, “…thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.” Psalm 23:5 With that being said, and the Holiday season upon us, many will begin to reflect on what the year has brought and/or lost them, while others become lost among gifts—we must not forget the reason this is one of the most celebrated seasons. Here are few Bible verses to help you keep focus on the spirit of the season.
Luke 2: 9-14 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
John 16:33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Romans 14:17 ...for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
John 15:10-12 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen. Until next time, Wishing you & your family a blessed, healthy & safe Holiday! Thank You & God Bless You for Your Support!
Here to serve,
Lisa Padilla
editor@azhealthandliving.com azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
13
KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS
SUPPORT LOCAL
By Alison Bailin Batz
Quarles & Brady LLP Clients & community first
For more than 120 years, the law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP has provided quality legal services to a wide range of industries on both a local and national stage. Headquartered locally in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tucson, Quarles & Brady strives to learn its clients’ businesses — to see the horizons through their eyes. “We don’t just counsel, but invest in the success of each client, partnering with them to achieve their business goals,” Nicole Stanton, Phoenix office managing partner says. “This dedication and investment is what sets Quarles & Brady apart: we provide a true partnership, in every sense of the word.” According to Stanton, three principles govern the firm's approach to legal service: Practice value, Define success by clients’ metrics, and Understand clients and their industries. Because of remaining true to these guiding principles, the Valley’s clients include major national and multinational corporations, technology companies, educational/research institutions, municipalities/government agencies, charitable organizations, industry executives and high-net-worth individuals. They are industry leaders in technology, energy, financial services, health care, insurance, pharmaceuticals, real estate and manufacturing, to name just a few. Quarles & Brady also cares about its communities. Its attorneys and staff support neighborhood and local professional organizations, offering leadership and volunteer services at every level. “Whether we are providing pro bono legal counsel, mentoring children, developing programs, or supporting nonprofit organizations through board service, we give back to our communities with the same dedication we devote to our clients,” Stanton says.
Through its Quarles Cares volunteer initiatives, the firm provides opportunities for attorneys and staff to commit themselves personally to civic and charitable efforts. The local team coordinates a variety of ongoing, annual and one-time events as part of its mission to provide volunteer experiences that have wide appeal to its staff and attorneys, and a wide reach across the community. “One of our most successful efforts is a longstanding partnership with Capitol Elementary School, a school that serves one of the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in the Valley,” Quarles Cares Chair, Edward J. Hermes says, noting the firm was recently honored for its work in both the business and philanthropic community with BestCompaniesAZ’s annual “Most Admired Companies” award. “Our involvement began in 1993, and since then, more than 75 members of our office have participated each year.” Other ongoing projects include blood drives every three months for United Blood Services, and Project Linus, in which a group of volunteers crochet and knit blankets in their free time and then donate them. Quarles & Brady also supports the United Way. In addition, in late 2013, the local office took an active role in the firm's first-ever national Quarles Cares effort, focused on anti-bullying education and outreach. “In 2013 alone, we also helped with 59 pro bono matters — the most ever,” Hermes says, adding that Quarles & Brady has been named Arizona’s “Large Firm of the Year” for three consecutive years in the area of pro bono work, as well as, Children’s Rights' Firm of the Year.
14
December 2014| azhealthandliving.com
Photos courtesy of Quarles & Brady LLP
Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval™ for accreditation. Neveralso one added to rest gynecological on its laurels, Stanton also notes to thattheir in They cancer treatment 2014, Quarles & Brady became the first corporate partner growing list of patient services, another first for the West to join the Support My Club Match It! program, which Valley. gives businesses the opportunity to enhance support of local high school clubs and teams by doubling a donor Today, the practice now boasts 52 physicians, more than donation. 200 employees and 20 partner offices Valleywide, including several WestwillValley cities ofitems Peoria, “Quarlesin &the Brady be matching thatAvondale, provide Glendale, Surprise and Wickenburg. steps for future business success,” Stanton says. “When a donor fulfills an item request online, their donation is “We are helping a cancer walls whose services doubled, thecenter club or without team reach its goals.” stretch into every inch of this community, offering the West Valley with the best doctors, best treatment technologies and best research in the country,” Dr. Reed says. “Cancer is a disease of survivors – and we want to keep it that way.”
Scottsdale
Tucson One South Church Ave. Suite 1700 520.770.8700
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623.773.2873 www.arizonaccc.com www.quarles.com
African Safari Train ride at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park
By Dr. Grey Stafford
The ever-popular African Safari Train ride at Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park has had an upgrade. After nearly 20 years of service, it was time to retire our old engine and replace it with a larger gauge replica of the famous C.P. Huntington locomotive. The safari train takes visitors through spacious fields filled with herds of gazelles, ostriches, and several large antelope including the scimitar horned oryx – a species considered extinct in the wild. WILDLIFE WORLD ZOO , AQUARIUM & SAFARI PARK 165th Ave. & Northern 623.935.WILD (9453) www.wildlifeworld.com This space is sponsored by Wildlife World Zoo & Aquarium
azhealthandliving.com | December azhealthandliving.com | July 2014 2013
15
HEART OF THE COMMUNITY
SUPPORT LOCAL
By Rachel Brockway
ACCEL
A life with dignity & purpose ACCEL’s purpose is to help children and adults with special needs lead lives of dignity and self-worth. Founded in 1980, ACCEL (Arizona Centers for Comprehensive Education and Life Skills) is a private, nonprofit organization for children with special needs, ages 5-22, and adults 18 and over, and is recognized nationally as a leader in the field of special education and applied behavior analysis. This one-of-a-kind school in Arizona provides innovative, individualized, and comprehensive education to individuals with a wide range of abilities and challenges including autism, intellectual, emotional and physical disabilities and other health impairments. ACCEL’s special education day school programs are located on campuses in Phoenix (Metro) and Tempe (East) and serve more than 250 students from over 40 public school districts in Maricopa County. Typically, school districts refer students to ACCEL due to the needs of the child including the severity of the child’s disability as well as due to the lack of an appropriate program within the child’s home and school. According to Nancy Molder, ACCEL’s vice president of educational services, “ACCEL works closely with the school districts, parents and students to ensure that the customized educational experiences are individualized and appropriate for every student.” ACCEL’s programs are designed to meet the individual needs of students with a wide range of disabilities and levels of need. These programs provide evidenced-based practices in applied behavior analysis, structured teaching, as well as speech, vision, occupational, recreational and physical therapy services and assistive technology integrated into the classroom programs. Individualized educational plans linked to the Common Core as well as a comprehensive life-skills curriculum that focuses on dignity, independence, and community skills are available to all students.
“In addition to providing the academic skills that our students need, ACCEL also prepares them with life-skills such as grocery shopping, cooking and cleaning that sets them up for a living a more independent life,” Principal Jonathan Evans says. ACCEL continues to find innovative and effective ways to serve students and school districts by offering satellite classroom programs on local school campuses. These are ACCEL classrooms, staffed by well-trained ACCEL staff, utilizing the same curriculum and evidenced-based methods that are taught at Metro and East, including structured teaching and applied behavior analysis. Satellite programs are valuable because students have inclusive experiences on a traditional campus, while structure and specialized programming continues to assure student success. Currently satellite programs are in place at the Buckeye Learning Center, serving students in the Buckeye Union High School District and surrounding West side districts as well as at South Mountain High School, serving students in the Phoenix Union High School District. ACCEL also operates a variety of enterprises including The BISTA Center, ACCEL Adult Services and Gifted Hands Boutique.
16
December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Photos courtesy of ACCEL
The purpose of the BISTA Center is to enhance the lives of children with autism and other disabilities and to help families achieve successful outcomes. The BISTA Center offers intensive behavioral services at their clinic in Tempe, at children’s homes and in community settings. The staff at Bista have experience in working with individuals with autism or autism spectrum disorder, including those diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder - not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS), and childhood degenerative disorder. ACCEL’s Adult Services program in Phoenix is an adult day program that provides structure, security, and opportunities to learn a marketable skill while achieving personal growth and fulfillment. Among the various enterprises included in the adult day program are screen-printing, hat-making, and creative design including holiday crafts, one-of-a-kind greeting cards, ornaments and pet items. “At ACCEL Adult Services we provide lifelong education and vocational training to individuals over the age of 18 with special needs,” Connie Laird, executive director says. “We believe that meaningful work gives life purpose and allows every person to contribute to the community.”
ACCEL’s Gifted Hands Boutique, located in the Scottsdale Seville, sells chic clothing, jewelry, and unique gifts as well as items from the ACCEL Collection, such as t-shirts, hats, pet products and cards that are created by ACCEL vocational students and adult program clients. All sales from Gifted Hands Boutique are tax-free and support ACCEL’s programs and services for individuals with autism and other special needs. The Gifted Hands Boutique is hosting a Holiday Inspirations event Dec. 4 from 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. During the event, shoppers will find exclusive, one-of-a-kind items at a discounted price and have the opportunity to buy a quality gift while giving the gift of dignity and independence.
602.995.7366 www.accel.org
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
17
Be InformeD
NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ
Run for Chocolate at the 3rd Annual Phoenix Hot Chocolate 15/5K On Sunday, Dec. 7, join other Valley neighbors at the 3rd Annual Hot Chocolate 15/5K. Participants can enjoy an unforgettable run on the USATF-sanctioned course through Salt River Fields at Talking Stick located at 7555 N. Pima Road, in Scottsdale. All participants will receive a Finisher Mug with rich dark hot chocolate, fondue, and snacks while enjoying a live DJ. The 2014 goodie bag will include a luxurious, fleece-lined half-zip hoodie and a reusable drawstring bag. New for the season, all 15K finishers will receive a Finisher Medal made from metal alloy shaped to resemble a chocolate bar with a gold plated wrapper featuring the Phoenix desert. The race will feature the “Go the Extra Mile” program to raise money for charity, which allows participants to set up a fundraising page to raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Phoenix, or any charity of their choosing. The local Ronald McDonald House affiliation is the charity of choice for each Hot Chocolate 15/5K race. Participants can earn incentives and run the race free depending on how much money they raise. For more information or to register visit, www.hotchocolate15k.com.
Sprinkles Cupcakes Teams with Scottsdale Fire Department for Treats for Toys Special Event Sprinkles Cupcakes is teaming up with the Scottsdale Fire Department for a special event for their Toys 4 Tots collection. Guests who bring a new, unwrapped toy for young children through high school aged youth to Sprinkles Cupcakes located at 4501 N. Scottsdale Road, in Scottsdale, Nov. 29 through Dec. 14 will receive a free cupcake of their choice*. The promotion is part of the Scottsdale Fire Department's annual toy drive, which provides toys to local underprivileged children. Organizations benefiting from the toy drive include the U.S. Marines Toys for Tots Program and Scottsdale's Paiute Neighborhood Center. On Dec. 9, firefighters will be in store at 4 p.m. to help raise awareness about the toy drive. Sprinkles annual holiday toy drive has collected 4,853 toys for deserving children since 2011. Limit one free cupcake per person*. For more information, call 480.970.4321 or visit www.sprinkles.com.
Duet Announces Free Holiday Stress Workshop for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren On Wednesday, Dec. 10, from 10 a.m. -12 p.m., join other Valley grandparents at Duet’s Handling Holiday Stress Workshop, and learn how to handle stress and anxiety during the holidays. This event will take place at the Buckeye Family Support Center located at 210 S. 6th Street, in Buckeye. This free parent education workshop will include lunch and child care with advance notice. Reservations required by Friday, Dec. 5. For more information, call 602.274.5022. 18 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
9th Annual Anthem Holiday Home Tour
On Tuesday, Dec. 9, and Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6 p.m. -8:30 p.m., join other Valley Neighbors at the 9th Annual Anthem Holiday Home Tour! Experience the sights and sounds of the season while helping to spread the warmth and friendship of the holiday spirit. This event will feature seven splendid homes showcasing traditional, unconventional, homespun and creative holiday decorations. Tickets are $20 per person in advance, and $25 the day of event. Proceeds will benefit Anthem Cares Through Service (ACTS), a nonprofit organization serving Anthem families in need. For more information or to purchase, call 623.703.5621.
