Keeping diabetes in check between doctor visits (ARA) – Americans are taking a closer look at their own personal health and assessing changes they can make, as the topic of health care remains front and center. More and more, people are paying attention to the cost of prevention and care for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, as they have a high risk for health complications. Diabetes now affects nearly 24 million people in the United States, an increase of more than 3 million in approximately two years, according to 2007 prevalence data estimates released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If not controlled, diabetes in particular can lead to serious health complications including heart disease, blindness and kidney failure. That's why it is extremely important to manage the disease on a daily basis. To stay healthy and avoid potential consequences, people with diabetes can take steps every day to manage the disease. In addition to eating a balanced diet and exercising, this also involves monitoring blood glucose levels each day and seeing their physician regularly to check in and monitor their A1C levels – a test that provides a two to three month indication of average of blood glucose. Fortunately, medical advances have made it easier for people with chronic illnesses, like diabetes, to closely monitor their health and better manage the disease, along with their healthcare providers. For example, years ago, people with diabetes relied on laboratory obtained tests to get a clinical measure of their A1C levels – a process that required a wait time. Now patients can, for the first time, test their A1C at-home and get results within five minutes with Bayer's A1CNow(R) SELFCHECK in between regularly scheduled doctor visits. This allows them to take a more active role in their diabetes over the long term, like modifying their diet and exercise, and have an informed discussion with their healthcare provider based on the results. By working with their doctors on appropriate disease management, patients may see a reduction of their A1C level and subsequently reduce their risk for complications associated with diabetes. A 1 percent point reduction in A1C can reduce the risk of serious complications by 40 percent. The A1CNow SELFCHECK allows patients to further participate in their diabetes care by monitoring their A1C levels in between physician visits. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends performing an A1C test at least two times a year in patients who are meeting treatment goals and have stable glycemic control. The ADA recommends quarterly testing (four times a year) for patients whose therapy has changed or are not meeting glycemic goals. Clinical research and advancements in technology are helping people with diabetes manage the chronic condition to achieve long-term success until a cure for the disease is found. People with diabetes are encouraged to visit www.SimpleWins.com for more information on the tools and resources that can help them properly manage the disease and invest in their health. Courtesy of ARAcontent If you need help for an agingsenior, visit us atwww.caretrakhc.com. ...read more

Here is a great article from agingcare.com for anyone who has a friend or family member who may be suffering with Alzheimer's.   If you have questions, or need help for a senior loved one in the area, visit us atwww.caretrakhc.com. ‘Tough Love' – Caregiving For Alzheimer's Patients It is an understatement to say that taking care of a loved one who is stricken with Alzheimer's Disease, also known as ‘AD', is a tough job. (AD is an illness which results in the progressive loss of brain nerve cells, leading to a gradual decline of mental functions and is the most common cause of dementia). AD is considered to be among the most stressful illness a family caregiver can face and one of the most physically and mentally exhausting situations in a person's life. Continue reading HERE. ...read more

Taking Care of Parents Also Means Taking Care of Finances Here is a great article from the New York Times.  If you are in need of assistance for an agingseniorin Lowell, MA visit us atwww.caretrakhc.com. About 30 percent of adult children in the United States contribute financially to their parents' care, according to thePew Research Center. On average these children pay $2,400 a year on everything from uncovered medical expenses to making sure the refrigerator is stocked each week. The money often goes to parents who diligently saved all their lives, but in the face of longer life spans and chronic illness, the savings just isn't enough. Continue reading HERE. ...read more