September Special Section
2 | September 2020 | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
In-home care and your longterm care insurance policy Brought to you by — Home Helpers Home Care of North Atlanta During these challenging times of COVID-19, staying in the safety of home is an alternative that so many of our older loved ones are seeking. While Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) can be applied towards assisted living, many people don’t know that it can also apply towards in-home care if provided by a licensed agency. While you’ve faithfully paid your LTCI premiums every year, it may be 20 years or more since you reviewed what your policy can provide. As care needs begin to surface, many people aren’t using the benefits they’ve paid for or understand there are alternatives to assisted living they can utilize with LTCI. Let’s review some general guidelines that apply to most policies, and some facts that may surprise you. There are typically two circumstances when you can consider starting LTCI. The first is when you need help with at least two Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s). Those are the everyday basic activities of bathing, dressing, toileting or incontinence, transferring and eating. The second is when there is cognitive impairment. This could be due to conditions like dementia, Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. While physical assistance may not be the main concern here, help is needed with reminders and cues to just get through each day. Your LTCI plan will have forms that you can provide to your doctor who will write an order confirming the need for assistance. Using your LTCI policy does not affect Medicare. Here are some important facts. Your policy has benefit amounts, maximums and terms you need to know. There is
typically an elimination period of 30, 60 or 90 days depending on the policy you chose. The elimination period on a longterm care policy works like a deductible: It’s the number of days you pay for care before the policy pays out. This may, however, be waived for in-home care and reimbursement could start immediately. Call your provider if you have questions about these details. It’s important to always stay current with your premiums. An added benefit is that once your policy is activated, you won’t pay premiums during the time you’re receiving care (the benefit). When you consider in-home care, you need to make sure you are working with professionals who understand and can help you navigate the use of your LTCI plan. At Home Helpers we handle all the ongoing paperwork and filings that are needed as you use your LTCI policy. We can also join you in a call to your LTCI provider to help determine what your policy provides. The companionship and assistance a carefully matched, heart centered Home Helpers caregiver provides helps build and boost self-confidence. Well trained in infection control, our caregivers wear protective gear like face masks and gloves when appropriate, can take frequent temperature readings, check vital signs and prompt frequent hand washing. Our skilled Caregivers can assist with all personal care, help around the house, provide transportation and specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. We’re here to help. For a free consultation and personalized plan contact Home Helpers of North Atlanta today at (678) 430-8511.
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
I have acne – do I really need a dermatologist? By DR. BRENT TAYLOR Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta From every brick and mortar mall to mobile marketplaces to magazines in the grocery aisle, advice and solutions for better skin DR. TAYLOR health abound. But for brighter, clearer skin, there is still no substitute for a dermatologist. What the online retailers and magazine articles have in common is a relatively limited supply of ingredients to help your skin. As much as we might wish that an over-the-counter makeup, toner, concealer, or wash could be a skin cure-all, acne is a condition that often extends below the surface where only prescription medications can reach. There has been progress in our ability to treat acne with over the counter ingredients. In 2016, adapalene became the first medication since the 1980s to be approved for over the counter use in fighting acne. Adapalene is a retinoid, which as a class is the mainstay of most acne therapy. The fact that a formerly prescription-only retinoid is on the market has increased the ability of patients with very mild, shallow acne to self-treat effectively and avoid a trip to the doctor. Along with benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, glycolic acid and sulfur, retinoids can remove superficial oil, decrease oil production and inflammation and often lead to unclogged pores and a reduction in shallow acne. Most of these ingredients can lead to problems with dry, peeling skin when overused, so either online research or a visit with a dermatologist is still usually necessary to use these products effectively. For deeper and more severe acne, over the counter topicals are rarely sufficient. As a dermatologist, I get frustrated when commercials show photos of people with severe acne obtaining clear skin with the use of over the counter products. A disclaimer often reads that the results “may not be typical.” What the disclaimer does not mention is that wasting time on these products can cost patients precious months or years when they could have been on appropriate therapy. Patients whose severe acne goes undertreated and uncontrolled often develop scars that are either life-long or cost thousands of dollars to microneedle and laser away. Severe acne may not be a “skin emer-
