November Western Kentucky Healthy Cells 2011

WESTERN KENTUCKY

area

Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

NOVEMBER 2011

FREE

HealthyCells www.healthycellsmagazine.com

• Nutritional

M A G A Z I N E

Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center pg. 12

Count Down to Thanksgiving pg. 5

Relief From Fibromyalgia with Massage pg. 10 A Blanket for Your House pg. 22

TM

DIAMONDS AREN’T A GIRL’S BEST FRIEND.

Looking good on the outside begins by being strong on the inside. That’s because later in life, especially for women, strong bones help prevent fractures and height loss. Your window to build maximum bone density is now, during your late teens and early twenties. So eat wisely, get plenty of calcium and vitamin D, and do weight-bearing exercises every day. To devise a plan that’s right for you, go to aaos.org or rjos.org.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

NOVEMBER

2011 Volume 1, Issue 5

5

Food Safety: Countdown To Thanksgiving

This Month’s Cover Story:

6

Emotional: When a “Less Than Loved One” Dies

Nursing and Rehabilitation Center page 12

8

Nutritional: Shrink Your Waist and Expand Your Palate

10

Physical: Relief From Fibromyalgia with Massage

15

Immunity: How Vaccines Protect Us All

17

Prevention: Tips For Reducing Low Back Pain

18

Prostate Health: I’m Going to Give Myself a Shot Where

20

Financial Health: Keep Winter’s Chill From Leaking Into Your Warm House

Parkview

Cover and feature story photos by fike fotos For advertising information, contact Kelly Rosa, owner Office: 270-362-4180 • Cell: 309-696-3694 P.O. Box 432, Gilbertsville, KY 42044 kelly@healthycellsmagazine.com

21

Body Image: When You Look in the Mirror

22

Green Living: A Blanket for Your House

23

Senior Programs: Ways to Save During Medicare Open Enrollment

1711 W. Detweiller Dr., Peoria, IL 61615 • Ph: 309-681-4418 Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com

24

The Right Dose: Medicines… Use Them Safely

Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the Western Kentucky area.

Distracted Driving: A Problem of Focus

Healthy Cells Magazine is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your healthcare professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

25 26

Home Security: What is Peace of Mind?

Healthy Cells Magazine is a division of:

Healthy Cells Magazine is available FREE in high traffic locations throughout the Western Kentucky area, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the Western Kentucky area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.

food safety

Countdown to Thanksgiving

Cooking the Turkey

By Diane Van, Manager, USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline

N

ovember is the busiest month of the year for those of us on the USDA Meat & Poultry Hotline. During the week of Thanksgiving, we get lots of questions about how to safely cook a turkey. Here are answers to the questions we hear most often.

How can I tell when the turkey is done?

Whether you roast, brine, deep fry or smoke your turkey, always use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the meat. You won’t overcook your turkey, and you can ensure it has been cooked to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165 °F to destroy bacteria and prevent foodborne illness. Check the temperature in the innermost part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the breast. If the turkey is stuffed, the stuffing must also reach 165 °F. How long does it take to cook a turkey?

Use the Turkey Roasting Chart to determine how long to cook your turkey. These times are approximate and based on fresh or thawed birds at a refrigerator temperature of 40 °F or below.

Is it safe to cook a turkey from the frozen state?

Yes, the cooking time will take at least 50 percent longer than recommended for a fully thawed turkey. Remember to remove the giblet package during the cooking time. Remove carefully with tongs or a fork.

Can I cook two turkeys at the same time?

Cooking two turkeys of about the same weight does not double the roasting time. Cooking time is determined by the weight of one bird. Just make sure there is sufficient oven space for proper heat circulation.

What about storing leftovers?

•B acteria spread fastest at temperatures between 40 °F and 140 °F, so chilling food safely reduces the risk of foodborne illness. Discard any turkey, stuffing, and gravy left out at room temperature longer than 2 hours. Divide leftovers into smaller portions. Refrigerate or freeze in covered shallow containers for quicker cooling.

•U se refrigerated turkey, stuffing, and gravy within 3 to 4 days or freeze it. Use frozen turkey and stuffing leftovers within 2 to 6 months for best quality. Reheat to 165 °F or until hot and steaming. Gravy should come to a rolling boil.

Can I call the Meat & Poultry Hotline on Thanksgiving Day? Yes! The Hotline will be staffed from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Thanksgiving Day. Call us toll-free at 1-888-674-6854.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

emotional

When a “Less Than Loved One” Dies

Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

Healthy Cells magazine is pleased to present the second in a series of feature articles on the subject of Grief Recovery®. The articles are written by Russell P. Friedman, Executive Director, and John W. James, Founder, of The Grief Recovery Institute. Russell and John are co-authors of WHEN CHILDREN GRIEVE - For Adults to Help Children Deal with Death, Divorce, Pet Loss, Moving, and Other Losses - Harper Collins, June, 2001 - & THE GRIEF RECOVERY HANDBOOK - The Action Program For Moving Beyond Death, Divorce, and Other Losses [Harper Perrenial, 1998]. The articles combine educational information with answers to commonly asked questions.

L

ast month we talked about grieving and completing our relationships with loved ones who have died. While the death of a loved one is painful, we are often complete with loved ones. That is to say that we have communicated our feelings about them, to them.

We believe that they knew how we felt and that we were understood.

When a loved one dies we may be overwhelmed with conflicting feelings, we may feel disoriented and confused, and we may feel robbed of one last chance to say I love you and goodbye. Even though we are often essentially complete when a loved one dies, after the death we usually remember some things that we wish we’d had a chance to say. We need to discover those unsaid things and say them. The appropriate methods for communicating the unsaid things are detailed in The Grief Recovery® Handbook.

What happens when a “less than loved one” dies — perhaps a parent or a sibling, someone with whom we should have had a more loving relationship? We are almost always incomplete when a less than loved one dies. Almost always we are left with the awareness that our hopes and dreams of someday having the relationship become pleasant and happy have ended. Even if our hope is simply not to be tormented anymore, the death often exaggerates the torment rather than diminishing it. That is when many of us report being “ruled from the grave.”

“The process of Grief

Recovery®

helps grievers identify and complete the undelivered emotional communications that keep them tied to past painful experiences with people who have died or with relationships that have ended or changed.”

Many people labor under the misapprehension that once someone has died there is no way they can complete any unfinished emotional business. Gladly, this is not true, or they would have to stay incomplete forever. The process of Grief Recovery® helps grievers identify and complete the undelivered emotional communications that keep them tied to past painful experiences with people who have died or with relationships that have ended or changed. This process obviously does not require that the person we are incomplete with be a living or willing participant.

