Consumer Protection Tips for Immigrants: Immigration Assistance Services

Posted on March 11, 2017 by jwatrel

Consumer Protection Tips for Immigrants: Immigration Assistance Services:

Before you read on…

Get free help. The City of New York offers safe, free immigration legal screenings. Visit nyc.gov/actionnyc or call 311 and say ‘ActionNYC’. See Free HELP and OTHER RESOURCES.

If you work with an Immigration Assistance Service Provider, here are tips to help you.

Immigration Assistance Service Providers are people or businesses that charge fees for any kind of immigration-related services. They are not lawyers. They do not have permission from the government to give immigration advice.

These providers are allowed to:

*translate and notarize documents.

*help you gather documents (like a birth certification or school records).

*type up application forms (but not give advice on how to answer questions).

*arrange for photographs or medical tests.

*help you prepare for English language or civics tests.

These providers are not allowed to:

*select which immigration forms you should submit.

*give legal advice about documents to submit.

*explain your immigration options.

*discuss your case with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Tips:

*know which applications forms you need to file when you go to a provider.

*only go to providers that have physical locations. Never use one you can reach only by phone or email.

*do not believe any provider that claims to have special influence with immigration authorities.

*Providers must sign a written contract with you before providing services. Read the contract before signing. Keep a copy for your records.

*do not give original documents (like a marriage certificate). Give copies instead.

*get a written receipt. Make sure the receipt contains the name and address of the provider.

*do not sign any blank or incomplete forms. Insist that the provider sign any form it prepares for you.

*Providers must maintain a bond for your protection. Write down the name and contact information of the bond company or bank. If you are harmed, you can go to court to recover money from the provider or its bond company.

*file a complaint with the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA)  online at nyc.gov/dca or contact 311 to file a complaint in your language. You do not have to give your name or your immigration status to make a complaint. Note: If you would like DCA to contact you, you must provide your name and address.

*call 311 or visit nycourts.gov and search “Attorney Disciplinary/Grievance Committee” to file a complaint about an attorney.

Beware of ….

In New York State, a notary public or notario pulicio, is not an attorney. A notary public cannot give legal advice, draft legal papers or review documents for legality.

Never pay for blank government forms. Forms are available for free on the USCIS website uscis.gov. Providers do not have give out free forms.

Free Help:

*ActionNYC provides safe, free immigration legal screenings in your community in you own language. Visit nyc.gov/actionnyc or call 311 and say “ActionNYC”.

Important:

*City agencies that provide direct social services must arrange for interpretation and translation in your first language.

*City agencies cannot ask about immigration status unless it is necessary to determine eligibility for a benefit or service.

*call the New York State Immigration Hotlines at 1-800-566-7636 or 1-212-419-3737 for information on free immigration advice or help.

Other resources:

*Read other Consumer Protection Tips for Immigrants: EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES, FINANCES AND TAX PREPARTION.

*Visit nyc.gov/dca for information, including a sample immigration assistance service contract.

*Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA): Visit nyc.gov/immigrants for information about legal and City Services.

*U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): Visit uscis.gov or call 1-800-870-3676 for USCIS forms.

*New York Attorney General’s Office: Visit ag.ny.gov and search “Immigrant Fraud” for additional information and resources. Read “Don’t be a victim of Immigration Fraud”.

*Federal Trade Commission (FTC): Visit ftc.gov and search ‘immigrant scams’ for additional information and resources. Read:

-Scams against immigrants

-Spotting avoiding & reporting scams: a fraud handbook for recent refugees and immigrants.

*New York City Bar Association: Call 1-212-626-7373 for an attorney referral.

*Disclaimer: this information has been provided by a pamphlet from the NYC Office of the Mayor, Department of Consumer Affairs/Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs and Small Business Services. I have never used these services before so I have no opinion on the m yes or no that they are good or not. Please call the above number or check their website for further information.

 

 

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Benefits Guide 2017 ID NYC

Posted on March 11, 2017 by jwatrel

Benefits Guide 2017 ID NYC: 8 million New Yorkers and 1 card for all of us. In English, Spanish, Chinese and Russian. For more benefits information please call 311 or visit http://www.nyc.gov/IDNYC.