gency” but it is an issue that needs to be quickly addressed because prescription medication is available that can beautifully clear acne and prevent scarring. An important principle is that it is much easier to prevent scarring in the first place than it is to address scarring after it has taken place. How do you know if your acne is severe? Because scarring is the complication we are most commonly trying to prevent, the important question is: are you developing any scars from your acne? If the answer is yes, then your acne should be promptly addressed by a professional. If your acne does not seem to be causing any scars or permanent blemishes, then you are probably safe to continue trying over the counter remedies, with the caveat that some inflamed acne lesions can lead to delayed scarring that is not visible in the first months after they resolve. Your dermatologist has an amazing array of tools and strategies not available by magazine. For females, medication that blocks certain androgens can help with hormonal and jawline acne. Topical dapsone can treat inflammatory acne. Many clogged pores and excessively oily complexions need prescription-strength retinoids, stronger than the adapalene currently approved for over the counter use. Topical and oral antibiotics help control bacteria. And the list of therapies goes on. For stubborn, resistant, severe or chronic acne, isotretinoin (known commonly as Accutane®) really is a wonder drug. It gets a bad rap because it is powerful, has side-effects and has been the subject of lawsuits, but properly used it is the most effective medicine available and can actually completely cure acne. With other medications, the strategy is to clear one’s acne until the patient grows out of the acne on his or her own. With isotretinoin, five to seven months of therapy often leads to a complete cure. If you or a loved one struggles with acne or any dermatologic complaint, consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta. Dr. Brent Taylor and Kathryn Filipek, PA-C are delighted to help you achieve your skin care and skin health goals. Dr. Taylor is a Harvardgraduate, a board certified dermatologist and vein care expert, and fellowshiptrained Mohs surgeon. Kathryn Filipek has greater than 15 years of dermatology experience with expertise in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology including fillers, Botox®, sclerotherapy and, of course, designing customized acne treatment plans.
NorthFulton.com | September 2020 | 3
4 | September 2020 | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
I told the kids I would disown them... Then I saw Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek
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Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek offers exemplary memory care Brought to you by – Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek uses Teepa Snow’s trademarked Gem Programming, Positive Personal Approach, and other techniques in caring for residents with a dementia challenge. This approach helps families relate to their loved one in a meaningful, engaging way. They offer personal appointments and tours for families to come and learn more about the Arbor Advantage and their 60-day guarantee of satisfaction. This exemplary resort-style community offers beautiful apartments for seniors at every stage of their care needs.
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They have several floorplans for Assisted Living and in their Bridges Neighborhood. Families love Bridges higher engagement activities designed for early cognitive challenges. Their Evergreen Memory Care Neighborhood is available for when higher care is needed on their dementia journey. They also offer a furnished suite when needed. Families can now focus on the relationship with their loved one in a less stressful manner and begin to feel the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved ones are exceptionally cared for by a well-trained caring team of professionals. Call Arbor Terrace of Johns Creek at 770-676-2410 to schedule a personal tour.
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Helping your loved one maintain a meaningful lifestyle Brought to you by – The Memory Center Atlanta The Memory Center Atlanta is the most unique and comprehensive community for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Devoted specifically to memory care, our expertly designed program meets the challenging conditions of an aging brain with a caring, interactive community. We understand a diagnosis of dementia does not mean you or your loved one stops living, rather it means finding new ways to live by helping them maintain an active and meaningful lifestyle. Our residents enjoy music, dancing, live entertainment, art, gardening, - even outings, pet therapy and religious services. Enjoy a drink in the Chattahoochee Tavern, grab a movie in the Fox Theater or ice cream at the Bull Dog Café. All residents experience socialization and activities accessible across all levels of dementia. Even those who need 24/7 care benefit from life at The Memory Center.
