Taking Tobacco out of Baseball

In 2014, baseball lost one its biggest stars as Hall of Fame player Tony Gwynn succumbed from salivary gland cancer.  During his battle, Gwynn cited his smokeless dipping tobacco habit to the cancer which eventually took his life.  He passed on June 16, 2014 after being admitted to the hospital the day before (Father’s Day).  He was 54 years old.  It wasn’t long there after that three time World Series champion Curt Schilling came forward about his own private battle he was going through with throat cancer.  When he entered remission for his condition, he released a statement that day mentioning his cancer was a result of smokeless tobacco for 30 years.  The time seems now more than ever to remove tobacco from the game and set a healthy example for children and protect the health of MLB players.  Major League Baseball and its Players Association have shown no signs of banning the addictive substance which has prompted major cities and states to begin their own initiative.  San Francisco, New York City, Boston and Los Angeles have put into effect laws prohibiting smokeless tobacco in the cities major league ball parks.  Chicago has recently passed a similar ban.  With California enacting a state wide ban beginning in 2017 and Toronto and Washington D.C.  considering similar legislature, we could be looking at over a third of baseballs pro stadiums smokeless tobacco free by next season.  To learn more about how you can get involved, visit http://tobaccofreebaseball.org.

A cancer diagnosis is life changing, not only for the patient, but for their entire family and loved ones.  Cancer involves abnormal cellular growth that can manifest as a tumor which can spread throughout the body.  Cancer can affect many parts of the body and while genetics may play a role in those at risk, the disease is largely considered environmental.  There are two types of tumors-benign and malignant.  The former is not cancerous and not at risk of spreading.  These once removed typically are not a risk of returning.  The latter, however, is cancerous and is a risk to grow out of control and spread to other parts of the body and multiply.  Depending on the severity of the cancer, radiation treatment, chemotherapy and surgery may be used to treat the patient.  These options carry lasting side effects such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, pain and bowel issues that can make normal day to day activities difficult.

A-1 Home Care is the home care service provider of choice for all of Los Angeles AND Orange County.  All of our cancer caregivers, nurse aids, companions and home helpers have at least two years of home caregiving experience, verifiable professional references, national background check, TB test, malpractice/liability insurance, first aid/cpr training, and a personal interview with office staff.  No matter what your needs may be, we offer affordable, diverse, compassionate, quality in home care to suit any schedule or situation.  Contact us today to learn more at (562) 929-8400 or (949) 650-380.

MS Solutions in San Gabriel Valley

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

MS is classified as an “immune-mediated” disorder.  What that means is the system that is meant to keep our body healthy is mistakenly attacking parts of the body necessary for everyday function.  Nerve cell coverings sustain damage which in turn inhibits full function of the brain and spinal cord.

What causes MS?

The exact cause of MS is still unknown.  Nerve damage is caused by inflammation, but the cause of the inflammation is largely unknown.  Scientists cite four factors as key contributors to the progression of the disease.

  • Immunologic- The condition by definition is an immune system malfunction. Myelin (the fatty substance that is the coating and protection of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord) is attacked directly as a result of the condition.  It is still unknown which immune cells are to blame for the attack
  • Genetics- Heredity is a factor in the risk of MS and if a close relative has the condition thae chance is higher of the development of MS grows.
  • Environmental- Scientists have seen a pattern of increased cases of MS in regions farther away from the equator. That means to say vitamin D could be a factor in the development of MS.  Vitamin D strengthens the immune system and people who live nearer the equator are subject to higher volumes of sunlight and vitamin D.
  • Infections- There exists the possibility viruses and bacteria may be to blame for MS. These elements have shown to bring about inflammation and degeneration of myelin.  Currently, measles, herpes (HHV-6) and Epstein-Barr (EBV) viruses are being reviewed for possible involvement in MS.

What can trigger MS symptoms?

Certain triggers should be avoided by those with MS that include:

  • Stress
  • Smoking
  • Heat
  • Mixing incompatible prescription medication
  • Lack of Sleep
  • Infections

Treatment for MS

As of today, there is no cure for MS.  There do exist treatment for managing symptoms.  The most common is corticosteroids.  This refers to a class of steroid hormones.  In patients that do not see relief from the steroids, plasma exchange may be a viable option.  This treatment refers to taking a portion of the blood (plasma) and separating it from blood cells.  It is then mixed with a protein solution called albumin and returned to the body.

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If your loved one has MS, certain everyday tasks we think nothing of can become increasingly difficult and potentially dangerous.  Mobility issues that may arise from the progression of the disease can make anything into a fall risk.  At A-1 Home Care, we understand Multiple Sclerosis and can assist with anything from showering and toileting to help with exercise and meal preparation.  Our caregivers are available for 24Hour Live-In or Hourly basis.  We know that MS symptoms vary person to person and will work with you to prepare a custom tailored care plan to ensure the needs of your loved one are met.  We are available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day at (626) 287-0269 and (562) 929-8400.  We are proud to deliver top shelf home care services to Sierra Madre, Pasadena, Glendale and surrounding communities.  A-1 Home Care is the home care provider of choice for all of Los Angeles and Orange County.