Comedy Venue Offers Fundraising Program for Nonprofits
Rick Bronson’s House of Comedy, in north Phoenix, is seeking nonprofits to participate in Comedy for a Cause program, which will allow organizations to raise funds as well as reward their supporters and staff with a hilarious night out. The Comedy for a Cause program is simple. Nonprofits work with House of Comedy staff to select a night for a fundraiser, receive 25 free show tickets to distribute (Friday nights are excluded), and sell tickets to supporters, giving $10 to the venue and keeping the rest. The typical ticket is $20, but prices vary depending on the night chosen, and what the organization wants to charge for the show. Nonprofits can organize additional fundraising opportunities the night of the event, such as a 50/50 drawing, silent auction or raffle. For more information, call 480.420.3553 or visit www.az.houseofcomedy.net. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
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Be InformeD
NEIGHBORHOOD BUZZ
United Blood Services Teams Up with the Suns & AZ-TV to seek “All-Stars 4 Life” Become a United Blood Services All-Star 4 Life, and you could earn FlexPrint Courtside seats to a 2014-15 Suns game, courtesy of the Phoenix Suns! To qualify, simply give four MAX platelet donations between by Jan. 31 at any of United Blood Services’ six Valley donor centers. MAX platelet donors provide the clotting factor that controls bleeding for trauma, cancer and aplastic anemia patients. Platelets are the most fragile component of whole blood and must be transfused within five days of donation, so Emmy award-winning AZ-TV host Pat McMahon has signed on to help increase awareness of the growing need for donors. For more information, or to make an appointment to become an All-Star 4 Life call 1.877.UBS.HERO (877.827.4326) or visit www.UnitedBloodServicesAZ.org.
Mesa Arts Festival On Saturday, Dec. 13, and Sunday, Dec. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. join other Valley neighbors at the Mesa Arts Festival. Mesa Arts Center’s campus will turn into a virtual winter wonderland. The annual holiday event will feature original works of art for sale from local, regional, and national artists in various mediums, live entertainment showcasing local and national talent on two stages, live artist demonstrations, the Bookmans Family Activity Area, and an array of culinary delights. The Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum and the MAC Artists’ Cooperative Gallery will also be open. C’est la vie Quartet, the all-female voice ensemble, will perform classic Christmas carols as they roam the crowd, and there will be juggling, performance by the Metropolitan Youth Symphony and hijinks from Comedy Improv Troupe. Ceramics, glass blowing, blacksmithing, weaving, quilting, jewelry making, painting and printmaking demonstrations will take place at various times throughout the festival, and festival-goers will be able to try their hand at many of the classes offered at Mesa Arts Center. This family-friendly free event will take place at the Mesa Arts Center located at 1 E. Main Street, in downtown Mesa. For more information, visit www.mesaartscenter.com.
A Special Offer for Supporting the Troops at Narpro Valley Auto Repair Join other Valley Neighbors throughout November and December, in supporting our American Troops by bringing a comfort or care item to any NARPRO shop, which will then be collected and packaged off to troops in active duty. All NARPRO (Neighborhood Auto Repair Professionals) shops will be supporting the troops by teaming up with Packages from Home, a nonprofit organization dedicated to our U.S. servicemen and women overseas. Packages from Home’s primary purpose, is to provide food, personal care, and recreational items to deployed American troops, at no cost to them. Their staff and volunteers carefully pack the donations into U.S. post office flat-rate priority mailboxes. The boxes are then mailed to U.S. servicemen and women who are deployed overseas in harm's way. Items they include in the care packages include non-perishable food, personal toiletries, games, CDs, movies and books. Monetary donations go toward mailing costs and/or purchasing of special items to send to the troops. NARPRO shops will be offering a discount of 10 percent off labor for any auto repair service with donation to help Packages From Home. For more information, visit www.narpro.com or call 602.257.0033. 20
December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
“Glories of the Holidays” Concert Returns to Midwestern University
On Sunday, Dec. 7, join other Valley neighbors as they celebrate the “Glories of the Holidays” at Midwestern University’s free holiday concert, featuring the Arizona Winds Concert Band. This annual family program will feature a variety of band favorites, plus a holiday sing-along. The concert will take place at 2:30 p.m. in the Ocotillo Hall on the Midwestern University campus, located at 19555 N. 59th Ave., in Glendale. Doors will open at 2 p.m. For more information, call 623.572.3353 or visit www.azwinds.com.
Valley Engineering, Science & Technology Club Luncheon, and Lecture
On Friday, Jan. 9, join the Valley Engineering and Technology Club 11:30 a.m. for their monthly luncheon and lecture. Following the luncheon, guest speaker, Mark Porter, from Medtronic will describe some of the incredible advances being made in the field of Bioelectronics, implants and medical engineering. The luncheon will be held at Briarwood Country Club located at 20800 N. 135th Ave., in Sun City West, and is open to the public. Cost is $17 per person. Reservations are required. For more information, or to make a reservation, call 623-544-0942 or visit www.engineersaz.com. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
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What Are You Waiting For ?
March 2013 | azhealthandliving.com
Call or Email Today!
602.348.9894 advertise@azhealthandliving.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” ~ John 14:27
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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health
PREVENT
By MS
Giving Blood A simple way to save lives Donating a pint of blood can help several different people. With extreme shortages in the blood supply in effect, now could be the ideal time to make a blood donation.
The flow of healthy, oxygenated blood through the body is essential for life. It is also required in large supply when people undergo surgeries and other therapies. With the demand for blood so high, reserves are in short supply. Adding to the shortage is lower turnout among donors, and the public has been urged to donate blood to increase units available.
idea of needles and drawing of blood or are unaware of the process. Becoming informed can shed light on what is done and make the entire process much less intimidating.
Blood shortages abound
Just about anyone age 17 to 75 can donate blood. Provided they are at least 110 pounds and do not have any acute symptoms of the flu, colds or infections or have had close contact with someone with hepatitis in the last year. Those with hepatitis, a heart condition more serious than a murmur or HIV/AIDS, or have engaged in any activities that may have put them at risk for HIV/AIDS will not be able to donate.
The Red Cross and America's Blood Centers, which collectively represent all of the blood banks in the United States, continue to report shortages. The shortage has forced the cancellation of many elective surgeries across the United States. Increased demand, meaning chemotherapy treatments, organ transplants, heart surgeries and elective options, have left blood banks depleted. In addition, the demand for blood exceeds the rate of blood donations. According, to United Blood Services it takes 500 donors of all blood types to maintain Arizona’s blood supply for just one day. Fall blood donors help children like Madison, who is alive today because of more than 148 blood donors. The Arizona 7-year-old was born with Diamond-Blackfan Anemia, a rare disease that prevents her body from producing red blood cells. She relies on the kindness of strangers to provide lifesaving blood transfusions about every three weeks at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Blood donors deserve medals for their lifesaving actions.
How do I donate blood? Many people want to donate blood but are put off by the 26
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Blood drives occur at various locations. To find a location or make an appointment to Find the Hero in You, call 1.877.UBS.HERO(1.877.827.4376) or visit www.bloodhero.com.
At the donation, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire, and be given a screening interview to qualify as a donor. You also will need to provide documentation that proves your age, so bring along identification. If you pass the screening, your vital signs will be checked and you will be prepared for the blood draw. As with a routine blood test, the injection site will be sterilized and then a needle will be inserted to draw the blood. The volume of blood collected for a donation will be larger than for a blood test. One pint, or 450 milliliters of blood, will be taken. This is only between 8 to 10 percent of all the blood in your body.
How will I feel? Most people come through a blood donation unscathed. There may be a minor pinch when the needle is inserted.
After blood has been drawn, many people feel fine and are encouraged to drink extra liquids for the next two days to help the body with the regeneration of blood. Your body will replace the fluid portion of your blood within 24 hours. It will take a few weeks to replace the red blood cells. Individuals who feel a little woozy can sit after the blood donation until they feel rested enough to move on.
How long does it take? It takes around 10 minutes for a traditional blood donation. If you are donating something specific, such as red cells, plasma or platelets, the process can take up to 2 hours. Many blood drives provide refreshments after donating and ask that you remain 10 to 15 minutes to ensure you are fine to exit.
What should I expect after the donation? Afterward you should be able to go on with your regular daily activities. It is advisable to take it easy for the rest of the day and not engage in any heavy lifting or exercise.
Also, avoid flying in airplanes or going scuba diving for a couple of days afterward. Moderate daily activities should be fine. Continue to stay hydrated.
What are other things I should know? You can prepare for donating blood by adhering to a healthy, low-fat diet, and getting a good night's sleep the day before. Avoid alcoholic beverages and tobacco prior to the donation. Make sure you do not skip any meals. Bring along a list of the medications you take to share with the volunteers at the blood drive. Certain medications will exclude you from donating. It is possible for a healthy person to give whole blood every 56 days. Donations of platelets or other components of blood may be able to occur more frequently. Individuals who have the universal blood type (Type O-) may want to sign up as frequent donors because their blood can be used for anyone.
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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HEALTH
PREVENT
By MS
How to Prevent Frostbite Frostbite is the freezing of body tissue, most notably the skin. Certain areas of the body are more susceptible to frostbite, including the nose, ears, toes and fingers. Those who have circulation issues or diabetes may be more vulnerable to frostbite and will have to be extra diligent in covering up when venturing outdoors. Many cases of frostbite occur in people who work outdoors in the cold, including soldiers stationed in cold climates. The homeless and winter outdoor enthusiasts are also susceptible, as is anyone who spends time outdoors when the temperatures are very cold.
Symptoms of frostbite Frostbite is a serious injury to the body that is caused by freezing tissues. It can create a loss of feeling in the affected areas and even the loss of fingers, toes and limbs. Cases of frostbite vary in severity. They can range from mild frostnip, which is just a temporary cessation of feeling in extremities, to superficial frostbite, where only the outer skin is affected, to deep frostbite, the most severe type of frostbite wherein the underlying tissues also freeze, possibly resulting in permanent damage or even amputation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, frostbite can initiate with redness or pain in any area of the skin. As it progresses, the skin may take on a grayish-yellow hue. Numbness may set in, and the skin could feel very firm or even waxy. Progressed frostbite will appear black, and blistering may be present. A person experiencing frostbite is typically unaware that the condition is occurring because of the numbness. It often takes the trained eye of another person to point out frostbite.
Treating frostbite Depending on how long the skin has been exposed to extreme weather, frostbite treatment can vary. At the onset, individuals experiencing the primary symptoms of frostbite, including redness, tingling or numbing, can benefit from moving into a warm room. Removal of wet and cold clothing is also advisable. The affected tissues should be warmed gently with warm water. The water should be comfortable to the touch in areas not affected by the frostbite. Do not use hot water! If warm, water is unavailable, use body heat to warm the body. This can be done by tucking cold hands under armpits or sitting on them with dry legs. 28
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It is unadvisable to use a dry heating source, like heating pads or a campfire, to thaw frostbitten skin. Also, avoid massaging or disturbing the tissue on frostbitten skin, which can cause further damage. Prompt medical attention should be sought to determine the severity of the frostbite. A combination of warm therapy and hydration could help salvage damaged tissues.
Preventing frostbite The easiest way to ward off symptoms of frostbite is to be diligent in preventing it from beginning. This includes wearing several layers of clothing. The innermost layer of clothing should be something that wicks moisture away from the body. Mittens provide more protection than gloves, and wool socks can add an extra layer of warmth to feet and toes. Scarves or special hat-and-mask combinations can cover ears and the face. Increasing physical activity will help keep warm blood pumping through tissue and help a person to stay warm. Avoid smoking tobacco because it can constrict blood vessels and increase one's risk for frostbite. On the same token, do not drink alcohol because it may create the sensation of warmth and may lead a person to think he or she is warm, even if frostbite is occurring. Keeping a few chemical hand warmers available as well as keeping an extra blanket tucked in a car trunk can help one avoid a cold-weather emergency and reduce the risk for frostbite.
Would Your Holidays be Different If You Knew You Had a Terminal Illness?
Many people cringe when they hear someone say that a terrible accident or frightening medical diagnosis made them realize what’s important in life. It’s unfortunate they had to experience a taste of terminal, to make them appreciate the intangible gifts we receive not just during the holidays, but all year. The holidays are a great time to cultivate a spirit of gratitude and to focus on the most meaningful things. However, too often, they become a source of anxiety, stress and tension. Financial concerns, having too much to do, and missing loved ones were among the top causes of holiday stress, according to a recent Mental Health America survey.
Showing up. If you’re worried about yesterday or always
planning for tomorrow, you’re missing the present moment and any wonderful experiences it may hold.
