Antidepressant use nearly doubles the risk of hip fracture among community-dwelling persons with Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study from the University of Eastern Finland. The increased risk was highest at the beginning of antidepressant use and remained elevated even 4 years later. The findings were published in the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.

For each person with Alzheimer’s disease, two controls without the disease were matched by age and sex. Antidepressant use was associated with two times higher risk of hip fracture among controls. However, the relative number of hip fractures was higher among persons with Alzheimer’s disease compared to controls.

The increased risk was associated with all of the most frequently used antidepressant groups, which were selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI drugs), mirtazapine and selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRI drugs). The association between antidepressant use and the increased risk of hip fracture persisted even after adjusting the results for use of other medication increasing the risk of fall, osteoporosis, socioeconomic status, history of psychiatric diseases, and chronic diseases increasing the risk of fall or fracture.

Antidepressants are used not only for the treatment of depression, but also for the treatment of chronic pain and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, including insomnia, anxiety and agitation. If antidepressant use is necessary, researchers recommend that the medication and its necessity be monitored regularly. In addition, other risk factors for falling should be carefully considered during the antidepressant treatment.

The study was based on the register-based MEDALZ cohort comprising data on all community-dwelling persons diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in Finland between 2005-2011, and their matched controls. The study population included 50,491 persons with and 100,982 persons without the disease. The follow-up was 4 years from the date of Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis or a corresponding date for controls. The mean age of the study population was 80 years.

Rather than bore you with technical requirements when assessing whether your loved one needs care, you should consider whether the individual has a diagnosis or receives medical treatment that limits the individual’s ability to manage his/her own care or maintain himself or herself in their home independently. If he/she is unable to manage care independently, your loved one may need additional services – whether provided in home, or in a facility.

To meet the nursing home level of care requirement, the individual who needs assistance must be unable to manage three Activities of Daily Living (ADL). ADLs include: feeding, bathing, dressing, walking, transferring, and continence.  Many of our clients may have sufficient needs, but are still able to manage their ADLs. As a result, a nursing home is not a suitable placement.

When individuals are able to manage the majority of their ADLs, but are unable to perform Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL), such as cooking, driving, shopping, managing finances, managing medication, cleaning, etc., we recommend less restrictive care options. Many clients who have some impairment can sufficiently live independently, or remain in their home with minimal assistance. Other clients may need to be placed into a more structured environment for more intensive oversight.

Whether your loved one needs immediate care, is in a financial crisis, or whether your loved one should start planning in light of possible long-term care needs down the road, we can help assess care options and financing.

Ask Kit Kat – The Lowly Vole

Hook Law Center:  Kit Kat, what can you tell us about voles?

Kit Kat:  Well, it turns out a lot. I’ve written previously on moles and mice, but the prairie vole it turns out has a lot to offer, too, in the way of contributing to scientific research and its applicability to humans. Researchers at the University of Virginia have chosen them as research subjects, because they are a lot like humans with regard to mating and parenting. The prairie vole breeds year round and can have as many as 4 pups per litter. They are found in the central part of the United States from New Mexico to Ohio and West Virginia. They are small and never weigh more than 3 ounces!

Anyway, there is a relatively new field in science call behavioral epigenetics in which cell changes from environmental factors are examined. The cell itself does not really change, but how it reacts can change depending on things that happen to it. Additionally, some scientists believe that these cell reactions can be passed down to future generations. ‘Offspring of low-care parents (voles) become low-care parents themselves, and this alters the epigenome of the next generation of offspring,’ says Kelly Wroblewski (UVA Grad ’20). It happens through a process called methylation, in which the effectiveness of the gene is reduced. In the case of prairie voles, they found that voles with parents who spent little time with them had more trouble bonding with potential mates and their own offspring. The implication for humans is that offspring of parents with mental health weaknesses such as depression or victims of trauma could be pass their impaired coping mechanisms down through the generations.

More research needs to be done, but it is intriguing that this humble creature is very useful to humans in their quest to understand how emotions and their resulting behaviors can be passed down to offspring, just as much as a predisposition to acquire certain physical ailments.

(“What can voles tell us about ourselves,” UVA Magazine, Fall 2016, p. 45)

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Hook Law Center encourages you to share this newsletter with anyone who is interested in issues pertaining to the elderly, the disabled and their advocates. The information in this newsletter may be copied and distributed, without charge and without permission, but with appropriate citation to Hook Law Center, P.C. If you are interested in a free subscription to the Hook Law Center News, then please telephone us at 757-399-7506, e-mail us at mail@hooklawcenter.com or fax us at 757-397-1267.The post Determining the Appropriate Level of Care first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]> http://www.seonewswire.net/2016/09/protecting-seniors-from-isolation/ Tue, 20 Sep 2016 16:45:07 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2016/09/protecting-seniors-from-isolation/ Although we frequently think of seniors as living among family members or in a senior community or other shared housing arrangement, the likelihood of living alone rises as one ages, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Among women 65 to…

PTSD symptoms consist of negative thoughts and feelings, increased anger, avoidance patterns, being easily startled, recurring memories of traumatic events, hyperarousal, difficulty concentrating and trouble sleeping. Veterans must have all of these symptoms in order to be diagnosed with PTSD. In addition, the symptoms must meet certain criteria of severity and duration.

The study examined 1,484 veterans for subthreshold PTSD. The condition refers to a group of symptoms that are not severe or complete enough to warrant a PTSD diagnosis. Among the participants, 8 percent were diagnosed with PTSD while 22.1 percent of the traumatized veterans met subthreshold PTSD criteria. Those who experienced the latter had higher rates of mental health problems. For example, veterans with subthreshold PTSD had nearly five times the chance of suffering depression in comparison with those who did not have symptoms.

Some researchers believe subthreshold PTSD is an overlooked trigger for a range of mental health disorders. Clinical psychologist Robert Pietrzak, the study’s senior author and director of the Translational Psychiatric Epidemiology Laboratory of the Clinical Neurosciences Division at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, described the findings as “striking.” He said, “We found three, four, five times higher rates of some disorders in veterans with subthreshold PTSD … You have a very large group of people who may be in need of treatment, but are often overlooked in clinical settings.”

Sources:

• http://www.nhregister.com/general-news/20160601/yale-study-many-veterans-experience-some-symptoms-of-ptsd
• http://news.yale.edu/2016/06/01/not-quite-ptsd-still-quite-mental-health-problem
• http://wtnh.com/2016/06/01/new-study-finds-more-veterans-suffering-from-ptsd-related-conditions/

The agency is offering the tool in collaboration with Screening for Mental Health, a nonprofit organization that provides various mental health and substance abuse resources. Veterans can use the tool to screen for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, alcohol abuse and other mental health concerns. The program urges former service members to get a “checkup from your neck up.”

Veterans begin the screening by choosing a statement that most accurately describes their recent thinking and behavior. Next, they answer some questions about themselves and their feelings. The survey concludes with general explanations about moods and behaviors. Veterans are also given information about available mental health care support and where to find help nearby.

Many veterans who return home struggling with mental health issues such as PTSD or anxiety are often reluctant to seek treatment. According to MVAA Strategy Analyst Jeff Cassidy, perceived stigma is the biggest barrier for many veterans when it comes to getting help.

“Mental health is key to overall health, and MVAA wants to make sure all Michigan veterans have the tools they need to care for themselves both mentally and physically,” said MVAA Director James Robert Redford. “With this online tool, veterans can complete a quick and easy mental health screening and get the help and information they need when necessary.”

Veterans can access the website anonymously around the clock at http://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/MVAA.

In an effort to combat a wellspring of negative press and declining enrollment, Pop Warner, the nation’s biggest youth football league, is doing away with kickoff – at least for its youngest players.

The New York Times reports the move makes Pop Warner the first sizable organization to take such initiative, though the NFL has considered it. Rather than engage in kickoff, players between the ages of 5 and 10 will start playing at the beginning of each half and after a score with the ball placed at the 35-yard-line. The organization said it will conduct a review of the results next year and may ultimately apply the changes to older groups too. 

Earlier this year, Pop Warner settled its first and only concussion sports injury lawsuit filed by the mother of a former player. The complaint, filed in February 2016, sought millions in punitive damages for the untimely death of 25-year-old Joseph Chernach, who committed suicide in 2012. An autopsy revealed Chernach suffered from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, which is a brain disease that is caused by repeated blows to the head. It can be a significant contributor to depression and other mental health issues. Chernach’s mother blamed Pop Warner’s practices for her son’s injuries. The organization reportedly paid $2 million to Chernach’s family, who then agreed to dismiss their lawsuit. The organization admitted no wrongdoing.

Last year, a federal judge approved an almost-$1 billion settlement between 20,000 retired players and the NFL, which was accused of negligent practices that resulted in concussions and foot-ball related head injuries and long-term brain damage.

Pop Warner used to carry a $2 million liability policy on each of its players, though that has been reduced to $1 million. Individual chapters do have the option of purchasing an additional $1 million per-player policy.

More than 325,000 youth are involved in Pop Warner sports, which include football, cheerleading and dance. The organization did boast some 250,000 football players in 2010, but that figure fell rapidly by 10 percent from 2010 to 2012. Speculation is that a growing awareness of the risk of brain injuries and head injuries has parents rightfully concerned.

Washington state was first to pass a law requiring coaches to bench young players if they suspect a concussion. Pop Warner followed suit in 2010, requiring medical clearance from a doctor before the children could return to the game. Two years later, the team prohibited full-speed, head-on blocking and tackling drills (where players line up face-to-face three feet apart and charge).

Kickoffs are an especially treacherous part of the game because players are required to race full speed down the field and charge straight into those carrying the ball and those blocking for them – some of whom don’t have any time to brace for that forceful impact.

Still, not all are happy about this change. One advocate argued that to do so was a means of, “bastardizing the game.” Still, he said children younger than 9-years-old shouldn’t play tackle football but instead should play flag football, with tackle football starting with high school players.

If you have been a victim of a traffic accident, call Chalik & Chalik at (954) 476-1000 or 1 (800) 873-9040.

Additional Resources:

Pop Warner Bans Kickoffs in Hopes of Protecting Its Youngest Players, May 12, 2016, By Ken Belson, The New York Times

More Blog Entries:

Roberts v. T.H.E. Insurance – Hot Air Balloon Injury, April 11, 2016, Miami Brain Injury Lawyer Blog

According to a study performed by the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago, seniors who are very social had a 70 percent lower rate of cognitive decline than their peers who were less social. In another study that was conducted by researchers at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, there was a link between internet use and a 30 percent decrease in symptoms of depression.

There are many ways to maintain social connections and improve intellectual stimulation. Keep in touch with relatives, friends, neighbors and church members. If they’re not geographically close, you can maintain contact via email and Facebook. Statistics from the Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project revealed that people age 74 and older comprise the fastest-growing group throughout online social networks.

Additionally, playing mind games, including doing crossword puzzles and playing chess can help keep your mind active. Playing with others can help you remain socially connected. It may also be beneficial to join a club, such as a book club or garden club, so that you can meet new people and form relationships with others who have comparable interests.

Upon retirement, several people have been known to experience stress. If you desire to return to work, think about obtaining a part-time job. Encore.org and the Work Search program provide help to seniors who wish to return to work. Volunteering can give you a sense of purpose, and make you feel as though you are making a contribution. You can learn more about volunteer opportunities from organizations, such as Senior Corps. Studies indicate that seniors who volunteer have a diminished risk of death in comparison to their peers who do not. Offering to babysit grandchildren or other young relatives can help you stay physically active and enhance your sense of well-being.

The elder law attorneys at Hook Law Center assist Virginia families with will preparation, trust & estate administration, guardianships and conservatorships, long-term care planning, special needs planning, veterans benefits, and more. To learn more, visit http://www.hooklawcenter.com/ or call 757-399-7506.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Children and teens are particularly at risk for mental health issues—including depression, anxiety, PTSD and other issues. According to statistics from the Surgeon General, approximately one in five children in the U.S. will experience a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder between kindergarten and graduation. Failure to address childrens’ mental health needs can have devastating consequences.

Despite the high frequency and the need for help, too many myths and unspoken stigmas plague families who have children struggling with mental health issues. NAMI Westchester offers peer-directed programs in education and support at no-cost. These programs support families, individuals living with mental illness, students, and mental health and school professionals.

More discussion and a public health approach are necessary to address disorders and promote mental health in children. Addressing mental health issues are the responsibility of a parent, school and community, as parents cannot promote mental health alone. As noted by the National Association of School Psychologists, schools are excellent places to promote good mental health. Children spend a significant amount of time in school, and educators have the opportunity to observe and address their needs. Doing so effectively requires developing the capacity both to reinforce children’s natural mental health strengths and to identify and respond to children suffering mental health disorders.

To learn more about both the effects of bullying and mental health and what you can do, you are invited to a seminar:  Understanding the Legal Obligations of a School District Regarding Bullying and Student Mental Health

If your child has a mental health issue, it is important to understand how to seek community support and to understand the legal obligations of your school district.  Too many parents view mental health issues as a “private issue” or believe that things will improve. It is almost impossible for parents to handle mental health issues alone. An experienced attorney and advocate can help you work with your child’s or teen’s school in complex situations involving children’s mental health. Read  about “Signs of Mental Health Problems in Children” by clicking here.

Learn more about our special needs planning and special education advocacy services at www.littmankrooks.com or www.specialneedsnewyork.com.

