Hotel Reservations for people with Disabilities: Revised Regulation for Title III from the Department of Justice

Posted on February 7, 2017 by jwatrel

This was sent to us from Joe Zesski , Program Manager, Northeast ADA: This was on a question about hotel reservations for the disabled.

Reservations made by places of lodging. A public accommodations that owns, leases (or leases t0) or operates a place of lodging shall with respect to reservations made by any means, including by telephone, in person or through a third party-

  1. Modify its policies, practices, or procedures to ensure that individuals with disabilities can make reservations for accessible guest rooms during the same hours and in the same manner as individuals who do not need accessible rooms;
  2. Identify and describe accessible features in the hotels and guest rooms offered through its reservations service in enough detail to reasonably permit individuals with disabilities to assess independently whether a given hotel or guest room meets his or her accessibility needs;
  3. Ensure that accessible guest rooms are held for use by individuals with disabilities until all other guest rooms of that type have been rented and the accessible room requested is the only remaining room of that type;
  4. Reserve, upon request, accessible guest rooms or specific types of guest rooms and ensure that the guest rooms requested are blocked or removed from all reservations systems and;
  5. Guarantee that the specific accessible guest room reserved through its reservations service is held for the reserving customer, regardless of whether a specific room is held in response to reservations made by others.

https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/titleIII_2010_withbold.htm

To file a complaint with the Department of Justice, a person can either call their 800 telephone number 1-800-514-0301 or fill out an online complaint at this link:

https://www.ada.gov/complaint/

*Special Disclaimer: the law continues to change and be modified, so if there is any concerns or questions, please email or call the above Departments. Things are always updating.

*Whenever you need a special room when travelling, always call to confirm the reservation up until the day before and write down the names of the people you worked with on the phone. It saves a lot of headaches later.

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

CML: A free audio magazine for adults with impaired vision or other disability

Posted on January 26, 2017 by jwatrel

Choice Magazine Listening records the best articles, stories and poems from over 100 of the finest magazines.

CML’s Unique Service: Since 1962 Choice Magazine Listening has been serving adults with conditions that make it difficult to read standard print. The philanthropist LuEsther T. Mertz founded CML so all Americans could enjoy the best writing from leading magazines. CML’s editors select articles, stories and poems from more than 100 publications, including: National Geographic, Time, Sports Illustrated, Harper’s, Scientific American, The New Yorker, Smithsonian, Rolling Stone, Natural History, Southern Living, Travel-Leisure, McSweeney’s, Texas Monthly, Horticulture, Esquire, Discover, Outside, Audubon, and Vanity Fair.

Who can receive CML?

Any adult who has difficulty reading or even holding a magazine is eligible. CML’s subscribers include those with conditions such as low vision, macular degeneration, blindness, MS, diabetes, cerebral palsy, ALS, dyslexia and Parkinson’s.

Here’s how it works:

Four times a year, listeners receive 12 hours of great magazine writing. A talking book player is also provided free of charge. Recipients enjoy the issue for several weeks, then return it in the postage free mailer it arrived in. It’s as easy as that! (CML is also available as a download.) CML is a nonprofit organization supported by tax-deductible donations and grants. This service is free of charge to all listeners.

Any questions?

We’re happy to help. Give us a call 9 to 4 Eastern Time and you’ll speak to a friendly person, not a machine.

Toll Free: 1-888-724-6423

http://www.choicemagazinelistening.org

Choice Magazine Listening

A Free Audio Magazine

BS Channel Drive

Port Washington, NY  11050

*All of this information was taken off the CML Pamphlet.

*Disclaimer: I have never used this service before so I can not recommend it yes or no on how it works. The best thing to do is call the service at the above number for more details.

 

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

Homeland Security: Preparing makes Sense for People with Disabilities and Special Needs.

Posted on January 23, 2017 by jwatrel

Homeland Security: Preparing makes Sense for People with Disabilities and Special Needs. Get Ready Now. http://www.ready.gov

Preparing Makes Sense. Get Ready Now.

The likelihood that you and your family will recover from an emergency tomorrow often depends on the planning and preparation done today. While each person’s abilities and needs are unique, every individual can take steps to prepare for all kinds of emergencies from fires and floods to potential terrorist attacks. By evaluating  your own personal needs and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your loved ones can be better prepared. This guide outlines commonsense measures individuals with disabilities, special needs and their caregivers can take to start preparing for emergencies before they happen. Preparing makes sense for people with disabilities and special needs. (Get Ready Now).

  1. Get a Kit of Emergency Supplies:

The first step is to consider how an emergency might affect your individuals needs. Plan to make it on your own for at least three days. It’s possible that you will not have access to a medical facility or even a drugstore. It is crucial that you and your family think about what kinds of resources you use on a daily basis and what you might do if those resources are limited or not available.

Basic Supplies: Think first about the basics for survival-food, eater, clean air and any life-sustaining items you require. Consider two kits. In one kit put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own for a period of time. The other kit should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to leave your home. Recommended basic emergency supplies include:

*Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.