Often our attempts to communicate with our “less than loved ones” failed, not because of our unwillingness, but because the other person was unable to listen to or talk about the things that we wanted and needed to talk about. Quite often our attempts to communicate

started new and larger battles which may have been added to our list of unfinished or incomplete emotional events with them. Even after they have died, as we replay the events, we keep winding up hurt and helpless. We do not know how to end the vicious cycle. We may attempt to NOT think about them, but then a reminder will appear, outside of our control. We may see someone in the mall who looks like them, or a car similar to the one they drove. These reminders will often send us back into the pain caused by the incomplete emotional relationship.

Most of you will realize that it is not possible to eliminate someone from your memory. You most assuredly cannot control the stimuli that cause you to remember a less than loved one. Even attempts at total isolation rarely work, as even dreams can rekindle painful memories.

When a “less than loved one” dies we are often left with an extremely lopsided memory picture, almost exclusively negative. It seems as if we have become the victim of these painful, negative memory pictures.

We are also confused by our relationship to the painful memories that keep recurring. We must grieve and complete our relationship to the person as well as to our relationship with the pain we generate when we think about or are reminded of the person. And, we must grieve and complete our unmet hopes and dreams and expectations.

You must become willing to re-experience some of the painful events, and finally communicate what you would have said had you been allowed to, or if you had known how. It may seem frightening to root around where there has been so much pain. Perhaps it would be more helpful to be frightened of the alternative, a life of restriction and limitation caused by staying incomplete. The alternative is to keep the pain forever, by trying NOT to remember, and by trying to avoid any circumstances or events that remind you of that person. Many people today talk of giving away their power. There is no clearer or more painful example of that then to have your life’s actions and reactions ruled by the painful memories of someone who is no longer here.

Question: The above article relates to a less than loved one who has died. What about less than loved ones who are still living?

Answer: The exact same principles apply when the “less than loved one” is still living. In fact, it is probably even more essential that you complete your part of that relationship as soon as you can. If not, you may live in constant fear of any kind of interaction with or reminders of that living person. Completion of your part of a relationship with a living person does not imply that the other person will or should change.

Most likely they will continue to be just who and how they are. The difference is that you will be able to live a life of meaning and value, not limited by painful reminders that a relationship did not live up to hopes, promises, dreams or expectations.

Next Month: “Am I Equipped For Happiness?”

For information about programs and services, write to The Grief Recovery Institute, P.O. Box 6061-382 Sherman Oaks, CA 91413.

Call 818-907-9600 or Fax: 818-907-9329. Please visit our website at: www.grief-recovery.com.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7

nutritional

Shrink Your Waist and Expand Your Palate

D

espite increasing concerns about growing waistlines and the dangerous obesity epidemic, many families continue to feel overwhelmed by the idea of a full-fledged diet overhaul. Don’t be discouraged. Even small changes at the dinner table can make a big difference.

An April 2010 study conducted by Shape Up America!, titled “The Impact of Small Dietary Change,” revealed that incorporating one simple change when preparing favorite family meals — such as using turkey in place of certain cuts of beef, pork or veal — produced an average savings of 108 calories per meal.

Not only does substituting turkey save calories, it also reduces fat intake. Ground turkey ranges from 85 percent to 99 percent fat free, and compared to other meats, ground turkey contains among the lowest saturated fat levels.

Cooking with turkey is easier than you might think. Turkey is an easy alternative for a broad range of dishes that typically contain beef. The texture and flavor of ground turkey meat works with a wide range of preparation methods, including dishes such as burgers, tacos, pasta and casseroles.

Grilling with Confidence • E xperiment. Don’t be afraid to play with new flavor combinations. With a little experimentation, you may discover new ways to create delicious turkey burgers on the grill.

• Choose ingredients wisely. The best way to ensure grilling success is by choosing the highest-quality ingredients. Look for lean, delicious JENNIE-O® Turkey at your local grocery store.

• Add a spoonful of flavor. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, seasoning or marinade on the turkey about 10 minutes before grilling to enhance the meat’s natural flavor.

• Temperature is everything. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine when the meat is ready to enjoy. Place the meat 3 to 6 inches from the heat source and cook burgers to at least 165°F. Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

•S avor the flavor. To keep the delicious turkey juices intact, resist the urge to press and flatten a turkey burger while it is cooking on the grill.

Tips for Food Safety • C lean. Remember to use warm, soapy water to wash anything the raw meat touches.

• S eparate. Avoid cross-contamination by separating raw meat from other foods.

• Cook. Fully cook meat to destroy bacteria that could cause foodborne illnesses. Always cook turkey well-done, 165ºF as measured by a meat thermometer.

• C hill. Storing at the right temperature helps keep meat safe.

For additional recipes and preparation tips, visit www.jennieo.com.

There’s No Place Like Home

Home Medical Equipment & Home Oxygen Largest showroom of Home Medical Supplies in Western Kentucky

1-866-515-0897 837 Hwy 68 West in Draffenville

“If you can’t come to us, we will come to you”

24/7 Service • We File Insurance Claims for you • Free Delivery

'Jack and Guac '

Turkey Burgers

For a new, flavorful and lean twist on the classic burger, try these ‘Jack and Guac’ Turkey Burgers, which combine turkey protein and a lineup of nutritious toppings.

Serves 4 4 J ENNIE-O® Turkey Burgers (pre-formed or made with ground turkey) 4 s lices ciabatta bread or whole wheat burger buns 4 s lices low-fat pepper jack cheese 8 strips JENNIE-O® Extra Lean Turkey Bacon, fried and crisp Guacamole (homemade or prepared, such as Wholly Guacamole ®) Brush grill rack with oil. Place burger patties on grill.

Prepare the turkey burgers as specified on the packaging. Always cook to well-done, 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer. Place each patty on a bun and top with one slice of cheese, two slices of turkey bacon and guacamole.

Volunteer with Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) SMP is a group of highly trained volunteers, who help beneficiaries prevent and detect health care fraud through education and outreach.

Qualifications: ability and willingness to communicate health care information to seniors and the general public Duties: participate in community outreach activities; distribute educational resources; assist with administrative tasks; additional opportunities available depending on experience Training: core training on the SMP program, Medicare Basics, and Fraud and Abuse provided Commitment: Minimum 4 hours per month Other requirements: Criminal Background check

Contact: For more infor mation, contact La S h e a S u t t o n at (270)442-8993 or lashea@pmcsc. o rg http://www.rsvpofpaducah.org/MedPa t r o l . h t m

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9

physical

Relief From

Fibromyalgia with Massage!

