Simple Ways to Include Volunteering in Your Life

Whether it’s cooking a meal for the homeless or helping tutor a child, there are many ways to give back to those who are in need. But sometimes the hardest part about volunteering is finding the time and the right opportunity to get involved.

A recent national survey commissioned by McDonald’s, as part of its support of Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), reveals that less than half of Americans (45 percent) currently volunteer their time to charity. While most people recognize the importance of volunteering, they do not prioritize it in their daily lives. An overwhelming majority of respondents (93 percent) believe that it is important to promote volunteerism among today’s youth; yet more than half of Americans admit that they’d prefer to spend their free time reading, watching television or even visiting their in-laws than volunteering for charity (51 percent versus 8 percent).

“It’s important to instill volunteerism at a young age,” says Julie Foudy, former U.S. Olympic soccer player. “I follow this philosophy at my own Sports Leadership Academy, where campers learn that sports and leadership go hand in hand. We actually host a volunteer day, where our campers visit places like the Ronald McDonald House to show the importance of giving back to those in need.”

The most commonly cited barrier to volunteering is a perceived lack of free time (49 percent). Others say that they haven’t found a charity they want to get involved with (16 percent) or that they simply don’t know how to get involved (8 percent). The survey also shed light on what inspires Americans to volunteer, with 42 percent stating that they look for a personal connection to a charity and an additional 40 percent citing involvement in their community as a driving force. Nearly one in ten Americans say they got involved in volunteering because their employer encourages it (9 percent).

“It is always important to remember those who need help and find a way to give back to your local community,” says Marty Coyne, RMHC president and CEO. “We realize, however, that between work and family it can be challenging to find the time. That is why, at RMHC, we believe in offering a variety of opportunities that fit into our volunteers’ active lives.”

There are a number of easy ways in which people can

contribute their time and get involved through RMHC. A few simple ways that people can make a difference include:

• Pick up the phone — Just make a call to the volunteer coordinator at your local RMHC chapter and ask how you can help with one of their programs, such as Ronald McDonald House, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

• Be a chef for a day — Get a few people together and call your local Ronald McDonald House or Ronald McDonald Family Room. A nice home-cooked meal can go a long way to helping families who are caring for seriously ill children feel more at home.

•Bring the movie theater to a Ronald McDonald House/Ronald McDonald Family Room — Bring a wide variety of movies, pop some popcorn, and invite families to join in the fun.

• Exercise your green thumb — Help maintain the garden areas to brighten the space for the families at a local Ronald McDonald House.

• Get rid of loose change — For those who are unable to volunteer their time, simply drop off some change in an RMHC collection canister at your local participating McDonald’s restaurant.

Visit www.rmhc.org for more information on community programs and local volunteer initiatives.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

Ready, Set, Go — Adopt a Cat!

This summer bring home a cat from your local shelter and add a lovable companion to your family. Although cats are the most common household pets in the United States, the unfortunate reality is, millions of cats around the country are in desperate need of permanent homes. Experts say three out of four cats that enter a shelter do not come out alive. Adopting a pet is, of course, not something to take lightly and you should always first consider the financial costs and lifestyle impact before acting on impulse.

When the time is right, your local shelter is an excellent place to adopt from because volunteers often know the cats’ personalities best and can help you select your perfect match. “Who knows? You might even adopt America’s next big star!” said Rose Ordile, handler and companion of 9Lives icon Morris the Cat, himself a former shelter cat with humble beginnings who went on to become a star of the silver screen and two-time presidential candidate!

Mission from Morris the Cat

And speaking of Morris the Cat, adopting is easier than ever thanks to 9Lives’ Morris’ Million Cat Rescue (MMCR) campaign. Kicking off its second tour, the goal of the MMCR is to rescue one million of his fellow felines throughout the U.S. “We are committed to saving lives and educating the public on responsible cat care,” said Ryan Thomas, 9Lives brand manager. “Our “Welcome Home Kits” provide proud new owners with 9Lives cat food samples and other valuable tips and savings.”

A state-of-the-art MMCR bus and two high-tech satellite vans will be barnstorming the country and stopping at shelters, retailers, and special events to generate awareness for adoption. Since last September, Morris the Cat and his friends have rescued over 250,000 cats nationwide. For more information on MMCR stops, visit 9Lives.com.

Cat Care 101

Although cats do not require extensive care compared to other pets, there are some basic tips and knowledge that every new owner should know before adopting. Providing the best care for your new beloved pet can result in years of gratifying companionship for your entire family.