*Food at least a three day supply of non-perishable food and a can opener if kit contains canned food.

*Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

*Flashlight and extra batteries.

*First aid kit.

*Whistle to signal for help.

*Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

*Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

*Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

*Local maps.

*Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet or service animals.

Include Medications and Medical Supplies:

If you take medicine or use a medical treatment on a daily basis, be sure you have what you need on hand to make it on your own for at least a week. You should also keep a copy of your prescriptions as well as dosage or treatment information. If it is not possible to have a week-long supply of medicines and supplies, keep as much as possible on hand and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what else you should do to prepare.

If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital or if you receive regular services such as home health care, treatment or transportation, talk to your service provider about their emergency plans. Work with them to identify back-up service providers within your area and the areas you might evacuate to. If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity to operate, talk to your health care provider about what you can do to prepare for its use during a power outage.

Additional Items: In addition, there may be other things specific to your personal needs that you should also have on hand . If you use eyeglasses, hearing aids and hearing aid batteries, wheelchair batteries and oxygen, be sure you always have extras in your home. Also have copies of your medical insurance, Medicare and Medicaid cards readily available. If you have a service animal, be sure to include food, water, collar with ID tag, medical records and other emergency pet supplies.

Include Emergency Documents: Include copies of important documents in your emergency supply kits such as family records, medical records, wills, deeds, social security number, change and bank accounts information and tax records. It is best to keep these documents in a waterproof container. If there is any information related to operating equipment or life-saving devices that you rely on, include those in your emergency kit as well and also make sure that a trusted friend or family member has copies of these documents. Include the names and numbers of everyone  in your personal support network as well as your medical providers. If you have a communication disability, make sure your emergency information list notes the best way to communicate with you. Also, be sure you have cash or travelers checks in your kits in case you need to purchase supplies.

2. Make a Plan for what you will do in an Emergency:

The reality of a disaster situation is that you will likely not have access to every conveniences. To plan in advance, thing through the details of your everyday life. If there are people who assist you on a daily basis, list who they are and how you will contact them in an emergency. Create your own personal support network by identifying others who will help you in an emergency. Create your own personal support by identifying others who will help you in an emergency. Think about what modes of transportation  and what alternative modes of transportation could serve as a backups. If you require handicap accessible transportation be sure your alternatives are also accessible. If you have tools or aids specific to your disability, plan how you would cope without them. For example, if you use a communication device, mobility aid or rely on a service animal, what will you do if these are not available? If you are dependent on life-sustaining equipment or treatment such as a dialysis machine, find out the location and availability of more than one facility. For every aspect of your daily routine, plan an alternative procedure. Make a plan and write it down.Keep a copy of your plan in your emergency supply kits and a list of important and contact in your wallet. Share your plan with your family, friends, care providers and other in your family, friends, care providers and others in your personal support network.

Create a Personal Support Network: If you anticipate needing assistance during a disaster, make a list of family, friends and other who will be part of your plan. Talk to these people and ask them to be part of your support network. Share each aspect of your emergency plan with everyone in your group including a friend or relative in another area who would not be impacted by the same emergency who can help if necessary. Make sure everyone knows how you plan to evacuate your home, school or workplace and where you will go in case of a disaster. Make sure that someone in your personal support network has an extra key to your home and knows where you keep your emergency supplies. Teach them how to use any lifesaving equipment or administer medicine in case of an emergency. If you use a wheelchair, oxygen or other medical equipment show friends how to use these devices so they can move you if necessary or help you evacuate. Practice your plan with those who have agreed to be part of your personal support network.

Inform your employer and co-workers about your disability and let them know specifically what assistance you will need in an emergency. This is particularly  important if you need to be lifted or carried. Talk about communication difficulties, physical limitations, equipment instructions and medication procedures. If you are hearing impaired, discuss the best ways to alert you in an emergency. If you have a cognitive disability be sure to work with your employer to determine how to best notify you of an emergency and what instruction methods are easiest for you to follow. Always participate in exercises, trainings and emergency drills offered by your employer.

Develop a Family Communications Plan:

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will do in different situations. Consider a plan where each family member calls or emails the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of-town contact not in the impacted area may be in a better position to communicate among separated family members. You may have trouble getting through or the phone system may be down altogether but be patient. For more information on how to develop a family communications plan, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Deciding to stay or go:

Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency, the first important decision is whether you stay or go. You should understand and plan for both possibilities. Use common sense and available information to determine if there is immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should monitor television or radio news reports for information or official instructions as they become available. If you’re specifically told to evacuate or seek medical treatment do so immediately. If you require additional travel time or need transportation assistance, make these arrangements in advance.