By Jenny Stephens, LMT

F

ibromyalgia or FM is a disorder classified by the presence of chronic widespread pain and a heightened, painful response to gentle touch. Other symptoms of the FM include debilitating fatigue, sleep disturbance, and joint stiffness as well as many other secondary symptoms. Although there is no cure for fibromyalgia, there are therapies that can help controlled and are effective in reducing symptoms, including massage therapy.

Massage can reduce the pain, stiffness and tender points associated with fibromyalgia pain. No one is sure how massage actually reduces pain, but it may have something to do with the central nervous system. By stimulating the central nervous system, the body releases pain blockers, including endorphins, serotonin, and non-epinephrine. These hormones work to counteract the body’s pain signals sent by the brain to lessen and/or block the pain.

The benefits of massage on FM patients is amazing . FM sufferers that receive massage on a regular basis will tell you that massage is the best treatment option, that they have ever received.

The benefits include: • Increased blood circulation to the muscles, allowing for faster muscle repair • Increased flexibility & range of motion • Reduced joint stiffness & overall pain • Decreased stress and depression • Improved sleep patterns Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

• • • • • • • • •

Greater Energy Improved Concentration Reduced Fatigue and Stress Decreased Anxiety Enhanced Immunity Improves Body Motion Relieves Tension Related Headaches Reduces Heart Rate Helps With Injury Rehabilitation

Swedish massage and Deep Tissue massage are the most common forms of massage for FM sufferers. Myofascial Release is also a massage treatment technique used often to relieve pain.

Facia is a thin layer of tissue that covers all of the muscles and in FM patients this becomes shortened and very painful. By releasing or stretching the fascia it helps relieves the pain.

There are different levels of fibromyalgia. Sometimes a client may need a Swedish massage and sometimes one may need a Deep Tissue massage. Sometimes FM suffers need some of both during a massage session. And, sometimes a client cannot be touched at all. It has been my experience that most of my fibromyalgia clients need a regular Swedish or just a medium deep massage.

Not only is massage totally relaxing and rejuvenating , but individuals who receive regular massage don’t get sick as often as others and when they do, they don’t get it as bad or keep it as long.

Live well.

Post-surgery rehabilitation designed to add more quality to your family time.

There’s no denying the power of massage no matter how we describe it (pampering, rejuvenating, therapeutic) or the reasons we receive it (a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management), massage therapy can be very powerful in your healthcare regimen. Many people report a sense of improved perspective and clarity after receiving a massage. The emotional balance massage provides can often be just as important and valuable as the physical benefits.

Joint Commission accredited

270.443.6543 544 Lone Oak Rd. Paducah, KY 42003 LCCA.COM

26706

Increase health benefits with frequent visits: Getting a massage can do you a world of good; with our fast paced schedules, and the highly stressful world that we live in today, massage therapy is one of the best ways to relax and promote overall wellness, both physically and mentally! Getting a massage frequently by means of regularly scheduled appointments can play a huge part in your health. Consider massage therapy a necessary piece of your overall health and wellness plan!

Why not schedule a massage today! This is a natural process that leaves you totally relaxed and rejuvenated. You may sleep better tonight than you have slept in a long time. Call Jenny’s Day Spa and schedule an appointment today. You deserve it!

For more information or to schedule your appointment, please contact Jenny Stephens at 270-415-3444. Jenny’s Day Spa is located at 4793 Village Square Drive, Suite J, Paducah, KY.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

feature story

Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

T

Heather Story, COTA helps Rosalyn Morrison prepare for independent living.

Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

he U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Aging’s website states in 2009 there were 39.6 million older persons (age 65 or older). This represented 12.9 percent of the U.S. population. Estimates are that by 2030 there will be about 72.1 million older persons, which is twice the number there was in 2000. Over time, it’s not just the number of older people in the U.S. that changes.

For those of us who have a few years under our belts, we all know things change with age. Tasks performed easily when younger become more difficult. Hopping out of bed in the morning slows down and brings with it a few aches and pains. Bending, tying, reaching, climbing, walking and sometimes even sitting, all bring with them fresh challenges. There may even be a time in our life when we will have to consider the services of a long-term care facility (LTCF).

Perhaps the first thought that enters your mind when you think of this type of facility is a place where grandmothers and grandfathers go when they reach the stage in life where they can no longer live on their own, or take care of themselves. Certainly this happens, and with more frequency as time passes, but there is another reason why someone might need the services of this type of facility…rehabilitation. Once discharged from a hospital, there are times when a person will need rehabilitative services before they can be on their own. The right facility can provide just such services.

Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is the largest facility of its type in Western Kentucky. Situated in Paducah, it was originally built in the 1960’s with five wings, and in the 1990‘s, five more wings were added, with larger rooms. Today it is a modern, updated 228 bed facility consisting of both private and semiprivate rooms. The front porch area is warm and welcoming while sporting comfortable rocking chairs from which to enjoy the day, or watch as visitors to the facility come and go. Through the front door is a warm home-like entry way which leads through double doors. The doors open into a spacious living area with a recently added waterfall located in the center of the room, providing residents with the gentle sound of cascading water while they visit with family, play games, watch television, or just relax.

The facility has ten wings all of which are Medicare certified.

Rehabilitation services can be done from all wings; however two wings are dedicated exclusively to rehabilitation. A private entrance is strategically located for convenience to visitors and family members as well as out-patients so they can enter directly into the rehabilitation area. There are two gyms and 23 in-house therapists on staff, who perform physical, occupational and speech therapy.

They are able to provide personal attention to each of the residents as they receive their services.

The rehabilitative process is a complex one. Depending upon the individual need, specialized equipment is necessary. In addition to the more commonly used rehabilitation equipment, Parkview can also boast they are the only facility in Western Kentucky, including hospitals, that have a LiteGait®. A LiteGait® is a partial weight bearing harness-type system which facilitates effective, efficient training of posture, balance and locomotion, while keeping the patient safely supported at the weight level the doctor directs. This promotes the generation of normal walking patterns. It supports and stabilizes a client while they engage in physical therapy, allowing them and their therapist to focus on the exercise, rather than trying to expend all their energy to ensure the stability and safety of the person engaged

in the activity. It is an effective approach for a variety of diagnoses including CVA (Stroke), orthopedic conditions, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, amputees and other neurological such as Parkinson’s and MS where a patient relearning to walk.