IDNYC is the card you need to prove that you are a New Yorker!

IDNYC provides exclusive Benefits. For instructions and up to date information on how to access your IDNYC benefits call 311 or visit http://www.nyc.gov/idnyc/benefits.

IDNYC is accepted as your proof of identity:

*By NYC agencies when applying for City services including marriage licenses, birth certificates and benefits like SNAP, Cash Assistance and Section 8.

*By NYPD police officers as valid identification

*For entering public buildings like schools.

*For taking the high school equivalency exam in New York State.

IDNYC can be used:

*As a library card at the Brooklyn, New York and Queens Public Library System. Take your IDNYC card to a librarian to make it your library card.

*As BigAppleRx, the City of New York’s official prescription discount card, which has saved users an average of 50% on prescription medications. Simply show your pharmacist the BIN and GRP on the back of your care to save.

Free Cultural Institution Memberships: Receive free one-year memberships at leading museums, zoos, concert halls and botanical gardens. See the back cover for a listing of institutions and visit http://www.nyc.gov/idnyc for each institutions complete membership terms and eligibility.

The IDNYC card does not authorize cardholders to drive, buy alcohol or tobacco or travel by plane. IDNYC does not confer immigration status or work authorization.

Entertainment Discounts:

IDNYC Entertainment Deals: Exclusive discounts on movie tickets, Broadway shows, sporting events, theme parks and more. This program is powered by Entertainment Benefits Group (EBG).

New York City Football Club: $3.00 off individual tickets for select seats at all 2016 regular season games.

New York Theatre Ballet and Ballet School NY: 10% off adult tickets to all performances; 10% off the adult class card; $2 off adult drop-in ballet classes.

The Alliance of Resident Theatres/New York:

Discounts on tickets to performances at member theatres including Roundabout Theatre Company. Second Stage Theatre and Theatre for a New Audience.

Health & Fitness Discounts:

NYC Parks Department: 10% off annual Recreation Center Membership for adults ages 25-61 at 35 neighborhood recreation centers and 10% off NYC Parks Department tennis permits.

YMCA: Access to Y roads young adults centers and New American Welcome Centers; 20% off family and adult memberships at 22 YMCA centers citywide.

Citi Bike: 15% off annual membership for new Citi Bike Members.

Supermarket Discounts:

Food Bazaar: 5% off purchases at all Food Bazaar supermarkets in NYC. Monday through Friday from 7am to 7pm. Some exclusions apply.

Banking Benefits:

You can use IDNYC as your primary ID to open a bank or credit union account at select financial institutions. For more details, visit http://www.nyc.gov/idnyc/benefits.

Animal Care Centers of New York:

$25 off adoption fees for cats, dogs and rabbits.

To inquire about membership to local cultural site, please check the website for details as more are being added.

http://www.nyc.gov/idnyc

*Disclaimer: this information was provided by social workers from Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen and is meant for New York City residents. Please check the website for more details as I have never used this service before. I have no opinion on the program. Please call the above phone number or use the website for more information.

Posted in Men's Programming, New York City Caregiver Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Resources for New York City Immigrants: The City of New York Supports all its residents

Posted on March 11, 2017 by jwatrel

From the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs: Message to Immigrant New Yorkers from Mayor de Blasio and Speaker mark-Viverito:

“During these uncertain times we must remind ourselves of who we are as a city and hold steadfast to our values. Hard work, respect and unity during times of adversity define us as New Yorkers and that will not change, no matter who is president. Our commitment to standing with and protecting our immigrant communities is stronger then ever. As always, the City of New York is prepared to defend and protect our immigrant brothers and sisters. We will never turn our back on you.”

This resource guide serves as a quick and easy road map of City services currently available to all New Yorkers.

Resources for New York City Immigrants:

The City of New York supports all its residents: most city services are available to everyone, including undocumented immigrants, like going to school or using the health care system or other services. City employees will not ask about immigration status unless it is necessary to do their jobs. They must keep immigration status information confidential.

*IDNYC: IDNYC is the City’s identification card for all New Yorkers. IDNYC does not collect immigration status information and we keep applications information confidential. The City will protect IDNYC information to the full extent of the law.