Surgery Care Near San Gabriel Valley

Are you considering surgery?
We are all aware that Surgery can be painful and the recovery process may take long. Some surgeries require you to stay at home for a long period of time and this can disrupt your daily activities. One can no longer perform activities as they used to and therefore may need help in bathing, feeding, looking after their Children or pets, they may also need assistance running errands or might have trouble performing light housecleaning.

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A-1 Home care can help by providing you or someone you know with a professional caregiver for your needs. Caregivers are CPR trained and can assist you with personal care. Regardless of the surgery, our Caregivers can assist you with your daily needs. We have Live-In Home Care available as well hourly care. If you are stuck in the hospital and would like company, we can help by using our Companion Services and we can assign a Hospital Sitter so you won’t feel as lonely. Aside from caregivers, A-1 Home Care has home helpers, nurse aides, companions that serve Altadena, Arcadia, City of Industry, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, and all other cities throughout San Gabriel Valley. Call us at 626-287-0250 for more information on surgery care near San Gabriel Valley.

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Non-medical Home Care Near San Gabriel Valley

There are many seniors who are still active regardless of their age. Seniors like to have some type of independence with a small amount of help. A-1 Home Care has Non- medical In Home Care services available. This service is convenient for many elders because caregivers can get assistance at the comfort of their own home. Non-medical In Home Care is beneficial for many elders because they can continue with their daily activities such as shopping, gardening, exercising, or working on their favorite hobbies.

a-1 home care arthritis prevention encino

 Our caregivers at A-1 Home Care are trained professionals who assist independent Elders with non medical issues as well as medical issues such as cancer, Hospice Care, Parkinson care, incontinence care, Diabetes and respite care.  Aside from caregivers, A-1 Home Care has home helpers, nurse aides, companions that serve Altadena, Arcadia, City of Industry, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights,San Dimas, and all other cities throughout San Gabriel Valley. Call us at 626-287-0250 for more information on Non-medical home care near San Gabriel Valley.

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Dementia Games with Seniors

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Not very many people know but seniors and the elderly who have dementia can still enjoy the fun of crafts. We often think of those with dementia as having no sense of their surroundings and sometimes being impossible to do anything with. And while it’s true that seniors with dementia are often prone to experience bouts of confusion, they are still capable of finding joy in even the simplest of things. So why not try to bring out that joy with some fun crafts and games? Here’s a few to try:

Balloon Volleyball: Most elderly residents don’t have enough strength and endurance to play a real game of volleyball with a ball that can certainly do some damage. But substituting a balloon in place of a real volleyball can make playing possible again. And even more fun since there’s no risk of damage.

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Holiday Toss: Have a fun game of “Toss the Hat” This is pretty simple, and it’s a game that can be played anytime (just switch out the hats according to the season). All you have to do is grab a hat (and since it’s the holiday season, I recommend a Santa Hat), fill it with candy, get in a circle with friends, family, caregiver and your elderly loved one,  and try tossing it among each other without letting any of the candy drop.

There are certainly more activities you can try. Our caregivers at A-1 Home Care certainly know enough to keep seniors and the elderly occupied. Aside from caregivers, A-1 Home Care provides many other services such as Companion Care, Live in and 24 Hour care for your loved ones. We serve Altadena, Arcadia, City of Industry, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights,San Dimas, and all other cities throughout San Gabriel Valley.

Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter! Visit us at San Gabriel Valley In Home Care for more information.

Caregivers and Personal Services near San Gabriel Valley

If you reside in San Gabriel Valley and are looking for a fun activity to do with your loved one, checking out the  “Vested Interest” would be a great idea. The “Vested Interest” is a a jazz band that plays a variety of music for many occasions. This jazz band does a great job at keeping an audience entertained and it seems like Elders could really enjoy listening to this band. The band is led by lead singer Michael Drange. The band consists of George Woo on the Piano, Dave Mulligan on the bass and Karen Federeoff on the drums. This can be a fun experience for many elders to enjoy. If you know of any seniors that would like to attend, A-1 Home Care can help. A-1 Home Care can provide Companions as well as Caregivers to look after you or your loved ones.

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Aside from caregivers. A-1 Home Care provides many other services such babysitting and provides nannies to take care of your children while you are enjoying the jazz performance. We also provide caregivers that can Live in and assist in Personal Services.  We provide many services that can benefit you or your loved one, call A-1 Home Care today (626) 287-0250 or check out our website A-1 Home Care for more information on our care services.  We serve Altadena, Arcadia, City of Industry, Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights,San Dimas, and all other cities throughout San Gabriel Valley.