After all that exercise, the residents are bound to be hungry.

Whether you enter the main dining room, or the smaller dining room located on the rehabilitation side, you will initially see the menu for the day. A quick scan of the room and one might think they are an upscale restaurant. The tables of the main dining room are covered with dark blue fabric tablecloths, the smaller dining room with burgundy fabric tablecloths. Both rooms have fabric napkins and glass water goblets. In order to ensure the food is fresh, all of the food is served from steam tables. For those who don’t feel like coming to the dining room, meals will be personally served in the comfort of their own room. And just in case someone misses a meal, the Always-Available Menu is an option.

With a facility this size, it takes plenty of staff and support to ensure a safe, pleasant, and professional living environment.

Parkview has a staff of nearly 300, including a Director of Nursing, two Assistant Director’s of Nursing, RNs, CNAs, their own therapy staff, housekeeping, dietary, laundry, maintenance, admissions,

Kim Kevil, Activities Director, and James Flynn keep up with the latest news.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

feature story

continued

marketing, accounting personnel, human resources and numerous other staff. In addition, several outside physicians regularly make rounds throughout the facility. At the physician’s request, there is also a Nurse Practitioner available to assist them by taking call or doing some of their rounds if they wish. There are checks and balances between nursing staff and the pharmacy to ensure the security and proper dispensing of medications. There are systems are in place to help prevent accidents when residents try to stand up while in their wheelchairs.

It is challenging enough to ensure any one of the processes involved in the successful operation of a LTCF is carried out with excellence, let alone striving for excellence in all of the areas, every day. As a result, Life Care Centers of America, the parent organization of Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, requires each of their over 220 facilities nationwide to be evaluated by an independent entity. According to their website, The Joint Commission states it is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 19,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. Their mission is, “To continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value.” In 2002, Parkview voluntarily achieved the Joint Commission accreditation and maintains it still today. On March 5, 2011, The Joint Commission once again granted accreditation to Parkview. They achieved the highest level of accreditation, which is good for three years and signifies they strive to go above and beyond the basic expectations of a LTCF. Staff at Parkview know that when it comes time to select a longterm-care facility, sometimes it’s the little things that help make the difference. At Parkview, the use of cable television and telephones is included in the cost of residency. In addition to that, laundry will be done at no extra cost, and if there is a special event like a birthday or a small dinner, a private dining room is available. For those who anticipate needing the services of a LTCF, Parkview invites you to tour their facility. No reservations are necessary, simply stop by and someone will take time to show you around and tell you why they believe they can be entrusted to care for your loved one.

Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

The Parkview Family

A

fton Fraser has been a member of Parkview’s family for several decades. She worked at Parkview as a Charge Nurse for over 20 years. Now as a happy resident at Parkview, her room is decorated with photos

of family that she loves to brag on. She enjoys playing bingo and the other activities they have to offer. Some of her former coworkers are still serving Parkview’s facility.

This is a place she calls home and has always been a part of Parkview’s Family. Enthusiastically she says, “I’d recommend Parkview to anyone.”

immunity

How Vaccines Protect Us All P

arents know that kids are vulnerable to a host of infectious diseases. Research supported by NIH and others proves that the benefits of vaccines in preventing illness and death greatly outweigh the risks.

The list of childhood diseases can be overwhelming: measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, meningitis, influenza and rotavirus. In the era before vaccines, many children in the U.S. died or became disabled from these diseases. Many still do in countries and regions with lower vaccination rates.

With all the international travel in the world these days, it’s important to keep vaccines, or immunizations, up to date. Here’s just one example of what might happen if you don’t. By 2000, immunization had practically wiped out measles in the U.S. But a measles outbreak in 2005 was traced to one unvaccinated U.S. resident infected during a visit to Europe. The returning traveler infected American children who hadn’t been vaccinated because of safety concerns—despite study after study showing that childhood vaccines are safe and effective.

A major epidemic didn’t emerge that time. That’s because enough people in the surrounding communities had already been vaccinated against measles.

“The important concept,” says Dr. Marc Lipsitch of the Harvard School of Public Health, “is that vaccinating people protects not only them, but others in the community. If I’m protected, I can protect others.”

This type of protection is known as “community immunity” or “herd immunity.” When enough of the community is immunized against a contagious disease, most other members are protected from infection because there’s little opportunity for the disease to spread.

Newborns, pregnant women or people whose immune systems are weakened may not be eligible for certain vaccines. Yet even they will get some protection because the spread of contagious disease is contained.

“Epidemiologists think of infections as chain reactions, whose speed depends on contagiousness,” says Lipsitch. “The more contagious the disease, the more vaccination is required. The data tells us that herd immunity works.”

Using mathematical formulas and computer programs, NIHfunded scientists like Lipsitch have developed models to determine what proportion of the population has to be vaccinated to eliminate the spread of disease. As one example, a worldwide vaccination campaign completely eliminated, or eradicated, smallpox in the 1970s. So many people were immunized that the virus couldn’t sustain itself.

More recently, infant vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib, which can cause meningitis) lowered the risk of disease in the whole population. Before the vaccine, Hib struck about 1 in 200 children younger than age 5. It killed many and

often left survivors with permanent brain damage. After the Hib vaccine was introduced in the mid-1980s, the incidence of Hib dropped by 99%.

“Infectious disease eradication is possible,” says Lipsitch. Even when a disease—such as measles or Hib— hasn’t been completely wiped out, immunizations can reduce disease transmission, so that epidemics become less frequent.

When parents choose to immunize, they’re helping more than their own. Make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date.

And talk with your child’s doctor if you have any concerns about vaccine safety.

For more information please visit www.nih.gov

Don Thomas

Attorney At L aw

Personal Injury, Wrongful Death, Criminal Law 1101 Poplar Street Benton KY 42025 270-527-2425 270-527-2405 (fax) www.donthomaslawoffice.com November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

prevention

Tips For Reducing Low Back Pain

Have an aching back?

You’re not alone.

L

ow back pain (LBP) is one of the most common reasons people see physicians. About one in four adults reported having LBP lasting at least one whole day in the past three months. Most often, the pain is caused by strain on bones, muscles, or ligaments.

While low back pain usually gets better after a few weeks of proper treatment, there are ways you can reduce or avoid it.