*Education: Children age 4 or turning 4 are eligible for Pre-K. All residents have the right to attend public school from age 5 until graduation or until the end of the school year when they turn 21. Classes are available for English learners.

*Healthcare:

-Low Cost emergency and non-emergency health care is available to all at public hospitals and clinics and at other affordable clinics.

-NYC Well is a free, confidential connection mental health care in more than 200 languages, any time of the day. Call 1-888-NYC-Well, text WELL to 65173 or go to nyc.gov/nycwell.

Childcare: low income families with children age 6 weeks through 12 years old can get free or low cost child care.

Emergency food and shelter:

-Locations across NYC provide free food to people in need.

-The Homebase program can help residents avoid entering the shelter system.

*Public Safety:

-The City does not conduct immigration enforcement. The NYPD does not ask about the immigration status of crime victims, witnesses or other people who ask for help.

-Anyone who has been the victim of a hate crime or is not sure should contact the NYPD. To contact the NYPD Hate Crimes Task Force directly call (646) 610-5267.

*Immigration legal help:

-Free, safe immigration legal help is available through ActionNYC. Call the ActionNYC hotline at 1-800-354-0365 during business hours Monday to Friday.

-Beware of unlicensed immigration service providers who take advantage of their customers. Get help only from a trusted, licensed attorney or accredited representative. For questions about this, call the New Americans Hotline at 1-800-566-7636 between 9am-8pm on Monday through Friday.

*Protection from Discrimination:

-New Yorkers also have the right to free from unlawful discrimination, retaliation and harassment in the workplace, housing and public places.

-To file a complaint or learn more, call 311 or call the NYC Commission on Human Rights at (718) 722-3131.

Do you have questions or concerns? Call 311 for more information about these resources or call the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs directly during work hours at (212) 788-7654. Translation is available.

*Disclaimer: This information was provided to me by the social workers from Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen from the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. I don’t know much about their programs but please call the above numbers for more information. I can’t say yes or no to how effective it is but ask them for details.

Posted in Child Program Services, Immigrant Programming, Legal Assistance Programs, Men's Programming, New York Children's Program, New York City Caregiver Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

ActionNYC

Posted on March 11, 2017 by jwatrel

 

ActionNYC

ActionNYC provides: Free, comprehensive and confidential legal screenings to determine eligibility for immigration benefits. Free, safe, immigration legal help from an experienced attorney or accredited representative for a range of cases, including:

*Citizenship

*Green Card applications and renewals

*Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

*Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and more!

ActionNYC is located in select community-based organizations, schools and healthcare facilities throughout the five boroughs.

To make an appointment, call 1-800-354-0365 between 9am-6pm, Monday-Friday or call 311 and say “ActionNYC.”

For more information and for a list of ActionNYC partners, go to: http://www.nyc.gov/actionnyc.

*this information was provided for me by social workers I work with at Holy Apostles Soup Kitchen in NYC and who wanted the public in NYC to know of this program. This information is taken directly from their pamphlet through the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs.

*Disclaimer: I have not used this program so I have no opinion either yes or no to how it works but please call the above number or use the website for more information.

Posted in Immigrant Programming, Legal Assistance Programs, Men's Programming, New York City Caregiver Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Let’s Talk About: Living at home after a Stroke

Posted on March 3, 2017 by jwatrel

Let’s talk about: Living at Home After Stroke

Most stroke survivors are able to return home and resume many of the activities they did before the stroke. Leaving the hospital may seem scary at first because so many things may have changed. The hospital staff can help prepare you to go home or to another setting that can better meet your needs.

How do I know if going home is the right choice?

Going home poses few problems for people who have had a minor stroke and have few lingering effects. For those whose strokes were more severe, going home depends on these four factors:

*Ability to care for yourself: rehabilitation should be focused on being able to perform daily activities such as eating, dressing and bathing.

*Ability to follow medical advice: this is a critical step in recovery and preventing another stroke or other complications after stroke. It’s important to take medication as prescribed and follow medical advice.

*A Caregiver: someone should be available who is willing and able to help when needed.

*Ability to move around and communicate: if stroke survivors aren’t independent in these areas, they may be at risk in an emergency or feel isolated.

