Canine Influenza: When all he wants is to play, don’t let the flu get in his way.

Posted on January 26, 2018 by jwatrel

Canine Influenza: When all he wants is to play, don’t let the flu get in his way.

What is canine influenza?

Canine influenza is a relatively new disease caused by a ‘flu’ virus. It causes respiratory infection and only affects dogs. It spreads quickly and may cause serious illness such as pneumonia.

Is it contagious?

Very. And you don’t know which dogs are shedding the virus. Just like human flu, the clinical signs appear after the shedding. First reported in 2003, canine flu quickly reached 30 states by 2009. Then with increased awareness, cases were identified in an additional 10 states. Currently, 40 states have reported cases of canine influenza. The virus was first reported in Florida in March 2003.

How does it spread?

In three ways:

*Through direct contact between dogs (licking, nuzzling)

*Through the air (coughing, sneezing)

*Via contaminated surfaces (such as a shared toy or when a person picks up the virus on their hands, then pets a dog)

What are the signs of canine influenza?

About 80% of dogs that show signs of influenza will have mild disease. Signs include:

*lasting cough

*low-grade fever

*nasal discharge

*lack of energy

*loss of appetite

In about 20% of the cases, more severe signs will occur, such as:

*pneumonia

*high fever

How is it diagnosed?

It’s hard to diagnose canine influenza. It can be confused with Bordetella (canine cough) because the signs are very similar. Your veterinarian will treat the clinical signs most likely with antibiotics but to confirm flu, he or she would need to collect blood or nasal swab samples.

Is my dog at risk for infection?

Most dogs regardless of breed or age at risk for canine influenza. However, certain venues and activities can raise your dog’s risk of canine influenza infection even higher. Review this list of questions to see if any of these places or activities apply to your pet.

Does your dog:

*Come from a shelter, rescue center, breeding kennel or pet store?

*Board at a kennel or go to doggie daycare?

*Attend  group training or “dog kindergarten”?

*Visit a groomer or dog parks?

*Enter dog events?

*Travel with you across state lines?

If you answered ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, tell your veterinarian and ask what can be done to protect your dog from canine influenza.

How can I protect my dog from canine influenza?

Protection in the form of an effective vaccine is available through your veterinarian. Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8 from Merck Animal Health has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the severity of influenza and the length of time that a dog is sick.

The initial vaccination requires 2 doses given 2-4 weeks apart, followed by annual revaccination. If your dog is presently being vaccinated for canine cough (Bordetella), it is likely candidate for Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8.

Is the vaccine safe?

In clinical studies, Nobivac Canine Flu H3N8 was proven safe and well-tolerated in over 700 dogs. There were over 30 breeds ranging in age from 6 weeks to 10 years old. Since then, the vaccine has been used safely in more than 7 million dogs.

Your veterinarian can advise you whether this new influenza vaccine should be added to your dog’s vaccination schedule.

To protect your pet, talk to your vet. Remember, your veterinarian is the best source of information regarding the health of your pet. Don’t be shy about asking questions or scheduling time just to talk. Be sure to call your veterinarian if you have any questions about canine influenza, vaccination or if you notice your dog coughing or showing other signs of a respiratory infection.

Learn more at http://www.doginfluenza.com

*Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from Merck Animal Health pamphlet. Please call the above number or email for more information.

 

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Home Again: A lost pet’s best chance

Posted on January 26, 2018 by jwatrel

Home Again: A lost pet’s best chance

Young or old, dog or cat, any pet can get lost. Home Again helps return yours home. Over One million micro-chipped pets have returned home with the HomeAgain Pet Recovery Service. Don’t skip the Chip! Learn why you should microchip your pet today.

http://www.homeagain.com

Merck Animal Health

A HomeAgain microchip may be the most important gift you give to your pet.

Why is a Microchip Important?

Pets get lost every day. In fact, one out of every 3 pets will go missing during its lifetime. Without proper ID, up to 90% of these pets never return home. One out of every two lost dogs and one out of every three cats with registered microchips return home.

What is a microchip?

*A microchip is a safe, permanent way to identify a lost pet.

*A microchip is smaller than a grain of rice and can be placed under your pet’s skin without surgery.

*Microchip do not hurt your pet. The procedure is simple and similar to administering a vaccine or a routine shot.

*Microchips are more reliable than a collar or tag because they can not fall off or get lost.

How HomeAgain Pet Recovery Works:

  1. Microchip your pet with a HomeAgain microchip.
  2. Connect your contact information to your pet’s microchip ID number at http://www.homeagain.com

*Register your pet’s microchip ID number in the HomeAgain National Pet Recovery Database. You, the clinic or shelter can do this. Check with the clinic or shelter to see if the microchip has already been registered.

*Complete your HomeAgain personal profile to ensure your pet’s unique microchip ID number is linked to your contact information. Include your pet’s information and photo to assist in identification.

*Update your information if you move or if your phone number changes, so you can always be contacted if your lost pet is found. It’s free to update your contact information at any time.

3. Recover your lost pet. If your lost pet is found, the clinic or shelter will scan and “read” your pet’s microchip ID number and contact you.

Pets with any brand of microchip can still be registered with HomeAgain!

HomeAgain offers the essentials for pet recovery and safety. With a HomeAgain microchip, your pet gets:

*Lifetime registration in the HomeAgain National Pet Recovery Database!

