How To - October 2011 by The Times

October 16, 2011 HOW TO:

CHOOSE A tECHniCAl COllEGE • CHOOSE A lASiK SURGEOn CHOOSE A CREDit UniOn • CHOOSE A COllEGE DiAGnOSE REStlESS lEG SynDROmE CHOOSE A REtiREmEnt COmmUnity • BUy HEARinG AiDS CHOOSE An ASSiStED liVinG FACility • CHOOSE A BAnK CHOOSE An HVAC COmpAny • CHOOSE A CHiROpRACtOR

October 16, 2011 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE 3

HOW TO CHOOSE A technical COLLEGE

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HOW TO CHOOSE A LASIK SURGEON

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HOW TO CHOOSE A CREDIT UNION

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HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE

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HOW TO diagnose restless leg syndrome

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HOW TO CHOOSE A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

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HOW TO BUY HEARING AIDS

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HOW TO CHOOSE AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

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HOW TO CHOOSE A BANK

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how to Choose an HVAC Company

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HOW TO CHOOSE A CHIROPRACTOR

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Qualifying for admissions

nyone planning to continue their education beyond high school, or who is in high school and wants to get a leg up on their college course ❒ Some test scores work, might want to consider that are accepted enrollment at a technical colby technical colleges lege. Technical colleges have are: ASSET, SAT, ACT or much to offer students of all COMPASS. levels, and picking the right one may help you achieve your aca❒ Depending on demic and career goals. grades from high Students who enroll in technical school or college colleges vary greatly. Some of the courses, you may types of students in Georgia who be exempt from elect to take coursework at a technicertain portions cal college include: of exams. Check with Beginning students the institution • High school graduate, no college you are interested in Transfer students to determine • Previous college experience if you meet their criteria. Returning students • Have already attended classes at a ❒ Transient particular technical college students may not Dual enrollment need • Current high school student taking to take diploma or certificate classes entrance exams. Transient Students • Transferring credit to home college

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CHOOSE A TECHNICAL COLLEGE There are some differences between the programs and program requirements may vary slightly from school to school. Differences in the programs are:

to check with the school so that you know your deadline. Entrance exam requirements may also vary from school to school. Be sure you know which exam scores will be accepted at the school to Associate degree which you are applying. If you need • Core classes may transfer to anoth- to take additional tests, check with er 2- or 4-year college that school to see if they administer • Highest level of test scores needed any entrance exams. to be “program ready” Many colleges will require that exam • College Algebra needed for most results be current. They may require programs that exam scores be no less than five • Largest number of hours needed years old, and they will usually stipufor graduation late minimum required scores. Technical colleges may admit stuDiploma dents at different levels. Some of • Slightly lower test scores needed to these levels may be divided as folbe “program ready” lows: • Fewer hours needed for graduaRegular tion • Core classes will only transfer to • Applicant met minimum admisanother technical college sions requirements and will not be required to take remedial classes. Technical certificates of credit Provisional/Developmental • Fewest credit hours needed for • Applicant is required to take a graduation specified number of remedial classes, • Test scores and transcripts may not usually in English, math or reading. be required. Probation Admissions • Based on previous college-level Basic admissions procedures includ- work. ing turning in all required items to the Technical colleges may have many admissions department or officials by programs that are structured to meet the suggested dates, and an applica- a wide variety of needs from a wide Certificate students tion fee, an application for admission, variety of students. If you plan on Technical colleges may offer differ- official transcripts, valid entrance continuing your education, or want ent types of programs. Credentials exam scores, and a copy of resident to gain an edge on your college eduoffered: alien card (if applicable). All required cation during your high school years, • Associate Degrees items must be submitted on or before consult a technical college to see how • Diploma the suggested date of the quarter or their programs can help you achieve • Technical Certificate of Credit semester you wish to enter. Be sure your goals.