What changes do I need to make at home?

Living at home successfully also depends on how well your home can be adapted to meet your needs.

*Safety: take a look around your home and remove anything that might be dangerous. This might be as simple as taking up throw rugs, testing the temperature of bath water or wearing rubber-soled shoes. Or it may be more involved, like installing handrails in your bathroom or other areas.

*Accessibility: you need to be able to move freely within the house. Changes can be as simple as moving the furniture or as involved as building a ramp.

*Independence: your home should be modified so you can be as independent as possible. Often this means adding special equipment like grab bars or transfer benches.

What if I can’t go home?

Your doctor may advise a move from the hospital to another type of facility that can meet your needs for a short time or permanently.  It’s important that the living place you choose is safe and supports your continued recovery. Your social worker and case manager at the hospital can give you information about facilities that might work for you. Possibilities include:

*Nursing Facility: this can a good option for someone who has ongoing medical problems. This type of facility provides round-the-clock care.

*Skilled nursing facility: this is for people who need more than usual medical attention, continued therapy and more care than a caregiver can provide at home. This type of facility also providers round-the-clock care.

*Intermediate care facility: this is for people who don’t have serious medical problems and can manage some level of self-care.

*Assisted living: this is for people who can live somewhat independently but need some assistance with things like meals, medication and housekeeping.

How can I learn more?

*Call 1-888-4-STROKE (1-888-478-7653) to learn more about stroke or find local support groups or visit StrokeAssociation.org.

*Sign up to get Stroke Connection magazine, a free magazine for stroke survivors and caregivers at strokeconnection.org.

*Connect with others sharing similar journeys with stroke by joining our Support Network at strokeassociation.org/supportnetwork.

Do you have questions for the doctor or nurse?

Take a few minutes to write your questions for the next time your see your healthcare provider.

For example:

What living arrangement would you recommend for me?

Is there a caregiver or stroke support group available in my community?

*This information was provided to our Stroke Support Group by the Loving Hands organization.  If you need more information, please call the number provided by the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association.

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Federal Caregiver programs, Health and Life Support Services, Home Care Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey State Program, New York City Caregiver Programming, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Stroke Programming, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Let’s Talk about: Complications After a Stroke

Posted on March 1, 2017 by jwatrel

Let’s talk about: Complications from a Stroke from the American Heart Association’s ‘Let’s talk about a Stroke’ series. These were provided to us from the Loving Hands Organization when they came to visit us recently.

Let’s Talk about: Complications After A Stroke:

The treating doctor’s highest priorities are to prevent complications that can occur as a result from the stroke and to prevent another stroke. Your doctor must determine that you are medically stable and able to resume some self-care activities. This means that all complications must be treated and under control.

Some things happen as a direct result of injury to the brain due to a stroke. Others are because of a change in your abilities. For example, being unable to move freely can result in bedsores. Clinical depression can also occur with a stroke.

What are common complications of a stroke?

The most common complications of stroke are:

*Brain edema-swelling of the brain after a stroke.

*Pneumonia-causes breathing problems, a complication of many major illnesses. Pneumonia occurs as a result of not being able to move as a result of the stroke. Swallowing problems after a stroke can sometimes result in things ‘going down the wrong pipe’, leading to aspiration pneumonia.

*Urinary tract infection (UTI) and/or bladder control. UTI can occur as a result of having a foley catheter placed to collect urine when the stroke survivor can’t control bladder function.

*Seizures-abnormal electrical activity in the brain causing convulsions. These are common in larger strokes.

*Clinical Depression-a treatable illness that often occurs with stroke and causes unwanted emotional and physical reactions to changes and losses. This is very common after stroke or may be worsened in someone who had depression before the stroke.

*Bedsores-pressure ulcers that result from decreased ability to move and pressure on areas of the body because of immobility.

*Limb Contractures-shortened muscles in an arm or leg from reduced ability to move the affected limb or lack of exercise.

*Shoulder pain-stems from lack of support of an arm due to weakness or paralysis. This usually is caused when the affected arm hands resulting in pulling the arm from the shoulder.

*Deep venous thrombosis (DVT)-blood clots form in the veins of the legs because of immobility from stroke.