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In a report released February 11, Institute of Medicine researchers said veterans of the 1991 Persian Gulf War are at a higher risk for developing a number of physical and mental health conditions. These include post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, digestive problems, chronic fatigue syndrome and Gulf War illness. The latter is an umbrella term used to describe undiagnosed symptoms in Gulf War veterans.

The IOM panel examined studies on the prevalence of various diseases in Gulf War veterans as well as those who did not deploy. They then categorized them on a spectrum ranging from “sufficient evidence of a causal relationship” to “inadequate or insufficient evidence to determine an association.”

According to the committee, the over $500 million in government-funded research on Gulf War veterans between 1994 and 2014 has provided little overall insight into the war’s health effects. Although evidence for Gulf War illness has increased in recent years, there has been a lack of progress in determining its causes and understanding how to treat it. The debilitating disease’s wide range of symptoms include fatigue, joint and muscle pain, headaches, gastrointestinal problems and skin rashes.

The IOM committee recommended the VA continue to monitor aging Gulf War veterans for degenerative brain diseases that take a long time to develop, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. The focus should shift to personalized care for veterans and treatment of the illness, as well as its mind-body connection.

However, veterans advocates who suffer from Gulf War-related illnesses expressed outraged at the report. They argued it reflects the panel’s bias toward the VA and selectivity in choosing the studies to review.

Authored by Rep. Julia Brownley, the Female Veterans Suicide Prevention Act will determine which of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ programs are the most effective in preventing female veteran suicides. The measure will also examine factors unique to women in order to allow the development of gender-specific programs.

“We can and must do more to address the epidemic of suicide among our women veterans,” said Brownley. “We know that suicide can be prevented, but we need to work harder to understand the root causes. This bill is an important step forward toward that goal.”

VA studies have shown female veterans are six times more likely to commit suicide as civilian women. The suicide risk doubles for female veterans between the ages of 18 and 29. The majority of research into veteran suicide has focused on males who comprise 90 percent of the veteran population. As a result, the reasons for the high female veteran suicide rate are unclear.

Researchers have identified several possible factors. These include adverse childhood incidents before military service, injuries such as traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma (MST) among women. They found that veterans who experienced sexual assault while in the military faced an overall higher risk of suicide.

Female veterans with a history of MST were more than twice as likely to commit suicide as women veterans without such experiences. The results highlight the importance of MST awareness and mental health treatment for associated conditions such as post-traumatic stress or depression, which can be risk factors for suicide.

Overall, the VA’s suicide prevention efforts have appeared to help male veterans more than women. While the VA has taken steps to improve mental health programs aimed at women, there is no gender-specific data available on their effectiveness.

While PTS symptoms increased the most during the first six months after the service members returned home, they tended to subside after a year. However, researchers were most surprised by the prominence of PTS and severity of symptoms five years after the veterans’ return.

One possible explanation they offered for PTS re-emerging after a long time was that many service members rely on the support of a military group in the early stages to cope with traumatic events. However, such bonding with former peers tends to decrease with time, leading to a delayed stress reaction.

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 11 to 20 percent of Iraq veterans in the United States suffer PTS symptoms each year. These symptoms can include nightmares, flashbacks, nervousness, fear, guilt, depression and difficulty concentrating.

Lead study author Iris Eekhout of VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam said there is a lack of research into the long-term mental health effects that veterans experience. The findings suggest screening for PTS symptoms should continue for more than just a year after veterans return home. Doing so would ensure the condition does not go undiagnosed as new or recurrent cases could emerge.

Eekhout emphasized that it is crucial for veterans to have easy access to mental health care. “It is important to monitor their psychological health for a long time after deployment, because early detection of symptoms is essential to early treatment, which is related to positive outcome,” Eekhout said. The findings were published in the journal The Lancet Psychiatry.

A host of families that are breaking up have no complex issues to discuss and are usually straight forward cases of spousal incompatibility and asset division. Such cases should never end up in the Orange County family law court. Spouses should look to get their divorce alternative solutions to litigation that can save their children from the hate and bitterness of court proceedings.

What can it lead to in kids?

There can be a variety of things that can happen to a kid that goes though Orange County divorce mediation. It can lead to:

• Personality changes
• Gradual withdrawal from society and friends
• Psychological issues such as depression etc.
• Grades dropping

Over the long term, children from broken families that have gone through divorce litigation seem to be susceptible to failing relationship and divorces themselves.

A positive influence on kids

Orange County divorce mediation is process that stand in start opposition to litigation. Mediation allows the spouses to settle their disputes in an environment of harmony and cooperation. It is all about making sure that the two spouses sit down and converse and deliberate the issues at hand for them and end up reaching a logical, long lasting, acceptable solution.

For children that go through an Orange County divorce mediation, it is likely to have a positive impact on their lives. Since mediation is all about cooperation, seeing their parents go through mediation, would help the children avoid unneeded psychological and emotional damage.

Mediation is all about working with each other to produce a result that is mutually acceptable and beneficial for both spouses. This helps the parents keep cordial relations with one another and to keep on friendly if not amicable terms with each other. This will have positive impact on the children since they would be able to understand that while their parents are separating because its best for both of them. Neither hates the other and both will always be there united for the love, care and sake of their children.

Going through Orange County divorce mediation is a better bet to keep your children from getting affected by divorce. You should remember that children are your most valuable assets and you need to make sure that they are safe physically and emotionally from hurt and torment. Mediation helps them escape the torment.

Gerald A. Maggio is a trained Orange County divorce mediator who has amicably resolved cases many cases out of court, as well as an experienced divorce and family law attorney. Mr. Maggio founded California Divorce Mediators in 2012 with the belief that although “not every marriage can be saved, every family can” and a mission to save families from the financial and emotional distress associated with traditional divorce litigation. California Divorce Mediators is located in Irvine, California, and serves the Orange County area and other counties in California offering divorce mediation, child custody mediation and mediation of other family law matters.

Dementia training, open dining halls put bullying at bay in senior living

By Robin Hocevar

Interacting
with horses may ease certain Alzheimer’s symptoms, including mood
problems, depression and anxiety, a recent study found.

The
Ohio State University study followed 16 people with Alzheimer’s
disease. 

Half of the group continued their usual activities at an
adult day care center, while the other half participated in equine
therapy. The equine therapy included grooming, feeding and walking
horses once a week for one month.

The
group that participated in equine therapy displayed marked ease of
symptoms, including improved behavior and increased physical
activity. The level of activity was higher at each subsequent equine
therapy session. The study’s authors believe that both the
interaction with the horses and the rural environment of the farm had
a beneficial effect for the group.

Past
studies have shown that interacting with and caring for animals of
all kinds can help individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as
seniors in general.

To speak with an experienced Virginia Beach and Suffolk elder law and estate planning attorney, call 757-399-7506 or visit www.hooklawcenter.com. 

According to the lawsuit, an outpatient hysterectomy and oophorectomy was performed on Tammy Sparks on October 11, 2012, at Protestant Memorial Medical Center in Belleville, Illinois. The complaint states that the doctor perforated the patient’s bladder and vesciovaginal fistula.

The lawsuit claims that as a result of the perforation, Sparks had to undergo multiple additional surgeries and suffered diminishing health as well as physical, mental and emotional anguish. The lawsuit further claims that Sparks experienced pain and discomfort, incurred medical costs, suffered depression and anxiety, lost her normal life and endured financial hardship.

The lawsuit alleges that the doctor was negligent in failing to treat the patient’s symptoms, contact appropriate specialists, complete examinations and workups, monitor the patient and have her properly tested.

The motion to dismiss claims that Sparks failed to attach a report by a reviewing health care professional to her complaint. Sparks filed the lawsuit pro se.

The lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $150,000, plus costs and other relief.

Paul Greenberg is a Chicago medical malpractice lawyer with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.

The resolution recognizes that PTSD is undertreated and underreported due to stigma and a lack of awareness. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America says the disorder affects an estimated 20 percent of post-9/11 veterans, while the VA reports that Vietnam veterans have “high lifetime rates of PTSD ranging from 10 to 31 percent.”

The goal of this year’s campaign is to help veterans, their caregivers, families and members of the veteran and military community to learn about the PTSD treatment options available to help improve and save lives. The campaign also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of PTSD, which can sometimes be hard to detect. If left untreated, PTSD can lead to homelessness, depression and even suicide.

“Raising PTSD awareness is essential to overcoming the myth, misinformation and stigma that too often prevents veterans from seeking help . . . We encourage everyone to join us in this important effort to share important information about PTSD and help veterans receive care they need,” said VA secretary Robert A. McDonald.

Online resources for raising PTSD awareness are a major focus of the 2015 campaign. The VA runs the National Center for PTSD, which has a website that offers access to the PTSD Coach Online, PTSD Coach mobile app, an online video gallery of veterans discussing the disorder and its treatments and continuing education opportunities for health care providers, among other useful materials.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

The resolution recognizes that PTSD is undertreated and underreported due to stigma and a lack of awareness. Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America says the disorder affects an estimated 20 percent of post-9/11 veterans, while the VA reports that Vietnam veterans have “high lifetime rates of PTSD ranging from 10 to 31 percent.”

The goal of this year’s campaign is to help veterans, their caregivers, families and members of the veteran and military community to learn about the PTSD treatment options available to help improve and save lives. The campaign also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of PTSD, which can sometimes be hard to detect. If left untreated, PTSD can lead to homelessness, depression and even suicide.

“Raising PTSD awareness is essential to overcoming the myth, misinformation and stigma that too often prevents veterans from seeking help . . . We encourage everyone to join us in this important effort to share important information about PTSD and help veterans receive care they need,” said VA secretary Robert A. McDonald.

Online resources for raising PTSD awareness are a major focus of the 2015 campaign. The VA runs the National Center for PTSD, which has a website that offers access to the PTSD Coach Online, PTSD Coach mobile app, an online video gallery of veterans discussing the disorder and its treatments and continuing education opportunities for health care providers, among other useful materials.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com or call 800.693.4800

Some PTSD symptoms include nightmares, heightened emotional reactions and negative changes in mood. Researchers examined 159 Afghanistan and Iraq veterans with PTSD symptoms and found that 69 percent of them had a higher chance of getting the sleep disorder. For every significant increase in PTSD symptom severity, the risk of developing sleep apnea rises 40 percent.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing frequently stops and starts. A common symptom is excessive daytime sleepiness, though not all patients suffer it. Certain aspects of PTSD, such as sleep deprivation and the psychological stress from combat, may increase the chances of developing sleep apnea.

Many veterans tend to experience PTSD and other mental health conditions upon returning to civilian life.

“The implication is that veterans who come to PTSD treatment, even younger veterans, should be screened for obstructive sleep apnea so that they have the opportunity to be diagnosed and treated,” Dr. Sonya Norman, PTSD Consultation Program director at the National Center for PTSD, said in a statement.

Sleep apnea could potentially lead to other health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, depression and worsening PTSD.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

Some PTSD symptoms include nightmares, heightened emotional reactions and negative changes in mood. Researchers examined 159 Afghanistan and Iraq veterans with PTSD symptoms and found that 69 percent of them had a higher chance of getting the sleep disorder. For every significant increase in PTSD symptom severity, the risk of developing sleep apnea rises 40 percent.

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which breathing frequently stops and starts. A common symptom is excessive daytime sleepiness, though not all patients suffer it. Certain aspects of PTSD, such as sleep deprivation and the psychological stress from combat, may increase the chances of developing sleep apnea.

Many veterans tend to experience PTSD and other mental health conditions upon returning to civilian life.

“The implication is that veterans who come to PTSD treatment, even younger veterans, should be screened for obstructive sleep apnea so that they have the opportunity to be diagnosed and treated,” Dr. Sonya Norman, PTSD Consultation Program director at the National Center for PTSD, said in a statement.

Sleep apnea could potentially lead to other health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, depression and worsening PTSD.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com or call 800.693.4800

Staying socially active as you age not only makes life more fun, it can be good for your health. Researchers with the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center conducted a study that found that seniors who were highly social had a rate of cognitive decline 70 percent lower than less-social seniors. Interacting with others and keeping your mind stimulated can help ward off depression and dementia in some…

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The Veteran Affairs (VA) recently published a report that analyzed female veteran suicides over a span of 11 years. The results revealed that they commit suicide at nearly six times the rate of nonveterans.

When broken down by age group, female veterans aged 18 to 29 commit suicide at 12 times the rate of nonveterans. This means that the younger female veterans are committing suicide at twice the rate of the overall female veteran population.  VA researchers could not offer a definitive cause of these troubling statistics, but did offer potential explanations.

The first of which uses another issue among the female veteran population to explain the suicide rate, sexual assault. It is estimated that 23% of women in the military have experienced unwanted sexual contact, 10% of which involve rape. The prolonged distress associated with experiences of sexual assault can lead an individual to develop depression and other psychological illnesses. Ultimately, the victim may take her life.

The second explanation attempted to account for the disproportionately high rate among female veterans in comparison to women overall. Usually, women tend to use pills or other methods besides a firearm when attempting suicide. Such attempts are less lethal than a firearm and result in less successful attempts.

According to government surveys female veterans are more likely than other women to have guns according to government surveys, and thus use them in suicide attempts more often than other women.

Experts also believe soldier’s backgrounds may account for the suicide rate. Previous research showed that men and women who join the military are more likely to have endured difficult childhoods. Since women have only served in the military on a voluntary basis, their damaging childhood experiences may be the reason for taking their own lives in addition to their initial choice to enlist.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

It is often seen that the end of a relationship can leave a mark on a person, and what is a bigger scar than to go through a divorce? These phases can bring up thoughts in one’s minds that are damaging to their personality, such as “I am a failure”, “Nobody can ever love me”, “I am broken and nothing without him/her”.