*One year of HomeAgain membership benefits Free, renewable annually (see below)

*And, Free updates in the HomeAgain National Pet Recovery Database.

HomeAgain National Pet Recovery Database:

Every pet with a register HomeAgain microchip has a permanent listing in our National Pet Recovery Database. Be sure to complete your profile with your contact information, emergency contacts, your pet’s photo and any additional detail about your pet.

HomeAgain Membership Benefits:

After the first year, renew membership benefits annually.

*24/7 Lost Pet Specialists: HomeAgain Lost Pet Specialist are trained to respond to lost pet emergencies by quickly sending rapid Lost Pet Alerts and providing you with a list of animal shelters and veterinary clinics in your area to contact. They are also available to help manage your account and other related needs.

*Rapid Lost Pet Alerts and Personalized Lost Pet Posters. Dedicated Recovery Specialists send rapid Lost Pet Alerts to the HomeAgain Pet Recovery Network of volunteer veterinarians, shelters and Pet Rescuers in the area where your pet went missing. You can also create a Lost Pet Poster on the HomeAgain website to begin your search promptly.

*24/7 Emergency Medical Hotline (a $65 value per call) Annual HomeAgain membership includes Free, anytime telephone assistance provided by licensed ASPCA veterinarians.

*Found Pet Travel Assistance. HomeAgain offers complete protection when your lost cat or dog has traveled over 500 miles away. Up to $500 of travel expenses are covered to fly your pet back home.

*Certain restrictions apply.

Don’t Skip The Chip!

A microchip can help reunite you with your pet. Bring your pet HomeAgain. Microchip your pet today.

*Without proper ID, 90% of lost pet never return home.

*Microchips are a safe, permanent method of pet ID.

*HomeAgain has reunited over 1,000,000 pets with their families.

HomeAgain is a lost pet’s best chance.

For the love of safety, learn more about HomeAgain and its membership benefits at http://www.homeagain.com.

*Note: Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from the Merck Animal Health pamphlet on HomeAgain. I have never used the service so I have no opinion on the service either yes or no to how good it is. Please call the service number or email above for more information.

 

 

 

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The New Jersey Home Keeper Program

Posted on January 24, 2018 by jwatrel

The New Jersey Home Keeper Program (Administered by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHFA)

https://www.nj.gov/dca/hmfa/about/pressreleases/2016/20161018.shtml

Are you unemployed or underemployed and struggling with your mortgage payments?

Visit: http://www.NJHomeKeeper.gov to apply online for assistance!

The New Jersey HomeKeeper Program offers up to $48,000 in forgivable mortgage assistance loans to New Jersey homeowners who are in danger of losing their homes as a result of unemployment or underemployment. The program is funded through a federal grant from the United States Treasury’s Hardest Hit Fund.

For additional information call: 732.302.9600

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from a pamphlet from The New Jersey Home Keeper Program. I have never used this program so I have no opinion of it either yes or no to how good it is. Please call the above number or email them for more information.

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Home Care Programs, Housing Programs, Legal Assistance Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Need Help paying your PSE&G Bill? For more information contact pseg.com/help

Posted on January 24, 2018 by jwatrel

Need help paying your PSE&G bill? For more information contact pseg.com/help

Low Income Programs:

Low income home energy assistance program (LIHEAP): apply now no later than April 30, 2018.

LIHEAP helps with winter heating bills, cooling and weatherization. Customers with a household income at or below income limits listed on table below can apply.

Universal Service Fund (USF)

USF helps make energy bills more affordable for low-income customers. If you’re income-eligible, you can receive from $5 to $150 per month toward your PSE&G bill. USF applications are accepted year-round. To find the agency in your county, call 1-800-510-3102 (7 days a week, 9:00am-9:00pm).

LIHEAP/USF Income Limits:

LIHEAP Household Size    Monthly Gross Income

1                                               $2,010

2                                               $2,707

3                                               $3,404

4                                               $4,100

USF

1                                              $1,759

2                                              $2,369

3                                              $2,978

4                                              $3,588

*Gross Income is income before taxes.

Note: For household sizes greater than 4, visit pseg.com/help

Moderate Income Programs:

Payment Assistance Gas and Electric (PAGE)

1-855-465-8783

Customers may benefit from combined assistance (gas and electric) for up to $1,400/year towards their past due bill in a 12 month period. Customers must have a past due electric or gas utility bill and not currently by applying, receiving or have received LIHEAP and USF in the past year. Also, customers must meet the annual income requirements listed in the chart below. To apply for PAGE, call 1-855-465-8783 to locate the agency in your county or apply online at njpoweron.org. PAGE applications are accepted year-round.

PAGE Income Limits:

Household Size                                    1                     2                    3                       4

Min.  Gross Annual Income          $24,132        $32,496        $40,860          $49,212

Max. Gross Annual Income          $57,307        $74,940        $92,573          $110,207

For additional program guidelines, visit njpoweron.org. PAGE is available year-round.

NJSHARES (NJS) : 1-866-NJSHARES (657-4273)

Customers with a household income higher than LIHEAP or USF income limits and lower than the NJS income limits may apply. Visit njshares.org to apply online and for income limits. NJS is available year-round.