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The Eye Surgery Education Council recommends asking surgeons these questions when considering LASIK:

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

CHOOSE A LASIK SURGEON

ired of your contacts and glasses? LASIK may be for you. While LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) ❒ How many LASlK doesn’t always result procedures have you in perfect vision, performed? says the Eye Surgery Education Council ❒ Do you provide a (ESEC), it can allow people to more freely list of patients I can pursue their hobbies, contact? physical activities and careers. ❒ What’s your It’s a lifetime investment — complication rate? and one with many benefits. In order to successfully free ❒ What laser do yourself from contacts and you use? Is it glasses, it’s important to know FDA-approved? what to expect, and to find an experienced surgeon whom you ❒ What precan trust with your windows to the operative world. diagnostic tests will you What is LASIK? perform? The Food and Drug Administration says LASIK is a procedure that ❒ May I permanently changes the shape of observe a the cornea — the clear covering surgery? on the front of the eye that helps focus light to create images on your ❒ Are you retina — by using an excimer laser. licensed During the surgery, a knife is used and board to cut a flap in the cornea, revealing certified? the middle section of the cornea Are you a (stroma). Pulses from a computermember controlled laser vaporize a portion of any of the stroma, says the FDA, and professional the flap is replaced. The result is associations? corrected vision. The speed and development of ❒ What’s your the computers that run the lasers re-treatment is a huge advantage today. Lasers rate? are much safer today than they

used to be. Am I a candidate? Patients can be 18 or 80 years old, as long as they’re healthy. The ESEC says an ideal LASIK candidate is at least 18, with a stable contact or glasses prescription for at least two years; has sufficient corneal thickness; is affected by a common vision problem; and doesn’t suffer from a disease (vision-related or otherwise) that could complicate the surgery. As with any surgery, there are risks and complications to consider. Some patients can lose vision; develop glare, halos and/or double vision; be under- or overtreated, requiring additional treatment or the continued use of contacts or glasses; develop severe dry eye syndrome or have results diminish with age, according to the FDA. Finding a surgeon Become a critical consumer of health care in your search for an experienced, qualified surgeon. Do your homework. Research Web sites about LASIK, such as www.lasikinstitute.org, and schedule consultations with a few surgeons. Where you feel comfortable is where you should go. But there’s no substitute for experience: According to the ESEC, several studies have shown there’s a learning curve associated with the surgery. The more procedures a surgeon has done, the better he or she will be at it. A surgeon who’s done 30,000 surgeries, and has eight or nine years of experience is a lot better than getting a cheap fix. Check surgeon credentials — you’ll want to go to a certified, licensed ophthalmologist who’s had extensive training in refractive surgery. The surgeon should also have manufacturer certification on lasers, which should be

FDA-approved. Contact the American Board of Ophthalmology at www.abop. org, for information on certified surgeons in your area. Interview possible surgeons to see who suits your preferences: Do you prefer going to a strictly refractive surgery center or a full-service ophthalmic practice? Do you feel comfortable with the surgeon, and his or her staff ? Is the facility comfortable and clean? Does the surgeon offer patient references? What to expect Once you find a surgeon with whom you feel comfortable, the first step is to schedule a preoperative evaluation, during which you’ll receive a comprehensive eye examination. You can’t wear soft contacts for two to seven days (depending on the type of lenses), or hard lenses for a minimum of four to eight weeks prior to the visit. The surgeon will perform a number of tests to determine if you’re a candidate. Many surgeons allow patients to observe the procedure from a viewing room to get a better idea of what to expect. The surgery lasts approximately 15 minutes. Discomfort is minimal and you should be able to get back to normal life within a few days. And with the technology today, many walk out with 20/20 vision or better — and no contacts or glasses in sight. Remember that perfect vision isn’t guaranteed. About 56 percent of patients achieve results of 20/20 or better, and more than 90 percent achieve 20/40 or better according to the ESEC. You may still need to wear glasses or lenses for some activities such as reading. Ask your surgeon what results he or she plans to achieve with your eyes.

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

CHOOSE A CREDIT UNION

IMPORTANT NOTES ❒ Credit unions offer many of the same services as banks, usually at better rates and terms: checking, consumer loans, mortgages, and investment accounts.

WHAT IS A CREDIT UNION?

credit union is a cooperative financial institution, owned and controlled by the people who use its services. These people are members. Credit unions serve groups that share something in common, such as where they ❒ Credit unions are not work, live, or go to church. Credit for- profit, and exist first unions are not-for-profit, and exist and foremost to serve to provide a safe, convenient place their members. for members to save money and to get loans at reasonable rates. ❒ Credit union Credit unions, like other financial members are also institutions, are closely regulated. owners. Members The National Credit Union elect a volunteer Administration (NCUA), Board of an agency of the fedA credit Directors to eral government, inunion is a strategically sures credit union guide the cooperative, deposit accounts organization. up to $100,000. not-for-profit What makes financial institua credit union differtion. It is owned ent from a and controlled bank or savings & loan? by its members, Like credit and organized unions, these to bring savings financial institutions acand give credit cept deposits to those who and make loans but unlike credbelong. it unions, they are in business to make a profit. Banks and savings & loans are owned by groups of stockholders whose interests include earning a healthy return on their investments.