However, for couples who choose divorce mediation to resolve their divorce, they are likely to face little-to-no self defeating thoughts. The primary reason for this is because Orange County divorce mediation is a process that involves the couples to converse, solve, and mediate their differences to be able to get a usable conclusion. Yet even divorce mediation is likely to fail if a person has already been trapped in the self-defeating thoughts and is unable to break free. Thus, it is important that couples that come into divorce mediation are able to defeat their self-defeating thoughts.

There are two ways to beat self-defeating thoughts. These two ways are having a clear head and distraction. The first way means having a clear and conscious head that is able to look through the apparent despair. All you need to do to defeat these self-defeating thoughts is distinguishing that these perceptions are not reality. Make sure you ask yourself what basis the beliefs you are facing have, envision the happy moments in your life, visualize that into your future, and try to think of the way ahead rather than the cloud of darkness that surrounds you.

The other way of defeating self-defeating thoughts is distraction.  The human mind can easily be distracted from all kinds of thoughts, and all you need to do to succeed against the self defeating thoughts is find an adequate distraction. Distractions are a plenty around you, go from dinners with your friends, plan excursion trips with your family, look for the best holiday destinations, and fly away for some time. What happens to your divorce mediation? The best thing about divorce mediation is that it’s flexible and the timings are decided upon the availability of the client. So you are free to do whatever you want.

Gerald A. Maggio is an experienced Orange County divorce and family law lawyer and family law attorney located in Irvine, California, serving the Orange County and Riverside areas. Mr. Maggio assists clients with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, divorce mediation, child custody, prenuptial agreements, stepparent adoptions, and other family law issues. Mr. Maggio has practiced law in California since 1999, and founded The Maggio Law Firm in 2005, focusing exclusively on divorce and family law matters.

To avoid anxiety and depression look for ways to manage the stress of being a caregiver.

When you are the caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease you are facing physical, emotional and financial challenges. Knowing that millions of people love and care for someone with dementia does not make your experience any less stressful. You will have to problem solve and be resilient. Everyone is focused on the patient but you must not overlook your own emotional and physical health.

As you watch your loved one lose cognitive and physical abilities it is easy to feel burdened. In fact many caregivers suffer significant health problems such as depression, anxiety and exhaustion. Often caregivers feel sad and lonely as well. Therefore support for the caregiver is a necessity. Here are some suggestions for ways the caregiver can plan for the future and protect their own well-being.

Understand the Alzheimer’s and Plan Ahead

It may be scary but it is important to learn about Alzheimer’s and how it will progress over time. This will help you prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Knowing that your loved one will ultimately require 24-hour care may seem depressing but it is important to start preparing for future challenges now and not wait until the situation is critical. You want to start putting plans in place and may value the advice from the loved one with Alzheimer’s while they still have the cognitive ability. In addition you will want to make legal and financial arrangements for the long-term care option you select.

Seek and Accept Help

Even if it isn’t a burden yet, daily caregiving will become a burden as the disease progresses. If friends or family members offer to help with grocery shopping and cleaning accept. If someone offers to spend time with the patient so you can get out for awhile take them up on it. You will be a better caregiver if you have some time away. If friends and family are not able or willing to help you then reach out to volunteer organizations. Don’t feel guilty spending time on your own hobbies and other activities that you enjoy. You need and deserve to have life beyond being a caregiver.

Join a Support Group

Consider looking for an Alzheimer’s support group. Many caregivers have found it valuable to know they are not alone. It is also possible to learn from the experiences of others. Someone who is facing the same challenges can provide you a perspective that is helpful. This is also a great way to reduce the likelihood that you will be a caregiver who feels lonely on this journey.

Actively Relax

To avoid anxiety and depression look for ways to manage the stress of being a caregiver. Consider meditation or yoga to allow your body the opportunity to relax. You may also find your energy levels elevated after completing meditation or yoga. Regular exercise can also be beneficial beyond keeping you physically fit. Endorphins are released which will give you a sense of well-being. You do not need to exercise for a long period at one time. Even 10 minutes of exercise a few times throughout the day can provide significant benefits.

Be Aware of Symptoms

In addition to focusing on Alzheimer’s symptoms you should also be aware of caregiver burnout symptoms. Keep an eye out for the following:

• Social withdrawal from friends
• Inability to experience pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
• Anger at the Alzheimer’s patient
• Concern about how you will handle the future
• Exhaustion to the point that you can barely complete daily activities
• Insomnia
• Repeated illness indicating lower immunity
• Reliance on alcohol
• Excessive irritability

If you fear you are suffering from caregiver burnout seek professional help.

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease and how to support the patient and the caregiver contact us.

The post The Caregiver Requires Support Too appeared first on Estate Planning Lawyers | Elder Law Attorneys | Brighton | Novi | Livonia Elder Law Attorneys.

The Signs of Alzheimer’s

Certain signs of Alzheimer’s disease may be noticed long before the condition is ever diagnosed. Here are some things to look for in your loved one that might indicate he or she is afflicted.

• Memory loss. While some memory loss is normal as a person ages, forgetting recently-learned information is something you should be concerned with, as it is one of the most prevalent early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Misplacing items-Those with Alzheimer’s disease may frequently misplace things, and be unable to locate them, even after much searching. They may even accuse others of stealing because they believe they have left items somewhere they haven’t.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks that could previously be performed with ease. When this happens, family members may be unable to play games they previously enjoyed or have trouble remembering how to drive to familiar locations.
• Distorted visual images-This can result in a loved one having difficulty judging distances, which may lead to difficulty driving.
• Poor judgment, which may lead to making poor financial choices, including giving away large sums of money or falling for scams
• Withdrawal and depression that results in people being unwilling to participate in activities they previously enjoyed.
• Personality changes that typically involve someone becoming easily upset, anxious or fearful, even when in otherwise familiar settings. This change in personality is sometimes a contributing factor to social withdrawal as well.
• Changes in grooming or hygiene, as those with Alzheimer’s may forget to bathe or even be unable to dress themselves properly.
• Becoming confused as to what day of the week it is or even the month or year.
• Difficulty concentrating, which leads to ordinary tasks taking much longer than normal to complete.
• Problems communicating, which may result in them being unable to find the right word to complete a sentence. Individuals may also call things the wrong name or repeat the same stories over and over.

Determining the Severity

Nearly everyone experiences one or more of the above symptoms at least occasionally, so how do you know if these things are signs of Alzheimer’s disease or simply a normal part of aging? That will largely depend on the frequency and severity of symptoms, as those with Alzheimer’s tend to experience these signs more often. They may also interfere with daily living, making it impossible to remember important things such as doctor’s appointments or the need to take medication.

Occasionally experiencing a problem is not likely anything to worry about; however, when these signs are out of character for the person experiencing them, it could mean they are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. As soon as you begin noticing signs, keep track of them so you can determine if they are happening more often or becoming more severe as time goes on.

Take Action Early

If you notice several of these signs in your loved one, it’s important to take action early. This disease becomes progressively worse over time, and there is currently no cure for it. Even so, early diagnosis is important, as its progression can be slowed if caught early enough. An early diagnosis will also give you and your loved one more time to plan for the future, while he or she is still capable of making decisions. If your family member is showing signs of Alzheimer’s, please visit a doctor for a complete medical examination.

After that, contact us for help planning some of life’s most important details.  In fact, contact us for our Alzheimer’s planning guide, prepared for Michigan seniors and their families affected by Alzheimer’s.

The post Know These Early Warning Signs of Alzheimers Disease appeared first on Estate Planning Lawyers | Elder Law Attorneys | Brighton | Novi | Livonia Elder Law Attorneys.

While the importance of making the divorce decision correctly is undeniable, the heartbreak and the toll that it brings is certainly one of the hardest to deal with. Most spouses are left reeling by the prospect of breaking their wedding vows and failing the relation that they had pledged to have throughout their lives. The toll of a divorce can be an immense one and in order to deal with it, there are several tools that need to be used. Here is a list of people that you need around you to make sure you don’t let your divorce take a toll on you.

Your Family

There is a reason that families are the building blocks of society. Your family members are closest to you, because they hold the bond of blood and flesh with you that others don’t. Your family understands you the best and knows the likes and dislikes of the person. Divorce can be one of the hardest times for the person because of emotional and financial strains. Your family is the best suited to help you out in such testing times with emotional backing and even financial support. Your family loves you and they will make sure they do things even if they have to go out of their way to cheer you up and in testing times these people can prove to be your rock.

Your Friends

Who knows your deepest and darkest desires? Who helps you in your most testing times when you can’t approach your family? The answer is your friends.  Divorce is one of the hardest times for you with lots going on in your mind and very little people around that you can confide in. Your friends are your pillar of support that you are going to need throughout the distress and depression of leaving a relationship you valued. California divorce opted through Orange County divorce mediation is likely to have a few financial squabbles and your friends can help you get through the drama and the emotional trauma.

Gerald A. Maggio is a trained Irvine divorce mediator who has amicably resolved cases many cases out of court, as well as an experienced divorce and family law attorney. Mr. Maggio founded California Divorce Mediators in 2012 with the belief that although “not every marriage can be saved, every family can” and a mission to save families from the financial and emotional distress associated with traditional divorce litigation. California Divorce Mediators is located in Irvine, California, and serves the Orange County area and other counties in California offering divorce mediation, child custody mediation and mediation of other family law matters.

Behind the push to attract immigrants is also another hard hitting factor that many U.S. cities have been struggling with for a number of years since the beginning of the latest depression cycle: the ever increasing depopulation of industrial cities. According to Audrey Singer, a Brookings Institution senior fellow, two things start to happen after attracting immigrants: the population increases and there is an uptick in economic activity.

Instead of being viewed as unwelcome aliens that take jobs away from American citizens, these programs view immigration as a dynamic, driving force that holds the key to a better economy and a thriving city. In a manner of speaking, they hold the keys to the city, and are the recipe for revival in desperate times. It is a refreshing change of opinion and begs the question: if American cities are implementing their own alternative to immigration reform, then what is to happen with reform on the grander scale?
Therein lies a can of worms that politicians do not wish to touch. Perhaps the best way to move forward into the future is embrace the concept of global cities. It has been done before, and with success. Now is the time for a recurrence to help America get back on its feet. While it may be a different approach and a contentious one, it is the present reality. When reality calls, it is time to answer, adapt, adjust and move forward.

Rifkin & Fox-Isicoff, PA is immigration law firm in Orlando and Miami Florida. To learn more, visit http://www.rifkinfox.com/.

There are a number of neurological symptoms of brain injuries that, though sometimes rare, can be extremely traumatic for the injured person.  The most common neurological injuries are as follows:

Fatigue.  Fatigue is a very common symptom of people with brain injuries.  Some studies have found that up to 73% of persons with head injuries suffer from fatigue after the injury.   Unfortunately, many of the other symptoms of brain injuries, such as depression, also have a component of fatigue, and fatigue is also a side effect of many medications used to treat other brain injury symptoms.  Thus, treatment of fatigue remains difficult.

Post-traumatic seizures and epilepsy.  Seizures and epilepsy are fairly common symptoms of brain injuries.  Traumatic brain injury accounts for about 5% of all epilepsy cases and is the leading cause of epilepsy in young adults.  The development of seizure or epilepsy symptoms are very dependent on the type of injury sustained.  Many brain injury victims will undergo EEG testing to determine whether or not the patient is having seizures.  It’s important to note that a normal EEG does not mean that you don’t have a brain injury, it only means that you’re not having seizures at the time of the test.

Tremors. Many brain injury victims will develop tremors following their injury.  The most common cause of brain injury tremors is car wrecks where the brain has a history of quick deceleration injuries.

Dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions). Dystonia is a fairly rare, but significant symptom of brain injuries.

Vision problems.  Many brain injured patients have injuries to the optic nerve so the patients experience blurry vision or other changes to their eyesight.  There are other potential causes of sight issues associated with brain injuries that are discussed elsewhere in this series.

Smell problems.  Many brain injuries end up damaging the olfactory nerve so the victim will have an impaired sense of smell.  It is obviously difficult to test for smell issues, and smell is not something you might normally be concerned with after you’re injured, but if you or a loved one mentions smell problems, be alert that it could be related to a brain injury.

Vestibulocochlear nerve problems.  This nerve works on both hearing and balance.  Thus, when it is damaged as part of a brain injury, it can cause problems with hearing and also vertigo symptoms.  Vertigo is very common following a brain injury and a number of our clients have had to undergo vestibular therapy as part of their treatment.

Sleeping disorders.  Sleep-wake disorders and alterations in sleep patterns are very common following brain injuries.   The variety of sleep disorders include insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, narcolepsy, and sleep apnea.  Sleep issues need to be addressed because poor sleep can lead to other health concerns.

INTRODUCTION

As I repeatedly tell clients, brain injuries often go undiagnosed following car wrecks or other accidents because doctors don’t usually know you well enough to make a pre-injury and post-injury comparison of your intelligence, emotional well-being, and general personality.  As a result, it’s often up to you or your family members to notice the symptoms of a brain injury and convey those to medical providers so you get the best care possible.  But to do that, you need to know the symptoms of brain injuries.  This series is designed to help you do that.

You may only realize that you or a family member has a brain injury because you notice changes in you or your family member’s behavior or emotional status.  Some of the common emotional or behavioral issues that we see from brain injuries are as follows:

Irritability.  Many survivors or friends of survivors find that the injured person is more irritable and much more easily angered.  The injured person may also have an angry response to a situation that is greatly out of proportion to what you would normally expect.

Impulsivity.  Many brain injury survivors have problems with impulse control.  They say things they wouldn’t normally say; they take physical actions they wouldn’t normally take; or they demonstrate poor judgment failing to fully think things out.

Affective instability.  Many persons with brain injuries show exaggerated displays of emotion that are way out of proportion to the situation or to the person’s pre-injury self.  As mentioned above, some persons become explosively angry at something that doesn’t seem justified.  Others may become extremely sad over something that doesn’t warrant such a response.

Apathy/Lack of Motivation.  Apathy is very common in persons with brain injuries.  One study has found that more than 60% of brain injury victims suffer some form of apathy.

Depression.  Some studies find that between 30 and 60 percent of brain injury victims have depression.  This doesn’t include the significant percentage of victims who experience some symptoms of depression, but not enough for a formal diagnoses.  Additionally, if victims had depression prior to their injury, a brain injury can make that depression much more severe.

Psychosis.  Psychosis is an infrequent (but high impact) occurrence with brain injuries.  Typical symptoms of psychosis might be delusions, hallucinations, or schizophrenia-like problems.  As I said, these are rare problems in brain injuries, but when they occur, they are very problematic for the affected person.

General Anxiety Disorder. Many brain injury victims describe feelings of anxiety.  If a person has experience anxiety before their injury, then they are much more likely to experience even worse anxiety after the injury.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.  A small percentage of brain injury victims develop OCD after their injury.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.  There are a number of studies finding that victims of brain injuries are also likely to experience PTSD.  This is a problem that is being highlighted by the experiences of our soldiers in the middle east conflicts.  PTSD is also problematic because it makes recovery much more difficult.

Substance Abuse.  Several studies find that victims of brain injuries are much more likely to experience substance use disorders.

Dementia.  There are substantial studies finding that brain injuries both increase the likelihood that the victim develops dementia and also may result in earlier-onset dementia for those who are already pre-disposed to developing dementia.

The holidays are a time of year when many families get together, seeing each other face to face for the first time in many months or more. Experts advise families to carefully watch for signs of possible depression, changes in mental status, or medical issues in older adults and be prepared with spirit lifting activities and be able to develop a plan of action before heading back home.

According to BrightStar Care, a full service home care agency that provides both medical and non-medical care to patients from infants to elders, 15 of every 100 adults over the age of 65 are affected by depression. For many families that are geographically far from their aging loved ones, the holidays m provide a rare opportunity to look for potential warning signs of depression, forgetfulness, or other medical issues.

“Although the holiday season is typically a time of celebration and joy, this time of year can create a sense of nostalgia and melancholy amongst the senior population,” says Sharon Roth Maguire, Chief Clinical Officer of BrighStar Care. “Family visits are a prime opportunity to not only observe the warning signs, but also provide much needed companionship, mental stimulation and general uplifting activities. In many cases, these visits can be lifesaving.”

Roth Maguire encourages family members to look for the following signs when visiting their loved ones:

• Physical Signs-Take note of changes in sleeping and eating habits, including reduced appetite and difficulty sleeping. Accidents around the home, including dizziness or falling could also indicate a physical condition or side effects of improperly mixing medications or taking the wrong doses.
• Appearance-Not shaving, not doing hair or makeup and neglected hygiene can signal the inability to physically care for themselves on their own, or a loss of interest in appearance. Either may indicate depression or a wide range of undiagnosed conditions that require professional attention.
• Emotional Signs-Seniors are especially susceptible to feelings of isolation and depression because of health, financial issues or the loss of a spouse or other loved ones, especially during the holiday season. As families gather together, pay close attention to see if your aging loved one seems disinterested in group conversations and appears dazed or lackluster.
• Environmental Signs-Look for an abnormally messy or cluttered home, piles of laundry or unpaid bills or rotting food in the refrigerator. Any of these things are a sign that the older adult may no longer be able to perform these household tasks on their own, requiring an outside caregiver to help.

The Holidays and winter are also an important time for senior flu prevention, as this time marks the start of flu season. When it comes to infection prevention overall, seniors aged 65 and over are an important and often more vulnerable segment of the population. According to the Center for Disease Control, this is because human immune defenses become weaker with age, making influenza and other infections very serious for the elderly population. In fact more than 60 percent of seasonal flu related hospitalizations in the US each year occur in people 65 years and older.

BrightStar Care’s “Healthy for the Holidays” program aims to promote whole person wellness by focusing on physical as well as emotional health and, specifically, flu prevention and providing additional support to seniors who may have the “Holiday Blues.”

The post Physical and Emotional Health for the Holidays | Gues Post: BrightStar Care appeared first on Estate Planning Lawyers | Elder Law Attorneys | Brighton | Novi | Livonia Elder Law Attorneys.

Bob French has filed the federal discrimination lawsuit against KBTX in College Station and Bryan. He has also claimed retaliation, harassment and violations of the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act.

French alleges that during the 2012 holidays, he was forced to work additional hours while younger staff members were given time off. He claims that the overwork led him to seek medical treatment for exhaustion and depression in 2013 under the Family and Medical Leave Act. 

According to the lawsuit, KBTX advertised an open meteorologist position during the time that French was on protected medical leave. French claims that when he returned to work, he was reprimanded and soon replaced by a meteorologist who was under 40 years of age and did not have a disability.

According to the lawsuit, French had worked for the station for 23 years, and his employment was governed by a written contract that stated that he could not be fired without cause. French said that none of the reasons given for his firing constituted proper cause.

French previously filed charges with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Texas Workforce Commission, alleging discrimination and retaliation. The EEOC completed an investigation in May, clearing the way for the lawsuit to be filed.

Gregory D. Jordan is an employment lawyer. To learn more, visit http://www.theaustintriallawyer.com or call 512-419-0684.

Recent years have seen a welcome shift in public attention toward understanding the serious repercussions of bullying in school. Our society now recognizes that bullying, once dismissed as simply part of growing up,can have a serious negative effect on the mental health and social development of children, even into adulthood.

For children with autism, the problem has even greater scope and effect, in part because children with autism have intrinsic vulnerability to bullying and they are more likely to be victims of bullying. Children often face bullying for being different and the sensitivities and typical peers may not understand the behavioral differences of children with autism.

In addition to being more likely to be bullied, children with autism may have more trouble understanding and responding to teasing. Children with autism tend to interpret statements literally, so they may not understand jokes or sarcasm. Stress and anxiety may lead to an outburst or other problematic behavior, which can lead to further harassment.

The consequences of bullying can be severe. Research has shown that children who are victims of bullying may develop low self-esteem, learning difficulties, anxiety, depression and other symptoms, all of which can persist well into adulthood. In addition, although some types of bullying may decrease as children get older, that may not be the case for children with autism. Indeed, there may be a greater cause for concern with older children.
Here are four action steps you can take to address any bullying of your child:

1. Do Not Ignore Problem of Bullying. Faced with these challenges, it is important for parents and teachers to be aware of the problem and take action to prevent and respond to bullying. Do not ignore early signs that a student is being bullied or is bullying another student.   Some of the focus must be on the bullies rather than the victims. Teachers should not only intervene when they witness bullying themselves, but teach other students how to do so. A school district’s curriculum and code of conduct should promote an environment free of harassment.
2. Help Children Advocate for Themselves and Report to Adults. Children with autism can also be taught how to respond appropriately to different types of bullying behavior. Role-playing exercises can be especially effective in instilling the confidence and self-esteem necessary to respond effectively. Through conversations with parents and teachers, children with autism can learn when they need to strongly stand up for themselves and when they might be able to use a joke to deflect more mild teasing.  Make sure a child has a trusted adult in the school to whom to report any bullying. Parents and teachers must provide an appropriate balance of support to protect children from bullying while allowing independence and peer relationships to develop. Parents should bring this up at their child’s next Committee on Special Education team meeting, so that that team can consider goals to help the child advocate and needed supports for the child.
3. Use State Law and School Policies as Tools to Stop Bullying. Finally, when a child is the victim of bullying, parents and teachers must take steps to intervene. Under New York’s Dignity for All Students Act (“DASA”), schools must protect students by taking prompt action to end harassment, bullying or discrimination that is reported to the administration. Parents should communicate with the school’s Dignity Act Coordinator for students with disabilities, and report any harassment. Check your school district’s policies and procedures
4. Document Bullying. Be sure to document any instances of bullying in writing and report them to the school. Take pictures of any physical injury. Save copies of text or Facebook and other social media messages.

Preventing bullying requires a multifaceted approach, with attention paid to a number of factors within a social context, which is only possible when bullying is recognized as a serious problem. All parents and teachers should take active steps to raise awareness, teach children strategies to respond to harassment, and take action to prevent bullying.

Learn more about special needs planning and special needs advocacy by visiting www.specialneedsnewyork.com.

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Depression and anxiety are common among caregivers, who often provide hours of care each week for years on end. Caregivers face about twice the risk of developing depression and anxiety as the general population.

Caregivers often face social isolation due to the time commitment associated with caregiving. Even caregivers who take their elder into their own home still experience financial strain as a result of the caregiving. Caregivers often neglect their own physical and mental health because of the numerous other demands they face.

Addressing these stressful issues can help prevent elder abuse from occurring. Self-care methods like eating well, exercising and using stress reduction techniques can help give caregivers the energy to provide good care for their loved ones. Support groups and counseling can help caregivers to manage stress and other emotions in healthy ways.

Additionally, caregivers should be willing to ask for help. They should be aware of resources in the community and make use of them as needed. Friends and family may be able to stay with the elder for a few hours, or a local respite care agency can provide temporary care. Elders can also spend the day at adult day care. Caregivers should be able to reach out when overwhelmed. That ability reduces the likelihood of elder abuse.

Friends and family members of caregivers can help to take the stress off overextended caregivers. Regular visits and offering to stay with the elder so that the caregiver can get a break can have a profound impact.

The attorneys at Hook Law Center assist Virginia families with will preparation, trust & estate administration, guardianships and conservatorships, long-term care planning, special needs planning, veterans benefits, and more. To learn more, visit http://www.hooklawcenter.com/ or call 757-399-7506.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can take an immense toll on caregivers. From the emotional impact of watching a parent or spouse slowly decline as the disease takes hold, to the time commitment and financial impact of caregiving, caregivers often develop anxiety or depression.

Caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s need care to be able to cope with their situation, and getting care benefits both the caregiver and the patient.

The Strategies for Relatives (START) program educates participants about managing dementia patients, emotional support and planning for the future. A recent study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Copenhagen found that even years later, participants had lower levels of depression and anxiety, as well as lower costs for care.

Some strategies for self-care when caring for an Alzheimer’s patient include:

• Finding time for breaks – is there a time when your loved one can attend an activity or care center?

• Joining an Alzheimer’s Association support group

• Maintaining your physical health by cooking healthy meals and taking walks

• Learning techniques for managing Alzheimer’s patients and experimenting with what works for your situation

• Letting others in your life know what they can do to help

The elder law attorneys at Hook Law Center assist Virginia families with will preparation, trust & estate administration, guardianships and conservatorships, long-term care planning, special needs planning, veterans benefits, and more. To learn more, visit http://www.hooklawcenter.com/ or call 757-399-7506.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can take an immense toll on caregivers. From the emotional impact of watching a parent or spouse slowly decline as the disease takes hold, to the time commitment and financial impact of caregiving, caregivers often develop anxiety or depression.

Caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s need care to be able to cope with their situation, and getting care benefits both the caregiver and the patient.

The Strategies for Relatives (START) program educates participants about managing dementia patients, emotional support and planning for the future. A recent study presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Copenhagen found that even years later, participants had lower levels of depression and anxiety, as well as lower costs for care.

Some strategies for self-care when caring for an Alzheimer’s patient include:

• Finding time for breaks – is there a time when your loved one can attend an activity or care center?

• Joining an Alzheimer’s Association support group

• Maintaining your physical health by cooking healthy meals and taking walks

• Learning techniques for managing Alzheimer’s patients and experimenting with what works for your situation

• Letting others in your life know what they can do to help

A Divorce Mediator Will Make Things Easier

It is safe to assume that couples over the age of 50 have had several years to work on their marriage (apart from a few exceptions). If a couple, where both partners are over the age of 50, is getting divorced, there can be a number of reasons behind it. Maybe after years of trying to work on their marriage, they finally decided to throw in the towel. Maybe one party retired and stared spending more time at home, resulting in more conflict and more arguments than usual. No matter what the reason, the divorce has to be handled in a responsible way.

Although couples over the age of 50 may not have to worry about child support, they will have to be concerned about paying long-term spousal support, division of retirement funds, and property distribution. Such matters can turn ugly if they are not dealt with in a calm and professional way, and that is why involving a professional divorce mediator is a good idea.  Why spend the money that has been saved for a lifetime on court litigation when that money will be needed soon enough with the retirement years coming up in only a few years?

A Divorce Mediator Will Take Care of All the Legal Hassles

When people over the age of 50 file for divorce, the divorce mediator has to sort out through issues such as estate planning, taxes, health insurance, spousal support, division of liabilities and assets, and retirement benefits. If both or one of the partners is retired, the California divorce mediators have to deal with situations like deciding on who gives money to whom and how the assets will be divided amongst each other. Assuming that the couple has accumulated many assets over the years, dividing them can be complicated and difficult, and you need a divorce mediator to handle all the legal matters.

A Divorce Mediator Will Help You Reach a Peaceful Resolution

Whether you are in your 20s, 50s, or anywhere in between, no one wants to go through a messy divorce. Still, a lot of people are not able to handle their divorce in a mature way, mostly because they are dealing with strong emotions such as anger, depression, and heartbreak. Hiring the services of a California divorce mediation firm means that they are opting for a more peaceful dissolution of their marriage. The mediator creates a safe environment where they can communicate with each other and find out what each party wants.

Elder couples going through a divorce should seek the assistance of a California divorce mediation firm to help them reach an agreement that will not emotionally deprive them or their children. Divorce at any age is stressful and unpleasant, but going to a divorce mediator to sort out the financials can lessen the pain between two parties.

If you are located in Orange County or anywhere else in California, and are planning to get divorced, you should seek the assistance of a reliable divorce mediator. For further information or to schedule a consultation with California Divorce Mediators, please call (949) 553-0911 or visit www.cadivorcemediators.com.  California Divorce Mediators is an experienced Divorce Mediation and Family Law firm serving the Orange County and Riverside areas and neighboring counties, serving individuals, couples and families with legal issues including divorce, legal separation, spousal support, child support and child custody issues.

Owning pets can provide health improvements for some seniors.

According to a recent study by the Purdue University School of Nursing, pets can reduce depression and help keep seniors on a regular eating schedule, improving nutrition. Other studies have found that seniors who own pets have greater self-esteem and are less lonely and fearful, improving their mental well-being.

At the same time, it is important to be aware that pets and pet toys may increase the risk of falls, which can be a danger to older people. And while taking care of pets is a joy for many seniors, some may find it difficult to keep up with their care, adding to stress. With those caveats in mind, many seniors’ health and well-being are improved by animal companionship.

The Virginia Beach SPCA participates in the activities of the Pets for the Elderly Foundation, a public charity that promotes pet ownership for seniors. For more information, visit www.petsfortheelderly.org.

The elder law attorneys at Hook Law Center assist Virginia families with will preparation, trust & estate administration, guardianships and conservatorships, long-term care planning, special needs planning, veterans benefits, and more. To learn more, visit http://www.hooklawcenter.com/ or call 757-399-7506.

The study included nearly 5,000 public school students from 11 to 20 years old in Ontario, Canada. The students were asked whether they had ever suffered TBI (defined as a head injury that resulted in at least five minutes of unconsciousness or at least one overnight stay at a hospital). Their mental and emotional health was then assessed with a questionnaire on symptoms of anxiety, depression and social dysfunction. They were asked whether they had ever considered or attempted suicide, contacted a crisis hotline or been prescribed medication for anxiety or depression.

Twenty percent of students reported TBI to the researchers. Compared to those who did not report TBI, those who did were more than three times as likely to have attempted suicide, nearly twice as likely to have thought about suicide and 2.45 times as likely to have been prescribed psychotropic medication.

Currently, modern medicine has very little ability to treat concussions directly and only moderate ability to treat the lasting debilitating symptoms. Our best weapon is prevention. Make sure your children wear helmets while riding bicycles. If they engage in high-impact sports, make sure they wear helmets when appropriate. Consider speaking with athletic officials about their policy concerning TBI prevention and response.

If you need to speak with a brain injury attorney or lawyer, Call Joyce & Reyes at 1.888.771.1529 or visit more of http://www.joyceandreyespa.com/.

 The five conditions linked to moderate to severe TBI were: Parkinson’s disease, certain types of dementia, depression, unprovoked seizures, and certain diseases of the hypothalamus and pituitary glands.

 Those secondary illnesses will be considered service-connected and won’t require medical opinions to establish whether there is correlation to TBI. However, the findings come with some caveats to receiving benefits.

The severity of a TBI must be “moderate to severe” and three of the five illnesses need to manifest themselves within a certain length of time from the TBI. Dementia must manifest within 15 years of a TBI. For depression, it’s three years (or 12 months for a mild TBI). For hormone deficiencies of the hypothalamus or pituitary glands it’s 12 months.

Still, the VA encourages veterans to file claims even if they don’t meet the severity of TBI or length of time between TBI and the secondary illness.

Read more here: http://www.sentinelsource.com/life_and_style/lifestyles/va-links-five-more-illnesses-to-traumatic-brain-injuries/article_ac7eb8fb-17ea-5ec4-b4dc-608069279501.html#.UtcpDp9BXsk.gmail

For more information on veteran benefits and answers to FAQs, visit www.legalhelpforveterans.com and be sure to check out our e-books as well.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact an attorney about your PTSD, TBI, Mental Health, Sexual Assault, Hearing Loss and Tinnitus, TDIU, Medical Malpractice, or Aid and Attendance claim, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

The initial complaint was filed by a woman who claimed that her daughter was born with severe heart defects after she was prescribed sertraline, a generic version of Zoloft. The drug is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, prescribed as a treatment for depression.

The case against Pfizer was based on the fact that federal law requires generic drugs to carry the same warning label as the medication on which they are based. The lawsuit alleged that Pfizer issued an inadequate warning label on the original Zoloft, resulting in an inadequate warning label on the generic equivalent.

Judge Huff said that New York courts have not addressed the issue of whether drug makers have a responsibility to ensure adequate labeling on generic versions of their products. She said that Pfizer had no role in providing the plaintiff with sertraline. The judge said that the sertraline was supplied by a third party, and that another third party, the federal government, created the labeling requirement.

Paul Greenberg is a Chicago birth injury lawyer with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.

More than 4,500 former professional football players had entered into lawsuits against the NFL when a $765 million settlement was reached recently. Following a months-long period of court-ordered mediation, U.S. District Judge Anita Brody announced the settlement, which she must yet approve in order for it to go into effect. The plaintiffs claimed a wide variety of concussion-related symptoms, including memory loss, impaired speech and motor control, depression, and mood swings. At least two former NFL players committed suicide by self-inflicted gunshot wounds to the chest and left notes asking that their brains be donated for scientific research.

The NFL also implemented safety-oriented rule changes for the 2012 season, including prohibiting “head shots” and making them fineable, and requiring heavier protective padding. That season, 160 players were diagnosed with concussion-like symptoms, a steep decline from the previous season’s 270 such diagnoses.

Far more pressing is the issue of how to protect children who play contact sports. Over a quarter-million concussions are reported among high school athletes each year. In July, 2012, a Florida law went into effect that requires young athletes suspected of sustaining a head injury or concussion to be immediately removed from practice and competition. After completing a gradual, four-course return to play, consisting of light activity, then moderate aerobic activity, followed by drills specific to their sport, and finally full-contact practice, athletes are allowed to return to competition with a doctor’s written medical clearance.

Concussion is difficult to diagnose, but a commercial software program called ImPACT, already in use by the NFL, has recently been adopted by a number of Tampa Bay-area high schools. The program requires fully healthy athletes to complete a series of computerized cognitive tests before the season begins. Following a head injury, players must post a score as high as or higher than their baseline score before they can return to play. While the program shows promise, it is easily manipulated by players who deliberately score lower than they are able on initial tests in order to get back in the game as soon as possible in the event they are injured.

On the federal level, the Youth Sports Concussion Act was recently introduced by Senators Jay Rockefeller and Tom Udall. If passed, the bill would instruct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to review a forthcoming report from the National Academy of Sciences on sports-related concussions in young athletes. After the review, the CPSC would be authorized to issue recommendations or rule changes for manufacturers of sporting equipment.

If you need to speak with a brain injury attorney or lawyer, Call Joyce & Reyes at 1.888.771.1529 or visit more of http://www.joyceandreyespa.com/.

Effexor, introduced in 1993, was the first serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant, as distinguished from the more common selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The FDA approved the drug for treatment of anxiety and depression, and by 2007 it was the sixth-most-prescribed antidepressant in the U.S., with 17.2 million prescriptions written annually. Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, the drug’s manufacturer, was acquired by Pfizer in 2009. A generic version of the drug, venlafaxine, was approved for sale in 2010.

Studies have linked Effexor to many side effects, ranging from relatively mild effects such as weight gain and fatigue to serious risks such as suicide ideation and birth injuries, when the medication is used by pregnant women.

Birth injuries linked to Effexor include spina bifida, atrial or ventricular septal defects, club foot, heart murmurs and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). The drug has also been linked to spontaneous miscarriage when used by pregnant women.

Such injuries have led to a number of lawsuits. The first lawsuit over birth injuries allegedly caused by ingesting Effexor was filed in February 2012, with two more lawsuits following the same year. The first lawsuit was filed by a woman who claimed that she ingested Effexor while pregnant and that this caused a fatal heart defect in her daughter. Her daughter was born in February 2010 with a malformed aorta, among other defects. The child died soon after birth. According to the lawsuit, the drug’s manufacturer knew or should have known of the risks and failed to warn consumers.

Bob Briskman is a Chicago malpractice attorney with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.

Research has found a correlation between caregiver stress and elder abuse. For instance, caregivers who experience depression or feel overwhelmed or unappreciated are more likely to abuse or neglect the elders they care for. In addition, certain behaviors by the one being cared for, such as refusing to eat or take medication, can cause stress and trigger abuse or neglect.

While the vast majority of caregiver relationships are free of abuse and neglect, it is important to be aware that high caregiver stress levels are a potential warning sign. There are services and techniques available to help reduce caregiver stress. Support groups are an important way for caregivers to release stress by sharing feelings. Respite care is also essential for the emotional health of caregivers. Educational resources are also available to assist people providing care for elders.

For an introduction to some of the resources available to caregivers, visit the National Aging Information Resource Center’s webpage on Resources for Caregivers at www.aoa.gov/NAIC/Notes/caregiverresource.html.

A new study indicates that grandparents and grandchildren have real, measurable effects on each other’s psychological well-being long into grandchildren’s adulthood.

“We found that an emotionally close grandparent-adult grandchild relationship was associated with fewer symptoms of depression for both generations,” said Sara M. Moorman, an assistant professor in the Department of Sociology and the Institute on Aging at Boston College.

(Related: Obamacare and Long-Term Care Insurance)

Moorman will present the study at the 108th Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association. “The greater emotional support grandparents and adult grandchildren received from one another, the better their psychological health.”

Furthermore, the study revealed that giving tangible support to or receiving it from their grandchildren affected the psychological well-being of grandparents but not grandchildren. Also called functional solidarity or instrumental support, tangible support includes everything from a ride to the doctor to a helping hand with household chores and advice. In comparison, the researchers discovered that grandparents who both gave and received tangible support experienced the fewest symptoms of depression over time.

(Related: Reverse Mortgages Rules May Become More Restrictive)

“Therefore, encouraging more grandparents and adult grandchildren to engage in this type of exchange may be a fruitful way to reduce depression in older adults,” said Moorman. Also indicated in the study was that helping older adults remain functionally independent could aid their psychological well-being, says Moorman.

(Related: Ohio judge validates a will written and signed on a tablet computer)

 “Most of us have been raised to believe that the way to show respect to older family members is to be solicitous and to take care of their every need,” Moorman said. “But all people benefit from feeling needed, worthwhile, and independent. In other words, let granddad write you a check on your birthday, even if he’s on Social Security and you’ve held a real job for years now.”

Source: EurekAlert

Christopher J. Berry is an elder law attorney Dedicated to helping seniors, veterans and their families navigate the long-term care maze. To learn more visit http://www.theeldercarefirm.com/ or call 248.481.4000

Robin Lynn, as Special Administrator of the Estate of Bradley Lynn, filed the lawsuit on June 21 in Madison County Circuit Court.

According to the complaint, Bradley Lynn sought treatment from a specialist in psychiatry and neurology for suicidal tendencies. Lynn’s wife claims that the psychiatrist failed to properly diagnose him with bi-polar disorder and failed to properly monitor him while he was prescribed medication.

The lawsuit alleges that Bradley Lynn’s depression became worse and he committed suicide several weeks after beginning treatment. Lynn’s wife accuses the psychiatrist of negligence in failing to recognize the seriousness of his disorder. The wrongful death lawsuit seeks damages in excess of $225,000 for medical expenses and costs of the lawsuit.

Paul Greenberg is a Chicago wrongful death attorney with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit http://www.briskmanandbriskman.com/.

by Patty Cisco
Summer is the time for action! Unfortunately for senior care and living organizations, summer
typically represents sluggish census and occupancy results. The sales reps and marketing
directors who work in the trenches can certainly make a list of all the reasons why this occurs.
While there may be validity to some of those reasons, they also can be the excuse that creates a
barrier to productive activity. Taking a proactive approach to your marketing strategies and sales
tactics now will not only reap results in the summer months, but you’ll be surprised by what your
third and fourth quarters will yield.

1. Focus on quality, not quantity, in your sales calls. Analyze your referral list over a two-year
period. Categorize your referral sources as follows: A (represents top 15% of your referral
sources that make up 65% of your referrals); B (represents 20% of your referral sources that
make up 20% of your referrals; C (represents 65% of your remaining referrals sources that make
up 15% of your referrals; D (no referrals received but relationship worth maintaining). Compare
this referral analysis to current sales call activity. How much time are you spending on
non-referral related external sales calls?

2. Evaluate your marketing strategies. Compare how much time you spend on fun-oriented
marketing activities vs. educational activities and media buys vs. relationship-oriented. Your
time is precious and limited. Stop doing what’s not working and focus on target audience
activity.

3. Scrub lead lists. The cheapest leads are those you have. Set aside the time to review your lead
list and make a follow up. Contact is key to turning leads. Also, don’t forget to update your email
database list.

4. Break down barriers with education. If you or other decision makers in your organization
aren’t sure where to start with establishing a sales culture (people, systems and processes), or
haven’t engaged in an interactive website or have yet to initiate a social media strategy then
maybe it’s time to start strategizing. Plan to attend The Discovery to Sustainable Census
Workshop. Click here for more information on the Workshop.

5. Engage in a Just Ask Campaign. Yes, that’s right, it’s ok to ask for. Engage your staff, current
and past families, residents and network associates in a fun campaign designed to send prospects
of interest your way.

6. Stop all marketing activities for 30 days and just engage in a Summer Blitz! It’s a fun break
from the routine and creates a lot of buzz.

7. Engage in an online interactive campaign that focuses on one core service line. This strategy is
beneficial for special offerings, discounts, new services etc.

Senior care and living organizations can no longer stay in the comfort zone of past marketing
strategies and sales tactics. It’s time for a paradigm shift if you want to drive sustainable census
and occupancy. Starting a proactive action plan now for the summer months will pay in census
benefits later.

 
Bullying In Workplace Brings Devastation to the Company In The Long Run

Bullying in workplace is one of the types of abuse a particular employee or a group of employees
are subjected to at a workplace. It has many forms and comes in the form of verbal, physical or
emotional abuse. This is found in almost all the places like schools, churches and workplaces.
This can happen in many ways face to face, or in your absence, or online or with your friends and
relatives or even with strangers. Bullying is said to take place when a person is repeatedly
exposed over a period of time to any form of negative action from one or more of other persons
and he or she has difficulty in defending himself or herself from these actions.

Bullying in workplace is very common and it cannot be remedied by avoidance as in other cases
of bullying. Most of the times the workplace bullying makes the life of the person targeted more
difficult and unhappy and leads to constant mental strain. This has a very bad effect on his
morale and his productivity suffers much. Due to this, a hostile work environment develops that
leads to deterioration in the work values of the employees. But as per an estimate of the
Workplace Bullying Institute more than one third of the employees are subject to one form or
other of the bullying in workplace during some point of their work life.

The Bullying in a workplace can occur in many ways and some of them include:

Unjustified hypercritical judgment
Unnecessary or unfounded blame
Undue segregation
Isolation
Indifferent treatment from co-workers
Unnecessary yelling and humiliation in front of co-workers
Disproportionate monitoring of the work
Unnecessary verbal or written warnings etc
Vague or untrue claims of poor or underperformance

The bad effects of bulling in workplace

When there is bullying in workplace the employees who are subject to bullying are suffer more in
terms of physical and mental effects. They have very high stress levels, and suffer from extreme
bitterness in their attitude. They usually suffer from depression, and usually do not have any
motivation to excel in their jobs and exhibit greater levels of hostility towards other employees.
Due to the constant depression and stress they suffer from many physical illnesses like digestive
problems, sleeping disorders like insomnia and usually have high blood pressure.

Those in the management must always be aware of the fact that bullying in workplace is not the
right way of running their business as a company with bullying becomes dysfunctional and
inefficient. You can see that the absenteeism and low productivity are the norms of any working
day and due to this the company suffers very strong negative growth factors in the long run. An
employee who is subject to bullying in workplace becomes totally against any form of innovation
at his workplace and he never expresses or develops his own ideas for the betterment of the
company.

Due to the hostile and unfavorable work environment even quality employees who are not bullied
also feel it necessary to leave the company at their earliest opportunities. When the bullying in
workplace is known to outside world new employees do not opt to come into the company for
fear of being bullied while working for the company.

Compression Therapy Reduces Blood Clots in Stoke Patients, Study Finds

New research shows that inexpensive leg compression devices help prevent fatal blood clots in
stroke patients. The thigh-length sleeves promote blood flow by periodically filling with air and
gently squeezing the legs. Vascular PRN, based in Tampa, Fla., is a leading national distributor
of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) therapy equipment. Greg Grambor, the company’s
president, commented on the study.

“Compression therapy has been around for over 20 years,” Grambor said. “Many doctors have
already come to rely on this equipment for safe, effective, and affordable prevention of deep vein
thrombosis. I’m glad this new research was done, and I hope it will help convince more doctors to
give it a try.”

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot inside a vein deep within the body.
It is common in stroke patients and immobile patients and can also occur in healthy people on
long flights where movement is restricted. When a clot detaches, it can then become lodged in
the arteries of the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

The study involved nearly 3,000 stroke patients at over 100 hospitals across the United Kingdom.
Results showed 8.5 percent of patients treated with compression devices developed blood clots,
versus 12.1 percent of patients who received alternative treatments.

“Many patients at risk of DVT are prescribed blood thinning drugs,” Grambor added. “But these
drugs increase the risk of bleeding, which is quite dangerous for stroke patients as it may lead to
bleeding in the brain.”

So far, no study has conclusively shown that blood thinners increase the survival rate of stroke
patients. Doctors at the European Stroke Conference, held in London on May 31, 2013, discussed
the study’s findings. Professor Martin Dennis of the University of Edinburgh said that the UK’s
guidelines for treatment of stroke should be revised to recommend IPC treatment for all patients
at high risk of DVT. Currently, they only recommend it in cases where blood thinners are
unsuccessful or too risky.

Each year, some 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke. One third of strokes are fatal and
another third result in permanent disability.

Vascular PRN may be reached at 800-886-4331.

by Patty Cisco
Summer is the time for action! Unfortunately for senior care and living organizations, summer
typically represents sluggish census and occupancy results. The sales reps and marketing
directors who work in the trenches can certainly make a list of all the reasons why this occurs.
While there may be validity to some of those reasons, they also can be the excuse that creates a
barrier to productive activity. Taking a proactive approach to your marketing strategies and sales
tactics now will not only reap results in the summer months, but you’ll be surprised by what your
third and fourth quarters will yield.

1. Focus on quality, not quantity, in your sales calls. Analyze your referral list over a two-year
period. Categorize your referral sources as follows: A (represents top 15% of your referral
sources that make up 65% of your referrals); B (represents 20% of your referral sources that
make up 20% of your referrals; C (represents 65% of your remaining referrals sources that make
up 15% of your referrals; D (no referrals received but relationship worth maintaining). Compare
this referral analysis to current sales call activity. How much time are you spending on
non-referral related external sales calls?

2. Evaluate your marketing strategies. Compare how much time you spend on fun-oriented
marketing activities vs. educational activities and media buys vs. relationship-oriented. Your
time is precious and limited. Stop doing what’s not working and focus on target audience
activity.

3. Scrub lead lists. The cheapest leads are those you have. Set aside the time to review your lead
list and make a follow up. Contact is key to turning leads. Also, don’t forget to update your email
database list.

4. Break down barriers with education. If you or other decision makers in your organization
aren’t sure where to start with establishing a sales culture (people, systems and processes), or
haven’t engaged in an interactive website or have yet to initiate a social media strategy then
maybe it’s time to start strategizing. Plan to attend The Discovery to Sustainable Census
Workshop. Click here for more information on the Workshop.

5. Engage in a Just Ask Campaign. Yes, that’s right, it’s ok to ask for. Engage your staff, current
and past families, residents and network associates in a fun campaign designed to send prospects
of interest your way.

6. Stop all marketing activities for 30 days and just engage in a Summer Blitz! It’s a fun break
from the routine and creates a lot of buzz.

7. Engage in an online interactive campaign that focuses on one core service line. This strategy is
beneficial for special offerings, discounts, new services etc.

Senior care and living organizations can no longer stay in the comfort zone of past marketing
strategies and sales tactics. It’s time for a paradigm shift if you want to drive sustainable census
and occupancy. Starting a proactive action plan now for the summer months will pay in census
benefits later.

 
Bullying In Workplace Brings Devastation to the Company In The Long Run

Bullying in workplace is one of the types of abuse a particular employee or a group of employees
are subjected to at a workplace. It has many forms and comes in the form of verbal, physical or
emotional abuse. This is found in almost all the places like schools, churches and workplaces.
This can happen in many ways face to face, or in your absence, or online or with your friends and
relatives or even with strangers. Bullying is said to take place when a person is repeatedly
exposed over a period of time to any form of negative action from one or more of other persons
and he or she has difficulty in defending himself or herself from these actions.

Bullying in workplace is very common and it cannot be remedied by avoidance as in other cases
of bullying. Most of the times the workplace bullying makes the life of the person targeted more
difficult and unhappy and leads to constant mental strain. This has a very bad effect on his
morale and his productivity suffers much. Due to this, a hostile work environment develops that
leads to deterioration in the work values of the employees. But as per an estimate of the
Workplace Bullying Institute more than one third of the employees are subject to one form or
other of the bullying in workplace during some point of their work life.

The Bullying in a workplace can occur in many ways and some of them include:

Unjustified hypercritical judgment
Unnecessary or unfounded blame
Undue segregation
Isolation
Indifferent treatment from co-workers
Unnecessary yelling and humiliation in front of co-workers
Disproportionate monitoring of the work
Unnecessary verbal or written warnings etc
Vague or untrue claims of poor or underperformance

The bad effects of bulling in workplace

When there is bullying in workplace the employees who are subject to bullying are suffer more in
terms of physical and mental effects. They have very high stress levels, and suffer from extreme
bitterness in their attitude. They usually suffer from depression, and usually do not have any
motivation to excel in their jobs and exhibit greater levels of hostility towards other employees.
Due to the constant depression and stress they suffer from many physical illnesses like digestive
problems, sleeping disorders like insomnia and usually have high blood pressure.

Those in the management must always be aware of the fact that bullying in workplace is not the
right way of running their business as a company with bullying becomes dysfunctional and
inefficient. You can see that the absenteeism and low productivity are the norms of any working
day and due to this the company suffers very strong negative growth factors in the long run. An
employee who is subject to bullying in workplace becomes totally against any form of innovation
at his workplace and he never expresses or develops his own ideas for the betterment of the
company.

Due to the hostile and unfavorable work environment even quality employees who are not bullied
also feel it necessary to leave the company at their earliest opportunities. When the bullying in
workplace is known to outside world new employees do not opt to come into the company for
fear of being bullied while working for the company.

Compression Therapy Reduces Blood Clots in Stoke Patients, Study Finds

New research shows that inexpensive leg compression devices help prevent fatal blood clots in
stroke patients. The thigh-length sleeves promote blood flow by periodically filling with air and
gently squeezing the legs. Vascular PRN, based in Tampa, Fla., is a leading national distributor
of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) therapy equipment. Greg Grambor, the company’s
president, commented on the study.

“Compression therapy has been around for over 20 years,” Grambor said. “Many doctors have
already come to rely on this equipment for safe, effective, and affordable prevention of deep vein
thrombosis. I’m glad this new research was done, and I hope it will help convince more doctors to
give it a try.”

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot inside a vein deep within the body.
It is common in stroke patients and immobile patients and can also occur in healthy people on
long flights where movement is restricted. When a clot detaches, it can then become lodged in
the arteries of the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

The study involved nearly 3,000 stroke patients at over 100 hospitals across the United Kingdom.
Results showed 8.5 percent of patients treated with compression devices developed blood clots,
versus 12.1 percent of patients who received alternative treatments.

“Many patients at risk of DVT are prescribed blood thinning drugs,” Grambor added. “But these
drugs increase the risk of bleeding, which is quite dangerous for stroke patients as it may lead to
bleeding in the brain.”

So far, no study has conclusively shown that blood thinners increase the survival rate of stroke
patients. Doctors at the European Stroke Conference, held in London on May 31, 2013, discussed
the study’s findings. Professor Martin Dennis of the University of Edinburgh said that the UK’s
guidelines for treatment of stroke should be revised to recommend IPC treatment for all patients
at high risk of DVT. Currently, they only recommend it in cases where blood thinners are
unsuccessful or too risky.

Each year, some 15 million people worldwide suffer a stroke. One third of strokes are fatal and
another third result in permanent disability.

Vascular PRN may be reached at 800-886-4331.

“Post-concussion syndrome” (PCS) is a set of symptoms that often follow a concussion and may last for days, weeks, and in severe cases, a year or more. Symptoms fall into one of three categories: physical, such as headache and dizziness; behavioral or emotional, such as irritability, anxiety, and depression; and cognitive, such as problems with attention and memory.

PCS can be difficult to diagnose because many of its symptoms are common to other ailments. PCS sufferers can receive treatment only for their symptoms, such as medication for pain and psychotherapy for psychological issues; there is no known treatment of the syndrome itself. Although PCS by definition occurs following a concussion, the direct cause is not known.

In a strong majority of cases, PCS eventually resolves itself completely. For about half of sufferers, symptoms subside within one month of the injury, and about two thirds are symptom-free within three months. If someone with PCS suffers a second blow to the head, they are at risk of developing second-impact syndrome, a dangerous swelling of the brain. Prolonged repetition of minor brain injuries, such as those suffered by professional boxers and football players, increases the risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a debilitating chronic disorder in which many of the symptoms of PCS become permanent.

If you suffered a brain injury that may be the fault of another, you need experienced legal representation on your side. At Joyce and Reyes, we can get you the compensation you deserve.