Riding your love train. “Love train” is a metaphor for all
of the people you choose to share your life with, those rooting you on and giving you and your family love/support. Try to be as meticulous and thoughtful as you possibly can be with those on board, and that means making sure they know how much you love and value them.
Knowing your place in the world. There is a Jewish
teaching that says everyone should carry with them two pieces of paper, each in a separate pocket. One paper should say, “I am but dust and ashes.” The other, “The world was created for me.” As the holidays approach, keep in mind that the best gift you can give – or receive – is love. Approach this holiday season as if it could be your last, and you’ll probably find much more to revel in than to stress about. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
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MIND, BODY & spirit
CONNECT WITHIN
By Todd Patkin, author of Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and—Finally—Let the Sunshine In
Why Stopping These Twelve Habits Will Make Your Best Year in 2015
Society tells us that we need to perform to a certain standard, look a certain way, weigh a certain number, make a certain amount of money, and much more. Too bad that “perfect” lifestyle is impossible to achieve. The problem is that you set yourself up for disappointment by having unrealistic and unsustainable expectations. Instead, you’ll be best served by making 2015 the year you stop doing things that aren’t adding to your happiness. Here are 12 things to stop doing now.
Give up on relationships. There are people in your life who drain your energy and make your attitude dip into murky territory. No matter how much you may want to make these relationships work, forcing yourself to spend time with negative people won’t do you any favors. Studies show that in terms of your attitude and happiness levels, you will be the average of the five people you spend time with most. 30
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Don’t ignore close relationships here, either. Of course, do everything you can to eliminate strain with family members. Realize, though that maybe this is the year to admit that you and your partner have irreconcilable differences that are making both of you unhappy or it is the year to tell your mother that her controlling behavior needs to stop.
Stop being so darn nice and start being real. Perhaps you’re one of those people who always blurt out what’s on your mind. If so, skip this piece of advice. However, it’s much more likely that you swallow barbed comments or constructive criticism in favor of a more diplomatic response. You might even allow yourself to be taken advantage of from time to time in order to please another person. Guess what: It’s time to stop! Dishonest politeness doesn’t develop authentic relationships. Remember, having a smaller number of true friends is healthier than denying your own happiness in order to make everyone else like you.
Stop working so hard. Don’t become a total slacker but
do think about the b-word: balance. Everyone has physical and mental limits. No matter how good your intentions are, overloading on work will cause your relationships, mindset and even health to suffer. Living the life of a workaholic can bury you in stress, anxiety and depression. This year, really think about what a healthy balance looks like. Remember, no one looks back on their lives at age 80 and says, ‘Gee, I wish I’d spent less time with my family and friends and more time at the office.
Lower the bar. Whether the issue is your appearance, your house, your family or your job, you want to achieve as much perfection as is humanly possible. On top of that, you most likely focus on what you do wrong and rarely celebrate what you do right. This year, it’s time to really realize that you’re human, and thus fallible, and so it’s inevitable that you will mess up—or even just put in an “adequate” performance—every now and then.
Ignore the Joneses. Keeping up with the Joneses seems to be the American way of life. We’re constantly comparing ourselves to our friends, our neighbors, our coworkers, and even people whose lives we see displayed on reality TV. However, you need to understand the fundamental truth that ‘happy’ for you won’t look the same as it does for anyone else—and that’s OK! Focus primarily on your own feelings and fulfillment—don’t use another person’s life as a measuring stick to determine how good your own is. Don’t focus on your spouse. Yes, conventional relationship wisdom tells you to focus on your spouse and to put his or her needs first. To a point that advice is accurate: As a partner in life and in love, you should be your spouse’s biggest supporter and coach. Just don’t allow tunnel vision to blind you to your own needs and responsibilities. Ask yourself what you can do to improve yourself—and thus your marriage—instead of always expecting your partner to take the lead. Stop giving so much. The fact is there are many people in our lives who depend on us and who want our help, our time, our advice, etc. Especially if you care for those individuals, of course you’ll want to be accommodating. For whatever reason, it can be all too easy to keep giving to others to the point where there’s nothing left for you. In order to be happy, you have to know what your strengths are, and you have to play to them on a regular basis. You can’t live your life primarily to please other people.
Stop pushing your kids so hard! Too much pressure to perform can cause children of any age to burn out and make self-destructive decisions. In fact, some children are experiencing symptoms ranging from stomachaches to severe depression due to the day-to-day stress they encounter at school and at home. Your kids will be much happier, healthier, more creative, and more motivated throughout their lives if you prioritize balance and love them for who they are, not for how many A’s they get on their report cards.
Forget quality time with your kids and start focusing on quantity! It’s easy to use the words “quality time with my kids” as a free pass to focus on other aspects of your life 95 percent of the time. In other words, we want to believe that we can make up for working 70-hour weeks by taking a trip to Disney World, or catch up on all of the week’s events while going out for ice cream. However, the fact is, life is found in the everyday moments, not in the big blowout trips – and kids themselves are perceptive—they can tell if they always take second place in your life. Doing normal things with your kids on a regular basis will mean more long-term than the occasional extraordinary event. However, don’t throw so-called quality time out the window, either. azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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8
Save a life. Don’t Drive HoMe buzzeD. DRIVING.
November 2012 | azhealthandliving.com BUZZED DRIVING IS DRUNK
azhealthandliving.com | May 2012
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“Together We Can Make a Difference”
HEALTHY CHATTER
Doctors, Businesses & Experts Answering Frequently Asked Questions
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
33
ASK QUESTIONS
expert talk
Q. I just moved from the Midwest to Q. Stimulation induced versus ablative Arizona and I am finding that my pain relief. What does all this mean eyes are more red, irritated and for chronic pain patients? scratchy. Is that a common issue in A. Like two sides of a coin, pain relief can Arizona? be provided by either stimulating nerves or A. Because of the prevalence of our sunny dry days, Arizona residents statistically have a much higher incidence of dry eye problems. For the most part, these issues can be kept under control with the use of OTC artificial tears used 3 to 4 times per day or more. Other solutions include prescription drops, such as Restasis or lacrimal plugs (a painless procedure of inserting microscopic plugs into the tear ducts to slow down drainage of normally produced tears). There is a multitude of different brands of artificial tears. We do not recommend that you use any brand that promises to “get the red out”; these brands actually make the eye dryer and can predispose the eyes to other diseases. Using any artificial tear often is satisfactory for most people. If the artificial tear that you try seems to burn a lot when you place a drop in your eye, it is possible that you may be allergic to the preservatives in most artificial tears, and you may need to find a “preservative-free” tear. If the artificial tears do not easily help the dryness and irritations, then a consultation with an ophthalmologist to rule out other conditions would be advisable.
destroying them. Ablation prevents pain signals from reaching the brain by purposefully destroying the pathways that carry pain signals to the brain. The other side of the coin is stimulation induced pain relief. This method of pain relief is based on the fact that the human body has its own pain suppressing circuits that can be turned-on with proper external stimulation. In a nutshell, it is often possible to turn one set of nerves “on” which indirectly effects other pain-carrying nerves, turning them “off.” A modern example of this is called neuroanatomical acupuncture. Scientific studies have demonstrated that neuroanatomical acupuncture activates four distinct painkilling circuits in the human body. This therapy has local effects, changing pain related chemicals in tissues, it also has been found to switch “off” a part of the spinal cord that is a major relay center for pain transmission. The third pain killing circuit activated by this therapy is in the brain stem. This circuit sends pain-blocking signals down from the base of the brain to the spinal cord. Lastly, this therapy can cause the release of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are the most powerful pain killing chemicals in the nervous system. Unlike ablative pain relief procedures, stimulation induced pain relief does not harm healthy tissues; providing pain relief without further damaging or injuring the body.
–Dr. Walman Walman Eye Center 602.222.2020
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December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
–Dr. Kukurin Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network 623.547.4727
Q. I have two bald spots. Is there a minimally invasive procedure to restore my hair? A. Hair loss affects approximately 35 million men and 21 million women in the United States. More than 40 percent of men will have noticeable hair loss by the age of 35, while 65 percent of women will have noticeable hair loss by the time they are 60. It is estimated that $1 billion a year are spent on baldness treatments. NeoGraft, is a minimally invasive hair loss solution that can treat male pattern baldness and female baldness in almost half the time of any other hair restoration procedure or technique currently available. The technology in the NeoGraft is the result of 10 years of research, offering the next generation in automation of hair transplantation. NeoGraft is currently being used in Europe and Asia and is now FDA cleared for use in the United States. More than 6,000 NeoGraft hair transplants have been done in the last two years with amazing results. NeoGraft is the least invasive procedure of its kind –no scalpel incision, sutures or linear scars—with a fast recovery time (next day).
–Dr. Sharma Arizona Vein & Laser Institute & Med Spa 602.298.VEIN(8346) 602.298.LIPO(5476)
Q. What should I expect if I’m getting
dentures? Is it difficult to get used to them?
A. Dentures are a great investment to help
you feel more confident speaking and smiling. They are going to be something to get used to, not only when you look in the mirror, but also setting up good habits for care. You may have a bit of an adjustment period learning how to talk and chew with your new dentures. Your lips and tongue will need to learn the position of your dentures. Practicing speaking with them will help. Also, try chewing on both sides, trying not to favor one side. Be conscious of your cheeks, tongue, and lips as you become familiar. Just like normal teeth, you shouldn’t chew ice or try to bite thread. You want to keep your new dentures in the best shape possible. If you want to keep that confidence up, and keep your dentures lasting for a long time, brushing and rinsing is key. Just like brushing your teeth, cleaning your dentures removes bacteria and debris, leaving you with a bright smile. Brushing will help prevent any staining, but you won’t need to use whitening products because they may contain abrasives that will damage dentures. Denture cleaners are the best for preserving the quality and integrity of the denture. You will also need to take good care of your mouth. Don’t forget to brush your gums, tongue, and palate every morning to stimulate your gum tissues and remove plague.
– Dr. Kim Litchfield Dental Care 623.738.3027
Q. Can the stresses of life affect vision?
Q. My child doesn’t seem to be getting
A. The answer is yes. One of the effects
that stress can have on your eyes is called blepharospams. Blepharospams are more widely known as eyelid twitching. These spasms cause the muscles of the eyelid to twitch uncontrollably. In most cases the twitching is not seen but it is more felt by the individual experiencing the blepharospasm.
proper sleep. Can this be remedied?
A. If your child has any of the following
he/she could suffer from sleep-disordered breathing:
Sleeps in an abnormal position Snores Sweats heavily during sleep Is difficult to wake up Has headaches A blepharospasm usually last from a few hours Is irritable Falls asleep or daydreams in school to a few days without any treatment from a Wets the bed doctor. In extremely cases the twitching can Diagnosed with attention ADHD go on for months and your doctor may recommend an injection of BOTOX® to In children, sometimes the problem results inhibit the muscle of the eyelid from twitching. from swollen tonsils and/or adenoids that Eyelid twitching is not just stress-related, it block the airway. It can also be caused by may also be caused consumption of caffeine dental problems because malocclusion (misalignment) of the teeth is believed to and lack of sleep. affect the positioning of the airway. Even Another more serious condition that may be swollen nasal passages could cause your stress induced is a retinal condition called child problems breathing during sleep. In central serous retinopathy (CSR). CSR is a these cases, it’s a good idea to talk to your condition that can cause severe visual child’s pediatrician, his dentist and an ear, impairment. It is caused by a leakage of fluid nose and throat specialist. from blood vessels under the retina. This fluid causes swelling in the central part of If your child is sleeping poorly and it isn’t the retina which leads to very blurred and due to a sleep-disordered breathing problem, possible distorted vision. While the visual the American Academy of Sleep Medicine impairment is usually significant it is also recommends a relaxing setting at bedtime — low lights and quiet. Don’t substitute usually not permanent. It can take up to six watching television or videos for personal months to resolve with usually with no interaction with your child before bedtime. intervention. In severe cases laser treatment may be necessary. When our children have trouble sleeping, it affects their lives, their health and our Even though most individuals who have stress relationships with them. Be on the lookout don’t have visual problems, just be aware that for the signs such as crabbiness, tiredness, it is a possibility. headaches and other, as well as any possibility of ADHD. This could be a sleep-disordered breathing problem, or simply a problem sleeping. It deserves the attention of your child’s pediatrician, dentist, ENT and you.