FIVE WAYS TO FIND A CREDIT UNION Credit unions are for everyone, but the law places some limits on the people they may serve. A credit union’s charter defines its “field of membership,” which could be an employer, church, school, or community. Anyone who lives or works in a community, for example, is eligible to join a community-chartered credit union. If you don’t belong, here’s how to find a credit union to join: 1. Visit the internet for information on credit unions near you. 2. Ask your family. One in three Americans belong to a credit union. Chances are you have a family member that uses credit union services. And most credit unions allow members’ families to join. 3. Quiz your friends and neighbors. Many credit unions have a “community” field of membership, serving a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in the community if they know of a credit union you may join. 4. Read the yellow pages. Some credit unions rarely advertise, so you might not know about them unless you look them up. A yellow pages display ad may state a credit union’s field of membership. If not, at least you’ll know what number to call to ask about membership eligibility. 5. Contact the Credit Union National Association. Dial (800)358-5710 or visit www.cuna.org and check their online database of credit unions.

CREDIT UNIONS VS. BANKS A credit union is a cooperative, notfor-profit financial institution. It is owned and controlled by its members, and organized to bring savings and give credit to those who belong. Proponents of credit unions say earnings are returned to members in the form of higher savings rates, lower loan rates, fewer fees, and expanded services. In contrast, a bank is a financial institution that accepts deposits and makes loans to corporations and individuals for a profit. A savings and loan institution is in business to accept deposits and make loans, primarily for first and second mortgages, at a profit. Credit unions see healthy returns on investments in order to help their members, while other financial institutions send investment returns to their stockholders. Credit unions give members a voice. Members vote for a board of directors from the general membership. Directors serve on a voluntary basis and hire a Chief Executive Officer, who in turn hires staff to manage the credit union. All members receive information on the state of the credit union, generally in the form of newsletters and other periodicals, such as the credit union’s annual report. U.S. credit unions have a flexible, highly organized cooperative network the Credit Union System. The system works at the local, state, and national level. There are over 10,000 credit unions throughout the country serving over 80 million members.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS WHEN DECIDING WHEN TO GO TO COLLEGE:

CHOOSE A COLLEGE

❒ When getting started in final decision process, start planning early. You’ll need plenty of time to gather information, visit campuses, apply for admission and secure housing. ❒ Scholarships are a great way to help pay for college. Meet with your counselor and research scholarship books to check what scholarships might be available for you.

he high school years are often regarded as a time of carefree enjoyment, and little or no responsibility. But what many students don’t realize is these are critical preparatory years for college. Academic performance in high school, including the rigor of courses taken, continues to be the most important admission factor, followed by standardized admission tests, according to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC). And in an economy where jobs aren’t as plentiful as they once were, two- and four-year degrees are becoming increasingly vital, which is making college admission increasingly competitive. The good news is that while the number of students enrolling in college has grown by 39 percent in the last 30 years, the number of institutions of higher education has grown by 44 percent, says the NACAG. So, there are plenty of options available to you, even if you don’t get into your first-choice school

❒ The top 10 criteria to consider when choosing a college are: a school curriculum, quality of instruction, average class size, admission requirements, quality of facilities, campus life, location, transferability, graduation rates and cost.

It’s never too early As juniors, most students will take the ACT and SAT admission tests, which 90 percent of universities require in order to be considered for acceptance, according to the NACAC. This is a good time to get into the college groove and start looking at your options. The first step is to consider what attributes you’re looking for in a college. Do you want a large campus or a more intimate one? Does the college offer a reputable program in the major you

plan to study? Prioritize a list of the attributes most important to you. If you need guidance, ask someone who’s already been through the application process, such as college students who went to your high school, suggests The College Board. Get to know your counselors, ask a career planner at a local college or get advice from a teacher. College fairs are great sources for gathering materials. The NACAC says a very high percentage of admissions officers continue to make frequent visits to high schools. Visit with recruiters and take this opportunity to learn about different schools. Visit schools’ web sites and check features, such as size, academic reputation, admission standards, majors available and scholarships available. Make a second list and match it with your first — note which schools fit your needs and narrow your options down to five to seven schools.

prefer the organized group visits where they can meet faculty and tour with current students. After a thorough review, decide which campus styles fit yours. Make sure to note important dates, such as application deadlines, housing deadlines and enrollment deposit deadlines, and meet them. You have one chance to make a good first impression and often a late application won’t even he considered. Apply to your top three choices to keep your options open.