To qualify for PAGE or NJS, you must:

*have a balance on your PSE&G bill

*meet income eligibility and program guidelines

*have a history of ‘good faith’ payments

For additional program guidelines, visit pseg.com/help or pseg.com/ayuda.

To pick up an application for LIHEAP/USF and PAGE, visit a PSE&G customer service center listed on your bill.

Payment Assistance Program for Seniors and Disabled Adults:

NJ Lifeline Credit Program

1-800-792-9745

Lifeline helps senior customers who are at least 65 years old or disabled customers who are at least 18 years old and receiving Social Security Title II Disability with a $225 utility bill credit.

The Lifeline income limits (not the household income) for 2018 will be less than $27,189 for a single person and less than $33,334 of combined income for a married couple. Lifeline applications are accepted year round.

PSE&G Programs and Services:

Equal Payment Plan (EPP)

1-888-275-PSEG (7734)

The EPP lets you pay the same amount month for your PSE&G bill. You pay for the exact amount of energy you use but the total cost is spread equally throughout the year.

Third Party Notification Service

1-800-436-PSEG (7734)

Are you concerned that an aging, ill or disabled family member could overlook a PSE&G bill payment? PSE&G’s Third party Notification service will notify you if a loved one’s bill is late.

Disclaimer: this information was just sent to me from PSE&G and is directly from a pamphlet from PSE&G. Please call the above numbers for more information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Corporate Programming for the public, Home Care Programs, Housing Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Cleanse your Brain: A newly discovered toxin-removal system might be the key to preventing disease.

Posted on January 23, 2018 by jwatrel

I found this wonderful and very interesting article in the recent edition of AARP Magazine and I wanted to share it with everyone. I credit AARP writer and contributor Selene Yeager with this article. Thank you Selene!

Cleanse your brain: a newly discovered toxin-removal system might be the key to preventing disease.

Your brain is your busiest organ, consuming as much as 25 percent of your overall energy. And as is the case of anything that converts fuel to energy, it produces waste. No matter how pure your thoughts, you’ve probably developed a pretty dirty mind by the end of each day.

So how does your brain, locked away from the body’s sanitation lymphatic system, get rid of all that waste? The answer, as scientists only recently discovered, is a complex process that may also help us better understand and potentially prevent degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s: The more waste lying around in the brain, it appears, the greater the chances for those diseases to take root.

The intricacies of that cleansing process called the glymphatic system are still emerging. Just this past May for example, a group of researchers published their discovery of a new type of brain scavenger cell in zebra fish, which share many of the same cell types as humans. “The research is ongoing but we know that some scavenger cells are important for brain health and seem to become impaired with age,” says Jeff Iliff of Oregon Health & Science University in Portland, who is part of the team pioneering this research. Iliff’s research focuses on why the brain’s cleaning systems diminish with age and ultimately on how to prevent that decline. He and other neuroscientists say there are steps you can take that may help maintain a clean brain bill of health.

Start with some of the advice you’ve already read in this package. Studies have indicated that maintaining your blood pressure, getting regular exercise and eating a diet rich in vegetables, healthy fats and antioxidants all should show positive impact on brain cleaning. But perhaps the most important piece of advice is to prioritize sleep.

Like most cleaning crews, you glymphatic system sweeps waste after hours when the activity of the day is done. Your glial cells (which surround and support brain neurons) control the glymphatic flow by shrinking when you sleep, explains Brian R. Christie, a neuroscience professor at the University of Victoria in British Columbia. “The space between your cells increases by up to 60 percent. This expansion allows more fluid to be pumped through and drives the clearance of waste from the brain,” he says.

Older adults often struggle to get enough sleep, says neurologist and sleep specialist W. Christopher Winter, M.D. author of ‘The Sleep Solution’.  “Keeping a sleep schedule is important, especially as you get older.” He notes that irregular sleep hours and long naps during the day “can wreak havoc on healthy sleep cycles.”

If you’re comfortable on your side, curl up that way when you hit the hay. Animal studies have shown that your brain does a better job of cleaning house in the fetal sleep position than on your back or stomach. “The left side appears to be even better for maximizing circulation through your body, because most of your venous return travels up the right side, and those veins can compress when you lie on them,” Winter says. “But don’t lose sleep over it if you’re not a left side or side sleeper, if you’re getting good sleep!”

Thank you Selene Yeager for such an interesting article on how a good nights sleep is good for us!

Posted in Alzheimer's and Parkinson Disease Programs, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Treatment, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, Migraine/Headache issues, New Jersey Senior Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Bright New Remedies: Researchers are exploring how light therapy can be used to treat ailments from Depression to Alzheimer’s By Christina Ianzito

Posted on January 23, 2018 by jwatrel

I found this article in a recent issue of AARP and thought you readers might enjoy it. I thought it was very insightful and I credit this article to writer Christine Ianzito, who contributed it to AARP Magazine.

Bright New Remedies: Researchers are exploring how light therapy can be used to treat ailments from depression to Alzheimer’s.

By Christine Ianzito

For an increasing number of health conditions, the right medicine might simply be a dose of bright light. Here’s a sampling of the promising and often surprising research underway.

Depression:

Light therapy is most associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that hits some people during darker winter days but what’s exciting is the growing number of studies pointing toward this therapy’s effectiveness in treating nonseasonal depression.