Cats have basic needs too  many of which are very similar to those of humans, such as proper health care, nutrition, cleanliness, safety, and of course, having fun!

Health care  Just like humans, cats should have annual examinations and vaccinations. Even a minor illness or

infection can turn serious in a cat, so be sure to seek immediate medical attention if your cat appears sick or becomes injured. Most responsible shelters will send your newly adopted cat home with proper vaccinations or information on what and when these should be scheduled.

Additionally, it is very important to get your kitty spayed or neutered to not only reduce unwanted litters, but to prevent your pet from certain illnesses. “Spaying or neutering can be done at a nominal cost and makes for longer, healthier lives for cats and companions,” said David Robinson, board president, of the Hinsdale Humane Society in Hinsdale, Illinois (also, home of Morris the Cat).

Food  Cats require a nutritious diet that is also age appropriate a fact often neglected or unknown to most pet owners. Experts recommend adult cats should be fed once or twice daily, while kittens need three to four smaller meals throughout the day. Cats continue to grow until they are 3-years old. 9Lives Growing Years for cats 0 to 3 years old is available in stores this August. It provides kittens and young cats with the proper nutrition they need to grow into healthy adult cats. Regardless of age, all cats just like people, need plenty of fresh water.

Safety  Cats are extremely curious by nature and love to seek and explore new places, especially outdoors. However, most experts recommend a safe indoor environment, in order to avoid disease, fights with other cats and animals, as well as car accidents that may result in serious injury or death. Cats that grow up indoors can be very happy as long as they have plenty of toys and tools for exercise, such as a tower or scratching post.

Cleanliness  Cats constantly keep a tidy coat and rarely require bathing. However, they do need frequent brushing to keep their coats from matting and reduce shedding. They will occasionally get caught in something sticky or their fur can become oily, making a bath necessary. A mild cat shampoo in warm water will do the trick. Litter boxes must also be meticulously clean and should be scooped of waste daily, and cleaned and refilled with fresh litter weekly  some new litter boxes even clean themselves. If a cat doesn’t use her regularly maintained box appropriately, something is wrong and you should consider speaking with a veterinarian.

Moving In!

Bringing a cat into a new environment can be a bit daunting, at first. Most cats do not like traveling, so anticipate that your newly adopted cat is likely to tense or anxious when you first take him or her home from the shelter. Don’t be alarmed or discouraged. Slowly adjust your cat to her new surroundings by putting her in a small, quiet room. This enables the cat to gradually adjust to the strange new smells and slowly find her favorite hiding spots. As your cat grows more comfortable, gradually allow her to begin exploring beyond her safe zone. Just remember to be patient and understanding as your cat adjusts to a new way of life. Once your cat realizes that this loving environment is her new home, it will seem like she has been part of your family for years.

Although rules are important, permitting playtime is also crucial in the development of your cat. “Cats need play for physical and mental benefits,” said Ordile. “It’s best if you play along with them  it helps to strengthen the bond between owner and cat.” Rules and training can also be learned through play. With a little patience and effort, cats can be taught not to scratch upholstery or jump up on furniture and countertops. “Offer your cat a scratching post and show her that this is the appropriate place to scratch by moving her paws on it,” said Ordile. “If this doesn’t work, trying covering your furniture with plastic or aluminum foil for a period. Your cat will not like the feeling and should ultimately be deterred from scratching.” Always remember, your cat is a cat. You might not always understand or even like some of their traits or behaviors. It is your job as a responsible owner to train as best as you can and accommodate.

Debunking the Myths?

There are many misconceptions regarding cat care, so know the facts from fiction to ensure the long-term well being of your cat. For example, a common fallacy is that cats do not require attention or they prefer to be alone and are aloof. Regardless of their independent natures, cats need attention, love and affection, just like human beings, and do develop deep lasting bonds with their owners.

Another mistaken belief is that cats “always land on their feet.” True, cats are very agile but they can also be seriously injured or killed from a fall. Always make sure that your cat cannot jump or fall from a window or balcony, especially as they are easily tempted by outdoor distractions, such as a birds flying.

Whether you are deciding to bring home a new kitty or an older cat from a shelter, remembering these tips can ensure that your new cat will be happy, safe and healthy in her new home. “Treat your call well and, and he will be your friend and companion for life,” adds Ordile.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

Do You Think Green When You Travel?