–Dr. Baird The Village Eyecare 623.931.2943
–Dr. Croft Vistancia Orthodontics 623.566.0800 azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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GET ANSWERS
expert talk
Q. Could conservative treatments help Q. What is a Quick Recovery Face/Neck Q. Could the lump I have ever give me my back pain?r
Lift?
a problem?
A. Spinal disc is a cartilage consisting of an outer ligament layer called the annulus fibrous and a soft, jelly like substance in the middle surrounded by the annulus fibrous called the nucleus pulposus. When you suffer back pain and neck pain, you might wonder if you have a herniated disc or spinal joint disease. The fact is that about 40 to 50 percent of adult population have degenerated joint disease or herniated disc without symptoms of pain. Although problems of spinal disc and joints are common causes of the pain, most of the cases respond well to conservative treatments.
A. The Quick Recovery Face/Neck Lift is a new, minimally invasive surgical approach to the classical facelift.
A. Patients always want to be told by their doctor that something is all right and leave it alone. The truth is that a lump could turn into a bigger problem.
This technique enables the procedure to be performed in-office and does not require general anesthesia. It has less risk and a shorter recovery period (10-14 days).
This procedure is not to be confused with a “mini-lift” that only cinches up loose skin of the lower face. The dramatic, lasting result of this procedure is achieved by first lifting and tightening the underlying supporting tissues of both the lower face as well as the A herniated disc could be caused by trauma neck. or acute injury. It can be an age-related degenerated change due to the loss of the Once the foundation has been lifted, the water content inside the nucleus pulposus. overlying skin can then be gently lifted to This may produce pain, numbness tingling provide a naturally rejuvenated appearance. and muscle weakness of the lower back, The results of the surgery are striking and neck, arm and leg. often leave the patient looking years younger, The spinal disc and joint come together function in weight bearing and body movement. A spinal injury will generate change in the joint, weaken and stiffen the joint and muscle. An increase in movement of the joint and disc slow down the process of the degenerated change, strengthening the muscle and improving healing of the disc. If you picture a rusty door hinge, while slowly and gently moving the hinge back and forth, you gradually improve its range of motion and the rusty surface becomes smoother while regaining some of the luster. With regular gentle movement and maintenance, it gradually returns to its normal function. The same is true for your spinal joint under gentle conservative approach.
–Dr. Qiu Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network 623.972.8400
36 December 2014 |azhealthandliving.com
but it will not leave you with an unnatural “pulled-back” look.
While this procedure is safer than conventional facelift surgeries done in the past, there are risks associated with any surgery. Postoperative bleeding, swelling and visible scars are among the risks. Smoking cessation, blood pressure control and complying with pre/postoperative instructions significantly reduce these risks.
– Drs. Pamela & Gael DeRouin Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery 602.680.5348
A sebaceous cyst is a sac like structure just under the skin that contains a cheese like material called sebum. These cysts can be infected easily and without warning, which can then lead to cellulitis, a serious skin infection that can spread quickly. In a diabetic for example, this simple infection could be disastrous. A sebaceous cyst will never go away without surgical removal of the sac. A cyst can be drained, but the sac will remain and can fill up again, and become infected. Once a sebaceous cyst is removed, it will never come back. A lipoma is a benign soft tissue tumor made up of body fat. They are the most common of soft tissue tumors, and can occur on any skin surface area. As lipomas increase in size though, there have been cases in which malignant (cancerous) transformation has occurred. Approximately 1 percent of the population has a lipoma, and they can occur at any age but most often in age ranges of 40-60 years old. The possibility of a lipoma undergoing a malignant change to a liposarcoma is why most tumors should be removed. The definitive characteristics of a lump are not fully known until it is removed and examined under a microscope.
– Dr. Johnny Serrano Precision Surgery, Inc. 602.547.3300
Q. Can diet affect inflammation and Q. What is an implant overdenture?
Q. What are some quick fixes to look my best for the holidays?
pain?
A. An implant overdenture is a denture A. Considerable scientific information and that attaches to a dental implant to help A. A speedy and affordable way to look your clinical observation have accumulated in recent stabilize a loose denture. best is a must-have. Depending on your time years showing that chronic pain–particularly the debilitating, severe form requiring opioid treatment–needs a “chronic pain" diet. It is important to involve a multidisciplinary treatment approach to treating chronic pain. Part of this may include nutritional counseling. Diet-induced pro-inflammatory mediator release can contribute to dietary injury. For example, a pro-inflammatory diet may include foods with a hyperglycemic index/load, such as bread and refined sugar. In addition, foods that are high in omega 6 fatty acids such as corn, sunflower, safflower, and peanut oils create more inflammation. Other factors include trans-fatty acids, low magnesium intake, low potassium intake, low phytonutrient intake, low inflammatory gut microbiota, and low serum levels of vitamin D. Conversely the anti-inflammatory diet group would include fish, lean meats, skinless chicken, omega 3 eggs, vegetables, fruit, sweet potatoes, raw nuts, dark chocolate, red wine and stout beer, coffee and tea, ginger, turmeric, garlic and other spices as well as olive oil, coconut oil and butter.
Millions of people in the world are missing teeth and need to wear dentures. Dentures merely sit on the gums and the jaw bone, and unfortunately they can be uncomfortable as they have a tendency to pinch the gums. Chewing and talking can also be very difficult. There is help for people wearing loose dentures! Two to four dental implants can be placed in the jaw and fitted with an attachment, with the corresponding portion of the attachment fitted into the gum side of the denture. The denture can then be placed over the jaw and clicked into place over the implant attachment.
Blotchiness or uneven color While coming out of summer here in the Valley, skin may appear to have more brown/ red spots, freckles or vessels. Some treatments that address these issues, while being kind to the pocketbook, are laser rejuvenation, laser vein, laser skin resurfacing, facial chemical peels, enzyme treatments and microdermabrasion. These are easy treatments with dynamic results in skin lightening, softening and brightening done weeks or days before a special event. In addition, at-home products continue the glow for the holidays.
As a result, the denture that was previously loose and merely sitting on the gum now Skin sagging, wrinkles and lines has an anchor. This will allow the denture to stay in place and be more comfortable Multi-treatment is the best way to address and useful. this issue. Skin tightening lasers address skin
Multiple cells are involved in a release of inflammatory mediators, which lead to the cellular communication that can generate pain in somatic tissues, such as joint, muscle, disc, ligament, tendon, fascia or epineurium. This communication is complex.
The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not for use in diagnosing any condition. The information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment. Always consult Although diet may have an influence, it is your physician or other qualified health care only part of the equation of pain management. provider with any questions regarding any However, in some patients this can be possible medical condition. clinically significant and should be explored as this could affect her quality of life and function and pain relief.
–Dr. Lundquist Active Life Physical Medicine & Pain Center 623.535.9777
and budget, there are many options for brightening your appearance. The best way to narrow down your needs is to categorize what you see. Below are the some areas to address.
laxity by encouraging natural collagen production for firmness. Ultherapy and Refirme are our stars for this issue. Botox or Dysport soften animation lines created while frowning or smiling. Dermal fillers can fill lines and wrinkles making them disappear and can replace lost or migrating volume in the face. By artfully replacing facial volume, the face will appear lifted and more youthful. Areas treated to achieve this elevated look are the tear toughs, cheeks, temples and eyebrows.
Bring back your face naturally and safely while still looking like you! –Dr. Azfar A. Siddiqui Midwestern University Dental Institute 623.537.6000
–Dr. Maltais Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead 602.843.4040
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
37
JOIN & SUPPORT
MEET OUR health partners
Dr. Kukurin
Dr. Sharma
Dr. Kukurin was one of the nation’s first chiropractic physicians to attain board certification as a chiropractic neurologist. Over the past 20 years he has pioneered many techniques of integrative neurology which applies alternative medicine techniques like acupuncture and herbal therapies to the treatment of common neurological disorders like neuropathy, Parkinson’s disease and other chronic neurological conditions.
Kulbhushan Sharma, M.D., FACS, was included in the “2009 Top Surgeons” by the Consumer Research Council of America. Dr. Sharma is board certified in general surgery and is also a Fellow of The American College of Surgeons. He did his vascular fellowship at the Arizona Heart Institute under worldrenowned cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Edward Dietrich. He has been practicing as a general and vascular surgeon for more than 14 years in the Valley and is the founder and medical director of Arizona Vein and Laser Institute, which opened in 2004.
Kukurin Chiropractic & Acupuncture www.kcpv.info| 623.547.4727
Arizona Vein & Laser Institute www.arizonaveinandlaser.com | 602.298.5476
Dr. Maltais
Dr. Wen
Dr. Shannon Maltais is dedicated to the ongoing commitment of achieving optimal health and beauty by focusing on the whole body. Her philosophy supports the use of internal antiaging factors such as nutrition, IV therapy, homeopathy and detoxification, as well as external factors that support the correction and prevention of the aging process. She believes it is never too early or too late to begin the journey of prevention and correction via natural, safe and effective means.
Stanley Wen, MD, board certified, Family Practice Medicine, received his biology degree from the University of Chicago and his medical degree from the University of Illinois. He moved to Goodyear with his family in 2004. While working for Banner Estrella Medical Center, Dr. Wen witnessed the shortage of primary care physicians and the long waits for patients. This prompted his desire to open a family clinic and, in December 2008, Sage Health Family Medicine was born.
Physician Skin Solutions at Arrowhead www.physicianskinarrowhead.com | 602.843.4040
Sage Health Family Medicine www.esagehealth.com| 623.535.3857
Dr. Kim Dr. Kim has been practicing general dentistry for 12 years, including implants and cosmetic dentistry. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, and Central Arizona Dental Society. He graduated from New York University with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery and completed a general practice residency at St. Barnabas Hospital. Dr. Kim has a strong passion for dentistry and caring for his patients. He believes in developing a trusting relationship with his patients and helping them feel relaxed in his care. In his free time, Dr. Kim enjoys traveling with his wife and their two children.
Litchfield Dental Care www.litchfieldentalcare.com| 623.738.3027
Dr. Serrano
Dr. Walman
Gerald B Walman, MD, FACS, FRCS(C) was born in Toronto, Canada, and obtained his MD and specialization in Ophthalmology from University of Toronto. He is a board-certified specialist in both Canada and the U.S. and has provided comprehensive eye care to Arizona since 1978. He has deep international experience in cataract, implant, Lasik and eyelid cosmetic surgeries and has developed a skilled team for excellence in eye care. Walman Eye Center www.walmaneye.com | 602.222.2020
Dr. Croft
Dr. Johnny Serrano is dedicated to providing the best care possible as the General Surgeon at Precision Surgery, Inc., in Glendale. As one of the first accredited pioneering general surgeons in Robotic and robotic assisted surgery, Dr. Serrano specializes in laparoscopic or minimally invasive techniques. He has performed over 5,000 laparoscopic surgeries.
Devin Croft graduated from the University of Minnesota with a Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree. He practiced for two years as a general dentist in Minnesota before entering an orthodontic residency at Temple University in Philadelphia, where he earned a master’s of science in Oral Biology and specialty certificate in Orthodontics. Dr. Croft is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists, the American Dental Association, the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Dentistry, and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. He is a diplomat of the Academy of Clinical Sleep Disorder Dentistry and is working toward his diplomat status for the American Association of Orthodontics.
Precision Surgery, Inc. www.precisionsurgeryaz.com| 602.547.3300
Vistancia Orthodontics www.vistanciaortho.com | 623.566.0800
38 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Drs. Pamela and Gael DeRouin
Pamela DeRouin, M.D., and Gael DeRouin, D.O., are co-owners of Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery in Goodyear. Dr. Pamela DeRouin is a board-certified physician who has practiced in the Phoenix area since 1999. She has a special interest in aesthetic and anti-aging medicine and is a member of the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. Gael DeRouin is a well-accomplished surgeon with more than 20 years of training and experience. He holds dual board certifications in both Head and Neck Surgery and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
Dermacare Cosmetic Surgery www.azdermacare.com| 623.535.7050
Dr. Baird
Brian O. Baird, Optometrist, has has been practicing full scope optometry for more than 10 years. Dr. Baird was born and raised in Provo, Utah, and completed his undergraduate degree at Brigham Young University. He obtained his Doctorate of Optometry degree from Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tenn. Dr.
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Baird owned and operated Polson Family Eyecare, in Polson, Mont., for seven years before selling that practice and moving to the sunny state of Arizona in November 2007. Dr. Baird has been practicing in Surprise more than two years. His hobbies include spending time with his family, running and being outdoors.