In a 2015 study at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, subjects with depression were given Prozac, a placebo, light therapy or Prozac and light therapy for eight weeks. The people who used light therapy or Prozac improved more than the placebo group, but those who combined light therapy with Prozac saw the most improvement.

As with SAD treatments, the light works by stimulating the retina, says Norman E. Rosenthal, clinical professor of psychiatry at Georgetown University Medical School in Washington D.C. The retina signals the brain’s hypothalamus, “which then funnels the info in many directions, one of which is involved in boosting serotonin.”

To treat SAD, people use a specially designed light, a good one costs around $150.00 of at least 10,000 lux (the equivalent of being outside on a clear spring day). Its placed about two feet from the face, usually for 10 to 30 minutes in the morning. Experts advise people with nonseasonal depression to consult their doctor before trying self-treatment with SAD light, which can exacerbate some eye conditions.

Alzheimer’s Disease:

In a small clinical trial, researchers applied LED lights to Alzheimer’s patients with two devices, one worn like a headset and another that clips to the nose for 20 to 25 minutes twice a week. Over 12 weeks the subjects reported a dramatic improvement in their cognitive abilities, says one of the study’s coauthors, Michael Hamblin, principal investigator at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at Massachusetts  General Hospital in Boston. “Then they removed the device and they all got worse,” Hamblin says. “But when they were given their own device to use at home, they all improved for a second time.”

The treatment seems to work because a small amount of the light is able to reach the brain, which is extremely  sensitive to light. Scientists say the light stimulates new cell growth and connections between neurons. Known as photobiomodulation, this approach is still in its early testing stages, though more patients are now receiving the same therapy used in Hamblin’s study, a $499 product called Vielight. Scientists are also excited for its potential to treat Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury and more ailments.

Sleep Disorders:

The idea of dawn simulation has been around for a while but it has just now become a mainstream way to improve sleep patterns. The simulators are specially designed bedside LED lights costing $20.00 and up, that turn on 20 to 30 minutes before the alarm sounds. (Some can add soothing sounds such as gentle rainfall.) They are recommended for people with sleep issues to help reestablish healthy sleep cycles. Users often say they feel more energy upon waking.

Skin Cancer:

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is the combination of light with special drugs called photosensitizing agents. This effective treatment often eliminates the need for surgery. The agent is applied to the cancerous region or to a sun-damaged area that is precancerous, on the skin or through the vein. Once the cells absorb the agent, light is applied causing the drug to react with oxygen. This forms a chemical that kills the cells. “It will kill anything,” Hamblin says. “Its like the strongest beam of X-rays that you can imagine.”

Because it finds cells that are rapidly dividing, PDT may catch cancer that surgery doesn’t, says Jami Lyn Miller, a dermatologist at Vanderbilt Health in Nashville, Tenn. PDT is used to treat certain infections too.

This potential advantage in focus can help not only with accomplishing a task but also in learning new things. There’s a certain amount of boredom that comes with learning and younger workers may have greater difficulty devoting their energies to tedious tasks, says Harvard professor Jo DegGutis, coauthor of a study on sustained attention.

Finding Focus:

“Individuals in their 50’s and 60’s are quite adept at motivating themselves to stay focused,” DeGutis says. “This motivation attention can result in compared, with younger adults, less mind wandering.” Another way of looking at it: “We see the merits of sticking with a task until completion,” says Patty Ceglio, HR strategist for Cool Works, a site that connects many older workers with seasonal jobs.

Bob McCann sees this dynamic play out in his job restoring furniture at Iron Gate Antiques in Bluemont, VA. “Sometimes I’ll work for five hours nonstop,” he says. He attributes his ability to concentrate in part to a 26 year career in the Marines. “One of the first things they teach you is attention to detail.”

“I get a lot of emails, so I will take breaks and check on it rather than have it beeping and chirping at me every 10 to 15 minutes,” he says. Those distractions, he’s found, affect younger workers more than older workers. “The younger kids that I’ve worked with got the attention span of an ant,” says McCann, who also has worked as an executive at a technology company. “They can’t focus, because they’re jumping between things. You can’t be successful if your nose is stuck in your phone all day.”

Slower Processing, Fewer Filters:

This doesn’t mean that older adults have all the mental advantages. The processing speed of our brain starts to decline at an early age, around 24, according to a study at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. And with processing decline comes a diminishing ability to switch from one task to another or manage interruptions. Older adults also struggle to filter out irrelevant information, Gazzaley says, which  is why conversations are often challenging in a busy restaurant. But while distractions may be difficult on the brain, focused activity, whether it’s working, gardening, volunteering or going to the gym, can have the opposite effect. In a study by researchers at the University of Texas and the University of Alabama, older adults who stayed busy outperformed this less-occupied counterparts on cognitive tests.

Despite his job as a computer science professor at Georgetown University in Washington D.C., Cal Newport lives a mostly analog life. He reads print newspapers. He turns off his computer at 5:00pm and doesn’t have social media accounts. By blocking digital distractions, Newport has found time to write four books, earn his PhD, write numerous peer-reviewed academic papers and spend summer evenings listening to baseball games on the radio. “A life defined by fragmented attention,” he says, “can produce exhaustion and anxiety.”

A Distracted Future:

That ability to perform deep work, focusing without distraction on a cognitively demanding task, will become an important job skill, Newport says. People also seem happier when performing deep work, he says, writing an important report or creating something with depth, as opposed to a task like answering emails.

“In my experience, people in their 50’s and 60’s often regain a deep-work ability faster than younger people,” he says. “The big difference is that if you’re older, you spend most of your life without the level of intense and constant distraction, something most young people have never experienced.”

But in the coming years, the demands on our attention span will likely grow, as technology enters more of our lives, from virtual reality to smart appliances.

“I think the more you primarily  consume tiny bits of information, the harder it gets to consume larger pieces of information,” says Wu, who attributes the problem to attention-hungry advertising models. “No one is making money when you’re playing with your grandchildren. The attention merchants want you clicking on pics of your grandchildren, because then they can advertise it.”

Avoiding this distraction future and saving your brain ultimately starts with you. “It’s important to examine your life and ask, “Is this really what I want to do with my mind? And with my time? Will it all just get frittered away?” Wu says. “If you want to take control of your life and your mind, this is where it starts.”

Six ways to regain your focus:

  1. Grab a good novel
  2. Play an instrument
  3. Work in the morning
  4. Learn a language
  5. Chew gum
  6. Volunteer your time

Thank you, Christina Ianzito for this wonderful article!

 

 

 

 

Posted in Alzheimer's and Parkinson Disease Programs, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Treatment, Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, Migraine/Headache issues, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Stroke Programming, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

NJCS Chanteurs: A Company of voices dedicated to serving the community.

Posted on December 18, 2017 by jwatrel

NJCS Chanteurs: A company of voices dedicated to serving the community

Jill Guartafierro, Director

Caroline Parody, Accompanist

Chanteurs:

NJCS is an ensemble of 16-24 members of the New Jersey Choral Society who provide musical entertainment in the  community. The goal of the Chanteurs is to bring music and joy to those who enjoy choral music but may be unable to attend NJCS concerts.

The group is available to entertain at community or non-profit events, senior centers, museum’s, hospitals, meetings and parties.

Different sized groups are possible depending upon your needs and the availability of singers. With repertoire consisting of Pops and Holiday music, the Chanteurs can be booked for a variety of events for all age levels.

Sample repertoire:

Pops-

Over the Rainbow

Ain’t Misbehavin’

Phantom of the Opera

You Made Me Love You

Lullaby of Broadway

Chicago

Do You Hear the People Sing?

Wicked

Holiday-

Candle in the Window

White Christmas

Peace, Peace

Carol of the Bells

Jingle Bells through the Ages

We Are Lights

Past performance venues include:

Bergen Academies

Giggles Theatre at St. Joseph’s Hospital

Valley Hospital

West Caldwell Library

Hawthorne Library

Franklin Lakes Library

Mahwah Library

NJCS

To book the Chanteurs for an appearance or for more information, contact the New Jersey Choral Society:

Phone: (201) 379-7719

Email: music@njcs.org

or visit our website http://www.njcs.org and click on “Community Outreach” on the home page.

The mission of the New Jersey Choral Society is to serve the Community, the Membership and the Art with passion, imagination and a commitment to excellence.

The New Jersey Choral Society

P.O. Box 367

Ridgewood, NJ  07451-0367

(201) 379-7719

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the NJCS pamphlet. I have never seen the group perform so I have no opinion either yes or no to their performance. Please call or email the above numbers for more information.

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Entertainment Services, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Emergency Planning for Pet Owners-Help your animal stay alive!

Posted on December 12, 2017 by jwatrel

Emergency Planning for Pet Owners-Help your animal stay alive!

Your pet counts on You!

Your pet is a part of your family. He or she will have special needs if an emergency happens. That’s why its important to include your pets in your emergency plan.

Prepare for the unexpected. For example, a disaster may strike when you are away from home. If you are unable to get to your pet, you will need someone else to step in for you.

Be ready to evacuate. You may only have a moment’s notice to leave your home. That’s why it’s important to :

*Have essential supplies ready to ‘grab & go’

*Know where to temporary housing for you and your pet.

Also, your pet’s behavior may change under stress. Practice emergency procedures. For example, familiarize your pet with how you will transport him or her if you need to evacuate.

Make sure your pet can be identified. Your pet should always wear on ID tag and/or be micro-chipped. If you are separated from your pet during an emergency, proper ID can help improve the chances you will be reunited. A little planning now ca nsave the life of your pet.

In case of evacuation, take care of your pet.

Never leave your pet behind in an emergency.  He or she may become lost, injured or worse. The key to evacuating together is to arrange housing in advance. Consider:

Friends and relatives: Ask a friend or relative outside your local area if he or she can shelter:

*You and your pet

*Your pet without you, if necessary.

If you have more than 1 pet, you may need to find separate housing.

Hotels and motels: Contact hotels and motels outside your local area. Find out if they:

*Allow pets and if so, whether they have any restrictions (such as size or species).

*Have a special animal policy during emergencies.

During an evacuation:

*Leave early. If you wait, you may be told that you can not take your pet.

*Make reservations at a hotel/motel as soon as possible, if application.

*Label your pet with your temporary shelter or housing information.

Emergency shelters: Ask your local emergency management office or animal control for a list of emergency shelters that allow pets. Keep in mind that many shelters do not allow animals (other than service animals) for safety and health reasons.