If you need to speak with a personal injury attorney, Call Joyce & Reyes at 1.888.771.1529 or visit more of http://www.joyceandreyespa.com/.

The unusual number of sports players who experienced TBI (traumatic brain injury) and later committed suicide, and the number of military vets who experienced TBI while in combat and later committed suicide may not be a coincidence, say researchers.

“Research on traumatic brain injury is of utmost concern right now for veteran disability advocates,” commented veterans disability lawyer James Fausone.

A new study published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry has proposed a link between multiple concussions or traumatic brain injuries and suicidal actions later. In addition, the researchers found that a significant number of the men who experienced military-related TBI had a sports-playing history, which indicates that they may have experienced TBI on the playing field years earlier, as well.

The study, conducted by an Air Force psychologist, looked at 161 individuals sent to his clinic for suspected concussions. Those interviewed were asked about any history of head trauma, any battles with depression, PTSD or struggling with suicidal thoughts. The study concluded that many of the head injuries referenced by the study participants, in some cases as many as 6 injuries by one individual, were sustained prior to military service. Approximately 20 percent of the study participants reported that they experience concussion during their basic training, and some reports that they had sustained as many as 15 different head injuries during their tour of duty.

Post-traumatic stress disorder and depression are both high-risk factors for suicide, and combat experience typically would only increase their severity, said the researchers. Individuals who already experience one or both of these conditions and then join the service would explain why there are such high levels of suicide in the Armed Forces.

The researchers suggest that head trauma may set up a pre-existing disposition towards suicidal idealization or action which is then exacerbated by additional head trauma during combat. Exposure to an IED (improvised explosive device) buffets the brain within the skull by concussive shock waves, which can cause bleeding in the brain at numerous, hard-to-detect sites, causing damage. Subtle traumatic brain injury can be impossible to detect by an average physical; it is possible that many military personnel entered the service well enough to serve, and then subsequent damage further made them more susceptible to suicidal thoughts than someone who had not sustained sports-related concussions or other head injuries.

Source

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/foreign-affairs-defense/a-new-link-between-traumatic-brain-injury-and-suicide/

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact an attorney about your PTSD, TBI, Mental Health, Sexual Assault, Hearing Loss and Tinnitus, TDIU, Medical Malpractice, or Aid and Attendance claim, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

A new study has determined that vets with mental health conditions including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression typically must wait an average of two years after returning from deployment before their mental health issues are addressed by Veterans Affairs.

 ”When the vets do begin to receive mental health treatment, the study also found that care is often fragmented and not as effective as is needed,” commented veterans disability lawyer James Fausone.

The study, published in the journal Psychiatric Services in December 2012, looked at vets of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars between 2001and 2011 processed by Veterans Affairs (VA) medical centers.  These men and women typically were given with eight sessions of mental health treatment, a number considered far lower than that in the civilian population looking for PTSD or depression support, and widely considered “minimally adequate.” Seventy-five percent of vets who went to the VA for support did not even receive what researchers dubbed “minimally adequate care.”

Numerous issues may delay mental health care for veterans, including the social stigma that still may longer around mental health issues for some people, including concern that seeking care may jeopardize future job prospects. The overburdened VA system also means that many vets have long waits to get appointments for initial assessment; the average wait for a mental health evaluation at the VA was 50 days, according to a 2012 report from the VA’s inspector general.

The VA has announced that it is adding additional staff and partnering with community health centers to broaden support for veterans in their communities; 15 clinics in sevenU.S.states are now able to treat veterans with the VA’s approval.

But more is needed, say mental health advocates.  The VA inspector general’s report found that approximately 30 percent of high-risk (i.e., potential suicidal) vets were not receiving the mandated multiple follow-up mental health visits within 30 days after an emergency hospitalization. There was no documented contact by the VA of even reaching out to those vets to remind them of follow-up appointments.

http://www.foxnews.com/health/2013/05/31/for-veterans-mental-health-care-often-fragmented/

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact a veterans lawyer, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

Reading the sports section of the paper is depressingly dismal, as lately it contains stories about well-known and respected athletes who are suffering from traumatic brain injury or have taken their own lives as a result of those injuries. It is dismal for a number of reasons: to know that these athletes played and were allowed to keep playing, despite their concussions, that traumatic brain injury was apparently common knowledge, even years ago, but nothing was done about it, and that these individuals are suffering, or committed suicide, as the result of the negligence of others.

Consider the case of Tom McHale, who played in the National Football League (NFL) from 1987 to 1995. He died of an overdose in 2008. Addicted to painkillers, he also struggled with severe depression. His autopsy showed traumatic brain injury. His wife decided to share the news of his autopsy with others in order to help them understand that those with brain injuries are experiencing neurological issues that are not their fault. This a major reason thousands of former football players, 4,200, or close to a third of the 12,000 players in the league, are suing the NFL.

The NFL thinks the cases should be within the purview of an arbitrator. Legal counsel thinks the cases need to be heard in federal court. Most of the cases argue that the NFL made a huge profit from the violence of the sport and chose to ignore the damage to players sustaining numerous hits to the head. Other evidence suggests the league deliberately hid what they knew about the science of neurological problems being linked to concussions.

One wonders what the league was hoping to accomplish when they set up a group of people to take a look at the correlation between these two issues. Their committee, launched in 1994 and called the Mild Traumatic Brain Injury committee, was led by a rheumatologist. Two things stand out about the committee, and the first was calling it “mild” traumatic brain injury, as if that somehow diminished its impact or consequences. It does not. The issue is that frequent hits to the head add up over time causing dementia and other problems. The second point is that the committee was led by a doctor with no particular experience with head injuries.

The bottom line is that whatever the judge hearing the arguments decides, the case(s) will be worth billions to both sides. There is a lot at stake. Former players that are still alive and fighting depression, Alzheimer’s and dementia, suggest the league was negligent is hustling them back into play after they suffered concussions. The few that do not currently have issues, want their health closely monitored. The defining issue in the argument as to where the cases should be heard is whether or not the player’s contracts clearly spell out that head trauma/injuries are workplace safety issues.

All in all, this is an issue that will not go away anytime soon. If you have young children who want to play contact sports, you might wish to rethink that. As it stands, no one knows the true risks and consequences our children take when playing them.

Perlmutter & Schuelke, LLP is one of the premier trial firms in Austin Texas. Contact a personal injury lawyer by calling 512-476-4944 or learn more at http://www.civtrial.com/.

Caregiver burnout is a serious threat that can be avoided.

Caregivers often experience burnout when they have responsibility of taking care of someone who has a debilitating illness or condition and is experiences physical or emotional problems as a result.

A number people take care of a loved one at home in addition to a career or school. Caregiver burnout is often revealed in the form of insomnia, headaches, fatigue, and exhaustion. And while taking care of a loved is an important job, taking care of oneself cannot be overlooked.

(Related: Governor Rick Snyder campaigns for a “Healthy Michigan”)

There a number of things to consider doing to avoid emotional and physical burnout.

• By setting aside time for yourself, you will be able to better take care of those around you.

• Taking good care of oneself can mean doing things like practicing meditation once in a while or getting regular physical exercise.

• Both of those things can relieve the stress and frustration that people who take care of others sometimes experience.

(Related: Pending Benefits Legislation, Part 1)

Below are some of the most common signs of caregiver burnout so you will be able to identify them and help yourself immediately.

• Feelings of depression, loneliness, or hopelessness are fairly common with people who devote themselves entirely to taking care of a family member or someone who is close to them.  Oftentimes therapy can be of help, because you will have an outlet for your emotions. Talking to another person about what you are feeling will help.

• When someone begins to withdraw from friends and society in general, this can be a sign that energy is depleted. Spending so much time taking care of someone else can drain you and make you lose enthusiasm. This can also lead to a decrease in regular activities that you once enjoyed. Even increased thoughts about death are common among people who start to get discouraged taking care of someone else.

• Guilt can be part of this problem. Thinking that you don’t have the right to be frustrated or stressed may be the reason why you smile even when overwhelmed. It also causes one to become extremely irritable and react irrationally to small things.

(Related: Pending Benefits Legislation, Part 2)

Accumulation of this stressful burden can result in a number of emotional and physical problems which can pose a major threat. It is imperative to maintain a healthy diet and keep your daily priorities in order to remain physically and emotionally healthy. Lastly, a strong support system can go a long way helping you avoid caregiver burnout.

Read more: http://free-alzheimers-support.com/wordpress/2010/08/caregiver-burnout-preventing-giving-from-draining-energy/

Christopher J. Berry is an elder law lawyer in Michigan Dedicated to helping seniors, veterans and their families navigate the long-term care maze. To learn more visit http://www.michiganelderlawattorney.com/ or call 248.481.4000

Analysis of the studies also indicates that there is a significant risk of vascular dementia (stroke-based dementia), in older adults who have “late-life depression.” According to the authors of the study, late-life depression is extremely common among older adults. The occurrence of that depression has been found to be highly reoccurring, difficult to treat and chronic, significantly affecting an individual’s ability to function.

The study, published in the May 2013 issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry, shows a strong association between depression and developing Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers stated that they believe one or more depressive episodes can increase someone’s risk for dementia syndromes such as vascular dementia as well as Alzheimer’s disease. Connecting the two may help researchers help develop proactive preventative measures as well as long-term predictive models for patients.

Researchers also stated that the prevention of even a fraction of the number of cases of depression might reduce the development of Alzheimer’s disease in the tens of thousands. They also stressed that the risk for vascular dementia appeared to be much higher than the risk for Alzheimer’s disease in the individuals who were late-life depressed.

The study looked at 23 different cohort studies which followed patients 50 and older who did not display any signs of dementia during baseline testing. The studies followed up every five years for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia studies were followed at six-year intervals. Depression was scored on a ratings scale without structured interviews.

Though it is not definitive that late-life depression is a cause of dementia, says paper co-author Meryl Butters, associate professor of psychiatry at the University Of Pittsburgh School Of Medicine, it seems likely to contribute to it. Current theory holds that depression can cause minor brain damage, which can lead to the degenerative process of dementia.

The study authors stated that public health policies which focus on the prevention or delay of dementia in older adults should focus on working to prevent depression and healthy behaviors which reduce cardiovascular risk factors. They also urged for clinical trials which would look at how preventing depression in older adults lowers the risk of cognitive impairment and dementia later.

A large body of research has amassed which also links late-life depression to increased health risks, social isolation and an increased risk of death.

Pioneers of Elder Law – For over 30 years, Gilfix & La Poll Associates LLP has innovated creative legal solutions to help you manage and plan the future of your estate.
To contact an estate planning attorney visit http://www.gilfix.com/ or call 800.244.9424.

Combined, these seven risk factors accounted for roughly 50 percent of the Alzheimer’s cases.

A new finding was announced at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2011 in Paris (AAIC). Using mathematical modeling, scientists calculated the percentage of Alzheimer’s cases that may be attributable to diabetes, mid-life hypertension, mid-life obesity, smoking, depression, low educational attainment and physical inactivity.

(Related: Senior Home Solutions for Seniors Who Want to Age at Home)

It is cautioned by the researchers, however, that these estimates make an important assumption that has not yet been proven – but there is a causal relationship between the risk factors examined and Alzheimer’s disease, and by modifying the risk factors, the risk of Alzheimer’s will be lowered. The risk factors are lifestyle-based and when changed, appear to result in a diminished number of Alzheimer’s cases.

(Related: Skilled Nursing Facilities Face Harsh Reality and Financial Pressures)

They determined that nearly 50 percent of Alzheimer’s cases may be attributable to modifiable risk factors. Altogether, seven modifiable risk factors contributed to as many as 17 million Alzheimer’s cases worldwide, and close to 3 million cases in the U.S. Specifically in the U.S. those risk factors included:

• physical inactivity 21 percent

• depression 15 percent

• smoking 11 percent

• mid-life hypertension 8 percent

• mid-life obesity 7 percent

• low education 7 percent

• diabetes 3 percent

Combined, these seven risk factors accounted for roughly 50 percent of the Alzheimer’s cases. While this list is a broad spectrum, it includes all things we ought to do to improve our health anyway.

(Related: Five Facts On Health Insurance Through Obamacare)

In one sample group of older healthy adults with little cognitive decline, the researchers revealed that the most significant factors related to maintaining healthy cognition included low scores on measures of stress, anxiety, depression and trauma.  This same group showed resilience in the face of distressing events, like related to positive coping styles and the personality trait of  “conscientiousness.”

This group of people had healthy coping styles, remaining positive, getting advice, and finally taking proper action when predicaments arose. A few other traits shown by this group of cognitively healthy adults  were order, dutifulness, achievement striving and self-discipline.

Whether Alzheimer’s is in your genes or not–adhering to  this list of 7 Factors will improve your life.

Read more: http://free-alzheimers-support.com/wordpress/2011/07/7-overall-risk-factors-for-alzheimers-dementia-and-cognitive-decline/

Christopher J. Berry is an elder law attorney Dedicated to helping seniors, veterans and their families navigate the long-term care maze. To learn more visit http://www.michiganelderlawattorney.com/ or call 248.481.4000

The University of Utah National Center for Veterans’ Studies undertook the research because few others had investigated the link between traumatic brain injury and suicide, traumatic brain injury is one of the most common injuries sustained in Iraq and Afghanistan, and “[s]uicide is currently the second leading cause of death among military members,” the magazine reported.

In fact, 303 active-duty soldiers killed themselves in 2011 and another 349 killed themselves in 2012. This prompted 53 Congress members to pen a March 4, 2013, letter to the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, stating, in part, that the number of suicides has reached “unacceptably high levels.”