Choosing a major If you’re not sure what you want to major in, check out the career centers of colleges you visit to see if you can narrow down your interests. Many offer testing to pinpoint your strong suits and secondary skills, which may help you make a decision. College counselors are also available for assistance. Look for a college that offers a wide variety of general studies to take first. The right fit These courses may lead you to a caIt’s critical to visit all of the schools reer choice. so you get an accurate feel of what each campus is like. Making the grade You may be a fan of an institution If you don’t have the best grades in since you were 3 years old, but you high school, or don’t get into your might realize it’s not the right fit for college of choice, consider attending you once you’re a [high school] gradu- a community college first and then ate. transferring. Summer is a great time to visit be- It’s a fantastic option. Because you cause it’s quiet. Decide which schools can start over. After 30 semester you feel most comfortable at. Hang hours at a community college, schools out in the student center tour the are no longer looking at high school dorms, check out what extracurricular grades and scores. or on-campus activities are offered, Remember, choosing a college is an and even sit in on a class. Many col- important decision and an individual leges host visitation days for potential process — start planning early to find students. It’s a great way to feel the the institution that can give you the spirit of the campus. Some students most satisfying college experience.

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

o you find yourself unable to sit still to watch your favorite evening program, or unable to stay seated during your vacation flight, or not able to fall asleep due to leg discomfort or jerking? If so, you may be among the 10 million adults in the United States with Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). In the past, RLS, was called Ekbom’s Syndrome. What are some of the symptoms that might strongly suggests that this is your problem? The first and foremost symptom is experiencing an unpleasant, creepy crawling, jittery sensation in your legs that results in a very strong urge to move them.

diagnose restless leg syndrome ing and infrequent to distressing and daily. You may also want to question others in your family as RLS runs in families in up to half of sufferers, and researchers have found sites on chromosomes for RLS. What can you do to get relief from RLS?

If your symptoms are mild and infrequent, first try some lifestyle changes. Some common changes that help are:

Avoid caffeine Cut back on alcohol and tobacco Try moderate exercise Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga 5.) Have good sleep hygiene 6.) Do activities that increase mental alertness in the evening 7.) Begin and end your day with a massage or muscle stretching 1.) 2.) 3.) 4.)

This unpleasant sensation starts at rest and is characteristically relieved by walking, pacing or at times by simply stretching or jiggling the If, despite all the above practices, your symptoms are increasing and disruptlegs. ing your life and sleep patterns, then reThese symptoms, at first, are ferral to a physician who is knowledgehardly noted during the day and able in the diagnosis and treatment of are felt primarily at night. Often more advanced RLS is indicated. The along with these sensations you physician should be able to screen for may find that you have been told related neurologic problems that could that you have “jerks” in your be making your RLS worse and guide arms or legs while you sleep. you in the more advanced treatments The severity of these symp- that are sometimes necessary to contoms may range from annoy- trol RLS.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

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The Top Five Things You Should Know..

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

he first thing is to find out what retirement communities are located in the area where you or your relative(s) prefer to live. The weather is an im❒. Interview key portant factor and the staff, including proximity to hospitals, marketing, dietary, doctors, pharmacies, housekeeping, security retail malls/stores is imand transportation portant. managers and It is a good idea to ride directors, to name a around to the various refew. tirement communities to get your first impression of ❒. Tour the property the appearance, architecture to assess the and location. It is also good to living conditions, check the internet Web site of safety features each area retirement community. and handicap The Web site will provide key inaccessibility. formation about the services that are offered and the accommoda❒. Become tions. informed Other pertinent information may about be obtained from the Department of services, Human Resources Licensing and Suramenities vey reports. This information may be and obtained via the Internet, at the local continuum Department of Human Resources or of care. at any retirement community that has a licensed nursing wing or assisted living ❒. Commuunit. The Dunn and Bradstreet Finannicate with cial rating, the State Nursing Home Asthe resisociation, The Better Business Bureau dents, their and Long-term-Care Ombudsman are families and four additional agencies where retirefriends. ment community stability and historiPlan an cal information may be obtained. overnight stay at the INTERVIEW WITH KEY STAFF facility. Call for an appointment and meet the staff; each retirement community is run by an executive director and managers of multiple departments. These include nursing, ❒ Find out what retirement communities are located in the area where you or your relative(s) prefer to live.