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Seniors near San Gabriel Valley

As people age, they become a lot more delicate. Some seniors needs assistance when performing every day tasks. 

 

A-1 Home care has many caregivers that can assist seniors. We have professional Caregivers that are certified in CPR and can help many Elders by reminding them to take their medications. Aside from our caregivers being certified, they are professionals who work along doctors and other nurses to helps seniors maintain a healthy life style. Our Caregivers also help them by assisting them in Personal Care. If elders get lonely and would like some Companion, our caregivers can even assist in Non-Medical Home Care. We offer Hospital Sitters in case your loved one feels lonely during their procedures at the hospital. 

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A-1 home care also has many other services that can seniors near San Gabriel Valley. Call 626-287-0250 today to start in home care, or visit our website A-1 Home Care to find out more! Stay connected with us Twitter and on Facebook!

 

 

sSniors near San Gabriel Valley

As people age, they become a lot more delicate. Some seniors needs assistance when performing every day tasks. 

 

A-1 Home care has many caregivers that can assist seniors. We have professional Caregivers that are certified in CPR and can help many Elders by reminding them to take their medications. Aside from our caregivers being certified, they are professionals who work along doctors and other nurses to helps seniors maintain a healthy life style. Our Caregivers also help them by assisting them in Personal Care. If elders get lonely and would like some Companion, our caregivers can even assist in Non-Medical Home Care. We offer Hospital Sitters in case your loved one feels lonely during their procedures at the hospital. 

a-1 home care santa monica elder care

A-1 home care also has many other services that can seniors near San Gabriel Valley. Call 626-287-0250 today to start in home care, or visit our website A-1 Home Care to find out more! Stay connected with us Twitter and on Facebook!

 

 

Protect Your Heart in the Heat

Couple and their dog english spaniel having a cuddle

Summer always brings beautiful weather around Los Angeles and Orange County, and it is certainly a great time to do many outdoor activities. Yet, the heat can also bring hidden dangers to your health, and it can be especially hard on the heart if you are a heart patient, overweight, or an older adult.  If you are in one of these high risk groups, then you must consult your doctors before exercising under the strenuous heat.

Regardless of your health risk, you should still be cautious under the summer sun.  Always remember to dress in lightweight, light-colored clothing that is breathable. Moreover, wearing sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are always recommended when doing any outdoor activities. Most importantly, staying hydrated should always be your top priority because of the excessive perspiration that is expected.

To protect your heart, try to avoid the peak sun hours of to lower your risk of heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Remember to take frequent breaks to hydrate and stay cool, and your heart should not be under too much stress for your summer outdoor activities!

Seniors living with heart diseases should leave physically demanding tasks around the house to others family, friends, or professional caregivers.  A-1 Home Care in San Gabriel Valley offers excellent caregivers who are dependable ready to make a difference in After Surgery Care, Heart Attack Care, Hospice Care, Incontinence Care, Cancer Care, Parkinson Care, and other senior services.  For over two decades, our services have been trusted by seniors and elderly around the communities of Arcadia,  San Marino, Temple City, Rosemead, Alhambra, Pasadena,  and other cities around San Gabriel ValleyLos Angeles and Orange County.  So if you know someone who need in home care services at home, A-1 Home Care is your affordable solution!

Call 626-287-0250 today to start in home care, or visit our website www.sangabrielvalleyinhomecare.com to find out more! Stay connected with us on Facebook!

 

Healthy Suggestions for Your Fourth of July Menu

Happy senior couple cooking together at kitchen. Focus on man.

Since we are celebrating the independence, why not focus your food on the patriotic colors of red, white, and blue? We always hear that eating foods with different color is good for us, so instead of eating the traditional high calories food of the holiday, try adding healthier option that contains the colors of the flag.  Incorporate food like red peppers, watermelon, blueberries, strawberries, red onions and others into your menu to make it a healthier option for your friends, family, and guests!

Meal preparation can often be a difficult task for seniors living with different ailments.  A-1 Home Care in San Gabriel Valley makes it easy to find a caregiver who can provide the quality assistance. Our caregivers are highly experienced, CPR certified, and has the work ethics to improve their quality of life.  In addition to finding the best care professionals around Los Angeles and Orange County, but we strongly consider the compatibility of our caregivers with the clients, and ultimately creating a great relationship between the caregiver and the care recipient.  The caregivers at A-1 Home Care specialize in the field of Alzheimer’s Care, Brain Injury Care, Parkinson’s Care, Multiple Sclerosis Care, Incontinence Care, Kidney Disease Care, Post Stroke Care, and more.

If you are interested in our home care service, you can find us in ArcadiaPasadena, Rosemead, San Marino, Temple City, Altadena, , Alhambra, Monrovia, Azusa, Duarte, , don’t hesitate to contact our office today!

You can call us at 626-287-0250 today, or visit www.sangabrielvalleyinhomecare.com to learn more about our different services.  To receive updates, follow us on Facebook!