Consider your Service Animal or Pets:

Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate  to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your service animal or pets.  Keep in mind that what’s best for you is typically what’s best for you animals. If you must evacuate, take you pets with you if possible. However if you are going to a public shelter it is important to understand that by law only service animals must be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your animals; consider loved ones or friends outside of your immediate area, pet-friendly shelters and veterinarians who would be willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. For more information about pet preparedness, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Stay put:

Whether you are at home or elsewhere, there may be situations when its simply best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside. Consider what you can do safely shelter-in-place alone or with friends, family or neighbors. Also consider how a shelter designated for the public would meet your needs.

There could be times when you will need to stay put and create a barrier between your self and potentially contaminated air outside. This process is known as the situation. If you see large amounts of debris in the air or if the local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to take this kind of action. For more information about ‘sealing the room’ visit http://www.ready.gov.

Evacuation:

There may be conditions in which you will decide to get away or there may be situations when you may be ordered to leave. Plan how you will get away and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency. Ask about evacuation plans at places where you spend time including work, school, community organizations and other places you frequent. If you typically rely on elevators have a back-up plan in case they are not working.

Fire Safety:

Plan two ways out of every room in case of fire. Check for items such as bookcases, hanging pictures or overhead lights that could fall and block an escape path. Check hallways, stairwells, doorsways, windows and other areas for hazards that may keep you from safely leaving a building during an emergency. Secure or remove furniture and objects that may block your path. If there are aspects of preparing your home or workplace that you are not able to do yourself, enlist the help of your personal support network.

Contact your Local Emergency Information Management Office:

Some local emergency management offices maintain registers of people with disabilities so you can be located and assisted quickly in a disaster. Contact your local emergency management  agency to see if these services exist where you live or visit http://www.ready.gov to find links to government offices in your area. In addition, wearing medical alert tags or bracelets that identify your disability can be a crucial aid in an emergency situation. When traveling, consider alerting hotel or motel workers, if you will need help in a disaster situation.

3. Be Informed about what might Happen:

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected such as assembling an emergency supply kit and making an emergency plan are the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, its important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies  are likely to affect your region. For more information about specific types of emergencies, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. Above all, calm be patient and think before you act. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected.

Preparing makes sense for people with disabilities and special needs. Get ready Now.

*This information was developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in consultation with AARP, the American Red Cross and the National Organization on Disability.

*I don’t know the program that well so please read the pamphlet.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Career Programming for people with disabilities, Disability Programming, Disaster and Terrorism Training Programs, Federal Caregiver programs, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey State Program, New York City Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

BVMI: The Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative

Posted on January 7, 2017 by jwatrel

BVMI provides free primary medical care to low-income, working Bergen County Residents

*who do not have healthy insurance or the means to pay for care.

If uninsured and need a doctor, perhaps BVMI can help. You may qualify for FREE healthcare if:

Someone in your household is working and you either live or work in Bergen County and your household meets the income guidelines:

1 person: up to $35,640.00 annually

2 people: up to $48,060.00 annually

3 people: up to $60,450.00 annually

4 people: up to $72,900.00 annually

Call (201) 342-2478 to find out if you qualify. Eligibility screening is by appointment only.

BVMU Healthcare Center

Hackensack, NJ  07601

(201) 342-2478

http://www.bvmi.org

Please follow the following file or link attachments.

GBCA Builds New Medical Clinic

Since 2009, Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative, a non-profit health care organization has deployed the talents and skills of volunteer doctors, nurses and medical professionals in service to those in our community who have no health insurance.

BVMI’s partnership with GBCA was central to its early success, when GBCA built for BVMI, a new state of the art health clinic at 241 Moore Street in Hackensack. This home has been ground zero for meeting the health care needs of 1000 people annually through a network of over 200 specialists.

As momentum has built for the revitalization of downtown Hackensack, GBCA has plans to repurpose in Main Street property by building a new residential and retail building in what currently houses the BVMI clinic. Thus, BVMI is once again in need of a new home and once again, GBCA is pleased to step up to the task.

As we speak, GBCA’s construction team is building a brand new, expanded clinic for BVMI at 75 Essex Street in Hackensack. It will include six exam rooms, three doctor consult rooms, a nurse’s station, a lab, medical records room and a secure medication storage along with reception and patient waiting rooms.

“I think BVMI is one of the most impressive organizations I have seen in my 30 years of community-building work,” remarked GBCA CEO Bob Halsch. “It is just such partners that President Lyndon Johnson contemplated that we invest in when he created Community Action at the drawing of the War on Poverty.”

VMI’s Executive Director, Amanda Missey, commented “GBCA was with us at the beginning when we had so much energy and commitment,  but no place to actually serve our patients. Our two organizations have a shared mission and values and we are natural partners in our mutual pursuit of a more healthful and vital life for all in our community.”

*From the Bergen Volunteer Medical Initiative pamphlet/Greater Bergen Community Action Inc.

*BVMI service is not intended fro Medicare beneficiaries.

*Disclaimer: I have never used this service so I have no opinion on it either yes or no. Please call their number for information on the plan.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Federal Nutrition Programs, Health and Life Support Services, Medicare/Medicaid Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Obesity Programs, Prescription Drug Programs, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Kriya-Yoga

Posted on December 2, 2016 by jwatrel

This set of exercises was given to us by the lady who leads are exercise part of our support group each week. By doing a couple of these or all of them might help in the healing pattern.  To relax and sit back and do these exercises to soft music. They are helping us in our Stroke & Disabled Support Group.

Kriya-Yoga

Exercise by sitting:

A. Put your top part of both hands on the top of your head and rotate it to clock wise and counterclockwise. (20 times)

B.

a. Straighten your head and rotate both of your pupils of eyes to the right and to the left (20 times).

b. Straighten your head and up and down your pupils (20 times).

c. Straighten your head and rotate your pupils to clockwise and counter-clockwise (20 times).

d. Straighten your head and close your eyes forcefully and open it (20 times).

e. Close your eyes and open your eyelid with the help of your finger (20 times).

f. Rub your hands few times until warm and put it on your eyes, then slowly close your eyes and open it (10 times).

C. Put your top part of fingers on the medulla gland (connecting the head and the neck) and rotate it to clockwise and counter-clockwise (20 times).

D.

a. Turn the neck right and left (20 times)

b. Move neck up and down (20 times).

c. Rotate the neck to clockwise and counterclockwise. (20 times).

E.

a. Put you hands on your shoulders (Right hand on right shoulder and left hand on left shoulder) and rotate it clockwise and counterclockwise together (small round/circle) (20 times).

b. Put your hands on your shoulders (Right hand on right shoulder and left hand on the left shoulder) and rotate it clockwise and counterclockwise (big round/circles) (20 times)

c. Put both of your hand on your shoulders and rotate it to clockwise and counterclockwise one by one (like swimming) (20 times).

F.

a. Straighten your both hands in front; close your fingers forcefully (mist) and open it (20 times).

b. Straighten your both hands up in the air; close your fingers forcefully (mist) and open it (20 times).

c. Straighten your hands on both sides; close your fingers forcefully (mist) and open it (20 times).

d. Straighten hands in downwards position; close your fingers forcefully (mist) and open it (20 times).

G.

a. Rotate the left hand from the shoulder clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times).

b. Rotate the right hand from the shoulder clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times).

c. Rotate both hands from the shoulder clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times)

d. Rotate both hands one by one from the shoulder clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times)

H.

a. Put both hands on the waist and turn only the upper part of the body towards right and then left (20 times).

b. Put both hand on the waist and turn the waist to clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times).

I.

a. Put both hands on the knees and turn knees clockwise and counterclockwise (20 times).

b. Stand only on the left leg and straighten right leg than stretch your feet from the ankle upwards and downwards in the air (10 times).

c. Stand only on the right leg and straighten the left leg than stretch your feet from ankle upwards and downwards in the air (10 times).

d. Stand only on the left leg and rotate your right foot clockwise and counterclockwise (10 times).

e. Stand only on the right leg and rotate your left foot clockwise and counterclockwise (10 times).

J.

a. Stretch your body to right side and left side one by to touch the ground (10 times).

b. Bend from your waist in front and touch with both hand to the ground by releasing the breath (Padhastashan) (3 times).

c. Make distance between both legs and hold left thumb (toe) with right hand and hold right thumb (toe) with left hand (20 times).

d. By taking the breath, join the hands and stretch the body to the upside (3 times) (Tadasan)

Exercise by sitting:

K.

a. Sit in Padmasan (Lotus) position and touch head to left knee and right knee one by one by releasing your breath (3 times).

b. In Padmasan (Lotus) position, touch head to the ground by releasing the breath (Bhunaman-padmasan) (3 times).

c. In Padmasan (Lotus), slowly lie backwards and hold toes of the feet with hands (matsyasan) (15 to 20 seconds)

d. In Padmasan (Lotus) position, swing your body on the base of hand (claw) (Zulansan) (3 times).

L.

a. Align both feet so they touch one another (like Namaskar). With both hand on feet, move from knees in the up-down motion (15 times).

b. Align both feet so they touch each other (like Namaskar). With both hand on the feet by release breath touch your head on the feet ( 3 times).

M.

a. Make 2 to 3 feet distance between feet and hold the left thumb (toe) with the right hand and hold the right thumb with left hand by releasing the breath (15 times).

b. Close the both legs, hold the thumb (toes) and touch the head to the knees by releasing the breath (15 to 20 seconds) (Paschimotanasan).

N.

a. Sit in the Varjrasan position (15 to 20 seconds).

b. Side down the legs in Vajrasan position (15 to 20 seconds).

c. In Vajrasan position, sleep down on the base of the hands (15 to 20 seconds).

O.

a. Sleep down in Makarasan position (15 to 20 seconds).

b. Put both hands on the side of the chest and try to get up from the chest on the base of the hands by looking straight.

c. Put both hands on the side of the waist and try to get up from the waist on the base of the hands by looking up to the sky. (Bhujangasan) (Position of Suryanamaskar-6) (15 to 20 seconds)

d. Naukasan (5 times).

e. Sleep on the base of the belly, hold the feet and get up by keeping the head straight (Dhanurasan) (15 to 20 seconds).

P.

a. Ardhamatsyendrasan position (20 seconds).

b. Ustrasan position (15 to 20 seconds).

c. Lie down on your back, left your legs to the up position to 35 degrees and keep them straight in the air (40 seconds to 2 minutes).

Our exercise lady suggests that you do not do all of these at once but work your way to them. Myself and members of our group find them very helpful in stretching for the day.

 

 

 

 

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

The Mind Diet

Posted on December 1, 2016 by jwatrel

This was presented to us by a member of the Bergen County Senior Nutrition Division.

When choosing a diet to help heal the brain, these are some of the foods that are recommended:

Choose from these ten food groups:

Green Leafy Vegetables (like spinach & salad greens)

Other Vegetables

Nuts

Berries

Beans

Whole Grains

Fish

Poultry

Olive Oil

Wine

Foods to avoid from 5 unhealthy food groups:

Red Meat

Butter & Margarine

Cheese

Pastries & Sweets

Fried or Fast Food

Remember that everything should be taken in moderation and making adjustments to your diet is not that hard, it just takes discipline.

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

Preparing your pets for Emergencies makes sense. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Posted on October 2, 2016 by jwatrel

Preparing your pets for emergencies makes sense. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Prepare: Get A Pet Emergency Supply Kit

Just as you do with your family’s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, particularly food and water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away. Plus, be sure to review your kits regularity to ensure that their contents, especially the foods and medicines are fresh.

Food: Keep at least three days of food in an air tight, waterproof container.

Water: Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your family.

Medicines and medical records: Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container.

First aid kit: Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet’s emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book.

Collar with ID tag, harness or leash: your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet’s emergency supply kit. In addition, place copies of your pet’s registration information, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container and also add them to your kit. You should also consider talking with your veterinarian. about permanent identification such micro-chipping and enrolling your pet in a recovery database.

Crate or other pet carrier: If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation take your pets and animals with you provided that it is practical to do so. In many cases, your ability to do so will be aided by having a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pet. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down.

Sanitation: Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet’s sanitation needs. You can use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach) or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches or those with added cleaners.

A picture of you and your pet together: If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet, include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics.

Familiar items: Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet.

2. PLAN: What you will do in an Emergency:

Be prepared to assess the situation. Use whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and ensure your pet’s safety during an emergency. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You should understand and plan for both here to determine if there is immediate danger.

In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for instructions. If you’re specifically told to evacuate, shelter-in-place or seek medical treatment, do so immediately.

Create a plan to get away: Plan how you will assemble your pets and anticipate where you will go. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if practical. If you go to public shelter, keep in mind your animals may not be allowed inside. Secure appropriate lodging in advance depending on the number and type of animals in your care. Consider family or friends willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or a boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hospital that is near an evacuation facility or your family’s meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of the these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets.

Develop a buddy system: Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pet’s emergency supply kit. Also, designate specific locations, one in your immediate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet in an emergency.

Talk to your pet’s veterinarian about emergency planning: Discuss the types of things that you should include in your pet’s emergency first aid kit. Get the names of vets or veterinary hospitals in other cities, where you might need to seek temporary shelter. You should also consider talking with your veterinarian  about permanent identification such as micro-chipping and enrolling your pet in a recover database. If you pet is micro-chipped, keeping your emergency contact information up to date and listed with  reliable recovery database is essential  to your being reunited with your pet.

Gather contact information for emergency animal treatment: Make a list of contact information and addresses of area animal control agencies including the Humane Society or ASPCA and emergency veterinary hospitals. Keep one copy of these phone numbers with you and one in your pet’s emergency supply kit. Obtain “Pets Inside” stickers and place them on your doors or windows, including information on the number and types of pets in your home to alert fire fighters and rescue workers. Consider putting a phone number on the sticker where you could be reached in an emergency. And if time permits remember to write the words “Evacuated with Pets” across the stickers should you flee with your pets.

3. Stay Informed: Know about types of emergencies:

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected such as assembling an emergency supply kit for yourself, your family and your pets, is the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it’s important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region as well as emergency plans that have been established by your state and local government. For more information about how to prepare, visit http://www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.

Be prepared to adapt this information for your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorizes on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Those who take the time to prepare themselves and their pets will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry. Take the time now to get yourself and your pet ready.

Preparing for your pets makes sense. Get ready now.

If you are like millions of animal owners nation-wide, your pet is an important member of your household.  The likelihood that you and your animals will survive an emergency such as a fire or flood, tornado or terrorist attack depends largely on emergency planning done today. Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an animal emergency supply kit and developing a pet care buddy system, are the same for any emergency. Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency. Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your pets. Keep in mind that what’s best for you is typically what’s best for your animals.

If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. However, if you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that animals may not be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.