Think “green” when you travel? Eco-tourism is a growing movement that encourages environmentally responsible travel around the world.

“Regardless of where you plan to visit this summer, being kind to Mother Nature during your travels is easier than you may think,” said Jeanenne Diefendorf, Orbitz Travel Insider. “Whether you rent a hybrid car, choose to offset your carbon emissions, or spend a week cleaning beaches, eco-friendly travel is a growing trend that everyone can contribute to on many different levels.”

Making big contributions to the environment on your own can often seem overwhelming, but there are plenty of simple things any traveler can do to make a difference when you’re on the road.

• Conserve at home while you’re away. Before you leave for vacation, turn down the thermostat, lower the water heater, and stop newspaper delivery for the duration of your trip.

• Stay at a “green” hotel. Many lodging properties use wind and solar power as energy sources or purchase only environmentally-friendly products, such as “green” detergents for linens and soaps. Check out www.eco.orbitz.com to find eco-friendly hotels in your destination city.

• Rent a hybrid car. Write your favorite rental car company and tell them you want to rent a hybrid vehicle. Some rental companies are already offering hybrid rentals in certain areas of the world. Some eco-friendly hotels even offer free parking to guests who are driving these efficient vehicles.

• Offset your carbon footprint. If you’re flying or driving, you’re contributing to carbon dioxide emissions already in the environment. CO2 emissions are a major cause of global climate change. Check out non-profit organizations

ike Carbonfund.org that allow you to contribute to carbon-offsetting initiatives such as reforestation projects and renewable energy programs.

• Get involved. Whether its one day or one week, spend some of your vacation time giving back to the local environment in the community you visit. Volunteer opportunities are plentiful and help is always needed for activities such as trail maintenance and beach clean-up.

So, whether you’re off to see the lights of New York City or the depths of the Grand Canyon, make this summer vacation a green one!

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

The Three R’s for Your Roof: Review, Repair or Replace

Sandwiched between summer storms and winter snow, fall typically offers a nice break in the weather that’s ideal for home repairs. To avoid heading into winter without the protection of a properly functioning roof, homeowners should use this season to assess their roof for damage and then prioritize any needed repairs. But, how do you evaluate your roof? Neil Robinson of TAMKO Building Products, Inc. offers the following key components for a basic fall roof assessment:

1. Keep gutters and downspouts clean, allowing water to drain properly. This will help prevent water from backing up onto your roof.

2. Remove all debris, such as dirt, twigs and leaves, which blocks proper drainage. Trim any overhanging trees so that branches don’t scrape or rest on your roof.

3. Check flashings around the chimney, stack vents and skylights. Wear-and-tear in these areas, as well as gathered water or debris build-up in valleys, can lead to leaks in your home.

4. Look for broken shingle tabs and loose or missing shingles and schedule routine maintenance.

5. Maintain ventilation on the roof to avoid heat build up in your attic, which can affect roof performance. Check to make sure vents are clear to allow proper airflow. Excessive heat build up in your attic space will also decrease your home’s energy efficiency.

6. Consider consulting a professional roofing contractor for expert inspections or follow-up questions.

If you have an asphalt roof, you should assess for excessive granule loss. Some granule loss is common with asphalt roofs after severe weather, especially heavy rain or hail. Walking the rooftop for home repairs may also lead to granule loss. All new asphalt shingles will shed some “hitchhiker” or “rider” granules during shipping, application and the first couple of years in the roof’s life. These are granules that were not embedded in the asphalt coating, but may have been wedged in between and on top of embedded granules. Older shingles will also lose granules as the roof ages normally over time.

According to Robinson, you should generally inspect shingles for areas of exposed asphalt, which accelerate the roof’s aging and reduces curb appeal. “If the asphalt is still covered by granules, and the shingles are not cracked or punctured, your shingles should still be providing protection,” he says.

No matter what material makes up your roof, snow and ice can also cause severe damage. If you live in a region that receives a lot of snow and ice, you may want to consider adding snow guards to your roof to keep shingles in tact as snow and ice melt. This will help prevent a rooftop avalanche and any subsequent damage.

If many of your shingles are severely damaged, it might be time for a new roof. Laminated asphalt shingles have traditionally been the first choice, but new residential shingle options are available. Composite shingles are extremely durable and high-performing and many homeowners are upgrading to this material when replacing their roofs.

