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Understanding the Types and Symptoms of Arthritis

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Arthritis is the name given to a group of chronic disorders whose symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in one or more joints. Arthritis can effect anyone but is most common in older adults. Arthritis may result from trauma, aging, infection, an auto-immune disease, genetics, or occupational injuries. Treatment options for arthritis include medication, exercise, physical therapy, and surgery. Understanding the various types of arthritis and the symptoms that accompany them can help you communicate with your health care professional to find the best treatment.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by the wearing away of cartilage around the joint, causing bones in the joint to rub together. Although almost everyone will experience some degree of osteoarthritis after the age of 70, people who work in certain physically demanding jobs or play some sports are more susceptible. Osteoarthritis sufferers often experience stiffness (particularly in the morning) and loss of range of motion in addition to pain that is more severe after physical activity or certain types of movement.

Another  common form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks healthy cells. Symptoms are usually experienced in the same joint on both sides of the body. The joints most often affected by rheumatoid arthritis are the fingers, wrists, knees, ankles, and feet. Pain, swelling, and compromised movement are all common in rheumatoid arthritis, as well as eventual deformity of the affected joints in more severe cases. More women than men have rheumatoid arthritis.

Gout is a kind of arthritis that occurs primarily in the joint at the base of the big toe, although it can also occur in the wrists, fingers, knees, and heel. It is cause by excess uric acid in the blood, which is then deposited in joints and surrounding tissues in the form of uric acid crystals. Gout can have various causes, including genetics and trauma, but is often associated with frequent consumption of alcohol and meat. Gout is more prevalent in men than women.

There are many other forms of arthritis, including autoimmune diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and scleroderma, and those resulting from infection, like gonococcal arthritis. Although different types of arthritis can be differentiated on the basis of their symptoms, medical testing is usually necessary to conclusively determine the underlying cause.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Arthritis problems. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Arthritis Home Care New York

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Understanding the Symptoms of Parkinson’s

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Parkinson’s disease has a variety of effects that can make life very challenging for its sufferers. Compromised mobility is the hallmark of the disease, which results from the death of nerve cells in the brain that are vital to the regulation of movement. Parkinson’s is a chronic, progressive disease, meaning that it worsens over time. There is currently no treatment or cure for Parkinson’s. There is, however, ways to manage the of symptoms and promote quality of life for patients.

Physical symptoms include: tremors (shaking of the limbs, extremities and face); stiffness and rigidity of the arms, legs, and torso; slowness of movement; and compromised balance and coordination. Symptoms such as these often appear early in the progression of the disease. Perform everyday tasks such as writing, driving, preparing meals, cleaning, and bathing become much more difficult with the symptoms. Certain symptoms may progress more quickly for some people than for others. For example, while one person may experience tremors early on, another person may find difficulty balancing and walking to be their primary symptom. Individual symptoms may progress relatively quickly or slowly; the debilitating aspects of the disease may appear all at once or gradually over time.

In addition to challenges with movement, Parkinson’s sufferers may experience other, non-motor symptoms. These include: loss of sense of smell, fatigue, depression, constipation, and sleep problems. Parkinson’s may also lead to difficulty processing information and communicating. Some patients may experience confusion and dementia could develop in later stages. Working closely with physicians, health care providers, and family members to determine a treatment plan that addresses each individual’s experience is imperative. A smart and well planned approach to symptom management can be extremely beneficial for patients and caregivers.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Parkinson’s disease. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Parkinson Home Care New York

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Pacing Yourself with Parkinson’s

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Parkinson’s disease effects many body systems and produces various symptoms. Psychiatric symptoms can range from sleep problems to severe depression. Physical symptoms include body tremors, mobility challenges, and fatigue. Performing daily tasks that once were second nature, such as meal preparation or dressing, can become major challenges as the disease progresses. Promoting independence despite these difficulties can boost patient’s mood and quality of life.