Though everyone has his or her own reason for contemplating suicide, as Frontline stated, and the study’s lead author, Craig J. Bryan, cautioned that his narrow research can’t prove that someone who suffers a concussion will contemplate suicide, a person who suffers repeated concussions does become “more sensitized,” and “it becomes easier for that individual to experience depression and suicidal (thoughts) as a result.”

Still, the assistant professor of psychology’s study revealed:

• 18 participants had never been diagnosed with a concussion, and none of those participants reported contemplating suicide;
• 58 participants had been diagnosed with one concussion, and seven percent of those participants reported contemplating suicide;
• 85 participants had been diagnosed with several concussions, and 22 percent of those participants reported contemplating suicide.

Further, “[s]ome service members sustained as many as 15 traumatic brain injuries while deployed,” and “[a]n estimated 20 percent of service members sustained concussions during basic training,” per Frontline. Others suffered head injuries playing sports before enlisting.

Interestingly, “mild head injuries tend to be more likely to lead to suicidal thoughts than more severe ones,” Bryan said. “Resiliency is the rule. I want those who have experienced traumatic brain injuries, no matter how many, to realize that things are going to be OK, and that there’s hope, and there’s services available, and that the treatment works.”

Below, Cleveland, Ohio, medical malpractice attorney Christopher Mellino discusses common causes of brain injuries and how the severity of a brain injury is measured.

Common causes of brain injury:

Can the severity of a brain injury be measured?

By Marion Walsh, Esq.

Today is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day.   Statistics show evidence of increasing mental health issues in children.   Chances are everyone knows a child struggling with mental health issues. According to statistics from the Surgeon General, approximately one in five children in the U.S. will experience a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder between kindergarten and graduation. Failure to address children’s mental health needs is linked to poor academic performance, behavior problems, and school violence, dropping out, substance abuse, special education referral, suicide, and criminal activity.

Despite the high frequency and children’s clear needs for help, too many myths and unspoken stigmas plague families who have children struggling with mental health issues.  Clearly, a public health approach is necessary to address disorders and promote mental health in children.    Parents and school districts must forge partnerships to address this unfolding crisis.  Indeed, along with help from medical providers, they are the only ones who can.  However, funding cuts and tax caps in school districts have made the problems harder to address.

Signs of Mental Health Problems in Children:

The Mayo Clinic and other professionals list the following signs of mental illness in children:

· Mood changes: Look for feelings of sadness or withdrawal that last at least two weeks or severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships at home or school.  Some students simply withdraw.  School avoidance or physical symptoms without physical causes can also be a sign of mental distress.

· Intense feelings: Be aware of feelings of overwhelming fear for no reason — sometimes with a racing heart or fast breathing — or worries or fears intense enough to interfere with daily activities.

· Behavior changes: Look for drastic changes in behavior or personality, as well as dangerous or out-of-control behavior. Fighting frequently or expressing a desire to hurt others also are warning signs.

· Difficulty concentrating: Look for signs of trouble focusing or sitting still, both of which might lead to poor performance in school.

· Unexplained weight loss: A sudden loss of appetite, frequent vomiting or use of laxatives might indicate an eating disorder.

· Physical harm: Sometimes a mental health condition leads to suicidal thoughts or actual attempts at self-harm or suicide.

· Substance abuse: Some children use drugs or alcohol to try to cope with their feelings.

Why the Prevalence of Mental Health Problems in Children?

On the one hand, our world and schools are much safer and enlightened than decades ago.  Most states have outlawed corporal punishment; laws require services and accommodations for children with disabilities; parents monitor teachers’ abuse and vice versa; therapists are around every corner.    Clearly we are diagnosing disorders more precisely.   However, our society is more stressed, anxious and pressured.   Many parents must work long hours and do not see problems until they become crises.  The Internet has unleashed cruelty and crudeness of a previously unimagined scope.   Single parent families add risk factors.  In general, children may receive little training in ethics at home nor at school.  The accessibility of assault rifles shocks the conscience and makes apocalyptic violence a potential threat.

Legal Basics:

Parental Responsibilities:

Obviously, parents have a legal duty to care for their children and family represents the first source of support for a child’s mental health.  However, the increased stress and fracturing of life today makes it imperative that schools partner with parents to help children.   Parents must take a proactive role in helping their school district understand their child’s needs and also finding private help.   Yet parents, while closest to their children, can be in denial of serious problems.  A social partnership is necessary.

School District Responsibilities:

As noted by the National Association of School Psychologists, schools represent excellent places to promote good mental health.   Children spend a significant amount of time in school, and educators have the opportunity to observe and address their needs. Doing so effectively requires developing the capacity both to reinforce children’s natural mental health strengths and to identify and respond to children suffering mental health disorders.

Not every child with mental health issues has a disability but if a condition affects educational performance, the student should be referred for special education and related services.    Pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), 20 USC §1400, et. seq. and parallel state law, school districts have a responsibility to identify and provide appropriate services to students with disabilities, including those who have an emotional disturbance or disability. As the Supreme Court noted in Honig v. Doe in 1988, “Among the most poorly served of disabled students were emotionally disturbed children: Congressional statistics revealed that for the school year immediately preceding passage of the Act, the educational needs of 82 percent of all children with emotional disabilities went unmet. See S. Rep. No. 94-168, p. 8 (1975).”

Under the 2006 IDEA Part B regulations, 34 CFR §300.8 (c)(4)(i), “emotional disturbance ” means a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics “over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child’s educational performance”:

(A) An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or health factors.

(B) An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers.

(C) Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.

(D) A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.

(E) A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.

Steps School Districts Can Take:

School districts should develop a task force and work with community members to create systems and policies to proactively address student mental health needs.

1. Develop Effective Child Find and Special Education Programs with Effective Evaluations

2. Provide Effective Monitoring and Building Level Interventions

3. Train to Spot Signs of Mental Illness in Children and to Take Affirmative Steps

4. Develop Effective Anti-Bullying Programs (Bullying exemplifies and causes mental health problems).

5. Provide Parent Education and Parent Counseling and Training

6. Cultivate Partnerships with Outside Agencies

What Does Not Work

The Blame Game:

Schools often expect parents to have private mental health services to address school behavior.  Parents without resources cannot pay for private services and the community based resources have very long waiting lists.  Parents who can afford the services may not be able to address the behavior that is based in school or caused by the school environment. Often the parents get blamed for not “dealing” with the problem.  Parents also blame the school personnel for not addressing the problem.  The blame game can go in circles.  It only causes more stress to families and drains resources from schools which are facing shrinking budgets.

Review of Federal Litigation:

In the Second Circuit, which has more education law litigation than any other jurisdiction, litigation over children with emotional disturbances exceeds litigation over other types of disabilities.   Most litigation centers around whether schools provide a free appropriate public education to children under the IDEA, which is the most powerful statute available to students and families in ensuring appropriate services from school districts.   Much of IDEA litigation in the Second Circuit centers around tuition reimbursement after parents unilaterally remove their child from public school.

No matter which side is ultimately successful, case law only demonstrates failed attempts at addressing mental health issues. For example, in Gagliardo v. Arlington Central School District, 489 F.3d 105 (2d Cir. 2007).   In this case, the student exhibited symptoms of anxiety, depression and social phobia, beginning in fifth grade and lasting for the next seven years throughout high school.  The parents finally removed the student from public school and initiated litigation to seek reimbursement for tuition at a supportive private school. The Southern District found that the District denied the student a free appropriate public education and awarded tuition reimbursement. But, the Second Circuit overturned the reimbursement award and ruled that the private school did not provide individually tailored services for the student’s unique needs.   This decision came five years after the litigation began. See also Eschenasy v. New York City Department of Education, 604 F. Supp. 2d 639 (S.D.N.Y. 20008). (Court found that student who cut class, took drugs, stole and engaged in hair pulling, cut herself, had attempted suicide and was diagnosed with a mood disorder and borderline personality features had an emotional disturbance under the IDEA and that the school district had denied her a FAPE and had to pay the parents tuition reimbursement as private school was appropriate).

Conclusion

Every parent and school professional must be aware of the impending mental health crisis confronting our youth and take steps to understand and advocate.  Parents and schools must act together to protect children become educated on risk factors and symptoms of mental health issues.

But again and again, I see clients and family members who are hesitant to even consider the disease as a reason to ensure estate planning and long-term care is in place. Alzheimer’s disease is not an easy condition to contemplate for ourselves or for our loved one in the future, but it’s made much worse without compassionate care and financial security in place.

What are some of the early signs that indicate there may be an issue?

• Trouble with previously routine tasks like balancing a checkbook or following a multi-step task
• Increased forgetfulness, like missing bill payments
• Increased cognitive impairment, like putting things away in odd places or forgetting names or places
• Decreased personal hygiene
• Signs of depression and isolation<

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These signs are all red flags. They may not mean anything serious, or they may indicate that something more is going on. The first step is a cognitive assessment by a physician, but you should also take steps to ensure finances are also in place before more damage can be done.

Work with an experienced estate planning attorney to make sure all the proper documents have been secured, any will is up-to-date, a living will is put into place and long term care plans are clarified.

Christopher J. Berry is a Michigan Alzheimer’s Planning planning lawyer and Medicaid planning attorney dedicated to helping seniors, veterans and their families navigate the long-term care maze. To learn more visit http://www.michiganelderlawattorney.com/ or call 248.481.4000

The post Alzheimer’s Disease: What To Look For first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]> http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/health-insurance-for-the-future/ Wed, 01 May 2013 14:01:42 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/2013/05/health-insurance-for-the-future/ Does anyone know what health insurance will look like in the future? No, but that won’t stop debates about it. One thing is for certain: every citizen who pays taxes will take more than just a passing interest in how…
Read more ›
The post Health Insurance for the Future? first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]> Does anyone know what health insurance will look like in the future? No, but that won’t stop debates about it. One thing is for certain: every citizen who pays taxes will take more than just a passing interest in how health insurance is going to shape up over time. And why wouldn’t they, as everyone needs health insurance or they face financial ruin if something happens. It’s a fact that our tax dollars keep the current health care system going. The sad part is when health care costs get so high that people can’t afford care, and can’t afford insurance. And that includes the people who may have been able to have some health insurance, but can’t carry it any longer due to the recession/depression. It’s a conundrum without a solution at the moment. The one thing that is certain though is that not having health insurance is not an option, despite how tight finances are. If you ever need medical care, and don’t have health insurance, you will get slammed with a bill you likely can’t pay.

To learn more and get a health insurance quote, visit http://www.benepath.com

The post Health Insurance for the Future? first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]> http://www.seonewswire.net/2012/09/online-visitation-can-keep-ties-between-children-and-parents-strong/ Mon, 03 Sep 2012 16:00:01 +0000 http://www.seonewswire.net/?p=9469 Florida is one of several states that legally allows virtual visitation for non-custodial parents. Divorce is often very stressful for children as well as parents, so maintaining a connection is extra important because it helps alleviate the stress, and in…
Read more ›
The post Online Visitation Can Keep Ties Between Children and Parents Strong first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]> Florida is one of several states that legally allows virtual visitation for non-custodial parents. Divorce is often very stressful for children as well as parents, so maintaining a connection is extra important because it helps alleviate the stress, and in doing so, it could make children less susceptible to depression and anxiety. It also helps reduce the fears, emotional trauma and uncertainty children feel about their own identities when their families break apart.

In fact, the Adverse Childhood Experiences study followed thousands of individuals in order to identify a relationship between childhood events, such as divorce or death of a parent and various stressors like abuse, neglect and health problems, and the effects they may have on adults in obesity, depression, alcoholism and related situations. More than 17,000 HMO members provided detailed information about their childhood experiences for the study. So far, 50 scientific papers and over 100 workshop and conference presentations have been made.

According to a 2009 report by the U.S. Census Bureau, there were 13.7 million single parents in the United States. Over 80 percent of custodial parents are mothers, and most of them are gainfully employed. Of course, this means many children probably don’t see either parent that much during the day because they are in school. Not interacting with either parent except for the moments between school and work could leave a child feeling consistently lonely and confused.

Electronic communication can help fill the void children feel when they are not able to be physically near one or both of their parents. Skype, texting, Facebook and Twitter are just some of the technologies available today that divorced families can use to maintain consistent communication. The benefit of video technology cannot be overstated; how can the significant experience of imprinting take place without being able to see a parent’s face? Children should be encouraged and allowed to communicate with either parent often and in as many ways as possible.

Given the current economic struggles for so many, it is not at all uncommon for single parents with children to move away in order to secure employment. This kind of upheaval can be further destabilizing for a child. In these cases, virtual visitation is a potential filler. It shouldn’t be used as a substitute for real interaction, but in the event there is distance between family members, using online communication can help provide families with a sense of togetherness and maintain bonds between parents and children.

However, this does not mean that parents should discuss any divorce or parenting issues on social networking pages. “I always remind my clients not to put anything out in the public domain that they would not want a judge to hear and consider,” said Zephyrhills divorce lawyer Marcie Baker.

Marcie Baker is with Alston & Baker, PA. To contact a Zephyrhills family lawyer, Zephyrhills divorce lawyer, or Zephyrhills social security lawyer, call 1.888.500.5245 or visit http://www.alstonbakerlaw.com.

The post Online Visitation Can Keep Ties Between Children and Parents Strong first appeared on SEONewsWire.net.]]>
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