For example, TAMKO’s Lamarite composite slate and shake and MetalWorks steel shingles feature 50-year limited warranties, Class A fire resistance and are warranted against damage from winds up to 110 mph.

To protect your investment in your home, roof repair or replacement should be a priority. And because not every roof repair project can be completed in a short time frame, it is important to inspect your roof and start planning now. Make sure your roof will perform through winter and, if needed, develop a repair or re-roofing plan

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

Simple Ideas to Organize Your Finances

With the economy struggling and many Americans adjusting the way they spend, now is a great time to do some financial planning. But with so many things to consider, sometimes it’s hard to know where to start.

“Organizing your finances doesn’t have to be something you dread. Start with a to-do list and work through each step until you’re done. You should feel better knowing what you’re spending and saving and what you can expect in the future,” says Scott Oberkrom, director of Community Investments at American Century Investments. “Web sites like YesYouCanOnline.info offer easy tips for getting started.”

Consider getting your finances in order by completing the BEST to-do list — budget, estate, savings and taxes:

Budget Analysis
It’s important to create and maintain a budget and the New Year is a great time to review your income and expenses. This will be easier if you get in the habit of tracking the money you spend using a paper ledger or with your computer. Remember to account for any debt expenses you may have, such as credit card and loan payments and include changes you anticipate such as a pay raise or a new car payment in the New Year.

Think about ways to maximize your income and minimize expenses. If you need more income, you may decide to work a few extra hours at a part-time job in addition to your current job. Look for ways both large and small to spend less throughout the year. For example, you may be able to save a significant amount of money by bringing your lunch to work instead of eating out.

Estate Planning
Review your beneficiaries for your insurance policies, investments and retirement plans to make sure they are accurate and up to date. Review your will and trust documents to make sure they’re accurate, too. If you had any life or family changes, such as a birth, adoption or divorce, you may need to revise your beneficiary designations.

Savings and Investments
Make sure you have adequate savings or at least a plan to save during the year. This includes a separate emergency fund which should have at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses.

Set specific investing goals, such as retirement or college education, and review how much money you’ll need to reach each of your goals. Adjust your investment plan or goals if needed to increase your likelihood of success. For example, you may decide to establish an automatic investment plan to invest toward your goals on a regular basis. Or maybe you planned to retire early but find you’ll have a greater likelihood of retiring comfortably if you work a few years longer.

Tax Preparation
If you typically owe additional income tax each year or you get a big tax refund (which is essentially money you’ve loaned to the government throughout the year), you may want to consider adjusting your income tax withholding to have more or less withheld from your paycheck. You can adjust your tax withholding through your employer on IRS Form W-4.

Review the personal exemptions you claim for federal and state taxes to make sure they’re accurate and up to date. Also, take advantage of deductions to reduce your taxable income. For example, why not maximize your state tax payments before year-end since state taxes generally are deductible from your taxable income? You can deduct interest on your mortgage payments and you also may be able to deduct charitable donations.

“Don’t delay in getting your finances organized and getting the peace of mind that comes along with it,” says Oberkrom. “It’s easier than you think if you take it step-by-step.”

Article courtesy of ARA Content

Bringing Your Winter Workout Indoors

For all those who enjoy layering up and braving the winter elements for a brisk morning run, there are countless others who find the process of exercising outdoors daunting, to say the least. And for those who aren’t hard-core fitness fanatics, it may mean the difference between continuing a workout regimen and abandoning all physical activity until the first thaw of spring.

Studies have found that the average person gains from five to seven pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. While some of that can be attributed to overindulging in stuffing, cookies and eggnog, some can also be credited to under-indulging in movement. Walking to the pantry to restock on chips and dip during halftime, for example, just isn’t enough to negate the caloric impact of those tasty treats.

“People who enjoy being physically active, or who use it as a way to manage stress, typically aren’t influenced by adverse weather conditions,” says Kwan Lin, owner and manager of Sports Hoop, Inc. who provides custom-weighted sports hoops. “Others might use cold temperatures or freezing winds as an excuse to skip a workout, and soon one day spirals into a week or more of missed exercise opportunities.

“The key is to find alternative workouts to your usual routine that are fun, invigorating and give you the same endorphin rush, cardiovascular boost and toning benefit,” adds Lin. “All it takes is a little imagination and a desire to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.”