A major challenge those suffering from Parkinson’s face is fatigue. Even the simplest of tasks can be extremely taxing on patients. To prevent excessive fatigue, Parkinson’s patients should have a strategic plan for their activities in order to conserve energy. Scheduling activities for times when they will have more energy and spacing events at intervals throughout the day will efficiently allocate their strength. Planning an abundant amount of rest periods – before, after, or even during activities – is often very helpful. Modifying activities to make them less strenuous and allowing more time to complete tasks can also conserve energy. Another helpful tip to follow is allowing at least 20 minutes of rest after meals. One of the most important things a patient can do for themselves is ask for help. Family, friends, and caregivers can assist with chores that are too strenuous to complete on your own.

Getting a good night’s sleep is essential for Parkinson’s sufferers. Make the most of sleep by avoiding naps during the day, which can make it more difficult to sleep at night. Patients should sleep with their head elevated in a comfortable temperature. Proper sleep at night will allow the body to rest and recovery in order to optimize your daytime energy levels.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to advise and assist you or any loved one who seek appropriate care of Parkinson’s disease. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Parkinson Home Care New York

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Financing Long-Term Care: Private Insurance vs. Medicaid

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There are many variables for the families of Alzheimer’s patients to consider, one of which is the financial aspect of the long-term care. The progressiveness and longevity of the disease makes it difficult to determine the cost of long-term care. However, by exploring all your options and planning for care services early, you can help your loved one receive the best care possible.

Paying out-of-pocket for in-home nursing care or for residence in an adult family home or skilled nursing facility can represent a great financial burden for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. Due to the often high cost of these services, it may not be feasible to cover the expenses on your own. However, there are other options, one of which is insurance. Many private insurance plans, as well as the government program Medicaid, offer financing options for skilled nursing care. In addition to traditional health insurance, some life insurance policies allow funds to be allocated to long-term care.

While Medicare does not pay for in-home or residential care, Medicaid funds can be used to finance this type of care for eligible individuals. In order to qualify for Medicaid, your assets must fall below a certain threshold. Your state Medicaid office can help you determine the eligibility of your loved one for nursing home benefits or other programs offered by Medicaid. For individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid or other government programs, private insurance policies specifically dedicated to long-term care can be a good alternative. Such insurance policies vary widely and can range from very basic, such as only covering nursing-home care, to comprehensive. Services offered can include assistance for in-home care, medical supplies, and other products and services. Former military personnel and federal government employees could receive a discounted rate for these insurance plans. Mindful planning and research can help your loved one receive the care that they need within the budget that best suits you.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to provide financial advice for you or any loved one. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Financing Home Care New York

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Exploring All Options When Paying for Care Service

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Long-term care can be expensive. Whether your loved one will receive in-home care or reside in a skilled-care facility, the costs can quickly add up. The emotional toil of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis coupled with concerns on financing care can be overwhelming. It is important to remember that there is help available. By taking advantage of all your resources, you’ll be able to streamline the process of financing care. Your loved one may qualify for government programs such as Social Security, Medicaid, veteran benefits, and tax deductions or credits. Government sponsored websites like Benefits.gov, the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information, and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs all provide information about how to finance care service.

In addition to government resources, an individual may be eligible for benefits through their employer. Retirement packages can offer pension plans, IRA funds, and annuities. If your loved one is still employed when he or she is diagnosed, review the employer’s handbook and contact the human resources department. Employee benefits may be available such as short-term disability benefits, paid sick leave, and flexible spending accounts that allow for the purchase of tax-free healthcare services. All of these employment related resources can help ease the cost of care.

Insurance is usually the major source of funding for long-term care. Elderly over the age of 65 rely on Medicare for health care coverage. Private insurance can also be beneficial, check with the insurance company to find out what expenses are covered. Personal assets including investments, savings and property can be sources that serve as additional income. Check your local community organizations as many provide inexpensive or free services that cater to the elderly. By exploring all the options for financing care, you’ll be enhancing your loved one’s future and helping to secure the best possible care for them.

Edison Home Health Care is happy to provide financial advice for you or any loved one. Give us a call at 888-311-1142, or fill out a contact form and we will respond shortly.

Financing Home Care New York

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