Overseen by our medical director, who specializes in the field of geriatric healthcare, our team of Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants provide the best 24/7 care. Don’t let a crisis determine where your loved one receives care. If you are considering memory care, we encourage you to explore options as early as possible. Take the time to ask questions, tour and include your loved one in the decision-making process. Transitioning to memory care early ensures the best quality of life with daily socialization and engaging activities designed to meet the needs of you or your loved one. Get in touch - ask us a question or schedule a tour of The Memory Center Atlanta to learn more about how our team provides a seamless transition for your loved one into their new home. Located at 12050 Findley Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097, less than ½ mile from Medlock Bridge Rd. directly behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Call today 770-476-3678. www.thememorycenter. com/communities/atlanta
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6 | September 2020 | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
Prioritizing pediatric immunizations during COVID-19 Brought to you by – Wellstar North Fulton Hospital Before COVID-19, scheduling a visit with your children’s pediatrician seldom required a second thought. Now during the pandemic, parents may be skipping important pediatric appointments and immunizations – and end up putting their children’s overall health at risk. According to Wellstar health experts, missing major health screenings and immunizations may make children more vulnerable to diseases such as tetanus, rubella, measles and more. “Vaccines are one of the most powerful prevention tools to defend against many common, life-threatening illDR. LEWIS nesses,” said Dr. Brandi Lewis, pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park in Alpharetta. “Preventative health screenings and immunizations are vital in protecting your children’s health and well-being.” To keep your children’s health in check, be sure to: • Visit your pediatrician. Routine wellness checks can help keep children healthy and identify underlying, unrecognized anxiety, depression, or bullying issues, as well as serious asymptomatic illnesses. • Update immunizations. Boosters and vaccines have a significant impact on children’s ability to prevent diseases – especially up to age two – including pertussis (whooping cough), tetanus, rotavirus, hepatitis, and others. While vaccines for babies and young children are particularly important, vaccines and boosters throughout childhood can help support immunity against common illnesses. • Prepare for school. Children of all
ages should get regular check-ups and immunizations to stay healthy, whether they attend school in-person or online. • Get a flu shot. Influenza can be highly contagious and dangerous to children and adults. Make sure to get the flu shot for your children and entire family every year, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. • Don’t delay care. If your child experiences a life-threatening medical episode or needs immediate care, get treatment right away. Wellstar is committed to providing the best and safest care for patients of all ages. “Throughout Wellstar, we have insti-
tuted many safety measures to protect all of our patients,” said Dr. Hebah Pranckun, also a pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park. “From wearing masks and gloves to offering virtual visits, we’re taking the necessary steps DR. PRANCKUN to keep people safe.” For more information about Wellstar’s COVID-19 safety measures, visit wellstar.org/safecare. To schedule an appointment with a pediatrician at Wellstar Avalon Health Park, please call 470-267-0380.