So head indoors and check out the following activities that the whole family can enjoy:

• Swimming. An activity that can be done year-round, lap swimming offers numerous health benefits, according to the U.S. Water Fitness Association. Improved strength and flexibility, better muscular endurance and balance, improved circulation, and a stronger heart are but a few. Plus, it’s a terrific calorie burner at 563 calories per hour for a 155-pound person, when swimming freestyle using light-to-moderate effort.

• Ice-Skating. Many runners find ice-skating to be a lower-impact, yet equally effective, way to keep fit during the winter months. It works the legs, inner thighs, abductors, hamstrings and gluteal muscles – even arms, waist and abdomen – while being kinder on joints. The American College of Sports Medicine states that a 150-pound person burns approximately 600 calories for every hour of continuous skating, equivalent to running five miles an hour.

• Bowling. Although not normally perceived as a highly aerobic workout, bowling is a surprisingly good way to keep fit. According to a study reported in the California Bowling News, a Penn State nutritionist estimated that bowling can burn 100 calories for every 20 minutes of bowling – or 300 calories an hour. It also works muscles and joints, and keeps tendons and ligaments limber.

• Sports Hoops. Since the plastic Hula Hoop was first introduced in 1958, it has evolved into a popular, easily accessible and innovative form of exercise. When swiveled for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, weighted sports hoops can provide cardiovascular benefits, help tone muscles, burn calories and fat, and facilitate weight loss. Another plus is that they can be used in the privacy of your own home, while listening to music or watching your favorite television shows.

Article courtesy of ARA Content

We All Have the Power to Grant A Wish

An estimated 100,000 children will be diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition in the next four years, according to a study conducted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation, the largest wish-granting organization in the world.

This June, the Foundation will launch Destination Joy presented by LAY’S  a campaign to inspire and empower Americans to get on board and contribute their time, talents and resources to make the wishes of seriously ill children come true. A wish experience takes wish kids and their families on a magical and joyful journey away from doctor visits and medical treatments. And you can help.

“To go through a wish as a family is an incredible experience,” said Yvonne Pena, mother of two wish kids. “It brought us back together. It gave my sons the will to live again. When your child is sick you tend to stray, you tend to worry about what is going on at that particular time and forget to live. You forget how to speak, and you forget how to breathe sometimes. We all have the power to grant a wish and I hope everyone will consider getting on board Destination Joy.”

So what can you do? There are many ways to help grant a wish. A new “Ways to Help” volunteer and donor database, sponsored by The Walt Disney Company, can be found on the Foundation’s Web site, www.wish.org. This online database features wish-specific requests for time, talent and resources from each of the Foundation’s 69 chapters. So everyone’s unique talents can help grant a wish!

In addition to cash donations, here are a few other ways you can share the power of a wish:

Donate Non-Cash Items

• Non-cash donations may include airline miles, hotel loyalty points, travel packages, event tickets, gift cards, creative services, furniture, stocks, bonds, securities or the use of a substantial discount on items, products or services.

Shop to Help

• From late May through September 1, 2007, for every specially marked bag of LAY’S brand potato chips you purchase and redeem online at www.lays.com, LAY’S will donate 25 cents to the Make-A-Wish Foundation (minimum donation $300,000; maximum donation $345,000). Simply enter the 10-digit UPC code on the back of a specially marked LAY’S bag, and you’ll be helping LAY’S and the Make-A-Wish Foundation make magical wishes come true.

• Beginning June 1, 2007 you can show your support for the Make-A-Foundation by going to your local Cold Stone Creamery and donating $2 for a magnetic Destination Joy Wish Star to display on your vehicle.

Volunteer

• Nearly 25,000 volunteers contribute their time and unique skills working in special events coordination, fundraising, community outreach, Web design, office assistance and more. Volunteers can also help grant wishes — taking wish kids and their families on a magical journey away from doctor visits and medical treatments. Visit www.wish.org for more volunteer opportunities with your local Make-A-Wish chapter.

Fundraise

• From a penny drive to black-tie events, there are countless ways you can engage your community in fundraising to help grant kids’ heartfelt wishes.

For more information about the ways you can help, visit the Make-A-Wish Foundation Web site at www.wish.org.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

What to Do When Your Loved One Needs Long Distance Care

You took that fantastic job offer in another state. Mom and dad were healthy and fine. As time passed, you were promoted and became successful. Dad passed away and mom is not doing well on her own. She’s reached an age where daily assistance may be necessary and you’re a thousand miles away. How do you manage this situation without picking up and moving your family or your mother? If this scenario sounds familiar, remote care giving might be the answer.