CHOOSE A RETIREMENT COMMUNITY marketing, dietary, housekeeping, laundry, social services, recreational activities, maintenance of the physical plant and the grounds, security, business and transportation. Make an appointment with the director of marketing or the admissions coordinator. The marketing director will show you around the property and introduce you to the staff and management who will answer any questions you may have. It is important to assess the length of employment of the executive director and key managers, their educational credentials, experience and licenses. TOUR PROPERTY, ACCOMMODATIONS A tour of the retirement community is imperative to assess the types and sizes of cottages, apartments and rooms associated with each level of care. Safety features, emergency response equipment and handicap accessability are important features of the tour. The tour allows a potential resident to evaluate the size or space needed for their furnishings, the closets and storage space. The cleanliness and maintenance or upkeep of the property may also be assessed on the tour. Staff-resident interaction, social activities and residents’ appearances may also be observed. BECOME INFORMED ABOUT SERVICES, ETC. During the initial and follow-up interviews and tour, it is vital to be informed about the amenities, services and levels of care that are provided and included in the admission contract. It is imperative that a potential resident be advised about whether the retirement community is a buy-in or lease arrangement, the price, refund policy, pet policy, etc. All amenities

such as meals, housekeeping and laundry/ linen service, telephone, cable television, transportation and social activities should be explained. A full service, multilevel continuum of care retirement community offers levels of care that range from independent living in villas and apartments, to assisted living or personal care to skilled nursing care. It is preferable to move into a retirement community where a resident may “age in place” and not have to relocate to another property or facility if they should have changes in their condition or require personal assistance or nursing care. The social or recreational activity program should be assessed when making the decision about your future lifestyle. An activities or social calendar should be available for you to study. A varied program of activities offering mental or sensory stimulating activities, physical activities and cultural entertainment should be included so that a resident has multiple daily options and may be as active as they choose to be. Examples of popular activities include bridge and other card games, movies, bingo, aerobic exercise classes, exercise equipment for individual or group use, birthday parties, special theme parties and seasonal or holiday celebrations. Also, outings with provided transportation that include tours of the area, lunches at local restaurants and trips to cultural events should be included in the social calendar. Arts and crafts classes should be available for those who enjoy creative pursuits. A transportation program should be provided to assure transportation to doctor’s appointments and other essential pickups, deliveries or personal transportation to shop, obtain medications and other essentials since many senior citizens choose to stop driving.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Buy Hearing Aids

earing aids are not something anybody chomps at the bit to go buy like the latest IPad or cell phone. But maybe they should be. Hearing loss occurs so gradually that most people wait several years after the loss first becomes a problem to even consider doing something. But early treatment of hearing loss has the potential to transform one’s life. The National Council on the Aging did a study with more than 2,000 people experiencing hearing loss, as well as the significant others of those with hearing loss, and found that people who decided to use hearing aids demonstrated impressive imHearing provements in their social, Instrument emotional, psychoSpecialists assess logical, and hearing and physical well-being. select, fit, and Specifically, hearing dispense hearing aid usage aids and related is positively related to devices many quality of life issues.

ships

Hearing loss treatment was shown to improve: • Earning power • Communication in relation-

• Intimacy and warmth in family rela-

tionships • Ease in communication • Emotional stability • Sense of control over life events

• Perception of mental functioning • Physical health

There are two different professionals that can help people with their hearing needs. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) defines them in this way: Audiologists identify and assess disorders of the hearing and balance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fit, and dispense amplification systems such as hearing aids and related devices; program cochlear implants; and provide instruction, rehabilitation, and counseling services to enhance human communication. A graduate (doctorate or master) degree is required for practice. Hearing Instrument Specialists assess hearing and select, fit, and dispense hearing aids and related devices. They provide instruction, rehabilitation, and

counseling in the use and care of hearing aids and related devices to enhance communication. They must be licensed by the Secretary of State in the state in which they are practicing. A further certification for hearing aid specialists and audiologists is achieved by passing an exam from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sciences. The website www.healthyhearing.com is a great resource for anyone looking for information on hearing healthcare and amplification devices. No matter the educational background or experience of the hearing healthcare provider (HHP) you choose to see, you should expect to be treated with dignity and respect as the HHP focuses on your individual requests and needs. After all, it’s your quality of life they should be most concerned with and must select the best possible device for you.

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Tips: Choosing an assisted living facility

hoosing an assisted living facility can be a difficult but imPLANNING portant decision, one ❒ Begin discussion and research often complicated by early. Don’t wait emergency situations for an emergency. that rush decision-mak❒ Determine the type of care ing. However, making needed. What do you or your a positive transition to loved one need help with? Is an assisted living facilspecialized care needed? ity only takes careful re❒ Look for facilities in your area. search. To contact the nearest The main goals of asAgency on Aging and sisted living are to aid resiother services for adults, dents — often the elderly call Elder Care Locator at (800) 677-1116 or — in tasks, and provide a check its Web site: living experience where the www.elder care.gov. mind and body are kept active. Assisted living facilities generally provide housing, group meals, personal care and support services, RESEARCH ❒ Examine the and social activities in a residential facility’s physical setting. The staff assists residents features: Is it with simple household tasks, getting clean? What dressed, dietary needs, administering facilities are medication and more.

available? Where do TAKE THE FIRST STEP residents eat? The first step is to determine the faWhere do they cility characteristics you or your loved interact? one may benefit from. According to the ❒ Examine AARP, formerly known as the American the staff. Do Association of Retired Persons, assisted they greet residents? Are living facilities best serve those who they attentive? don’t require skilled nursing or longDo they treat term assistance. Would your loved one residents well? enjoy a larger facility with many new Are they well people or a more intimate setting? Do groomed? you have any specific medical needs? ❒ Examine the Some facilities include special proresidents. Are grams and facilities to aid residents they well-cared with dementia or Alzheimer’s, for for? Are they example. Once you’ve determined active? Do they your needs, compile a list of faseem happy? cilities to visit. The AARP recom❒ Talk to residents

mends a number of sources, including the local yellow pages;

CHOOSE AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY

state agencies and your local area agency on Within the DHR is the Office of the State aging. Make sure to ask friends or relatives Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which has for advice as well. responsibility for investigating complaints and resolving problems affecting residents of long-term care facilities. LOOK AROUND Visit several facilities, touring at least The Long-Term Care Ombudsman prothree. Beware of facilities that require ap- gram in Georgia is more than 25 years old. pointments to visit. Reputable establish- In 2002 it was established as a separate ofments should allow you to visit anytime fice within the DHR’s Division of Aging during visiting hours. Services. When visiting, make careful observations. The Office of the State LTCO works Check for cleanliness — in bathrooms, through Area Agencies on Aging to address public areas and dining rooms. Is the at- needs of residents in care facilities. mosphere friendly? How does the facility In addition to investigating complaints, assess and meet residents needs? Does the Ombudsman work to promote community staff seem attentive and polite? Observe and family involvement in facilities, provide and talk to the residents. Do they seem information on how to select a facility, and well-cared for? educate communities about the needs of Check for safety measures. As the Ameri- residents in assisted living facilities. can Association of Homes and Services for For more information, visit www.georthe Aging suggests, look for well-lit stairs giaombudsman.org, call 888-454-5826, or and halls, handrails in bathrooms and ways contact your local aging program. for residents to summon help if needed. Check to see if smoke alarms are installed CONSIDER COSTS in each room and hallway, that halls and Families should thoroughly examine all passageways are clear and that exit doors the costs involved. Are costs itemized or are clearly marked, not locked and operate is there a flat fee? Some facilities may cost freely — especially disabled assist doors. several thousand dollars per month. Ask Facility staff should know evacuation pro- for all charges up front and in writing to cedures, and emergency numbers should avoid surprises. be prominently posted. EASE THE TRANSITION If looking for a loved one, involve him or CHECK CREDENTIALS Find out if the facility is properly licensed her in your search process. Once you deby the state, and if there is any history of cide on the facility, bring your loved one for problems or disciplinary actions related to a visit. Keep lines of communication open the licensee. to ease the transition. Find out what cusIn Georgia, the Department of Human tomizations you can make to the new space Resources is the licensing agent for assisted to make it feel more like home. Find out living facilities. Through the DHR, you can about social activities. Activities are essenfind out information about assisted living tial for preventing boredom, loneliness or facilities and their compliance with state li- depression. Activities at some facilities incensing requirements. clude: shopping trips, bingo, dance therapy, The DHR also is active in investigating movies and arts and crafts. Finding somecomplaints about assisted living facilities thing to enjoy and people to do it with can and working with the facilities to make im- make the move to assisted living a positive provements for residents. experience.

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Inspiring the Mind, Body and Spirit

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Consider these factors when choosing your lifelong business partner:

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

CHOOSE A BANK

hen you choose a bank, you choose what could be a lifelong per❒ When checking out sonal and business banks, review the fees partner. That’s why for various services and transactions, advises the a little homework American Banking can go a long way in Association, but remember, deciding what finanprice isn’t the only cial institution will — or even most important — factor. ... Take a best fit your needs. minute to think about “Before people conhow comfortable you sider choosing a fifeel at each institution. nancial institution, ❒ Ask yourself some they should realize it’s basic questions: Is the a decision that should staff friendly? Do they not be taken lightly espetry to get to know cially in light of the ecoyou by name? Are nomic impact of the past transactions handled efficiently? If few years,” says one veteran there’s an error, banker. “Many people tend how is if hanto focus on transaction prices, dled? Does the high rates of deposit and low bank stand by its customers? rates on loans. I think that’s a trap. There are other elements ❒ What is that need to be considered.” your goal in establishing a banking relationship? Saving money? Using a checking account? Getting a loan? All of the above?

Making a financial friend To narrow your choices, you must first assess your individual needs and identify your “banking personality” advises the American Banking Association (ABA), which suggests the following questions to ask: ❒ Will you be • What is your goal in establishbuying a home or car, or making a banking relationship? Saving another ing money? Using a checking large purchase in account? Getting a loan? All of the near future? the above? You may need to • How much money can you investigate loan products offered. keep on deposit each month

and how many checks will you write? That information determines how complex or simple your bank account needs are, from multi-service packages to no-frills accounts. • Will you be buying a home or car, or making another large purchase in the near future? You may need to investigate loan products offered. • If you’ll be saving for a big expense or your child’s education, review the institution’s savings products. Many banks. offer additional investments, such as mutual kinds, in addition to traditional savings accounts. • Do you prefer using Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and Internet banking services, or would you rather bank with an extensive branch network with regular, evening and weekend hours? Banking convenience The institution’s locations, hours, and proximity to home and work are important to consider so you can easily balance your banking with your busy schedule. ATM, Web and telephone services should also be readily available so the customer can access them conveniently. “Think about what you will utilize. There may be a branch nearby, but if you do most of your banking on the Web or over the telephone, the place may not be that important.” For those who like to have face-to-face interaction with their financial institution, “look at the people aspect, the service you expect. Are transactions handled efficiently and without error? If an error does occur is it resolved quickly and to your satisfaction?’ Then take a close look at the fees associated with the services you require, sug-

gests the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Do you use ATMs frequently? Does the bank charge you for ATM transactions at other banks? How much? Compare that to another bank’s ATM charges. Many banks require minimum balances for free checking or savings accounts. The BBB suggests you look at the cost of the fees saved with a $1,500 minimum balance, and compare that with the interest you might earn on the same $1,500. If it was invested in a Certificate of Deposit (CD) or other savings instrument Which is more beneficial to you? Use the same comparison to assess the benefits or costs of interestbearing checking accounts. Also, a bank may want you to keep all your accounts — including credit cards, mortgages and loans — at the same institution, often called “relationship banking,” says the BBB. Ask if you can combine balances to meet fee-free minimum balances or if there are other incentives, If no incentives are offered, you may have to keep your accounts at different banks to get the best deal. Perhaps most important in choosing a bank is the institution’s longevity and durability. “There have been a lot of consolidations and transitions, and that may have changed that services offered. Look into its financial strength. How does it manage through the tough times, and does it stand by its customers?” Finally do a gut check: Allow yourself a moment to measure your comfort level with the bank. “Do the employees at the bank know you? Do they try to identify your needs over the short term and the long term, or are they simply marketing products to you?”

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Choose an HVAC Company

n the summer, there seems to be nothing more important than good air conditioning. In the winter, nothing is more important than an effective heating system. The key to getting great heating and air conditioning service is finding the right HVAC company. It’s been said that an HVAC company is like a spouse. Good ones are helpful, reliable and there for you in your times of need, whereas bad ones will cost you a lot of money, cause you many headaches and put you in uncomfortable situations. Word of mouth will provide the best recommendations for an HVAC company. Ask your family and friends Ask the difficult who they’ve questions. had good What are their experience using. prices? Do they When you offer a guarantee hear the or warranty? same name more than What are their once, that’s usual turnaround a good sign. Make sure times? What that you let manufacturers do the company they use? know that they were recommended by people close to you. This will let them know that they need to do a good job or other customers will hear about it and maybe consider taking their business to another company. When researching any sort of company, you’ll want to check with the Better Business Bureau. For an HVAC com-

pany, check with your state’s board of contractors. You can also check the local mechanical inspection office to be really thorough. You want to make sure any company you use is reputable. Unfortunately today many are not as reputable as we’d like to think. Ask the difficult questions. What are their prices? Do they offer a guarantee or warranty? What are their usual turnaround times? What manufacturers do they use? You’ll also want to know if the company has insurance and is bonded for accidents that are likely to happen occasionally. This can save you from having to file a claim on your homeowners insurance should any mishaps take place that cause damage to your property during the installation. Make sure to check for proper permits. An HVAC company getting the proper permits can save a homeowner many headaches. Load calculation is another thing that will save you from plenty of problems in the future. It’s a good idea to have a load calculation performed before installing a new system in any building. The company that you select should be willing to do so. There are HVAC companies that will use a general rule of thumb to size the necessary equipment instead of double checking, and some companies will just install the same size of equipment as equipment that is being replaced. These methods can cause unnecessary problems for you. Many times you don’t know if a load calculation was done when the first system was installed and changes in the building have probably taken place over the years. A system that’s too big will be inefficient and cause big problems. A system that’s too small won’t be able to heat or cool the larger area. When you have the

system that is installed to fit the needs of the building, you will save money and be much happier. Following this advice will help you find an HVAC company that will help save you some money and leave you satisfied with their work.

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Consider these factors when choosing a chiropractor

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

hiropractic care is an alternative non• Research the techniques invasive medical disciused by the doctor pline based on the view • Where the doctor at that spinal health affects tended chiropractic colthe primary functioning lege is important to some of the body. Because a people majority of the nervous • Research the experience system passes through of the doctor and branches out from • Call and talk with the the spinal column, any doctor and/or staff and misalignment is bound to learn the dynamics of affect its function. Docthe environment tors of Chiropractic use • If important, look at their hands to adjust the the hours of operabones of the spine, thereby tion and/or if insurimproving the structure and ance is accepted function of the spine, verte• Go online to the brae, and spinal nerves. Georgia Board of Neck pain and back pain are ofChiropractic ten thought of when thinking of Examiners and chiropractic. But, Doctors of Chisee if there ropractic help with far more than are any just neck and back pain. Headaches disciplinary actions and migraines, sinus problems, scopending liosis, arm and shoulder pain, hip pain and extremities issues (wrists, elbows, • Go onlineto knees, ankles and feet) are all areas that the Georgia Board of may be helped with chiropractic care. Chiropractic Chiropractic manipulation is a recogExaminers nized technique and is a popular pain and confirm relief treatment. It is a holistic approach the doctor for any age group. People of all ages can is licensed in benefit from chiropractic care. Chirothe state of practic is for every body. Georgia Chiropractors earn a Doctorate of • Ask your Chiropractic in that specialized field. primary The first two years of chiropractic edcare Physiucation are focused on coursework in cian who they would the basic sciences, after which training recommend focuses on diagnosis-related courses — co-caring such as physiology, extensive radiolis an imporogy training, chiropractic manipulatant part of tion (use of hands) and/or a tool, good health such as an Activator may also be recommended as an alternative to drugs or surgery. The colleges

CHOOSE A CHIROPRACTOR

and universities of chiropractic are accredited and held to a high standard just as the medical schools the physicians attend. In addition to this chiropractic education, some chiropractors also pursue post-graduate diplomat programs in various specialties, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation, neurology, nutrition, ergonomics and other disciplines. Seven ways chiropractic can improve quality of life: • Helps to alleviate pain and adjust mis-

alignments of the spine • Helps improve conditions such as incontinence • Boosts energy levels • Increases the immune system • Increases physical activity • Improves quality of sleep • Creates Wellness Remember that your spine is a sensitive and important part of your health. Chiropractic care is a long term, all-natural approach to optimal well-being. Do your research and choose the right Doctor of Chiropractic for you.

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

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961 Green Street, N.E. Gainesville, GA 30501

770.534.0656

www.watkinschiropractic.com

• Chiropractic Care • Massage • Physiotherapy • Reflexology • Therapeutic Exercise / Rehab • Nutrition Program / Vitamins

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The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011