News
The Basics of Medicaid
10-09-2008, 08:14 AM
To understand Medicaid qualifcations, you first need to know how Medicaid treats your assets. Basically, Medicaid breaks your assets down into two separate categories. The first are those assets which are exempt and the second are those assets which are nonexempt or countable.
Exempt assets are not counted by Medicaid for eligibility (at least for the time being). Laws between states differ. In North Carolina generally the following assets are exempt:
1. The home, no matter its value. The home must be the prinicipal place of residence.
2. Household and personal belongings, such as furniture, appliances, jewelry and clothing.
3. One vehicle, with current tags.
4. Prepaid funeral expen Full story...
Preventing Falls Among Seniors
09-10-2009, 09:15 AM
The CDC's National Center for Injury Prevention and Control recommends the following for seniors. Falls are not just the result of getting older. Many falls can be prevented. Falls are usually caused by a number of things. There are ways to lower your chances of falling.
1. Begin a regular exercise program. Exercise is one of the most important ways to reduce your chances of falling. It makes you stronger and helps you feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination like Tai Chi are the most helpful.
2. Make your home safer. About half of all falls happen at home. To make your home safer you should do the following:
* Remove things you can trip over such as papers, books, clothes, and shoes from stairs and
Full story...Proper Nutrition
02-01-2010, 09:42 AM
As we age, usually our calorie needs decrease. But we continue to require the same amount of vitamins and minerals. Our bodies are unable to absorb or produce some of the vitamins as well as they did when we were younger. When our bodies do not have the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients they need, we cannot maintain healthy tissues and organs. Eating a balanced diet and a variety of foods provides the best chance of satisfying the body’s vitamin and mineral needs. There are ways to combat malnutrition.
Fortifying foods by adding powdered milk adds protein. Adding gravy to mashed potatoes adds fat and calories. Adding cheese to foods increases levels of protein, calcium, and fat. Spreading peanut butter on fruit adds extra protein.
Making food taste better is also essential. Many illnesses and conditions alter how food tastes. For exa Full story...