Prevention begins with lifting heavy objects carefully, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. If you have pain, make an appointment with your physician to locate it and rule out a serious problem.

Tell your physician if you are having weight loss, fevers, weakness or loss of feeling in your legs, or any other symptoms. Treatment options for LBP include medications, heating pads, exercise, or physical therapy. Remaining active is more effective than bed rest. If you need to have bed rest to alleviate severe pain, return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Doctors often order diagnostic imaging tests for patients with LBP that is not associated with any serious underlying disease. But after reviewing the clinical evidence, the American College of Physicians (ACP) — a national organization of internal medicine physicians — says that doctors should avoid this common practice.

“In most patients without serious underlying disorders, there is substantial improvement within a few days to a month with exercise and medications,” says Dr. Virginia Hood, president of ACP. ACP found that diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans do not improve the health of patients with LBP that is due to strain on muscles, bones, or ligaments. About 85 percent of patients fall into this category.

Some evidence even suggested there are increased risks for patients getting unnecessary diagnostic imaging tests. These tests usually lead to further unnecessary tests, referrals, follow ups, and in-

terventions that have no positive impact on the clinical outcomes of patients. Radiation exposure due to imaging tests can even increase risk for cancer over time.

ACP recommends that diagnostic imaging tests be reserved for select higher-risk patients who have major risk factors for or signs of spinal conditions, such as spinal stenosis, sciatica, vertebral compression fracture, cancer, or infection, or those who are candidates for invasive interventions. For more information, visit www.acponline.org.

ACP’s recommendations are part of its High Value, Cost-Conscious Care initiative, which is designed to help physicians provide the best possible care to their patients while reducing unnecessary health care costs without impacting patients’ health.

“Unnecessary diagnostic imaging tests are all too common and a significant component of our nation’s escalating health care costs,” says Dr. Hood. “More testing does not mean better care. The best way to maintain effective care is to identify and eliminate wasteful practices that don’t help patients or may even cause harm.”

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

prostate health

I’m Going to Give Myself a Shot Where?

Fifth in a series of excerpts from “Making Love Again” By: Virginia and Keith Laken The subject matter of this book is of a personal and explicit nature, and may not be suitable for younger or ultra-conservative readers.

B

y the middle of June, the change in our situations was dramatic. The novelty of orgasm without intercourse had become boring. Keith’s recovery was at a standstill, and we were discouraged and frustrated. Our enthusiasm for lovemaking waned. We were in a monotonous sexual holding pattern, and we felt trapped.

We decided it might be a good idea to look for hints on how to rekindle our love life. Our hope was to find books written by couples that had gone through a similar experience, so I cleared my calendar for an afternoon and headed to our local Barnes and Nobel.

That night, I summarized for Keith what I had learned about ‘refocusing’. “Maybe we should quit thinking about intercourse all the time and concentrate more on mood. We’ve kind of neglected that you know.”

Keith shrugged his shoulders in resignation. “I guess it’s worth a try.”

For the next two weeks, Keith and I touched, massaged and caressed. We lit candles, played music and read romantic poetry. We bathed together, rubbed scented oil on one another and danced.

The experience was wonderfully sensual, and reminded us of how important ambiance and touch is for ‘getting in the mood’. We did our best to concentrate only on the moment, but after a couple of purely sensual experiences, we digressed from touching for the sake of touching, and once again focused on intercourse. And frustration and failure immediately followed.

“I’m going to have to call Dr. Barrett,” Keith told me one morning in mid July. “I’m having problems going to the bathroom.”

“Well, You better call him today and get it taken care of.” I replied.

After breakfast, Keith placed his call. “He said it’s probably nothing serious — just a stricture, a narrowing of the urethra. Pretty common and can easily be taken care of in the office.” Keith smiled. “But he said something else that was really interesting…He’s going to give me the injections!”

“You’re kidding!” I shouted. “So soon? We can have sex again?”

“Yup” said Keith smugly.

Laptop Notes. June 24, 1995 This touching stuff isn’t working. It feels good and it’s relaxing, but I can’t keep my mind on it. When Gin touches me, I keep thinking about how her touch always used to turn me on and now, nothing. It’s demoralizing.

I just want to be left alone, but Gin keeps hounding me. Either she wants to talk about it all the time or “try again.” She’s really ticking me off. She thinks I’m going to get over this, but I know better. I just want to be let alone.

Journal Entry. June 28, 1995 The “touching only” thing didn’t last for very long. I initiate lovemaking, thinking it will make Keith feel better, but instead it seems to make things worse. He just wants to ignore the situation altogether.

As June ended, it was evident that Keith and I had lost the motivation to keep our sex life going. We took the path of least resistance.

We stopped having sex altogether — and never said a word about it.

The treatment for the removal of the stricture was uneventful and painless, and when the procedure was completed, Keith got his injection. I waited nervously in the waiting area until a nurse came for me.

“So how did it go?” I blurted out. “Great!” he crowed, looking down. I followed Keith’s gaze. “Oh my gosh,” I exclaimed. Keith beamed with pride. There was no doubt — the shot had worked!

For the next few minutes, Dr. Barrett explained the mechanics of the injections to help us understand just how the injections did their job so quickly. He finished “…you should return in two hours to be rechecked. Why don’t you two go have a nice lunch?”

“Keith’s voice was steady and confident. “Actually, we were thinking of checking into a hotel for a few hours.

“Well all right then!” Dr. Barrett said, “Take as long as you like, just be back here before five o’clock.”

We stopped by the pharmacy to fill our prescription for the injection medication and needles so Keith would be prepared for his teaching session upon our return. I read aloud from the pamphlet on our way to the hotel. Nothing seemed like too much of a concern

Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

Laptop Notes, July 15, 1995 I can’t believe I’m actually going to give myself a shot in the penis! It sounds terrible, and it’s got to be painful. But I’m going to do it, no matter how painful it is. I can handle anything for a couple of weeks, just to get things working again.

Journal Entry, July 16, 1995 Thank God for Keith’s stricture! Because of that little stricture we’re going to get the shots! We’re going to be normal! Things are going to be good again!

“For the next two weeks, Keith and I touched, massaged and caressed. We lit candles, played music and read romantic poetry. We bathed together, rubbed scented oil on one another and danced. The experience was wonderfully sensual, and reminded us of how important ambiance and touch is for ‘getting in the mood’. We did our best to concentrate only on the moment.” until I got to one paragraph, which contained a sentence of warning. In heavy bold type, the sentence read, in part: “If an erection lasts longer than three hours, seek immediate medical attention.”

Keith looked at me quizzically. “Did you say a three-hour erection?”

Amazingly, the intensity of our lovemaking was beyond anything we had ever experienced. For the first time in almost six months I felt whole again. Complete. Eventually we drifted off to sleep.

When I awoke and looked at the clock on the bedside table, the time had flown! It was now well over three hours since we had left the clinic, and Keith still had an erection!

“Keith, look at the time!” I shouted. “Remember what that pamphlet said? We’ve got to get back to the clinic to get you some help!”

To our great relief, Keith’s name was called within just a few minutes of our arrival, and shortly after that Dr. Barrett greeted me.

“Keith is fine,” he began. “We gave him an injection to counteract the medication, and he’s already feeling better. We will have to adjust his dose and give him less next time.”

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Journal Entry, July 19, 1995 It’s amazing to me how easily Keith and I have returned to conversation, laughter and fun again. It feels so good to be in love and smiling. I actually feel married again! These injections will carry us through until Keith is well.

Laptop Notes, July 19, 1995 I never had a clue a guy could have an erection so long it could hurt. But it did! Still, what a miracle. The little captain rose to the occasion.

Just like old times. It was great!

A few days later, the children flew in to celebrate Keith’s fiftieth birthday. Everyone was in great spirits. We hadn’t all been together in over a year, and the mood was festive. It was a wonderful party, and a beautiful weekend. Keith was fifty years old. He had survived cancer, our children were happy, we had a beautiful grandson and our marriage was back on track.

All was well.

Next month: “I don’t want to have sex anymore Honey” The book Making Love Again: Hope for Couples Facing Loss of Sexual Intimacy is available at Amazon.com and many major booksellers. You may contact the Lakens at KLAKEN@aol.com

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

financial health

Keep Winter’s Chill From Leaking Into Your Warm House

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rafty attics, fireplaces, leaky windows and open vents provide the perfect opportunity for winter’s chill to sneak into your house and have you shivering from the cold. Not only does this cause you to huddle under extra layers of clothing and heavy blankets, but also probably has you spending more money than you want turning up the thermostat.

Drafts, such as those around doors, windows and pipes, are the largest source of heating and cooling loss in the home. Most homPage 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

eowners tackle the easy leaks by caulking and weather-stripping to minimize energy loss and drafts.

But what can you do about drafts from the four largest “holes” in your home - the folding attic stair, the whole house fan, the fireplace and the clothes dryer? Here are some tips and techniques that can quickly, easily and inexpensively seal and insulate these often overlooked holes:

body image Attic stairs Installing attic stairs creates a large hole (approximately 10 square feet) in your ceiling. The ceiling and insulation that were there have to be removed, leaving only a thin, unsealed, sheet of plywood.

Often you can see a gap around the perimeter of the attic door.

Check out your home’s attic entrance: At night, turn on the attic light and shut the attic stairway door - do you see any light coming through? If you do, heated and air-conditioned air is leaking through these large gaps in your home 24 hours a day. This is like leaving a window or skylight open year-round.

An easy solution to this problem is to add an insulated attic stair cover. An attic stair cover seals the stairs to stop drafts and energy loss. Add the desired amount of insulation over the cover to restore the insulation removed from the ceiling.

Whole house fans and air conditioning vents Much like attic stairs above, installing a whole house fan creates a large hole (up to 16 square feet or larger) in your ceiling. The ceiling and insulation that were there have to be removed, leaving only the drafty ceiling shutter between you and the outdoors.

An easy, low-cost solution to this problem is to add a whole house fan shutter seal. Made from white textured flexible insulation, the shutter seal is installed over the ceiling shutter, secured with Velcro and trimmed to fit. The shutter seal can also be used to seal and insulate air conditioning vents, and is easily removed when you need to run the fan.

Fireplaces More than 100 million homes in North America are constructed with wood- or gas-burning fireplaces. However, fireplaces can be big energy wasters. Fireplaces can act like a giant straw, sucking your expensive heated or air-conditioned air right up the chimney and out of your house. In addition, sometimes odors, toxins, noise and insects come into the house through the chimney.

Fireplaces often have dampers that are meant to be shut when the fireplace is not used. However, even if the damper is shut it is not air-tight. Glass doors don’t stop the drafts either. One study has shown that an open damper on an unused fireplace in a wellinsulated house can raise overall heating-energy consumption by 30 percent. Your heating bills may be more than $500 higher per winter due to the drafts and wasted energy caused by fireplaces.

An easy, cost efficient solution to this problem is to add a fireplace plug to your fireplace. Available from Battic Door, a company known for their energy conservation products, the fireplace plug is an inflatable pillow that seals the fireplace damper, eliminating drafts, odors and noise. The pillow is easily removed whenever the fireplace is used, then reinserted after.

Clothes dryer exhaust ducts In many homes, the room with the clothes dryer is the coldest room in the house. Your clothes dryer is connected to an exhaust duct that is open to the outdoors. In the winter, cold drafts come in through the duct, through your dryer and into your house.

An easy, low-cost solution to this problem is to add a dryer vent seal. This draft blocker will also keep out pests, bees and rodents.

The vent will remain closed unless the dryer is in use. When the dryer is in use, a floating shuttle rises to allow warm air, lint and moisture to escape.

To learn more about Battic Door’s energy conservation solutions and products for your home, visit www.batticdoor.com, or send a selfaddressed stamped envelope to P.O. Box 15, Mansfield, MA 02048.

When You Look in the Mirror, Do You Like What You See? I

s your body image positive or negative? If your answer is negative, you are not alone. Many women in the United States feel pressured to measure up to a certain social and cultural ideal of beauty, which can lead to poor body image.

Women are constantly bombarded with “Barbie Doll-like” im-

ages. By presenting an ideal that is so difficult to achieve and maintain, the cosmetic and diet product industries are assured of growth and profits. It’s no accident that youth is increasingly promoted, along with thinness, as an essential criterion of beauty. The message we’re hearing is either “all women need to lose weight” or that the natural aging process is a “disastrous” fate.

Other pressures can come from the people in our lives.

• Family and friends can influence your body image with positive and negative comments.

• A doctor’s health advice can be misinterpreted and affect how a woman sees herself and feels about her body.

Learning to love what you see in the mirror We all want to look our best, but a healthy body is not always linked to appearance. In fact, healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes! Changing your body image means changing the way you think about your body. At the same time, healthy lifestyle choices are also key to improving body image.

• Healthy eating can promote healthy skin and hair, along with strong bones.

• Regular exercise has been shown to boost self-esteem, selfimage, and energy levels.

• Plenty of rest is key to stress management.

For more information please visit www.womenshealth.gov.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

green living

A Blanket for Your House Energy-Efficient, Insulated Siding

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ith a growing emphasis on eco-conscious living, homeowners recognize the importance and value of having an energy-efficient home. One essential factor for saving energy and maintaining indoor air comfort is sealing the exterior of the home. Insulation and energy-efficient windows play important roles in preventing air leaks where obvious holes are present, however,

helps reduce the impact of thermal bridging, adding a blanket of insulation over the exposed wall studs.”

Backed with polystyrene foam insulation that is integral to the panel, insulated siding can increase a wall system’s R-value, or thermal resistance. The continuous insulation the siding provides over the entire wall can contribute to reducing the energy needed to heat or cool a home.

In fact, ENERGY STAR and other programs now recognize insulated siding as a valid material to reduce thermal bridging. Therefore, insulated siding is included in the checklist of products that help homes qualify to earn the ENERGY STAR Qualified Homes label.

“The recognition of insulated siding as home insulation in energy codes and energy efficiency programs legitimizes a benefit we’ve known for some time,” says Huntley.

Beyond energy efficiency, insulated siding offers many other benefits: • Because it is made with vinyl, insulated siding is low maintenance. It provides the look of real wood, but does not require painting or staining.

• Insulated siding is an exceptionally dry wall system, making it resistant to mold growth and deterioration due to moisture absorption.

• The foam insulation backing and widestyle clapboard design options make insulated siding an extremely durable and impact resistant cladding, while improving the exterior wall flatness for added aesthetic appeal.

one hidden area susceptible to energy leaks is the home’s framing.

“Homeowners are looking for ways to improve their home’s energy performance,” says Jery Y. Huntley, president and CEO of the Vinyl Siding Institute (VSI), the trade association for manufacturers of vinyl and other polymeric siding and suppliers to the industry. “A common problem with homes today is the thermal bridging effect, which can rob a home of heat and waste energy and money.”

In thermal bridging, the studs act as a passageway for heat to escape. Most insulation helps seal wall cavities, but the wall studs on either side of the cavities are often left exposed, reducing the insulating value of the entire wall.

“Continuous wall insulation is crucial to fully seal the exterior and protect against heat loss,” says Jerry Blais, vice president of marketing for Ply Gem, a leading manufacturer of home remodeling and building products. “Insulated siding is one solution that

Today’s vinyl siding manufacturers offer insulated siding options at various price points and in an assortment of colors. Blais recommends Mastic Home Exteriors by Ply Gem Structure EPS for superior performance and a wide selection of coordinating designer accents and accessories, which can be found on www. mastic.com. Options such as Napco by Ply Gem American Essence or Variform by Ply Gem CSL 600 also offer classic styling in numerous colors.

Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

If you are considering insulated siding for your next home improvement project, ask your contractor to download a free copy of Insulated Siding as Home Insulation: Guide for Users and Energy Raters, published by the VSI. Available at www.insulatedsiding. info, this guide offers information on how insulated siding contributes to building energy performance, as well as proper installation techniques.

senior programs

Ways to Save During

Medicare Open Enrollment

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ew seniors change their Medicare elections in the program’s annual open enrollment period. This is according to past consumer choices partly due to staying with their current coverage plan that has provided them a level of comfort.

With a reeling economy, health reform, and shifting insurer business priorities make the upcoming open enrollment period anything but normal. Open enrollment begins and ends earlier this year. The time periods are October 15th- December 7th. This shift will allow consumer choices to take effect when the new program year begins January 1. That’s a welcome change, but it means new and existing Medicare beneficiaries have little time to prepare for their 2012 coverage decisions. The biggest change in 2012 plans is how much many of them will differ from 2011 choices. Even if your current plan was your best choice when you got it, don’t assume it will continue to be the best deal for you. With money tight for most everyone spending a few hours in return for hundreds of dollars in savings on health insurance is time well spent. Medicare actually consists of several insurance programs, known as Parts A, B, C, and D. Part A costs, for basic Medicare hospital and other in-patient expenses, are fully paid by the government and thus involve no premiums. The 2012 changes for Part B premiums, covering physician and other out-patient expenses, will be announced soon by Medicare.

When looking at specific Medicare insurance plans, consumers and their families need to include several cost factors when comparing insurance plans:

LaShea Sutton, Program Coordinator, Senior Medicare Patrol

Co-pays: Basic Medicare includes 20 percent consumer co-pays with no out-of-pocket limits. Many consumers look to supplemental Medicare policies (also called Medigap) to limit their co-pay exposures.

Out-of-pocket maximums: Paying a low premium for a Medicare policy may be a false bargain if you’re exposed to large annual payment ceilings. Make sure you check for your worst-case exposure when shopping for 2012 coverage Prescription drug costs: Insurers may have different charges for the same drugs plus different levels of co-pays and out-of-pocket ceilings. There has been a serious gap in prescription drug coverage, known as the donut hole. It makes consumers responsible for all drug costs after they’ve reached an initial coverage trigger (estimated at $2,930 in 2012) and extends until they’ve spent $4,700.

Because of provisions in the health reform law, Medicare beneficiaries in the donut hole will get a 14 percent discount on generic drugs (up from 7 percent in 2011) and a 50 percent discount on brand-name drugs (the same as in 2011).

For more information on the programs offered at Senior Medicare Patrol please contact LaShea Sutton at 270-442-8993.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

the right dose

Medicines... Use Them Safely W

hen Jerry, age 71, came home from the drug store with his latest prescription, he placed all his pill bottles on the kitchen counter and counted them. “I take five different medications, and you take four,” he said to his wife. “We need a system. We need to know what medicines we have, what they’re for, and when we should take them.”

Modern medicine has made our lives better in many ways. It has helped us live longer, healthier lives, but people over 65 have to be careful when taking medications, especially when they’re taking many different drugs.

What Are Medicines? What Are Drugs?

Some people refer to the pills, liquids, creams, or sprays they take as “medicine,” and other people call them “drugs.” Both words can mean: • Medicines you get from a pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription.

• Pills, liquids, or creams you buy without a prescription to use now and then, for example, for aches and pains, colds, or heartburn.

• Vitamins or dietary supplements you take regularly.