What can be done?

If you need medical treatment, your doctor will prescribe it.

*Medical treatment often involved medical supervision monitoring and drug therapies.

*Physical treatment usually involves some type of activity that may be done by you, a healthcare provider or by both of you working together. Types of treatment may include:

-Range-of-motion exercises and physical therapy to avoid limb contracture, shoulder pain and blood vessel problems.

-Frequent turning while in bed to prevent pressure sores and good nutrition.

-Bladder training programs for incontinence.

*Swallowing and respiratory therapy and deep-breathing exercises. These all help to decrease the risk of pneumonia.

*Psychological treatment can include counseling or therapy for feelings that result from clinical depression. Types of treatment may include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy or both. You may also be referred to a local stroke support group.

How can I learn more?

  1. Call 1-888-STROKE (1-888- 478-7653) to learn more about stroke or find local support groups or visits StrokeAssociation.org.
  2. Sign up to get Stroke Connection magazine, a free magazine for stroke survivors and caregivers at strokeconnection.org.
  3. Connect with others sharing similar journeys with stroke by joining our Support Network at strokeassociation.org/supportnetwork.

We have many other fact sheets to help you make healthier choices to reduce your risk, manage disease or care for a loved one. Visit strokeassociation.org/letstalkaboutstroke to learn more.

Do you have questions for the doctor or nurse?

Take a few minutes to write your questions for the next time you see your healthcare provider.

For Example:

*What complications am I most at risk for?

*What can I do to prevent complications?

*This information is take from the handout from the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association. I have never used the service so I have no opinion yes or no on the service but please call the Associations phone number or email address for more information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Federal Caregiver programs, Health and Life Support Services, Home Care Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New York City Caregiver Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Stroke Programming, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

State of New Jersey: Department of Health: Searching for Long Term Care Facilities, Nursing Homes, Assisted Living and Rehab Centers.

Posted on February 17, 2017 by jwatrel

State of New Jersey: Department of Health

Searching for Long Term Care Facilities, Nursing Homes, Assisted Living and Rehab Centers.

To all of you caregivers out there, this is a first step must in the world of Caregiving. Please check out this website provided by the New Jersey Department of Health.

When your loved one needs any type of rehab or in need of skilled nursing care, please check out their website under ‘Health Facilities: Search for Long-Term Care Facilities’. Checking out the state reviews of all the facilities in New Jersey will save you weeks of problems later. The State of New Jersey inspects all the facilities once a year and gives the facility a full report at the end of the inspection and all the results are posted on the website.

You can search by:

*County & Type

*City & Type

*Name of the Facility

*Licensed Owner

*Officer

Other Resources:

*Search for an Acute Care Facility (hospitals, hospices, Etc)

*Click to view Long-Term facilities in Excel Spreadsheet

When checking in New Jersey, the most effective way I checked was going by County & Type. When searching by County and Facility types, here are the steps:

Select a county from the list below, then select one or more facility types. Hint: if you want a list of all the facilities in a county, just select the county and click the Start Search button:

County: (dropdown)

Type of Facility:

*Long Tern Care (nursing homes)

*Residential Health Care Facilities

*Assisted Living Residences

*Comprehensive Personal Care Homes

*Adult Day Care

*Assisted Living Programs

*Adult Family Care

*Pediatric Day Care

Funding Sources:

*Medicaid

*Medicare

*Private Payments

Specialized Care:

*Behavioral Management Program

*Hemodialysis

*Peritoneal Dialysis

*Ventilator Beds

*LTC/Hospital Subacute

*LTC Pediatric

then start your search. Put in the county and detailed information of where you might be looking to place a loved one.

At the top of the detailed information will be three four sections:

*Facility Information

*Inspection Summaries

*Advisory Standards (participation in Advisory standards by a Long-Term Care facility is voluntary. Not all facilities participate).

*Nursing Home Report Card

Under the Inspection Summaries, it will give a detailed list of the problems that occurred during the Annual Inspection. Please pay special attention to this as you will be able to see how the facility handled the problem and corrected it.

Under the Nursing Home Report Card, this gives you the detailed Medicare.gov/Nursing Home Compare. This is the official U.S. Government Site for Medicare.