Anticancer effects of exercise Brought to you by — Dr. Jonathan Stegall, MD Did you know that exercise is a powerful anticancer agent? Research has found that exercise reduces the growth and division of cancer cells, while also stimulating cancer cell death. Exercise has even been shown to improve key markers of immune system health. Whether you have cancer or are trying to prevent it, the best time to start exercising DR. STEGALL is now. People who exercise regularly have a lower risk of developing cancer and tend to have better treatment outcomes if they do get cancer. Even if you have cancer and have not been participating in an exercise regimen, research tells us that you will benefit
from starting an exercise program now. In addition to improving treatment outcomes, exercise also helps with fatigue, depression, anxiety, and even sleep. The good news is that you only need to exercise 30 minutes a day, three times a week, to derive these benefits. An activity such as a brisk walk is perfect, at a pace which allows you to talk but not sing. Swimming and bicycling are also good options. As always, please get approval from your doctor before embarking on a new exercise regimen. Choose an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your life. You’ll be glad you did! The Center for Advanced Medicine 333 Old Milton Pkwy, Suite 560 Alpharetta GA 30005 770-651-0141
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | September 2020 | 7
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2019
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Healthy hygiene, healthy heart Brought to you by — Dr. David Remaley Roswell Dental Care Scientists have confirmed what dentists have known for years: your oral health may play a larger role in your overall wellbeing. Numerous studies have found a direct link between gum disease and heart disease – the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the studies, patients with gum disease are twice as likely to have heart disease. Shocking, right? Perhaps it shouldn’t come as a surprise. Here’s why. When you think about it, your mouth is like a portal to the rest of the body. We know that what you eat and drink plays a large role in your overall health, so it makes sense that if you have a chronic infection (gum disease), your body will respond accordingly. Gum disease results when hardened tartar builds up below the gumline, releasing toxins that break down gum and bone tissue. Most people (3 out of 4) have some form of gum disease, and although there’s no cure once it reaches an advanced stage, it can be controlled. Here’s how gum disease can affect your heart: Bacteria Enters the Bloodstream Studies show that bacteria from gum disease can enter your bloodstream through your gums. These bacteria can stick to vessel walls, narrowing passageways and greatly increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Chronic Inflammatory Response Your body’s natural immune response to gum disease – or any infection – is to become inflamed. Because gum disease is a chronic infection, the vessels are inflamed constantly, and this interferes with the blood and its ability to prevent blood clots. Studies show that elevated levels of the inflammatory protein (C-Reactive) can elevate the risk of heart attack seven and a half times! So what’s the lesson here? If you’re concerned about heart disease or stroke, then include preventive dental care on your list of things to minimize the risk. Heck, even if you’re not predisposed to heart disease, you should still floss daily to continue living a disease-free lifestyle. If you think you have gum disease, visit Roswell Dental Care for an assessment, non-surgical treatment, and to establish a plan to optimize your oral health for the long-term. Partner with us, and we will help you protect you smile – and your heart. We offer a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services designed to meet the needs of the entire family. We have been serving and treating patients in Roswell and the North Atlanta area for over 30 years. We ALWAYS welcome new patients. We offer COMPLIMENTARY 2nd opinions. Give our office a call at (470) 288-1152 to discuss your oral health concerns.
Dedicated to providing exceptional dentistry and creating beautiful, healthy smiles for over 30 years. Our services include: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Crowns and Bridges in a few days Porcelain Veneers Tooth Colored Composite Fillings Teeth Whitening- no sensitivity Oral Cancer Screenings on all patients Teeth Cleanings, Digital X-Rays and Comprehensive Oral Exams on all new patients Cosmetic Smile Makeovers and Full Mouth Reconstruction (Complimentary Consultation) Occlusal Guards and Bite Adjustments Snore Guards and Sleep Apnea Analysis Digital X-Rays (90% less radiation) and Intra-Oral Photos Digitally Scanned Dental Impressions- No more gooey impressions! Electronic Records Accept and File all Major Insurances Implants Root Canals
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470.288.1152 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076
8 | September 2020 | NorthFulton.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS • Sponsored Section
SAFEFAMILYCARE We treat and protect your family as if they are ours.
At Wellstar Avalon Health Park Family and Internal Medicine, we care for your family, safely. From wellness checkups to sick visits and chronic disease management, our team of experts listen to your needs and provide personalized treatment plans just for you. And during the COVID-19 pandemic, getting the care you need to stay healthy is not something you have to worry about. From temperature checks at entrances, to deep-cleaning in between patients to our personal protective equipment, we take every precaution so you can get care in a clean, safe environment. We keep families well, and we are here to care for yours. wellstar.org/avalon
WELLSTAR FAMILY & INTERNAL MEDICINE 2450 Old Milton Parkway | Alpharetta VIRTUAL VISITS AVAILABLE (470) 267-0360 | wellstar.org/avalon
More than healthcare. PEOPLE CARE