• Drugs you get without a doctor’s prescription are called over-thecounter medicines. Because mixing certain medicines can cause problems, be sure to let your doctor know about all the prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.

At Your Doctor’s Office If you’ve gone to your doctor because you don’t feel well, the doctor might decide a medicine will help and will write a prescription. Be sure you:

• Tell your doctor or nurse about all the medicines you take whenever a new drug is prescribed.

• Remind your doctor or nurse about your allergies and any problems you have had with medicines, such as rashes, indigestion, dizziness, or mood changes.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor About A New Medicine • What is the name of the medicine, and why am I taking it?

• How many times a day should I take it? At what times? If the bottle says take “4 times a day,” does that mean 4 times in 24 hours or 4 times during the daytime?

• Should I take the medicine with food or without? Is there anything I should not eat or drink when taking this medicine?

• What does “as needed” mean?

• When should I stop taking the medicine?

• If I forget to take my medicine, what should I do?

• What side effects can I expect? What should I do if I have a problem?

• Understand how to take the medicine before you start using it. Ask questions. It might help to write down the answers.

Ask Your Pharmacist Your pharmacist is an important part of your healthcare team. If you have questions about your medicine after you leave the doctor’s office, the pharmacist can answer many of them. For example, a pharmacist can tell you how and when to take your medicine, whether a drug may change how another medicine you are taking works, and any side effects you might have. Also, the pharmacist can answer questions about over-the-counter medications.

Try to have all your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy so your records are in one place. The pharmacist will keep track of all your medications and will be able to tell you if a new drug might cause problems. If you’re not able to use just one pharmacy, show the new pharmacist your list of medicines and over-the-counter drugs when you drop off your prescription.

When you have a prescription filled: • Tell the pharmacist if you have trouble swallowing pills. There may be liquid medicine available. Do not chew, break, or crush tablets without first finding out if the drug will still work.

• Make sure you can read and understand the name of the medicine and the directions on the container and on the color-coded warning stickers on the bottle. If the label is hard to read, ask your pharmacist to use larger type.

• Check that you can open the container. If not, ask the pharmacist to put your medicines in bottles that are easier to open.

• Ask about special instructions on where to store a medicine. For example, should it be kept in the refrigerator or in a dry place?

• Check the label on your medicine before leaving the pharmacy. It should have your name on it and the directions given by your doctor.

If it doesn’t, don’t take it, and talk with the pharmacist.

For more information please visit www.nih.gov

Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

distracted driving

A Problem of Focus

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eenagers are dying and being injured every day because too many drivers are focusing on using a handheld phone instead of on the road. That’s why the U.S. Department of Transportation and Consumer Reports have joined together to help parents and educators raise awareness of this danger and reduce the tragedies. Here are the facts: • M otor-vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. Mile for mile, they are involved in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers. And one in three teens who text say they have done so while driving.

• In 2009, almost 5,500 people were killed and almost a half million were injured in accidents related to distracted driving. That’s 16 percent of all fatal crashes and 20 percent of all injury crashes for that year. And almost one in five of those deaths involved reports of a cell phone.

• A Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study revealed that physically dialing a phone while driving increases the risk of a crash as much as six times. Texting is riskier still, increasing the collision risk by 23 times.

• A University of Utah study found that the reaction time of a teen driving and talking on a cell phone is the same as that of a 70year- old driver who’s not using a phone.

Six Steps You Can Take

1. Set a good example Kids learn from their parents. Put down your phone while driving and only use it when you’ve safely pulled off the road. According to the Pew research Center, 40 percent of teens 12 to 17 say they have been in a care when the driver used a cell phone in a way that put themselves or others in danger.

2. Talk to your teen Discuss the risks and responsibilities of driving, and the danger of dividing their attention between a cell phone and the road. Show them the statistics related to distracted driving. And urge them to talk to others; friends take care of friends.

3. Establish ground rules Set up family rules about not texting or talking on a handheld cell phone while behind the wheel. Enforce the limits set by your state’s graduated licensing program, if one exists, or create your own family policies.

4. Sign a pledge Have your teen take action by agreeing to a family contract about wearing safety belts and not speeding, driving after drinking, or using a cell phone behind the wheel. Agree on penalties for violating the pledge, including paying for tickets or loss of driving privileges.

5. Educate yourself Find out more about this tragic problem. View the information and resources available at www.distraction.gov and www.consumerreports.org/distracted. The more you know, the more you will understand the seriousness of the issue.

6. Spread the word Get involved in educating and promoting safe driving in your community and through online social-media websites. Talk to friends, family, and coworkers. Support advocacy organizations such as the National Organizations for Youth Safety (www.noys. org) and FocusDriving (www.focusdriven.org).

For more information, go to: Distraction.gov.

November 2011 — Western Kentucky — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

home security

What is Peace of Mind?

We Hear it All the Time

By Johnny Stroup

P

eace of mind is knowing that your elderly mother or father that lives alone has not fallen and cant get up. So many times we hear of a person lying helpless for hours before someone finds them. With the one button panic alarms that are available with home security systems you can be notified by phone or email that they need help fast. Peace of mind is also knowing that your child has gotten home from school and is in the house safely because you received an email telling you that the alarm system has been disarmed and turned back on.

Have you ever pulled in the driveway at night and thought to yourself that you don’t remember leaving a light on in the house or the door open? Peace of mind is knowing ahead of time if someone has been or is in your house or business before you go in.

For years we thought of home security systems as burglar alarms. Most of us did not even lock our doors. If someone tried to get in a horn would sound and hopefully they would leave. As many things have changed in this high-teach world we live in so

has the world of home security. You can now be notified by phone or email that someone has entered your swimming pool area or has removed your jewelry box from your dresser. You can also install wireless cameras to look in on your home while you are way or watch the babysitter to make sure she is watching your kids.

With an ADS home security system monitored through our Five Diamond monitoring station you can rest assured that if someone does try to take those things you treasure most or you have a fire in your home you can be notified before it is too late.

According to FBI statistics a home is broken into every 12 seconds and dozens of lives lost every day due to home invasions and hundreds of homes lost to fires.

With an ADS security system we can protect what you treasure most. For more information contact Johnny Stroup at 270-7270524 or 1-800-599-1884. We can help you protect your home and family or your business.

Join us in creating awareness and honoring those Impacted by pancreatic cancer.

November 20 | 4:30pm Lourdes Hospital Marshall Nemer Pavilion— Borders Community Room

Register today at

www.purplelight.org Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — Western Kentucky ­— November 2011

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