The Village Eyecare www.thevillageeyecare.com| 623.931.2943
Dr. Qiu Dr. Jack Qiu is a board certified chiropractic physician and acupuncture practitioner. He received his training in Chinese Acupuncture and Tui Na therapeutic massage. His priority is to help his patients
Pick up a free copy monthly inside
with quality care and to reach their health goals. He has been practicing in the West Valley since November 2011. Kukurin Chiropractic, Acupuncture & Nutrition Network www.litchfield-park-chiropractic.com | 623.972.8400
Dr. Lundquist
Dr. Siddiqui
Wendi Lundquist is a dedicated interventional pain specialist uniquely qualified to evaluate and treat patients with musculoskeletal and nerve pain. Along with being board certified in physical medicine, rehabilitation and pain medicine, she is an osteopath that understands the complexity of pain and treatment of a patient as a whole person. Her primary focus is to treat and repair the underlying problem.
Azfar A. Siddiqui, D.M.D., M.Sc., specializes in prosthodontics at the Midwestern University Dental Institute in Glendale, Arizona. He has over 24 years of clinical experience that includes Harvard School of Dental Medicine and the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine. His specialty interests include dental implants, removable partial dentures and obstructive sleep apnea
Active Life Physical Medicine and Pain Center PLLC www.activelifepaincenter.com | 623.535.9777
Midwestern University Dental Institute www.mwuclinics.com/az/di |623.537.6000 azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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BUSINESS TALK
Q. What is the latest news for the new Q. What are two reasons to eat super Q. I always want to help in some way during the holidays, but never know holiday season at Wildlife World Zoo, greens? where to start – any ideas? Aquarium & Safari Park? A. Green veggies are good for you, but there's A. With so many needs in the community, a whole other class of green food that is even A. The answer to this question can be summed up with two words: All Aboard! better. This green is considered one of the it is sometimes difficult to choose a favorite You already have heard that Wildlife World superfood groups, because of its incredible charity. It is especially important during Zoo & Aquarium began celebrating this, its nutrition. the holiday season to find ways to give 30th anniversary year with an all-new 15back, whether it is with a monetary donation acre Safari Park addition in January. This What is this green with super-natural power? or a gift of time. holiday season, the celebration continues with a fond farewell to our old African Safari Freshly sprouted wheatgrass, nutritionally Train. Just the train ride itself –not the this cereal grass packs a punch. Clinical studies Our favorite year-round charity is our ever-popular half-mile long immersive ride and preliminary research support the use of local food bank and we encourage everyone experience with about a dozen species like this super green for regenerative skincare, as to think of the food banks during the gazelles, ostriches, and antelope including a cleansing detoxifier, in managing diabetes, holiday season. While they are always in the nearly extinct Scimitar Horned Oryx. to counteract anemia in pregnant women and need of your food donations, consider a After 20 years, it was time to retire the old the elderly, as a complementary therapy for cash gift as a way to give back this year. train and install a brand new and larger gauge cancer (red blood cell repair) and much more. They can make your dollars stretch much train. At a cost of over $1/2M, the new train farther and your cash donations allow What gives wheatgrass its outstanding powers? is an American made replica by Chance them to purchase the items they need the Rides of the famous C. P. Huntington locomotive. The new train is just one of All super greens have two super pigments. most. many exciting announcements expected Wheatgrass is distinct and has unique compounds over the next few months, as the busy zoo and combinations of nutrients that make them The holidays are also a great time to give useful for different health concerns. season gets underway. Wildlife World is home to the largest collection of rare and exotic species in Arizona with over 600 species on display. For those new to the Valley or just visiting Arizona, the zoo, aquarium and safari park increases Wildlife World's developed area to more than 80 acres and includes another dining option for guests. Visitors can walk around the safari park as well as take an optional tram ride through several animal exhibits. As a USDA licensed, private institution, accredited by the Zoological Association of America (ZAA) and the Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks & Aquariums (AMMPA), Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park receives zero taxpayer funding. We are extremely grateful for three decades of visitor support from the hundreds of thousands of guests to Wildlife World each year!
the gift of your time as a volunteer. Skilled It also has two super nutrients, and in many care centers, assisted living facilities and ways, these nutrients are so important, they senior centers are just a few places where are what have helped place wheatgrass in the there are folks who would enjoy a friendly visitor, and some of their activities departments super green category. use volunteers to help with planned activities. Wheatgrass is super rich in chlorophyll and a class of pigments, called carotenoids, which remove toxins from the body. In the concentrated delivery of these nutrients, this super green easily beats spinach, carrots and other vegetables. When it comes to health benefits, these two pigments have an exceptional amount of research demonstrating their ability in keeping your body strong.
Happy holidays and Happy New Year to all of you from all of us at Sun Cities CareGivers!
Get Best Organic Wheatgrass, the "only" wheatgrass powder containing the whole plant; "roots and leaves combined."
– Dr. Grey Stafford Wildlife World Zoo, Aquarium & Safari Park wildlifeworld.com
40
Whatever your choice for giving back, do take time to count your blessings and share with others less fortunate this holiday season.
December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
– Ken & Barb Hall Best Organic Wheatgrass 1.888.260.GREEN (4733) bestorganicwheatgrass.com
–Lola Judy Sun Cities CareGivers 623.974.2397
Q. What causes hearing loss and how Q. I am turning 65 in four months,
Become a community partner. Together we can make a difference. What are you waiting for? James 2:26
Call or email today!
do you fix it?
how do I sign up for Medicare?
A. There are different types of hearing loss that can be caused by different things. Conductive hearing loss is caused by a disturbance in the mechanisms responsible for transferring sound from the outer ear into the cochlea where that sound is transmitted into electrical waves that the brain can break down and understand. Some things that can cause conductive hearing loss are abnormal development of the bones in the ear or trauma that has occurred with the bones or the tympanic membrane. Many of these problems can be corrected with surgical intervention.
A. With 10,000 people turning 65 every day in the U.S., “when” and “how” to sign up for Medicare is a very important topic.
Sensorineural hearing loss is another type of loss that is caused by a deformity of the hair cells inside of the cochlea. This is the most common type of hearing loss. Abnormalities can be caused by abnormal development, but in most cases are caused by exposure to noise. As the hair cells perform their function, they begin to wear out. Exceptionally loud sound accelerates this process. Sensorineural hearing loss can usually be corrected with the use of an assisted device such as a hearing aid. It is also possible to suffer from what is known as a mixed loss, which is a combination of the two types of hearing loss. The only way to know which type of hearing loss you are suffering from is through a thorough evaluation. In most cases, screening is free and hearing loss, when untreated, can lead to many medical problems.
Medicare provides a 7-month window called the Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) that begins 3-months before and ends 3-months after your 65th birth month. Let’s assume you’ll turn 65, Dec. 10, your IEP will begin on Sept. 1 and end March 31. If you sign up during the first 3-months, your Medicare effective date will be Dec. 1. Delaying enrollment will also delay your Medicare effective date. Assuming again, your birth date is Dec. 10, by delaying your Medicare enrollment until January (although still within your IEP); your Medicare benefits will not be effective until March 1. Most people enroll in Medicare prior to their 65th birth month to avoid the delays for coverage. How to sign up Social Security handles this job and there are three ways to enroll: 1. A phone appointment by calling Social Security at 1.800.772.1213 2. An in-person session at your local Social Security office 3. Online at www.socialsecurity.gov/medicareonly/ Once enrolled in Medicare you’ll want to complete your coverage by selecting a Medigap policy plus a Part D plan or enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.
602.348.9894 or
advertise@ azhealthandliving.com
When to sign up
– Brian Emery Emery Hearing Centers State Licensed HIS 623.792.7151 www.emeryhearingcenters.com
– Tina Borges TRB Insurance Service 602.758.8998 www.trbinsurance.net
azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
41
Give your skin a little Holiday love. Ultherapy® is the only FDA-cleared procedure to non-invasively lift skin on the neck, chin and brow. Don’t miss a minute of the Holidays with this one-time, no downtime ultrasound treatment!
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For full product and safety information, including possible mild side effects, see Ultherapy.com/IFU. © 2013 Ultherapy is a registered trademark of Ulthera Inc. 1002236A
LIFESTYLE & LIVING
“ For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” ~ Psalm 91:11
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
43
FAMILY, KIDS & RELATIONSHIPS
BE AVAILABLE
Courtesy of Trusted Choice® and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”)
Could You Be Liable if Your Guest Gets Food Poisoning or Drives Drunk?
As millions of Americans host and attend Holiday dinners across the street or across the country, many may be unaware of the risks. Party hosts need to understand their responsibilities when inviting others into their homes and serving food and drinks. All hosts should be aware that if someone drives drunk or becomes sick after consuming food at a holiday party, the host could actually be liable. In fact, a casserole could bring just as many risks as a cocktail. Before hosting a party this holiday season, you may want to consult with an independent insurance agent and ask questions. A 2012 survey by Trusted Choice® and IIABA found that almost three-fourths of homeowners had served food in their home that was prepared by someone other than themselves. That means more than 111 million homeowners in the United States have put themselves at risk for a lawsuit by just feeding their guests. Here are a few tips for holiday hosts and guests. 44
December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Watch What You Eat and Feed Others. Even if food was prepared outside your home by a cateremyr, another guest, a local deli or the neighborhood pizza joint, you could be held liable if someone becomes ill from consuming it on your property. Make sure that you check food and don’t put anything out that you suspect may be undercooked, spoiled or contaminated. Use only reputable food purveyors. Follow proper food-handling, heating/cooling and storage recommendations. When in doubt, throw it out.
Mix up the Activities, not just the Cocktails. If the party centers on drinking, guests will likely drink more; schedule entertainment or activities that do not involve alcohol. Provide safe filling food for guests and alternative non-alcoholic beverages. Know who the designated drivers are ahead of time.
Party Elsewhere. Host your party at a restaurant or bar that has a liquor license, rather in a home or office to decrease your liability.
Call a Cab, Get a Room or Have a Slumber Party. Arrange transportation or overnight accommodations for those who cannot or should not drive home.
Just Say No. Do not serve intoxicated guests. Stop serving alcohol at least one hour before the party is scheduled to end. Stay alert and always remember your responsibilities as a host. You might also consider hiring an off-duty police officer or professional bouncer to discreetly monitor guests’ sobriety or handle any alcohol-related problems as guests leave.
Do Your Homework. When hosting a holiday party, individuals should look to the liability portion of their homeowners or renters insurance policy to protect them if they are sued, and found liable for an accident involving a guest who drank, or got sick after consuming food at their home. Consumers should regularly review their liability coverage limits to ensure they are adequately covered should an accident or illness occur.
Know Your State Laws and Statutes. In many states, party hosts can be held liable if a guest is involved in an alcohol-related accident. Many courts have found hosts liable for damages their party guests cause because of consuming alcohol and then driving motor vehicles. Many states have also enacted statutes that can be interpreted as mandating non-commercial social host liability. So, if a guest or third party is injured in an accident that is related to alcohol consumption and the drinking can be linked to you, you could be held responsible for the payment of medical bills, vehicle repair costs, lost time from work and — in the worst case — claims for wrongful death resulting in huge monetary settlements. Consider an Umbrella Policy. While holiday partygoers and hosts alike should act responsibly and know their limits, consumers need to acknowledge that most risks cannot be entirely eliminated. However, planning ahead and learning about what’s involved in hosting a reception is the best defense. Purchasing a personal umbrella liability policy — providing $1 million or more in additional coverage over the limit of a standard homeowners or renters policy — may be a prudent move for the frequent party host. Holiday dinners or even a neighborhood potluck could have disastrous results for the host if someone is stricken with food poisoning. Whether the food served came from your kitchen, a five-star caterer or a pizza delivery truck, if you serve it, you could be liable if anyone gets sick. azhealthandliving.com
|December 2014 45
FAMILY, KIDS & RELATIONSHIPS
BE PRESENT
By MS
Emphasize Safety When Buying Gifts for Children Toys will once again be high on children’s wish lists this holiday season, when advertisements will highlight this year's most coveted gifts. However, just because a particular toy is this year's must-have item does not mean it's the safest gift for children of all ages. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were an estimated 265,000 toy-related injuries treated at hospitals in the United States in 2012. Of those injuries, an estimated 72 percent happened to children younger than 15 years of age while 69 percent affected children 12 years of age or younger. In addition, an estimated 34 percent of those injuries happened to children younger than 5 years of age. Many toy-related deaths were the result of drowning and asphyxiation. No one wants to think about injuries or deaths involving children, but holiday shoppers must keep safety in mind when purchasing children's gifts to safeguard youngsters from injury.