Look under ‘Find a nursing home’:

The nursing home Compare has detailed information about every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the county. States may collect and post additional information that isn’t collected by the federal government. Before you get started, you or your family might also consider ‘Alternatives to Nursing Homes’.

Spotlight:

*Get updated state website information, including the ability to electronically file a complaint against a nursing home in some states.

*Use these helpful resources:

-Guide to choosing a nursing home.

-Nursing Home Checklist

-Download the Nursing Home Compare Database

-Get Nursing Home Compare data archives

-Learn how we calculate ratings

-Get tips for printing nursing home information

-For nursing homes: Update your address, phone number and other administrative data.

Tools and Tips:

Get all your long term options:

-Longtermcare.gov

-The Eldercare Locator

-Alternatives to Nursing Home Care

-Learn about Medicare coverage of skilled nursing facility care and swing bed services in rural areas.

-Learn about your rights as a nursing home resident

-Find state resources:

*Long Term Care Ombudsman

*State Survey Agency

-Compare other providers and plans:

*Hospital Compare

*Physician Compare

*Home Health Compare

*Dialysis Facility Compare

*Long-Term Care Hospital Compare

*Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Compare

*Medicare Plan Finder

*Supplier Directory

Medicare.gov is a federal government website managed and paid for by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. 7500 Security Boulevard, Baltimore, MD 21244.

*This information is taken off the copyrighted government website from the State of New Jersey. This is the first site you should look at when selecting a facility for your loved one. This will give you a guide of the places you might want to consider. Please everyone, plush carpeting, nice photos on the wall and chandeliers may look nice but the care of your loved one is most important. This can save you a lot of heartache and tears later on down the road.

The state website is:

http://www.doh.state.nj.us

The federal website for Medicare is:

http://www.medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare/search

***This make this important step in the care of your loved one. I found all of this helpful.

 

 

Posted in AARP Programming, Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Home Care Programs, Housing Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New York City Caregiver Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Seasonal Flu, Pandemic Flu and Bird Flu: What you need to know-Compliments from your local health department

Posted on February 17, 2017 by jwatrel

Seasonal Flu, Pandemic Flu and Bird Flu: What you need to know, compliments from your local health department.

Influenza (Flu)

Do you have the facts?

The Seasonal Flu: refers to several common strains (specific forms) of flu virus that go around each year, mainly in fall and winter. A yearly shot (vaccine) can help prevent it.

The Flu Pandemic: is when a new flu strain starts spreading easily and quickly around the world. Depending on the strength of the strain, it can cause:

*many people to get sick at once

*severe illness and many deaths

*a short supply of food, goods and services if many workers stay home, medical or government services get overloaded or travel is restricted for example.

Producing on effective vaccine for it will take time.

Bird (avian) flu: refers to flu strains that mainly infect poultry and some wild birds. If a bird flu were to evolve in a way that let it spread to people-and then spread easily between people-a flu pandemic could begin.

Flu Pandemics: have happened before. They are likely to happen again some time.

No one can say when or how severe the next one will be.

*the 1900’s had three flu pandemic. The most deadly one in 1918 killed about 675,000 people in the US.

*flu viruses are easily spread and constantly changing. With modern travel, viruses can circle the globe faster than ever.

*a bird flu strain called H5N1 has infected some humans in other parts of the world, but so far it has not spread easily between people.

A lot is being done to prepare: Around the world, governments are taking steps for:

*prevention-like quickly dealing with infected poultry

*minimizing effects-like planning ways to ensure that essential services continue in a pandemic

*treatment-like encouraging the production of flu medications.

The Pandemic Severity Index: if a flu pandemic develops, the Centers for Disease Control  and Prevention will give it an official rating on a scale of 1 to 5 (similar to the hurricane category rating system):

*category 1 means the least severe pandemic

*category 5 means the most severe pandemic

Government agencies and other organizations will then begin using strategies for that category of severity aimed at slowing and containing the pandemic.

There are also simple things each of us can do.

Know about flu germs.

They spread mainly through people’s coughs and sneezes. These things can spray droplets through the air and :

*into the mouths or noses of people nearby

*onto surfaces that people touch before touching their noses, mouth or eyes.