Make a back-up emergency plan in case you can’t care for your animals yourself. Develop a buddy system with neighbors, friends and relatives to make sure that someone is available to car for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Be prepared to improvise and use what you have on hand to make it on your own for at least three days, maybe longer.

Preparing for the unexpected makes sense. Get Ready Now.

*Disclaimer: this information was developed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in consultation with: American Kennel Club, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association and The Humane Society of the U.S.

*Since I do not have an animal, I have never been exposed to this but after experiencing Hurricane Sandy it is best to pre-prepare.

 

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Emergency Supply List: Homeland Security

Posted on October 1, 2016 by jwatrel

Emergency Supply List:  Homeland Security WWW.Ready.Com

Recommended items to include in a basic emergency supply kit:

*Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.

*Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

*Battery-powered or hand-crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

*Flashlight and extra batteries

*First aid kit

*Whistle to signal for help.

*Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.

*Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

*Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.

*Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food)

*Local maps

Through its Ready Campaign, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security educates and empowers Americans to take some simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies, including natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Ready asks individuals to do three key things:

*Get an emergency supply kit

*Make a family emergency plan

*Be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses.

All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs.  Following is a listing of some items that every emergency should include. However, it is important that individuals review this list and consider where they live and the unique needs of their family in order to create an emergency supply kit that will these needs. Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Additional items to consider adding to an emergency supply kit:

*Prescription medications and glasses.

*Infant formula and diapers

*Pet Food and extra water for your pet

*Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.

*Cash or traveler’s checks and change

*Emergency reference material such as a first aid book or information from http://www.ready.gov.

*Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.

*Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you live in a cold-weather climate.

*Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper-When diluted nine parts water to one part bleach, bleach can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.

*Fire Extinguisher

*Matches in a waterproof container

*Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items.

*Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels

*Paper and pencil

*Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.

*From the Homeland Security Emergency Supply List Pamphlet http://www.ready.gov

Please take these suggestions into consideration.

 

 

Posted in Disaster and Terrorism Training Programs, Federal Caregiver programs, Fire Fighting/First Responder Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Transportation Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Sanitation Programs, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Oxford Medicare Advantage: Physical Inactivity

Posted on September 19, 2016 by jwatrel

Physical Inactivity:

Being Inactive or leading a sedentary lifestyle can lead to:

*Weight gain or obesity

*Osteoporosis

*High cholesterol levels

*Diabetes

*Heart disease including heart attack and stroke

*Depression

Reasons for Increased Activity:

*Being confined to bed rest (homebound)

*Feeling depressed and unwilling to partake in activities

*Having arthritis pain which makes it difficult to move joints

*Being overweight which makes it difficult to move around easily

*Feeling ‘old’ and believing that you shouldn’t exercise “at your age”

*Feeling tired and fatigued (Good diet)

Benefits of Regular Physical Activity:

*Reduction in weight

*Reduction in blood pressure

*Elevation of mood

*Prevention of heart attack or stroke

*Reduction in cholesterol

*Less insulin needed

*Prevention of osteoporosis

Ways to increase Physical Activity:

*Walk instead of driving or taking public transportation

*Take the stairs instead of the elevator

*Park farther away from the store

*Go dancing

*Find a friend to walk with you to make it enjoyable

*Plan your days well in advance so you can schedule time for exercise

*Take advantage of exercise classes at senior centers, Y’s, and fitness centers. Look into the Oxford Forever Fit program

*Join the Oxford Walking Club or participating in a mall walking club

*Get moving! Any form of physical activity that you can do any amount of time is better than doing nothing

Sleep:

Problem:

I just can’t get a good nights sleep

Myths:

*Everyone needs at least 8 hours of sleep per night

*Everyone should be able to sleep soundly at night

Facts:

*As people get older, their sleep patterns change. Sleep becomes more ‘broker’ so people tend to wake up often and then go back to sleep.

*Each person has her own specific sleep wake rhythm. Some people need as little as four or five hours of sleep. The more stressed out a person is, the more difficult it is for him/her to get a full night’s sleep.

*Stress greatly impacts sleep. The more stressed a person is, the more difficult it is for her to get a full night’s sleep.

*It is important to have good, solid, comfortable mattress and pillow to get a good night’s sleep.

*When a person gets a good night’s sleep, they are more alert, less anxious, and able to handle day-to-day challenges with less difficulty.

Helpful Recommendations:

*If your mattress is more than ten years old, consider getting a new one.

*Get ready for bed the same time every night.

*Do not watch TV, listen to the radio or read a newspaper a half-hour before bed. You can listen to soothing music.

*Get in bed, find a comfortable position and close your eyes.

*Do not eat foods with a lot of carbohydrates or sugar before going to bed. You will wake up in about three to four hours unable to sleep. Avoid caffeine also.

*Focus on relaxing while in bed and not your worries. If you can’t sleep, just relax, don’t try to make yourself sleep. It won’t work.

Stress:

Question:

What is stress?

Myths:

*Stress only happen once in a while

*Not everybody has stress

*Only negative things that happen are stressful

Facts:

*Stress is anything that puts demands on a system, whether it is positive or negative

*Stress is a natural part of each person’s life

*When faced with stress, the body first goes through a stock stage where the heartbeat is irregular and the blood pressure, muscle tone and body temperature all drop.

*In the next stage, the body gets ready to protect itself and the heart beats faster, and the blood pressure and body temperature rise.

*When you have a lot stress in your life you develop problems digesting food, sleeping and fighting diseases.

*People under a lot of stress tend to get sick more often, get hurt more often or just generally feel tired and our of sorts.

*When stressed, it is also difficult to think and you may react emotionally to things that don’t normally bother you.

Helpful Recommendations:

*Figure out what is causing the stress in your life

*If possible reduce the stress. For example if takes too much out of you to keep your house clean, ask someone for help.

*Allow yourself time each day to just relax. Sit quietly in a chair and simply close your eyes and breath.

*Do one thing each day that you like to do, just for you. Talk a walk, talk on the phone to a friend or take a bubble bath.

Sources of Vitamins in Foods:

Vitamin

A

Deficiency Disease

Night Blindness

Food Source of Vitamin

Eggs, whole milk, cream, cheese, liver, green and yellow vegetables (carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale and broccoli)

Vitamin

B1 (thiamine)

Deficiency disease

Beriberi

Food source of Vitamin

Ham, Pork, Milk, fortified cereals, peanuts, liver and yeast

Vitamin

(B2 riboflavin)

Deficiency disease

Ariboflavinosis

Food source of Vitamin

Liver and other organ meats, milk, green vegetables, fortified cereals and yeast

Vitamin

Niacin

Deficiency disease

Pellagra

Food Source of Vitamin

Peanuts, lean meats, poultry, fish, bran, yeast, liver

Vitamin

B6

Deficiency disease

Vitamin B6 deficiency

Food Source of Vitamin

Whole-grain cereal, fish, legumes, liver and other organ meats, yeast

Vitamin

B12

Deficiency disease

Pernicious anemia

Food source of Vitamin

Eggs, milk, liver

Vitamin

C (ascorbic acid)

Deficiency disease

Scurvy

Food source of Vitamin

Fresh fruits and vegetables (oranges and other citrus fruits, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, etc)

Vitamin

D

Deficiency disease

Rickets

Food source of Vitamin

Fortified milk, fish liver oil

Vitamin

E

Deficiency disease

Vitamin E deficiency

Food source of Vitamin

Vegetable seed oil, egg yolk, cereals, beef liver

Vitamin

K

Deficiency disease

Vitamin K deficiency

Food source of Vitamin

Leafy green vegetables, liver

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Posted on August 26, 2016 by jwatrel

Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Get Ready Now. FEMA

Preparing makes sense for older Americans. Get ready now.

The likelihood that you and your family will recover from an emergency tomorrow often depends on the planning and preparation done today. While each person’s abilities and needs are unique, every individual can take steps to prepare for all kinds of emergencies from fires and floods to potential terrorist attacks. By evaluating your own personal needs and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your loved ones can be better prepared. This guide outlines common-sense measures older Americans can take to start preparing for emergencies before they happen. Preparing makes sense for older Americans. Get Ready Now.

  1. Get a kit of Emergency Supplies:

The first step is consider how an emergency might affect your individual needs. Plan to make it on your own for at least three days. It’s possible that you will not have access to all medical facility or even a drugstore. It is crucial that you and your family think about what kinds of resources you use on a daily basis and what you might do if those resources are limited or not available.

Basic Supplies: Think first about the basics for survival-food, water, clean air and any life-sustaining items you require. Consider two kits. In one kit,  put everything you will need to stay where you are and make it on your own for a period of time. The other kit should be a light-weight, smaller version you can take with you if you have to leave your home. Recommended basic emergency supplies include:

*Water, one gallon per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.

*Food, at least a three day supply of non-perishable food and a can opener if kit contains canned foods.

*Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.

*Flashlight and extra batteries

*First Aid Kit

*Whistle to signal for help

*Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place.

*Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

*Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

*Local Maps

*Pet food, extra water and supplies for your pet or service animal

Include Medications and Medical Supplies:

If you take medicine or use a medical treatment on a daily basis, be sure you have what you need on hand to make it on your own for at least a week. You should also keep a copy of your prescriptions as well as a dosage or treatment information. If it is not possible to have a week-long supply of medicines and supplies, keep  as much as possible on hand and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about what else you should do to prepare.

If you undergo routine treatments administered by a clinic or hospital or if you receive regular services such as home health care, treatment or transportation, talk to your service provider about their emergency plans. Work with them to identify back-up service providers within your area and the areas you might evacuate to. If you use medical equipment in your home that requires electricity to operate, talk to your health care provider about what you can do to prepare for its use during a power outage.

Additional Items: In addition, there may be other things specific to your personal needs that you should also have on hand. If you use eyeglasses, hearing aids and hearing aid batteries, wheelchair batteries and oxygen be sure you always have extras in your home. Also have copies of your medical insurance. Medicare and Medicaid cares readily available.

Include Emergency Documents: Include copies of important documents in your emergency supply kits such as family records, wills, power of attorney documents, deeds, social security numbers, credit card and bank information and tax records. It is best to keep these documents in a waterproof container. Include the names and numbers of everyone in your personal support network as well as your medical providers. Also be sure you have cash or travelers checks in your kits in case you need to purchase suppliers.

2. Make A Plan for what you will do in an Emergency:

The reality of a disaster situation is that you will likely not have access to everyday conveniences. To plan in advance, think through the details of your everyday life. If there are people who assist you on a daily basis, list who they are and how you will contact them in an emergency. Create your own personal support network by identifying others who will help you in an emergency. Think about what modes of transportation you use and what alternative modes could serve as back-ups. If you require handicap accessible transportation be sure your alternatives are also accessible. For every aspect of your daily routine, plan an alternative procedure. Make a plan and write it down. Keep a copy of your plan in your emergency supply kits and a list of important information and contacts in your wallet. Share your plan with your family, friends, care providers and others in your personal support network.

Create a Personal Support Network: If you anticipate needing assistance during a disaster, make a list of family, friends and others who will be part of your plan. Talk to these people and ask them to be part of your support network. Share each aspect of your emergency plan with everyone in your group, including a friend or relative in another area who would not be impacted by the same emergency who can help if necessary. Make sure everyone knows how you plan to evacuate your home or workplace and where  you will go in case of a disaster. Make sure that someone in your personal support network has an extra key to your home and knows where you keep your emergency supplies. Practice your plan with those who have agreed to part of your personal support network.

Develop a family communication plan:

Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so plan how you will contact one another and review what you will do in different situations. Consider a plan where each family member calls or emails the same friend or relative in the event of an emergency. It may be easier to make a long-distance phone call than to call across town, so an out-of -town contact, not in the impacted area, may be in better position to communicate among separated family members. You may have trouble getting through or through or the phone system may be down altogether but be patient. For more information on how to develop a family communications plan visit http://www.ready.gov.

Deciding to stay or Go: Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency, the first important decision is whether you stay or go. Use common sense and available information to determine if there is immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities may or may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should monitor TV or radio news reports for information or official instructions as they become available. If you’re specifically told to evacuate or seek medical treatment, do so immediately. If you require additional travel time or need transportation assistance, make these arrangements in advance.

Consider your pets: Whether you decide to stay put in an emergency or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your pets and service animals. Keep in mind that what’s best for you is typically what’s best for your animals. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you if possible. however, if you are going to a public shelter, it is important to understand that only service animals may be allowed inside. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pet; consider love ones or friends outside of your immediate area, pet-friendly  shelters and veterinarians who would be willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. For more information about pet preparedness, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Staying Put: Whether you are at home or elsewhere, there may be situations when its simply best to stay where you are and avoid any uncertainty outside. Consider what you can do to safely shelter-in-place alone or with friends, family or neighbors. Also consider how a shelter designated for the public would meet your needs.

There could be times when you will need to stay put and create a barrier between yourself and potentially contaminated air outside. This process is known as ‘sealing the room’. Use available information to assess the situation. If you see large amounts debris in the air or if local authorities say the air is badly contaminated, you may want to take this kind of action. For more information about ‘sealing the room’, visit http://www.ready.gov.

Evacuation: There may be conditions in which you will decide to get away or there may be situations  when you may be ordered to leave. Plan how you will get away and anticipate where you will go. Choose several destinations in different directions so you have options in an emergency. Ask about evacuation plans at the places where you spend time including work, community organizations and other places you frequent. If you typically rely on elevators, have a back up plan in case they are not working.

Fire Safety: Plan two ways out of every room in case of fire. Check for items such as bookcases, hanging pictures or overhead lights that could fall and block an escape path. Check hallways, stairwells, doorways, windows and other areas for hazards that may keep you from safety leaving a building during an emergency. Secure or remove furniture and objects that may block your path. If there are aspects of preparing your home or workplace that you are not able to do yourself, enlist the help of your personal support network.

Contact your local Emergency Information Management Office: Some local emergency management  offices maintain registers of older people so they can be located and assisted quickly in a disaster. Contact your local emergency  management agency to see if these services exist where you live or visit http://www.ready.gov to find links to government offices in your area.

3. Be Informed about what might happen: Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an emergency supply kit and making an emergency plan are the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it’s important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region. For more information about specific types of emergencies, visit http://www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. Above all, stay calm, be patient and think before you act. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected.

Preparing make sense for older Americans. Get ready now.

This information was developed by the US Department of Homeland Security in consultation with AARP, the American Red Cross and the National Organization on Disability.

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the pamphlet from FEMA on Preparing makes sense for Older Americans. Please refer to the above phone numbers and websites for more information on preparing for the future.

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