Veterinary offices, animal shelters and boarding facilities: Consider these options as a last resort, since they will probably be full or closed during an emergency.

Create a pet emergency supply kit: use this checklist to help you gather everything you may need for your pet:

Basic Supplies: Include:

*At least a 3 day supply of food and water.

*An extra supply of regular medications with dosage instructions (and any needed medical supplies).

*A flashlight with extra batteries.

*Food and water bowls (or water bottles for smaller pets).

*A can opener and spoon for canned food, if necessary.

*A cage or carrier for smaller animals.

*An extra collar, leash or harness for larger animals.

*A litter box, litter and a scoop (for cats).

*Plastic trash bags, paper towels, soap and bleach (for waste).

Other Supplies: You may also want to include:

*Comfort items (such as bedding, toys or pet treats).

*Disposable gloves (for handling waste)

*A hot water bottle or other heating source in cold weather (for birds or reptiles).

*A spray bottle for misting in hot weather.

*Cage liner and perch (for birds).

*A blanket or sheet to cover cages.

*Exercise equipment (for small animals such as hamsters or ferrets)

*A soaking bowl (for reptiles)

*Store emergency supplies in portable containers in case you need to evacuate.

Important information and records include:

*Feeding schedule and dietary instructions, including any food your pet should not eat.

*A recent photo of you with your pet (in case you become separated).

*A description of your pet (include species, breed, size, age, gender, coloring, special markings etc.)

*A copy of your pet’s medical records, including vaccination, dates.

*A copy of adoption or purchase records.

*An emergency release form for your pet’s backup caregiver.

*Contact information for you, your pet’s veterinarian and a friend or relative that lives out of town.

*A list of places where your pet can stay in an emergency.

*Microchip information, if applicable.

Tips for maintaining your kit:

*Rotate food and water regularly (About every 2 months) to keep supplies fresh. Replace medication that is past its expiration date.

*Keep food, medication and papers in airtight, water proof containers.

*Store the kit in a cool dry place.

A first-aid kit:

Ask your pet’s veterinarian about what to include. He or she may recommend:

*An animal first-aid book

*Saline solution

*Hydrogen peroxide

*Antiseptic wipes

*Cotton Swabs

*Antibiotic cream

*Cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors

*Flea and tick medication

*Disposable gloves

If an emergency happens when you’re away from home, know who to call to help your pet.

Find a backup caregiver: for example, ask a neighbor or a nearby friend or relative. Make sure he or she :

*Can easily get to your home.

*Is comfortable and familiar with your pet.

*Is dependable

Keep your backup caregiver informed: for example, he or she should know:

*Where to find your pet.

*Where to fin the emergency supply kit

*Where to meet you with your pet if evacuation is necessary.

*Contact information for you and your pet’s veterinarian.

*Any medical or behavioral problems your pet may have.

Give your backup caregiver a plan in writing. He or she should also have keys to your home.

Prepare any necessary release forms. Ask your pet’s veterinarian about forms that would allow your backup caregiver to authorize medical treatment in an emergency. Also ask about forms that would allow you to set spending limits for treatment. Make sure your backup caregiver has experience caring for pets.

“What else can I do to help keep my pet safe in an emergency?”

You can:

Get your pet microchipped.

Ask your pets veterinarian about implanting this grain-size computer chip under your pet’s ski. It’s not just for cats and dogs. Rabbits, birds, reptiles and many other pets can be microchipped. Most animal clinics and shelter have scanners that can read the microchip for a special number. If your pet gets lost and turned in to one of these facilities, the number can be used to find you in an animal database.

Keep your pet’s ID current:

Your pet’s ID should include his or her name and the current contact information for you and an out of town friend or relative. Consider putting this information on your pet’s:

*Collar tags

*Leg or neckband

*Cage/carrier (using permanent ink)

Get more information:

To learn more about emergency planning for your pet, contact:

*Your pet’s veterinarian

*Your local humane society

*The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (www.aspca.org)

*The Humane Society of the United States-www.humanesociety.org

*The American Veterinary Medical Association-www.avma.org/disaster

Be your pet’s hero-include him or her in your emergency plans!

Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from the Channing Bete Company pamphlet. Please call the above numbers and emails for more information on protecting your pet.

 

 

 

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Alzheimer’s Disease Medications: Fact Sheet

Posted on December 11, 2017 by jwatrel

Alzheimer’s Disease Medications: Fact Sheet

Several prescription drugs are currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Treating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s can provide patients with comfort, dignity and independence for a longer period of time and can encourage and assist their caregivers as well. It is important to understand that none of these medications stops the disease itself.

Treatment for mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s:

Medications called cholinesterase inhibitors are prescribed for mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. These drugs may help delay or prevent symptoms from becoming worse for a limited time and may help control some behavioral symptoms. The medication include Razadyne (galantamine), Exelon (rivastigmine), and Aricept (donepezil).

Scientists do not yet fully understand how cholinesterase inhibitors work to treat Alzheimer’s disease but research indicates that they prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical believed to be important for memory and thinking. As Alzheimer’s progresses, the brain produces less and less acetylcholine; therefore, cholinesterase inhibitors may eventually lose their effect.

No published study directly compares these drugs. Because they work in a similar way, switching from one of these drugs to another probably will not produce significantly different results. However, an Alzheimer’s patient may respond better to one drug than another.