In rare cases, human can also catch flu germs from an infected bird, pig or other animals. This could happen through contact with feces, saliva, mucus, raw meat or raw eggs from the animals.

Different flu strains may cause similar symptoms: but a pandemic has begun, symptoms most likely mean seasonal flu-or a different illness that causes flu-like symptoms. Flu symptoms generally:

*start within 10 days (usually 2) of exposure.

*include fever, chills, headache, body aches and shortness of breath.

Take Steps to help avoid getting or spreading flu germs.

Wash you hands often and well: be sure to scrub your hands and wrists for at least 20 seconds. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. Keep on alcohol-based hand sanitizer handy for times when soap and water aren’t available.

Cover coughs and sneezes: use a tissue (use upper sleeve if you don’t have a tissue-not your hands). Put used tissue in the wastebasket. Then wash your hands well. Stay at least 6 feet away from others if you’re coughing and sneezing-or if they are.

If you get sick, act responsibly: if you think you might have caught a flu virus, call your health-care provider, a clinic or a local flu hotline. Find out:

*if you should stay home and for how long

*how to protect others-for example, by staying in a separate room.

*how to treat symptoms-or if you should go in for testing or treatment.

Get away available flu shots: the yearly shot helps prevent the seasonal flu. Authorities are no developing and stockpiling vaccines for a potential pandemic flu strain. The vaccines may:

*offer some protection if a flu pandemic starts

*got to high-priority groups first-like those who provide essential services to help others.

Other steps:

*check the news. Authorities will announce a pandemic and provide information and instructions. Also find out if your local or state health department had a flu hotline or website.

*find out what to do if you must travel in an area with a flu outbreak. See http://www.cdc.gov/travel/.

*find out if you job requires additional preparation or prevention steps.

*report sick poultry. USDA veterinarians can help-call 1-866-536-7593. Report any groups of dead wild birds to local wildlife officials.

*in a flu pandemic, a medical face mask or an N95 respirator may offer some protection if you can’t avoid crowds or close contact with someone who has pandemic flu. Find out more about their proper use.

Thoroughly meat, poultry and eggs.

Carefully clean any surface-including hands and utensils-after contact with ray products. This helps kill flu or other germs that might be present.

Support “common good” efforts: if the flu pandemic occurs, authorities may use several strategies to help stop or slow it, depending on its severity. These may include:

*shutting down mass transit or preventing travel into or out of certain areas.

*restricting gatherings (school, movies, sports events, etc.)

*asking everyone to stay home

*separating people who have or may have pandemic flu from others.

Create an emergency kit:

Store enough bottled water, food and other supplies to last at 2 weeks (This will help if utilities falter or you’re stuck at home for any reason).

Learn more:

*www.pandemicflu.gov

*www.cdc.gov/flu/

*1-800-CDC-info (1-800-232-4636) 1-888-232-6348 (TTY) and ask about pandemic plans at work or school. Together we can help protect our families, communities and country.

*Please read: talk to a professional. This folder is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified expert.

*This information was provided by the Channing Bete Company via the local health care department. Please check the websites for updated information.

 

 

 

 

 

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

Silver Sneakers Fitness Program: Tivity Health

Posted on February 9, 2017 by jwatrel

Silver Sneakers Fitness Program: Tivity Health

Silver Sneakers: The Gold Standard in Senior Fitness solutions

https://www.silversneakers.com/

Silver Sneakers

Empowering Active Aging:

The nation’s leading community fitness program specifically designed for older adults, SilverSneakers, promotes greater health engagement and accountability by providing members with regular exercise (strength training, aerobics, flexibility) and social opportunities at more than 13,000 locations nationwide-all at no cost to them.

As America continues to age, senior-focused health and vitality programs will become more and more essential to ensuring aging adults can continue to be vital, active members of our communities and our world. Tivity Health is at the forefront, continuing to expand our standard-setting program’s reach with locations, features and benefits members won’t find in any other program.

For full program features and to check eligibility, visit our dedicated SilverSneakers website.