Balloons The CPSC notes that balloons are the leading cause of suffocation death in children. Children may swallow broken or uninflated balloons, which can then stick to the throat and airway, making it impossible to breathe. Holiday shoppers should avoid giving balloons to children age eight or younger. In addition, dispose of balloons if or when they deflate.
Painted toys Lead paints and toys containing lead are not legal in North America, but that doesn't mean that imported toys are made in adherence to stringent safety guidelines. Before buying a toy, confirm that it is lead-free, as exposure to lead can cause serious neurological problems, especially in young children.
Button batteries Button batteries, or the small-sized batteries found in some toys, watches and hearing aids, can be hazardous. Batteries can become stuck and cause chemical burns. Adults should always verify that the battery compartments on children's toys are secured with screws. Other products that have remote controls may contain batteries that are not adequately secured. In addition to button batteries, AAA batteries, which are small, can be hazardous to children. 46 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Magnets Small magnets can be swallowed and become lodged in the digestive system of a child. If two or more magnets or a magnet and metal component are swallowed, they can attract to one another through intestinal walls. This can cause blockages, perforations and infections. Avoid toys that use small magnets, and check the CPSC website to ensure that magnetic toys are not among recalled products.
Toy Safety Tips • Read the packaging to ensure that toys are ageappropriate. • Avoid projectile toys or those with sharp points. • Store toys that belong to older children, out of reach of younger ones. • Don't buy toys with removable parts that can be swallowed. • Buy toys made from nontoxic materials. • Buy fabric toys that are labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant. • Buy only stuffed washable toys.
Celebrate with Religious Sights & Sounds By MS
In many ways, secular celebrations garner more attention than religious gatherings during the holiday season. However, all it takes is a little digging to find religious services to fill our calendars come the month of December. Midnight mass. Many Christian churches commemorate Jesus Christ's birth with a special midnight Mass Dec. 24. Some Christians wait until the clock strikes midnight to place baby Jesus figurines into their Nativity scenes at home. Midnight mass may bring entire communities together to share the holiday season message of joy and peace. Midnight mass also may feature awe-inspiring performances by church choirs or private performers. Living nativity. Area houses of worship and community centers may produce their own Living Nativity performances. Costumed volunteers and actors present the story of Christ's birth and the good news that followed. This can be an especially exciting experience for children and may be a creative way to reinforce religious beliefs, especially to children who may have difficulty otherwise relating to written text. Christmas pageants. In some areas, children play integral roles in recreating the story of Christmas. Private Catholic schools may offer performances of Christmas pageants that explain the Nativity and other events leading up to the birth of Christ. Families can enjoy a religious experience while also sharing praise for their youngest performers. Volunteer efforts. Houses of worship may organize clothing drives, holiday meals, toy donation collections, and many other community events this time of year. Volunteer to lend a hand at such events, this can help remind you that the holiday season is one for giving. Community candle lighting. Jewish celebrants may participate in a community-sponsored Hanukkiyah (Chanukah menorah) lighting ceremony. Although candles or oil is traditionally burned for Chanukah, many public places use an electric system for safety and convenience. The lighting has a schedule based on tradition and ritual. A Chanukah candle lighting service can bring the religious experience alive for many involved. Caroling. Although carols are often a blend of religious and secular tunes, many people find their faith is revitalized by joining their friends and neighbors to carol during the holiday season. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
47
FITNESS, NUTRITION & SPORTS
STAY ACTIVE & FIT
By Shelley Alexander, CHFS, holistic chef, certified healing foods specialist and author of Deliciously Holistic
Tips for Quick & Convenient Healthy Eating During the Holidays For many people, the holidays involve indulging in buffet tables loaded with lots of fattening, processed foods and sugary sweets. For those who strive the rest of the year to eat a healthy diet while leading busy lives, it can be a challenging time. Not only, are we busier than ever, we know that all those foods we usually try to avoid are going to give us indigestion, sap our energy and pile on the pounds. It really isn’t hard to give yourself, your family and friends the gift of delicious, nutrient-rich meals over the holidays. Instead of heading to the local supermarket, visit a farmers market, where you can buy fresh, local, seasonal and organic produce, along with other nutritious foods created by farmers and local food artisans. You’ll have a much more enjoyable experience in addition to stocking up on all the ingredients you need to have handy. You can also find excellent choices at natural and health food stores. Nutrient-rich, whole foods that don’t have unnatural fillers and other additives, including seasonal and organic will completely nourish your body, make you feel better and ramp up your energy. You will also find you won’t overeat, so it’s much easier to maintain your weight without counting calories.
Stick to whole, healthy foods this holiday season, and you’ll feel so good, you won’t want to go near the buffet table at your office party.
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Here are six tips for quick and convenient healthy eating during the holidays. When shopping, check labels and avoid foods with a long list of ingredients. The best whole foods have one or just a few unprocessed or minimally processed, easily recognized ingredients. Among ingredients to avoid: chemicals, artificial sweeteners, high fructose corn syrup, nitrates, MSG, genetically modified ingredients and preservatives (indicated by the initials BHT, BHA, EDTA and TBHQ).
Set aside a few hours each week to prep foods to eat in the days ahead. Cut up produce and store it in airtight containers. Lightly wash produce before using with natural vegetable wash or use one part white vinegar to three parts water. Make several homemade vinaigrettes or dressings to last all week so you can make leafy greens and vegetable salads in minutes.
Start your day with a green smoothie. Cut and freeze organic fresh fruit to use in green smoothies. You can also buy frozen fruit that’s already cut up. Add organic kale or spinach, coconut water or nut and seed milks plus natural sweeteners such as dates for an energy-boosting beverage.
For your holiday dinners, plan on making at least three to four dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Good examples are steamed greens, roasted heirloom root vegetables drizzled with balsamic glaze, pureed winter squash soups, and desserts made with seasonal fruits, spices, and healthy sweeteners like coconut sugar or raw honey.I
Invest in a dehydrator. Dehydrate fruits and vegetables and raw nuts or seeds that have been soaked in unrefined sea salt water (which removes anti-nutrients, kick-starts the germination process, and increases key vitamins), and you will have plenty of on-the-go snacks with a long shelf life. Dehydrators are convenient and easy to use. Make batches of fermented vegetables twice a month. Eat fermented vegetables every day to keep your digestive system healthy. They’re loaded with probiotics – the good bacteria your intestines need. Mix a variety of organic vegetables such as carrots and celery into brine with warm filtered water, unrefined sea salt, and cultured vegetable starter or liquid whey, and mix with shredded cabbage heads. Pack the mixture into sterilized glass jars and allow the vegetables to ferment for five to seven days. Once fermentation is done, store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
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Celebrity
ENJOY LIFE
By Nidah Chatriwala
Jewel of Hollywood
Naomi Watts
Electrifying actress and philanthropist!
Naomi Watts is one soulful actor with a personality that will leave one inspired. Her birthplace is England and she grew up in Australia. Watts is one shining star in Hollywood’s expansive sky, and her fans are found almost everywhere. According to People magazine, Watts struggled for quite some time before she made her mark in the entertainment industry. The magazine reports how her friend, Nicole Kidman, inspired Watts during her journey to fame sharing unconditional support for each other keeping jealousy out of their solid friendship. As they say, “hard work pays off,” and soon enough Watts’ struggles brought her fruitful results. Since becoming an “overnight success” from her performance in David Lynch's Mulholland Drive, Watts has continuously essayed roles, which have earned her applause from critics and awards from academies. Gifted would be a compliment that wouldn’t do her justice. Watts’ expressions and body language breathes life into the character she signs up to play. She brings uniqueness onscreen and that “x factor” continues to increase her fan base around the globe. 50 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Watts is recognized for her ample roles in The Ring, King Kong and The Impossible. To her viewers, it may seem as though Watts prefers acting in dramas more than any other genre. “I was doing a lot of these roles, and I just started realizing how at the end of the day it's a lot to take home,” Watts says to LATimes.com. “If you keep working like that, there's a buildup of darker things in your life. It has an effect on you.” This year, however, Watts has experimented by doing a comedy film, St. Vincent. In the film, her character’s name is Daka, who is a pregnant Eastern European stripper, sharing screen space with the legendary, Bill Murray!
In an interview on “CBS This Morning,” Watts expressed how overwhelmed she felt while playing a loopy character like Daka in a film with Murray. She says, “I was kind of terrified...I decided the only way to approach it was to arrive in character and not give him a chance to see any of my fear and so I had the accent down and I also knew that I'd be improvising with him because, you know, he goes wherever he wants to go.” Like a true actor, Watts admitted in the “CBS This Morning” interview that she is hungry to work with other great actors and filmmakers. Therefore, her willingness to be open to other film genres can be expected to influence her acting career in the future. Aside from looking good, Watts is busy doing good by getting involved in charity work. According to US Weekly Magazine, Watts appeared in a campaign launched by Bulgari to promote their collection benefiting Save the Children’s mission, which is to provide quality education and life-saving interventions for underprivileged children. Watts’ website, Naomi-Watts.org, mentions her efforts to denounce production of nuclear weapons by participating in the Global Zero movement. As a mother, causes related to children are very close to Watts’ heart. And so, her association with the Happy Hearts Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to building schools after natural disasters, was no surprise. Megastar in Hollywood and a lady with a generous heart sums up Watts. azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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ENJOY LIFE
SPECIAL FEATURE
Holiday Gift Guide
An external battery that can charge phones and tablets fully, while on the go. The Jackery charger provides up to 110 hours extra operation time. It comes in a variety of sizes including the Mini, Bar, Giant, Fit, Air (the world’s thinnest external battery), and the newly launched Leaf, Jackery’s first snap-on battery case. The perfect companion to keep your phone charged while traveling, driving, vacations, camping and more.
JACKERY LEAF
www.jackeryusa.com
An lPX6 Certified Waterproof mount that securely attaches to bike and allows users to take photos or videos while on their ride, which they can then share via text message, email or social media. It has a duallock system grip to ensure a safe and sturdy grip, while the protective grip mounts the device securely without damaging the bike's handles. Adjustable screen orientation, users can switch from portrait to landscape viewing modes, touch-sensitive front cover and removable waterproof pouch.
This ear warmer and music player can be worn together or separately. The ear warmer is ultrathin with lightweight insulation for protection in cold weather. The MP3 player (when worn alone) is waterproof and can even be used while swimming. The MP3 cordless one-piece wearable sports music player offers a compact design with a 4GB internal memory. You can drag and drop music from iTunes or Windows media player. A three-minute quick charge gives up to 60 minutes of battery life, while a 1.5 hour full charge gives over 7 hours of playback. The ear warmer is made of soft breathable fabric and a patented behind the head design that can be worn with hats, helmets or glasses. It’s one size fits all and collapses for easy storage. EXOLITE GROOVE www.180s.com
RIDEMATE WATERPROOF www.satechi.net
Diono® brings you its coolest, sleekest and safest car seat yet, the Rainier. The Rainier boasts new extra deep side walls providing enhanced side impact protection, extended rear-facing capabilities, 5-point harness mode, its unique SuperLATCH™ system for easy installation and the Rainier is NCAP crash tested, the industry benchmark for verifying child seat performance in severe accident conditions. With its sleek design and sophisticated color choices, it's a cool addition to any truck, sports car or coupe.
DIANO® RAINIER CAR SEAT www.us.diono.com
This new technology cooks faster and more flavorful than a traditional oven without sacrificing flavor or moisture. Wolfgang Puck Pressure Oven also toasts, roasts, bakes, re-heats and rotisseries, as well. With the Flavor Infusion TechnologyTM, the oven’s perfectly sized chamber locks in heat and moisture under low-pressure, cooking evenly up to 70 percent faster, while infusing juices and concentrating flavor deep into food. Available at national retailers.
WOLFGANG PUCK PRESSURE OVEN www.puckoven.com
This tablet is great to prepare your child for pre-K through first grade. Little Scholar tablet from SchoolZone is jam packed with 150 educational apps including videos, songs and e-books. Parents can even use an App management tool to choose the apps, music and e-books that are active on Little Scholar, so they can tailor the content to fit the learning needs of their children. No extra purchases, downloads or Wi-Fi needed. Free protective bumper included. Take pictures with rear- and front-facing camera. Play with silly special effects and save pictures to your own personal gallery! Little Scholar features an 8-inch screen and runs a Google Android™ 4.2.2 operating system. Ages 3-7.
LITTLE SCHOLAR TABLET
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A durable, spill-free drink system that helps prevents leaks and accidents with a super tight drinking seal. The cup’s patented auto sealing technology allows liquid to flow only when drinking, so parents and kids don’t have to worry about drips or spills. Simply fill up the cup, twist on the lid, and sip anywhere along the edge for a smooth drinking flow. Available in four different color styles, Wow Cup is BPA free and dishwasher safe. Available at mass retailers nationwide. Ages 12 months and up.
WOW CUP™
www.wowcup.com
A natural and elegant humidifier. Aqua Stone is a porous rock that absorbs water when poured on it. It then slowly releases moisture over several days through natural evaporation. Aqua Stone is completely silent, requiring no batteries, electricity or cleaning. Available at mass retailers nationwide.
A garden hose that's lightweight and easy to handle, making it convenient to hang or store anywhere. When you turn off the water to the Pocket Hose, it shrinks back to its original mini size. The hose never kinks, twists or tangles like ordinary hoses. The Pocket Hose is available in four lengths 25 ft., 50 ft., and 75 ft. Available at retailers nationwide.
POCKET HOSE ULTRA www.pockethose.com
AQUA STONE
www.getaquastone.com
These sponges have unique foam, the same foam approved by the Environmental Protection Agency to clean sensitive waterways, specializing in the ability to extract oil, dirt and grime. They also have an open cell foam design that gently exfoliates without the use of synthetic microbeads and other harmful ingredients – and Milled Level Naturals vegan and gluten-free soap made from pure plant oils, natural essential oils and extracts, providing an all-natural and soothing cleanse. These sponges dry almost instantly, naturally inhibiting the growth of mold, bacteria and unsavory odor.
PURA NATURALS
www.puranaturalsproducts.com Rolli™ is a patented system with no messy inkpad, allowing you to create personalized stationary. Rolli™ is a great addition to any household, office, or arts and crafts studio. With patterns ranging from shoes, French bulldogs, hearts and lace, to unique house designs, to tumbling hedgehogs and playful pugs, anyone is bound to find the perfect Rolli™ stamp for their upcoming project or personal use.
ROLLI™ STAMPS
www.funnybonetoys.com
An ergonomic mop that spins dirt away for optimal cleaning. Featuring microfiber technology, the Hurricane Spin Mop reduces water consumption through its ability to clean large surfaces with less water than traditional mops. With Hurricane Spin Mop, consumers no longer need to spend long hours using costly equipment and expensive disposable refill pads. Available at mass retailers nationwide.
HURRICANE SPIN MOP www.hurricanemop.com
A steam mop that converts into a multi-use portable handheld steamer for above ground surfaces. Fifteen steam jets on the mop’s head provide a wide cleaning path and reduce hot spots while focusing steam where it’s needed most. Three variable steam settings and a turbo boost feature which provides an added burst of steam for surfaces with cakedon dirt, mud or grime. Once plugged in, it is ready to use within 20 seconds! Available online and in select retail stores.
HAAN VERSASTEAM PRO™ BS-20
www.haanusa.com
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ENJOY LIFE
SPECIAL FEATURE
Holiday Gift Guide
These adorable dolls have numerous engaging features, which encourage toddlers to learn the elements of getting dressed. Hattie and Max dolls include a button, zip, tie up laces, soft touch fastening and press stud fastening. Max also has a baby safe mirror. Each sold separately. Ages 18 months & up.
MAMAS & PAPAS LEARN TO DRESS DOLLS www.hasbrotoyshop.com This cute 13-inch Elmo pal comes with three different hats that unlock different imaginary themes and play modes. Place the crown on Elmo’s head to play a game of “Prince Elmo Says,” pop on the cowboy hat to learn about numbers in the “Countin’ Cowboy” game, or put on the sea captain hat for a fun “Sounds of the Sea” game. Kids can also tickle his belly, squeeze his nose, or bounce him for a fun reaction. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide. Ages 2 – 4.
Crayola Trace & Draw lets kids create their own coloring pages. It clips onto compatible iPad or Samsung tablets and securely holds a sheet of paper over the screen. Using the free Trace & Draw app, kids choose from over 75 pictures to trace. Light shines from the tablet for easy tracing with the included marker. Kids can color their work of art with their own Crayola crayons and markers.
LET’S IMAGINE ELMO
www.hasbrotoyshop.com
Collectible pop-star dolls driven by original music. Girls can choose Brayden, Ainsley, Lark or Chantal. Each doll comes with a matching doll stand, Peavey-Electronics toy instrument and VIP pass unlocking the latest song and webisodes!
THE BEATRIX GIRLS PREMIUM PACKAGE
An assortment of edgy and fashion forward D.I.Y art and craft activity kits www..store.griffintechnology.com inspired by the latest designers creations. TrendiY Art’s packaging includes an Make scoring easy and automatic with a handheld array of magazines, each issued for an electronic scoring unit. Simply play a word on the individual product. Ages 8-16. board, dial-in the score and hit enter. No pen, paper TrendiY Art or dedicated scorekeeper required! Also, includes a www.trendiyart.com timer option for faster gameplay. Finally, raise the stakes with the highest word score feature, as the unit lets you know when you’ve smashed the highest scoring word in your game! Ages 8 years & up.
CRAYOLA TRACE & DRAW
www.thebeatrixgirls.com
SCRABBLE ELECTRONIC SCORING GAME www.hasbrotoyshop.com Gear up for some silly fun! Little ones can build up the fun by placing colorful gears all-around their monkey friend’s belly, hands and feet. Once all the gears are set, press the central gear to make them turn, hear silly monkey music, and watch little lights twinkle! Kids’ sorting and stacking skills will be rewarded with this delightful visual experience! Available at most major toy retailers nationwide. Ages 9 months & up.
STACK ‘N SPIN MONKEY GEARS TOY
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Join the 3D adventure with Anna, EIsa & Olaf! Players follow the game path through twists and turns of the pop-up game board, while experiencing the adventures from Frozen. But beware; there are villains to block your path. The first to reach the end of the path wins! Set includes three character figurines, friend tokens and a connector bridge. Ages 3 years & up.
DISNEY FROZEN POP-UP MAGIC www.hasbrotoyshop.com
Soar into action with a new iconic Spider-Man Vehicle! The Spider-Man Plane vehicle will help your 5” SPIDER-MAN figure reach new heights. With launching Web projectiles, this iconic vehicle will let your preschooler’s imagination soar with their favorite superhero! Available at most major toy retailers nationwide. Ages 3-7 years.
SPIDER-MAN SPIDER STRIKE PLANE www.hasbrotoysshop.com
Card, dice, party, word, strategy, trivia, survey and pop culture games for everyone! Games like Oddly Obvious, the wild new party game where all the answers are right in front of you. One player reads clues while the other players race to spot the correct answers on a game card. The trick, the answers are each in different fonts and colors, written up, down and even upside down. Shout out the most correct answers to win. Each space on the game board represents a new physical challenge for children and families to jump, twist, shake and exercise their way to victory! For ages 3 to 103.
ENDLESS GAMES
www.endlessgames.com
Ball Pets™ are the fluffy, colorful, plush balls that open up to reveal a surprise friend inside! Kids can toss, catch and roll their Ball Pet and then easily open them up to see which pet pal is inside. There are six different pets to collect in all, including Sunny the Puppy, Pinky the Unicorn and Berry Blue Kitty. Whether kids are playing a game of fuzzy toss and catch or snuggling up with their roly-poly pal, kids will have a ball with these furry friends. Three of six styles are available at major retailers nationwide, while all styles are available online. Ages three years and up.
TELEBRANDS™ BALL PETS™ www.ballpets.com Richly imagined, artfully designed books and playhouses in one. Made of lightweight EVA foam and highquality card stock, the houses fit together like a 3D puzzle and fold flat in a portable carrying case conveniently designed to fit on your bookshelf. Perfect for on the go, and to keep kids busy on long car rides or flights! Assembling these houses and furniture is as easy as pressing tabs into place. No tools or screws required! Safe, environmentally friendly and battery-free! Stories include Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Hansel and Gretel and The Three Little Pigs.
STORYTIME TOYS
www.storytimetoys.com
Fans can “activate” the amazing powers of all sorts of interesting creatures with these Creature Power Suits, one for Chris and one for Martin, each featuring a very special vest and gloves. Collectible creature power discs, which come with a variety of the new Wild Kratts products, can be inserted into the center of the vest for endless role-play fun!
WILD KRATTS CREATURE POWER SUIT SET
www.wickedcooltoys.com
Family card game Spot it! has teamed up with Disney Frozen, the winner of two Academy Awards®, to bring you a new adventure! Spot it! Alphabet Disney Frozen is the ultimate matching game that features characters and iconic symbols from the hit movie. Embark on a snowy journey through Arendelle to learn with Elsa and Anna as players match familiar images and letters. Between any two cards, there is always one, and only one, match. Kids will learn to identify letters, colors and build vocabulary while having fun!
SPOT IT! ALPHABET DISNEY FROZEN
www.blueorangegames.com
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SPECIAL FEATURE
ENJOY LIFE
Holiday Gift Guide
Every pink and blue step will be a light-up adventure for your kids with Flik Flops! These adorable flip-flops have unique LED lights on the outsole of the shoes creating a vibrant, lighted path with every step! Children love the interactive design, and parents appreciate the visibility of the LED lights at night for added safety while walking. Available in girls and boys sizes.
UNE BOBINE
www.fusechicken.com Cable, dock, tripod rolled together into the world's most flexible iPhone charger. Place your phone at eye level for video calls. Use in your kitchen to hold your phone for easy recipe viewing. Hold your phone steady for photography and videography. Position your phone in the car for GPS use with the optional car kit. Available in iPhone Lightning, iPhone 30-pin and Micro USB versions.
DRAGONWING GIRLGEAR www.dragonwinggirl.com
OXYGEN PLUS (O+)
www.oxygenplus.com
The holiday season can leave us feeling tired and completely spent. There’s the option of turning to coffee or quick fix energy drinks, but we all know that binging on caffeine isn't the healthiest choice. This Holiday season give your body a natural and effective energy boost of pure, natural oxygen. Oxygen Plus (O+) has developed a line of portable, recreational oxygen that provides enriched air to help you enjoy all your holiday festivities. With light-weight canisters, you can inhale three to five breaths of 95% pure oxygen at any time during the day to get a boost of energy, reduce shopping stress, and help you focus on what is really important.
PONG CASE
www.pongcase.com
FLIK FLOPS www.flikflops.com
Age-appropriate sports attire and underwear including bras, camies, compression shorts and accessories. All Dragonwing girlgear is designed specifically to fit a girl’s figure and to meet the technical demand of the sports she plays. A soccer mom who wanted to help her daughter find a supportive but comfortable line of underwear and help her feel confident, so she could spend her time on the game, rather than her undergarments, developed Dragonwing girlgear. Dragonwing fabrics provide UV 50 protection. The moisturewicking feature is part of the fabric, not topical treatment, so it won't wear away with washing.
Comfortable and stylish alternatives for everyday use of fitness trackers. Griffin's comfortable Ribbon Wristband discretely accommodates the Fitbit Flex, Fitbit One or Sony Smartband in its concealed pocket. Caps for Jawbone personalize and protects the sync/charge plug on Jawbone wristbands (UP and UP24 models). Caps provide swappable, snap-on style. Sleep|Sport Band, a low-profile band, made of a soft, stretchy Lycra features a protective pocket to secure the activity tracker in place. May be worn both as a wristband or an armband and its universal design is compatible with a variety of activity trackers, and features reflective accents for enhanced nighttime visibility.
GRIFFIN’S WEARABLE ACCESSORIES www.store.griffintechnology.com
These cases not only protect your gadgets from bumps, drops and scrapes, but they also limit your exposure to potentially harmful radiation. It's true. Pong significantly decreases the amount of radiation that can be absorbed your head and body while you're using your phone or carrying it in your pocket. Pong cases are built with patented intelligent antenna technology that re-shapes the radio frequency (RF) signal to reduce exposure to wireless energy while simultaneously optimizing the outbound signal. Available in many colors. 56
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Ladies will love the boho-chic, affordable products available at Karma Gifts. Get a matching towel, flip-flops, tote, coffee mug, scarf, wrap bracelets and so much more! Feel great about your purchase – Karma Gifts donates a portion of each sale to those in need.
KARMA GIFTS
www.karmagifts.com
A nonstick pan that looks and cooks like a real stone surface. Slip Stone encourages healthy eating by removing the need for oil, butter and grease in cooking. The innovative folding handle allows for easy storage: press, turn, store and save tons of space!
SLIP STONE
www.slipstonepan.com A handmade ceramic microwave cooker that cooks gourmet food in minutes. A specially designed chimney allows steam to escape; circulating heat evenly so that flavor is infused into every bite and features a special hollow handle that stays cool enough to hold. STONE WAVE www.stonewave.com
TRANSIT XS
www.soenaudio.com This pocket-sized, mountable Bluetooth speaker connects to any standard camera or tripod mount. It can also be used with Soen Audio’s portability pack that includes a wearable clip, bicycle mount and built-in protection provided by overmolded Rubber Grips that withstand drops and scratches – making this speaker your ultimate travel companion. Transit XS is compatible with all Bluetooth devices, featuring quick and easy NFC pairing with compatible devices. Bring color and light to your home with Vintage Marquee Lights. Use initials, your favorite symbol or spell out an inspirational word to light up and liven your living room, bedroom or patio. These lights are created with a rustic antique look, and each sign is 12, 24 or 36 inches tall, 4 inches deep and equipped with a hanging bracket for easy wall installation. Also looks great leaning against a wall. Perfect for indoor or outdoor use.
VINTAGE MARQUEE LIGHTS
www.vintagemarqueelights.com
HIGH HEEL WRAPS
www.alasdesignsllc.com
These High Heel Wraps will transform a closet into limitless and imaginative possibilities without draining your bank account. The enhanced comfort High Heel Wrap features five functional Features patented dual blade technology, making it the benefits including the padded insole. This "fashionably functional" safest, smoothest cutting and versatile reciprocating product will allow women to look and feel their best. The dynamic saw. The RS1200 cuts in two different blade stroke design not only punctuates the shoe, but it also gives the heel an length, and its counter action technology allows for unprecedented level of protection with the unique heel cover. The much greater stability, control of cut, reduced kick optional/removable strap gives additional support when needed, back, less vibration and easier entry cut. while the back heel cushion prevents blisters. Now women can DUALSAW RS1200 have a stylish new look with the added benefit of comfort and www.dualtools.com support. Available in several colors, and a couple of fun designs. azhealthandliving.com |December 2014
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PLAN & SAVE
career, business & Finance By Marsha Friedman, founder and CEO of EMSI Public Relations, and Author of Celebritize Yourself: The Three Step Method to Increasing Your Profile and Exploding Your Business.
Don’t be a Stooge When It Comes to Marketing When you have hired a team of professionals with a strong track record and plenty of years in the business, trust them. Let them do their jobs. Everyone – yes, women, too – can be a stooge now and then. If you watch enough of “The Three Stooges” films, you start seeing their personalities in the people you meet – and just like on the big screen, the Moe’s, Larry’s and Curly’s of the world get themselves into loads of trouble. It happens all the time with PR.
The Moe: He’s the client who knows everything (so why did he hire PR professionals?) Moe will bark and bang and bully to get things done his way even though he’s never coordinated a media campaign, never worked in radio, TV or newspapers, and doesn’t know a tweet from a twit. He’s the client who insists on rewriting his media pitches because he thinks they should be longer and more detailed. (Succinct communications are what catch the attention of busy journalists and show hosts, but he disagrees.) He insists his angle is much more likely to interest a talk show host, even though he’s never hosted a talk show. Would you perform surgery on yourself? Moe would – and with disastrous results!
The Larry: Easygoing and passive, he doesn’t want to stir up controversy or offend anyone. No matter what the medium, he insists on appealing only to audiences and show hosts that already agree with his message, so he misses the opportunity to win over new fans – and their friends. The Larry’s are also easily forgotten. If they won’t do, say, or write anything provocative during their marketing campaign, they won’t engage their audience, which means few will remember them. The Larry’s tend to go along with everything their PR agency suggests. They don’t ask questions when they have 58 December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
them, and they don’t contribute their ideas. Their campaigns may be a bit lackluster because they’re afraid they’ll bother somebody if they actively participate.
The Curly: He’s the star of the stooges – and he doesn’t even know it. The Curly’s are the clients with great stories, powerful messages and a big lack of self-awareness. They ask, “Why would anyone want to interview me?” In truth, everyone has a great story, and a pro will find it and use it. Nothing is more heartbreaking than to hear someone say, “I was with an agency and I paid them thousands of dollars, but all I got was one mention in a weekly paper in Boondocks, Idaho. No one’s interested in me.” What a cruel blow to a person’s self-esteem! PR companies that tell you “no one’s interested” are really saying, “We didn’t get results, so we’re blaming you.” Yes, your message, the energy and interesting content you bring to the media and the quality of your book or product will determine whether you ultimately meet all of your goals. However, don’t believe for a minute that no one’s interested in you. It’s simply not true. “The Three Stooges” make for great entertainment on the big screen, but if you want a successful media campaign, don’t be a stooge! When you’ve hired a team of professionals with a strong track record and plenty of years in the business, trust them. Let them do their jobs. Be ready to participate in your campaign by asking questions, sharing ideas, and providing any materials or information that might be useful. Remember, you do have a story that others want to hear. You’re no less important than the next person is.
SENIOR LIVING
“For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. � ~Isaiah 54:10
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aging well
STAY HEALTHY
By Chris Orestis, senior health care advocate and CEO of Life Care Funding
What Will You Discover When Visiting Your Parents this Holiday Season? The holidays and their aftermath are the busiest time of year for long-term care admissions. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, families get together and many are seeing Mom and/or Dad for the first time in months. Some will discover that their parent’s health has declined and he or she should not be left to live on their own any longer. Warning signs that your parent may need to be evaluated for in-home nursing assistance, or a move to a supportive setting, include: • Confusion or forgetfulness about taking medications • Unstable/unbalanced (at risk of falling) • Change in hygiene habits or personality Most families are not prepared for this; they don’t have a plan or resources, so the situation becomes traumatic and heart breaking for everyone. It doesn’t have to be that way. Every family should be talking about this now and exploring options. Here are a few tips to help better plan: T
There are many levels of care available From a few hours of in-home assistance each week to residential communities that provide daily assistance with meals, laundry, etc., to a nursing home that provides round-the-clock care, there are many options to consider. Finding ways to keep your loved one at home for as long as possible is the least disruptive – and least expensive – option.
Avoid resorting to Medicaid if possible Nursing-home care costs start at $5,000 to $8,000 a month, which is often beyond the means of people otherwise considered financially healthy. 60
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Nursing-home care costs start at $5,000 to $8,000 a month, which is often beyond the means of people otherwise considered financially healthy. Many families turn to Medicaid to pay for nursing home care, but it comes with many restrictions, including choice of facilities. In a situation where one spouse is healthy and the other is not, the spouse living independently will also face restrictions on the amount of assets he or she can retain, for instance, as of July 1, 2013, a maximum $2898.00 for monthly maintenance.
Don’t simply stop paying on a life insurance policy to save money Any life insurance policy can be converted into a protected Long-Term Care Benefit fund, which will pay for any level of care, from in-home to hospice. Policyholders typically receive 30 to 60 percent of the death benefit value when they convert the policy specifically to pay for long-term care. The benefit qualifies as a Medicaid spend-down, which means they will still be eligible for that program if the money runs out.
STROKES ARE THE NUMBER-THREE KILLER
IN THIS COUNTRY, YET MANY PEOPLE DON’T EVEN
KNOW WHAT THEY ARE. THEY DON’T KNOW THAT MORE
OF THE BRAIN CAN BE SAVED IF A STROKE IS DETECTED AND
TREATMENT IS RECEIVED IMMEDIATELY. STROKES BEGIN WHEN A
W I T H A S T R O K E , T I M E L O S T I S B R A I N L O S T. BLOOD VESSEL IN THE BRAIN BECOMES BLOCKED OR BURSTS. BLOOD FLOW
IS CUT OFF. TISSUE IS STARVED FOR OXYGEN, AND PARTS OF THE BRAIN DIE.
IF NOT TREATED QUICKLY, ABILITIES AND PRODUCTIVE LIFE CAN BE
LOST. YOUR BRAIN IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION.
GUARD IT WITH YOUR LIFE.
If you suddenly have or see any of these symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately: Numbness or weakness of the face, ar m or leg, especially on one side of the body • Confusion, trouble speaking or understanding • Difficul ty seeing in one or both eyes • Trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination • Severe headache with no known cause
Learn more at StrokeAssociation.org or 1-888-4-STROKE.
©2013 American Heart Association Made possible in part by a generous grant from The Bugher Foundation.
aging well
STAY HEALTHY
By Ted Bernstein, founder of Life Insurance Concepts, Inc.
Low-Tech Holiday Gifts the Grandkids Will Remember Kids get their first cellphone by age 12, and more than a third of them have smart phones. Nine out of 10 teens have a computer and 97 percent of 12- to 17-year-olds play video games. More than half the homes in the United States have a fairly new video game console. It’s great that our children have access to technology, but many grandparents say they simply don’t enjoy giving their grandkids tech gifts during the holiday season. They want to give something their grandkids will treasure; something they will remember for a long time. That has become more challenging as kids, along with the rest of us, come to rely more on technology for everything — from communication to entertainment to telling the time. Here are a few suggestions for holiday gifts for grandkids that create lasting memories.
Their own clunker – which you’ll restore together If you have a grandchild who is still a few years from driving age, buy an old pickup truck that the two of you can restore together. You will have years to complete the project, which guarantees not only lots of one-on-one time together, but also the opportunity to teach valuable skills that will benefit him or her for a lifetime. Plan it right, and when your grandchild gets a driver’s license, he or she will also have wheels – and after spending so much time working on that vehicle, they’re more likely to drive it carefully!
An annual helping hand for years after you’ve gone
Instead of another mobile device or video game, consider something lasting from the heart.
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December 2014 | azhealthandliving.com
Imagine being able to send your grandchild a holiday gift of $20,000 every year for 20, 30 or 40 years – with a note from you attached. You can do it with the Installment Life Option, a life insurance policy option that pays beneficiaries of a life insurance policy in predetermined amounts of your choice for up to 40 years. Because of the deferred payout, the insurance company can reduce the premiums up to 50 percent – and your grandchild is reminded of your love for him or her throughout his life, particularly during the financially stressful milestones: college tuition, wedding, paying off student loans, down payment for first home, and first child.
Many grandparents who do this love the fact that they can continue to help their grandchild long after they are gone. They also like the fact that they can choose what date the money is disbursed, whether it’s a holiday, a birthday, or a special date significant to the grandparents and grandchild – and they can add a personal note, which can be sent according to the policyholder’s instructions.
The gift of compassion Sponsor an impoverished child in another country in your grandchild’s name. Choose an organization that allows you to connect with the child you sponsor, so your grandchild can write to and receive letters from them, and trade photographs. You can learn about the country together, and pick out gifts for birthday or holiday season. A grandparent might pay the whole cost of sponsorship or allow the grandchild to pick up a small portion. One organization highly rated by independent charity evaluator Charity Navigator is Compassion International. The 61-year-old Christian-based nonprofit facilitates 1.2 million sponsorships, providing the children with food, medical care, educational opportunities and more for $38 per month. Sponsors are invited to exchange letters and develop a relationship with the child.
Change Your Thoughts. Change Your Words. Change Your World. Sponsored by
azhealthandliving.com | December 2014
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If an adult suddenly collapses, perform Hands-OnlyTM CPR. Call 911
then push hard and fast
in the center of the chest.
Hands can do incredible things.
handsonlycpr.org
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13). The road to success is not straight. There is a curve called failure, a loop called confusion, speed bumps called friends, red lights called enemies, caution lights called family. You will have flats called jobs. But, if you have a spare called determination, an engine called perseverance, insurance called faith and a driver named Jesus—you will make it to a place called success.” – Author Unknown
For with God nothing will be impossible. Luke 1:37
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