Treatment for Moderate to Severe Alzheimer’s:

A medication known as Namenda (memantine), a N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist, is prescribed to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease. This drug’s main effect is to delay progression of some of the symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s. It may allow patients to maintain certain daily functions a little longer than they would without the medication. For example, Namenda may help a patient in the later stages of the disease maintain his or her ability to use the bathroom independently for several more months, a benefit for both patients and caregivers.

The FDA has also approved Aricept and Namzaric, a combination of Namenda and donepezil, for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s disease.

Namenda is believed to work by regulating glutamate, an important brain chemical. When produced in excessive amounts, glutamate may lead to brain cell death. Because NMDA antagonists work very differently from cholinesterase inhibitors, the two types of drugs can be prescribed in combination.

Dosage and Side Effects:

Doctors usually start patients at low drug doses and gradually increase the dosage based on how well a patient tolerates the drug. There is some evidence that certain patients may benefit from higher doses of the cholinesterase inhibitors. However, the higher the dose, the more likely are side effects. The recommendation effective dosages of drugs prescribed to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and the drugs’ possible side effects are summarized in the table.

Patients should be monitored when a drug is started. Report any unusual symptoms to the prescribing doctor right away. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions when taking any medication, including vitamins and herbal supplements. Also, let the doctor know before adding or changing any medications.

Testing New Alzheimer’s Drugs: Clinical trials are the best way to find out if promising new treatments are safe and effective in humans. Volunteers are needed for many Alzheimer’s trials conducted around the United States. To learn more, talk with your doctor or visit the ADEAR Center’s listing of clinical trials at http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/clinical-trials. More information is available  at http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/volunteer.

For more information:

To learn about support groups, research centers, research studies and publications about Alzheimer’s disease, contact the following resources:

Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center

1-800-438-4380 (toll free)

adear@nia.nih.gov

http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers

The National Institute on Aging’s ADEAR Center offers information and publications for families, caregivers and professionals on diagnosis, treatment, patient care, caregiver needs, long term care, education, training and research related to Alzheimer’s disease. Staff members answer telephone, email and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources. Visit the ADEAR website to learn more about Alzheimer’s and other dementias, find clinical trails and sign up for email alerts.

Alzheimer’s Association

1-800-272-3900 (toll-free)

1-866-403-3073 (TTY/toll-free)

info@alz.org

http://www.alz.org

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America

1-866-232-8484 (toll free)

info@alzfdn.org

http://www.alzfdn.org

Medications to treat Alzheimer’s Disease:

This brief summary does not include all information important for patient use and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult the prescribing doctor and read the package insert before using these or any other medications or supplements.

Drug Name: Aricept (donepezil)

Drug Type and Use: Cholinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild, moderate and severe Alzheimer’s.

How it works: Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain.

Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle cramps, fatigue and weight loss.

Manufacture’s Recommended Dosage:

*Tablet: Initial dose of 5 mg once a day

*May increase dose to 10mg/day after 4-6 weeks if well tolerated, then to 23 mg/day after at least 3 months.

*Orally disintegrating tablet: Some dosage as above.

*23mg dose available as brand name tablet only.

For More information: For current information about this drugs’s safety and use , visit http://www.aricept.com/prescribing-and-patient-info.

Drug Name: Exelon (rivastigmine)

Drug Type and Use: Chonlinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s (patch is also for severe Alzheimer’s).

How it works: Prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine (a brain chemical similar to acetylcholine) in the brain.

Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, indigestion and muscle weakness.

Manufacturer’s Recommendation Dosage:

*Capsule: Initial dose of 3mg/day (1.5 mg twice a day)

*May increase dose to 6mg/day (3mg twice a day), 9mg (4.5 mg twice a day) and 12mg (6mg twice a day) at minimum 2 week intervals if well tolerated.

*Patch: Initial dose of 4.6 mg once a day; may increase dose to 9.5 mg once a day and 13.3 mg once a day at minimum 4 week intervals if well tolerated.

For More Information: For current information about this drug’s safety and use, visit http://www.fda.gov/Drugs. Click on “Drugs@FDA”, search for Exelon and click on drug name links to see “Label Information”.

Drug Name: Namenda (memantine)

Drug Type & Use: N-methyl D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist prescribed to treat symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s.

How it Works: Blocks the toxic effects associated with excess glutamate and regulates glutamate activation.

Common Side Effects: Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, constipation and confusion.

Manufacturer’s Recommended Dosage:

*Tablet: Initial dose of 5 mg once a day.

*May increase dose to 10 mg/day (5mg twice a day), 15 mg/day (5mg and 10mg as separate doses) and 20 mg/day (10mg twice a day) at minimum 1 week intervals if well tolerated.

*Oral solution: Same dosage as above.

*Extended-release capsule: Initial dose of 7mg once a day; may increase dose to 14mg/day, 21mg/day and 28 mg/day at minimum 1 week interval if well tolerated.

For more information: For current information about this drug’s safety and use, visit http://www.namendaxr.com. Click on “Full Prescribing Information” to see the drug label.

Drug Name: Namazaric (memantine extended-release and donepezil)

Drug Type and Use: NMDA antagonist and cholinesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer’s.

How it works:  Blocks the toxic effects associated with excess glutamate and prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain.

Common Side Effects: Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and dizziness.