Our Company: Tivity Health: Partners in the pursuit of better

Living healthier, hppier, longer-together

At Tivity Health, we work hand in hand with clients, members and healthcare partners to create everyday opportunities for long-lasting health and vitality. Our flagship products-SilverSneakers, Prime Fitness and WholeHealth Living-are sought after by consumers and organizations alike not simply because they work but because we care.

Our company of passionate experts is dedicated to delivering a consumer experience that goes beyond supporting physical health to advancing overall vitality-especially in aging population where consumption and costs of healthcare are greatest. We work side by side with millions of consumers, thousands of fitness and community centers, hundreds of healthcare practitioners and many of the nation’s largest payers and employers to boost lifelong physical activity, connectivity and productivity for members.

Advancing Vitality:

We meet consumers where they are, empowering them to take meaningful steps toward a healthier, happier, more productive life. Our solutions are especially designed to address the greatest health barriers adults face today-and the new challenges they’ll encounter tomorrow.

*13.5 million Americans now eligible for SilverSneakers-the nation’s leading community fitness program designed for active seniors.

*10,000*fitness centers currently enrolled in our Prime Fitness Network for improving member access and commitment to regular exercise.

*25*years of clinical and operational expertise in managing specialty health benefits and networks, including chiropractic services, physical therapy, occupational therapy, acupuncture, massage and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) services.

Let’s work together: Ask how Tivity Health can help you meet the challenges of today’s healthcare environment.

Tivity Health

701 Cool Springs Boulevard

Franklin, TN  37067

Call us: 1 (800) 327-3822

*This information was taken off the Tivity Health site online and you should either access the website for more information or call the number above for more details.

*Disclaimer: I have never used the service so I can’t recommend it yes or no to how good it is but I have heard in the past from members who have it that it has been very helpful. Please go online or call for details or if your health plan covers the program. Check to see if there is any initial costs and ask their representatives for details. You can not put a price tag on your health.

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

Public Rights of Way Accessible Guidelines (PROWAG) to parking in New Jerseys Downtowns.

Posted on February 7, 2017 by jwatrel

We brought up the issue of the parking spaces in New Jersey downtowns with Joe Zesski, the program Manager of the Northeast ADA. This is what he emailed our group in response to the question:

There is an obligation for Title II entitles (state/local government) to provide access to their programs. As such, one could argue that where on-street parking is provided by a city, they should include accessible spaces/designations. There is a standard call the Public Rights of Way Accessible Guidelines (PROWAG), which is not yet enforceable but is expected to become so when it is eventually adopted by the Department of Justice and the Department of Transportation. Here is what was said about parking:

The Public Rights of Way Accessibility Guidelines (PROWAG) contain scoping for on street parking and technical requirements for the design of the on street accessible parking spaces. They can be found via this link, https://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/streets-sidewalks/public-rights-of-way/proposed-rights-of-way-guidelines in Section R214 (scoping) and R309 (design of on street accessible parking spaces).

Re: the PROWAG on street parking standard , the PROWAG is not yet enforceable under the ADA, however, they are absolutely viewed as the Best Practice stand currently. When it comes to on street parking, especially , The 2010 ADA standards of Accessible Design do not address on street parking at all, so Title II entities that provide on street parking have an obligation to provide access for people with disabilities (because of Program Accessibility Obligations) but no clear guidance on “how” to design accessible on street parking. Since the PROWAG does provide technical scoping and technical criteria on this issue, they are considered the Best Practice document to apply when entities want to achieve access but do not have an enforceable standard that tells them exactly “how” to do that. Many entities are applying the PROWAG as if it were enforceable already and I think that approach is smart. Eventually, DOJ will likely incorporate the PROWAG into the ADA standards but in the meantime given that you have this obligation to make your “programs” accessible (and parking is considered a “program”) applying the PROWAG’s on-street parking guidelines is absolutely the way to go and very much shows a good faith to meet your ADA obligations for program accessibility.

*Since this is not “Law” yet, the towns have to meet their obligations on their terms right now. Things will change when it adopted into the law.

*This was brought up when the question was asked of why there were rules to Mall parking but not to the downtown shopping districts of towns in New Jersey.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey Senior Transportation Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Driving Programs, Senior Services, Senior Transportation Programming, Senior Travel Programs, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment