Free Home Care now available for Veterans

May is Military Appreciation Month.

Introduced in May 1999 by Sen. John McCain, this month is set aside to reflect on the sacrifices current and former military personnel have made for each of us. If you are presently in the military, have previously served, or a member of the family of someone serving, I want to say “thank you.” I do know that the freedom I have today is because of you.

I am a proud Army Brat. Both my daddy and my granddaddy served in the Army. While the word “brat” may have a negative tone to some, most Army Brats wear the name like a badge of honor. Army Brats are often more resilient than their civilian counterparts due to the moves, the stressors, and the cultural experiences they share.

While a definitive explanation of where the term Army Brat originated is hard to find, many trace it to the acronym for British Regiment Attached Traveler. This term was given to families who were able to travel abroad with their soldier. It soon referenced just the military children.

A researcher, Dr. Grace Clifton, also found a song from 1707 in a play called “The Recruiting Officer” that described soldier life. The song referenced “brats and wives.”

In the 1942 War Dictionary, the term is defined as “in regard to the children of Army officers,” and was a term of endearment.

While I am not sure of the origin, I am and have always been, very proud to be an Army Brat. I am also very proud that through my company – Home Helpers Home Care – we are able to provide veterans with quality home care. I consider it a great privilege to be given the opportunity to share in their care as they age.

Many veterans and their families may not realize

Senior Living Advice

with BETH DOW, Geriatric Care Manager

that they may qualify for Home Care Services paid for by the Veterans Administration (VA). The Community Care Network offers Home Health Aide, Homemaker and Respite Care for eligible veterans. This is a health care program as opposed to a pension program.

There are no income or network requirements, but you do need to be enrolled in the VA Health System. Most veterans are eligible to receive 6 to 16 hours per week. Hours are determined by the needs of the veteran and can be extended to 24 hour a day!

The first step in applying for this service is to fill out the 10-10EZ form. You can download the form from the VA website.

National Military appreciation month, flanked by the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe (VE Day) and Memorial Day, with Military Spouse Appreciation Day in the middle (May 12), gives us all the perfect opportunity to publicly show our appreciation for our troops, and their families – past and present.

Beth Dow is a Dementia and Alzheimer’s Educator, CAEd and Geriatric Care Manager. She is also the owner of Home Helpers of GA & AL in Newnan.

Readers can contact her by email at bdow@ homehelpershomecare.com.

counts tend to be lower, usually between 4 a.m. and noon.

• Take allergy medication before outdoor plans. Don’t wait until you experience symptoms.

• To receive an accurate diagnosis, visit a boardcertified allergist, who can help you figure out what is triggering your symptoms and create a treatment plan for your specific allergens.

Allergy Basics

Atlanta Allergy & Asthma provides some information on allergy definitions, symptoms and why allergy sufferers should consider seeing an allergist.

What are allergies?

An allergy is an abnormal sensitivity or exaggerated reaction of the immune system to a substance that causes no symptoms in most people.

Allergens are substances that trigger allergic reactions. Examples include plant pollen, pet dander, insect venom, dust, mold, foods and drugs.

Allergic rhinitis, also known as allergies or hay fever, is a type of inflammation in the nasal membranes that occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens in the air. Common symptoms include nasal congestion; itching in the nose, mouth, eyes or throat; sneezing; drainage; cough and headaches.

Allergic rhinitis has two forms, seasonal and perennial. Seasonal allergic rhinitis can occur in spring, summer and early fall. Symptoms are usually caused by allergic sensitivity to airborne mold spores or to pollen from grass, trees and weeds. Perennial allergic rhinitis is year-round. It is usually caused by dust mites, pet hair or dander, cockroaches or mold.

What are allergy symptoms?

Some common symptoms associated with allergies include: runny nose, post nasal drip, sneezing, congestion, coughing and itchy/watery eyes.

Less common allergy symptoms include: headaches, loss of taste and smell, low productivity/ poor concentration, fatigue, sleep disturbances and snoring.

When should someone see an allergist?

An allergist is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic conditions including asthma, sinusitis, seasonal allergies, food allergies and severe allergic reactions.

It’s important to identify what is causing a person’s allergy symptoms, and allergy testing is required. Allergists have the proper tools and understand the tests and investigations required to diagnose allergies and allergy-related problems. Allergy testing can provide information on what a person is allergic to. These tests could include a skin test or a blood test. Treatment options for allergies include allergy shots, drops and tablets.

YOU SERVED US & NOW IT’S

Many Veterans and their Families may not realize that they may qualify for Home Care Services paid for by the Veterans Administration. This is a benefit you have EARNED!

Home Helpers Home Care has been providing both Personal and Companion Care for our Veterans wherever they call home for over 16 years and participates in this wonderful program.

Most Veterans are eligible to receive 6 to 16 hours per week, but hours can be extended to 24 hours per day depending on needs.

No Income or Network Requirements. Just be enrolled in the VA Health System.

Questions? Give us a call for more information.

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Meet Yolanda Alexander of Home Helpers, an ‘Exceptional Caregiver’

Home Helpers Home Care is pleased to introduce its fourth ‘Exceptional Caregiver’ of this year – Yolanda Alexander Yolanda says that caring for others has always been a passion of hers.

“I never thought I would become a CNA and work for this wonderful company that allows me to share my passion, gain knowledge and experience with so many wonderful families.

The 13-plus years I’ve worked for Home Helpers has been an absolute honor and I’m very pleased to continue to be a part of the company.

And thanks to Beth, Phillip and the Home Helpers family for all you do behind the scene to make us great.”

For the 10th consecutive year, Home Helpers of Georgia and Alabama, based here in Newnan, has earned the recognition as a 2023 Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice Award winner. The Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice Award is based on client satisfaction ratings collected from telephone interviews performed by HCP. The home care providers who earn this award consistently exceed the industry standards for quality in-home care.

May Daily Menu

SUNDAY: German Chocolate, Bee’s Knees

MONDAY: Carrot, Marble Cheesecake

TUESDAY: Key Lime, Caramel Turtle, GLUTEN FREE

WEDNESDAY: Vanilla Lavender, Dulce de Leche

THURSDAY: Strawberry, Peaches & Cream, Baker’s Choice, VEGAN

FRIDAY: Strawberries N Creme, Margarita, Baker’s Choice, GLUTEN FREE

SATURDAY: Strawberry Cheesecake, Blackberry Bourbon, Baker’s Choice

Open House

COWETA COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY & LIBRARY OPEN HOUSE JUNE 3 FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

8 CARMICHAEL ST., NEWNAN

We Buy

“WE BUY HOUSES” Any condition. Cash. Quick closing. Mike 678.409.8600

WE BUY: scrap metal, junk cars, old appliances, stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, dish washers & batteries. Gentry Recycling 770.253.5770

WE BUY CARS – LKQ PICK YOUR PART buys cars . 7 days a week. For info, call 1.800.962.2277 or visit: www.lkqpickyourpart.com

WE PAY TOP DOLLAR for aluminum, copper, brass. Gentry Recycling 770.253.5770

Vehicles

T PLATINUM AUTO SALES LLC Very Nice Vehicles for Sale … $10,000, $5,000 and under. * Financing Available * Mike 678.409.8600

LAND / LOTS

3 CHOICE LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS, County water available. Just $29,900 each. Frank, Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors – 770.253.6990

Commercial Property

24+/- ACRES ON POPLAR ROAD business. 770.252.5458 Very reasonable rates.

Now Hiring

NOW HIRING – LKQ PICK YOUR PART in Fayetteville, GA is seeking to fill various positions. To apply, visit lkqpickyourpart.com and select ‘Careers.

NOW HIRING – Smallcakes Cupcakery in Newnan is seeking to hire a Parttime Baker with decorating experience. Immediate opening. Stop by and grab an application today at 113 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan

Now Hiring

WE NEED HELP! Knowledgeable technicians with own tools. Pay based on experience up to $35 flat rate. Monday thru Friday 8-5. Contact us at Jamie’s Automotive, LaGrange. 706.242.4927

CAREGIVERS – Home Helpers of GA & AL seeking qualified Caregivers. Available shifts – days, evenings, overnight and/or weekends. Competitive wages, extensive training, supportive work environment and paid time off. Apply online at ApplyToBeACNA.com or call 678.876.5118

Pets

NEWNAN COWETA HUMANE SOCIETY Check website for list of animals at local animal control facility and foster care animals. Call 770.253.4694 www.nchsrescue.org

Answer to Math Blocks on page 17