Manufacturer’s Recommended Dosage:

*Capsule: 28mg memantine extended release+10mg donepezil once a day.

*14mg memantine extended release+10mg donepezil once a day (for patients with severe renal impairment).

For more information: For current information about this drug’s safety and use, visit http://www.namzaric.com. Click on “Full Prescribing Information” to see the drug label.

Drug Name: Razadyne (galantamine)

Drug Type and Use: Cloninesterase inhibitor prescribed to treat symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.

How it works: Prevents the breakdown of acetycholine and stimulates nicotinic receptors to release more acetylcholine and stimulates nicotinic receptors to release more acetylcholine in the brain.

Common Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, dizziness headache.

Manufacturer’s Recommended Dosage:

*Tablet: Initial dose of 8mg/day (4mg twice a day)

*May increase dose to 16mg/day (8mg twice a day) and 24mg/day (12mg twice a day) at minimum 4 week intervals if well tolerated.

*Extended release capsule: Same dosage as above but taken once a day.

For more information: For current information about this drug’s safety and use, visit http://www.janssendmd.com/pdf.razadyne/PI-Razadyne-RazadyneER.pdf to see the drug label.

*Available as a generic drug.

Disclaimer: this information was taken from the National Institute on Aging: Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center pamphlet. This information it totally subjected and offered as information only. Please check with your doctor for further information. Contact the above numbers and emails for more information.

 

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Is it Normal Forgetfullness….Or is it Dementia? Act Now Foundation

Posted on December 7, 2017 by jwatrel

Is it Normal Forgetfulness…Or is it Dementia? Act Now Foundation

Do you know someone who lives with dementia?

If so, it’s likely at some point their cognitive health has made you concerned for your own. You forget an old friend’s birthday….you can’t find your car keys again. You forget the very item you went to the grocery store to buy. Do you wonder if there is something seriously wrong with you? When is forgetting part of the normal course of life? When does forgetting become a reason to worry? How can we tell the difference?

Here are seven ways to look at normal, age related memory changes versus signs of Impaired cognitive health. Nothing below is intended to diagnose but rather to help guide your understanding of the difference between normal (but aging) memory and dementia.

  1. Do reminders work? We all forget names, dates and items on our ‘to do’ list. However, can you be reminded successfully? If being prompted with facts reconnects you to them, your forgetfulness is probably part of normal aging. If reminders do not work and you are still unable to recall with a reminder, this can be a sign of dementia.
  2. Can Memories be recalled? Are you able to recall events or information, including with reminders, to stir your memory? Recall takes longer as we age but a normal brain should be able to remember eventually. If so, this is likely normal aging. If all the reminders in the world will not help you recall, then this can be a sign of dementia.
  3. Do memory tools work? Few people can remember all the phone numbers they need. This is why we have telephone books and contact lists. If you can successfully use a memory tool like a phone  (or calendar, internet search, etc), then your forgetfulness is presumably aging. If memory tools can no longer be used successfully, this can be a sign of dementia.
  4. Is there a repetition of forgetfulness? You have been reminded of someone’s name and with normal  memory, you have better recall next time you need this information. However, if the same reminder must be repeated again and again, this can be a sign of dementia.
  5. Is there a stable personality? It certainly is frustrating to have to work to recall information. Despite that, with normal aging, your personality is generally stable and recognizable. If you’ve had a short fuse or always stayed calm, it is probable you will continue to do so. If there are personally changes–loud, hot anger in someone who has always been mild mannered, for example–coupled with any of the concerns above, this can be a sign of dementia.
  6. Are habits and tasks performed? Can you perform customary daily tasks and meet your basic needs in bathing, dressing, eating, paying bills and health care? If yes, (even though you might have trouble bending or reaching due to arthritis or other medical issues), then likely you are aging normally. If daily tasks and activities you used to do have now become impossible, this can be a sign of dementia.
  7. Reaction to stress or fatigue? It is common for you memory to struggle when you are highly stressed or fatigued. However, you generally do not forget your nearest and dearest and other familiar information. If stress and fatigue cause out of proportion dysfunction mentally, physically and/or emotionally, this could be a sign of dementia.

 

It can be easy to explain away unusual behavior, especially for someone who seems physically healthy. Instead, seek a diagnosis as early as possible.

Three things you should know about Dementia:

‘Dementia’ and ‘Alzheimer’s’ are not interchangeable  terms. Dementia is an umbrella term for a condition involving cognitive impairment. There are many types of dementia, each with its own pattern of disability and ability and course of development. Alzheimer’s is the most frequently diagnosed type of dementia but all Dementia is not Alzheimer’s.

Dementia is not normal aging. Dementia is not an inevitable outcome of aging, though risks for dementia do rise with age. Dementia is a result of impaired brain function.

Dementia causes loss of abilities in many spheres, not just memory. Each type of dementia (and each person who has dementia) varies but as a generality, losses include motor abilities, language use, self-care, orientation, decision-making, problem-solving, immune function, continence, emotional control and more.

Act Now Foundation

830 Bergen Avenue, Suite 8A

Jersey City, NJ  07306

(201) 721-6721

Disclaimer: this information came form the Act Now Foundation: Alzheimer’s pamphlet. I have never used the Foundation so I have no opinion of it either yes or no. Please call the Foundation at the above number for more information.

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