“This scenario plays out each and every day in thousands of American’s lives,” says Richard Bitner of Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services. “I had relocated to Florida in 1985 and my mother followed shortly after. In 2000 I relocated back to Pennsylvania to start a life with a new wife and family. My mother stayed and many questions arose. What do I do if she cannot live day-to-day being able to care for herself? How can anyone take care of a loved one so far away?”

That’s when Visiting Angels began to focus on remote care giving and taking the burden off families and loved ones of those that need care. “Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are not the only options available,” says Bitner. Non medical home care allows your loved one’s to live where they want to be … their own home.

Visiting Angels has more than 300 offices around the country to help educate families and provide care to loved ones. Here are some questions to consider when determining if your loved one needs professional care:

• Does your loved one need assistance with walking? * Has their physical and/or emotional health been declining?

• Are they able to prepare nutritious daily meals? * Are they able to shop for themselves?

• Are they able to manage their bills and financial responsibilities?

• Are they taking their medications on time? * Are they still able to drive safely?

• Are they in need of companionship?

• Are they able to dress and groom themselves?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, professional home care might be an option for you. When considering agencies, choose one that can offer more than basic homemaker services, including dressing, bathing and other hygienic activities. Because not all states require licensing, be sure to check that the agency is bonded, insured and licensed.

For piece of mind for you and your loved one, understand the caregiver’s background and experience. Agencies should be able to provide you this along with conducting a criminal background check on its employees. You also should be able to meet with the caregiver before you agree to services to make sure that personalities match and you are comfortable with the service they provide.

“And you should be entirely comfortable with the person helping your loved one,” adds Bitner. “For example, at Visiting Angles, we try to match the personalities of our clients with the personalities of our caregivers. If something doesn’t fit, we find someone who does. This makes everyone happy and allows us to give the best care possible.”

Since home care services are non-medical, they currently are not covered by Medicare. But you do have options. Home care services can be paid individually or by long term care insurance. Often, funds from associations are available as well. For example, contact the organization that is involved with the illness that your loved one is afflicted with. Funds are sometimes available for their members.

Veterans and their spouses might qualify for the Disability Pension for Aid and Attendance. Others decide to take out a reverse mortgage. Whatever your situation, the proper research can determine the best route for financing care.

Most importantly, stay in contact with your loved one and the people involved in their care. Establish periodic phone calls and visit when you are able. Conversation shows you care whether you are in the same room or across the country.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

A Personal Health Record Can Benefit Everyone

A personal health record  is more than just a compilation of your medical records. While medical records are created and maintained by doctors, hospitals or other healthcare providers, a PHR is created and maintained by you. It is an ongoing, personalized compilation of important personal and health related information about you or someone you’re caring for.

“Many people think that if they’re healthy they don’t need a personal health record,” says Denise Pozen, attorney and creator of So Tell Me… personal health organizers. “But a PHR can be beneficial to almost everyone, regardless of their health. Personal health records should contain four types of information: Personal — such as name, address, contact information; medical — doctor visits, ER visits, diagnostic tests and surgeries; medicinal — your prescriptions and supplements; and observational — such as notes from doctor visits, diet or exercise records, reactions to medications, research notes, etc. While medical and medicinal information comes from doctors and pharmacists, personal and observational information has to come from you.”

People in the following situations can benefit from keeping a personal health record:

• ICE 1: In case of emergency — The stress of an emergency can make it hard to remember critical information. A PHR will give you the information you need when you need it.

• ICE 2: In case of evacuation — If hurricane, flood or fire forces you to temporarily relocate, you may not be able to visit your regular doctor. A PHR will provide background information that might otherwise not be available.

• As a backup to your doctors’ records — Records can be destroyed by floods, fires, earthquakes, or broken water pipes. Old records can also be destroyed as part of normal file retention policy. A PHR ensures that your historical information will be available.

• If you are a caregiver — You want to focus your attention and energy on the person you care for, rather than trying to remember details of their health history. A PHR will provide the tool to do that.

* If you are a parent — You can track growth and developmental milestones, record immunizations, and keep copies of school and sports physicals.

•If you are newly (or soon to be) wed — Creating a PHR will provide background health and medical information that your spouse might not otherwise know.

• If you are a “snowbird” or have a second home — You may be seeing a doctor in more than one city. Maintaining a PHR will keep each of your doctors up-to-date on your health.

* If you are proactive about your health — A PHR provides a place to record the results of diagnostic tests such as cholesterol levels, mammograms and bone density, as well as well as information about vitamins and supplements, and diet and exercise.

To start your PHR, Pozen suggests talking to your healthcare providers (primary care doctor, dentist, eye doctor and specialists) about how you can get pertinent information from your medical records, and asking your pharmacist for information regarding your prescriptions. Then write down emergency contact information and insurance information, and make a copy of any medical directive, preferences or living will.

All the information that makes up a PHR should be centralized and easily accessible. Because not all information is available in electronic format, one or more file folders or a three-ring binder is a good way to store your information. For many, a paper-based system such as the So Tell Me… personal health organizer is the best way to start. The question and answer format and pre-printed tabs and forms make it easy to get started with tracking family history, past and future appointments, medications, tests, treatments and more. (See www.sotellmeorganizer.com for details.)

Once you start your PHR, it is important to keep the information current, make sure others know where it is kept, and take it with you to each new healthcare visit. Whether for a scheduled doctor’s visit or a trip to the Emergency Room for yourself or someone you care for, the more prepared you are and the more easily you can communicate pertinent health information, the more helpful and effective your healthcare visits will be.

Article courtesy of ARAcontent

Don’t Let Tropical Storms Ruin Your Beach Vacation

Late summer is not only when hurricane activity typically increases, it’s also when many vacationer’s take advantage of their last chance to get away. So, where can beachgoers head with less worry of a tropical storm?

While, according to The National Hurricane Center, every island in the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic seaboard are vulnerable to hurricane activity, there are some islands that are less likely to be impacted. Check out some of these tropical retreats located outside or just on the boarder of the “hurricane zone.” These destinations offer all the sand and surf with a smaller chance of impact by inclement weather for travelers still looking to get away as summer days come to an end.

“Beach getaways are still a great option for late summer travel, as long as you plan appropriately,” says Jeanenne Diefendorf, Orbitz Travel Insider. “Take some of the worry out of your vacation and try beaches — like Aruba, Barbados and Curacao — that have less chance of being impacted by severe weather.”

Aruba

Located in the heart of the Caribbean, Aruba prides itself on having some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The culture on the island is a unique blend of Native American, African and European influences and offers all the activities and luxuries travelers’ look for in an island vacation. From sailing to scuba to deep sea fishing, there’s something to suit nearly everyone’s mood on this tranquil, tropical island.

Barbados

This easternmost Caribbean island sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, but outside the hurricane belt, and offers nearly 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. One great way to experience this scenic environment is through the many island, air, sea and underwater island tours. A must-see while visiting Barbados is the Animal Flower Cave. The cave’s floor is estimated to be 400,000 years old. Visitors can take a swim through parts of the cave or relax at its restaurant and bar.

Curacao

This Caribbean island located off the coast of Venezuela is famous for its exquisite and picturesque beaches. The island offers extensive diving among eye-popping coral reefs and plentiful sea life. The architecture throughout the island’s historic port is worth checking out, as well as art from one of the many local artists. This destination exudes a European charm and friendly atmosphere, and makes a great choice for a late-summer beach retreat.

Puerto Vallarta

If Caribbean adventures don’t suit your taste, check out one of Mexico’s most beautiful western beach destinations — Puerto Vallarta. This seaside town has a deep Mexican culture and beautiful landscape that will captivate your senses. In addition to its laid-back beach attitude, Puerto Vallarta also offers wonderful local art and some of the best in traditional Mexican dining as well as other eclectic food options. The city is full of galleries and five-star cuisine from chefs around the world. For a great day trip, venture to the small mining village of San Sebastian. A short trip from Puerto Vallarta, it offers a glimpse into typical rural life Mexico, breathtaking mountain views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Kauai

If you really want to steer clear of hurricanes, head to Hawaii. Kauai is the oldest of all the main Hawaiian Islands, and geographically it has some of the most stunning vegetation and canyons. Greenery and flowers overwhelm the island with beauty. Hiking and sightseeing are a must-do in addition to spending some time on the beautiful beaches. The Waimea Canyon is deep and vast, and shows amazing colors that even rival the Grand Canyon. Golf is also popular on the island and is available at many of the resorts. For a cultural and historical adventure visit some of the artwork and architectural remains of the Hawaiian People over the centuries.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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