New Trend in Nursing Homes: The Rise of Younger Residents

There’s an interesting new trend in nursing home care.  The number of younger residents in nursing homes has increased in the last few years.  The number of nursing home residents under the age of 65 has jumped 22%.  This means about one in every seven residents is under 65 years of age, some even in their twenties and thirties.  

What’s causing this growing phenomenon in medical care?  The Washington Post reported that it’s due to 1) medical advances that help individuals survive traumatic illnesses and injuries, and 2) the closing of mental health facilities.  Many of these younger residents have suffered severe injuries. Others have neuromuscular diseases such as multiple sclerosis, or have suffered a stroke. 

This trend has proven a challenge for caregivers and residents, because while the younger residents may have some of the same physical demands as older residents, their social and psychological needs are much different.  

While many facilities try to separate the older from the younger generations, this isn’t always possible because of the still small number of younger residents.  This can cause tensions between the generations.  The older residents complain about loud music and young visitors.  On the other hand, the younger residents don’t want to room with someone with dementia, they don’t want to be forced to eat food specifically with the elderly in mind, and hate that the only social activity is bingo.  

Living in these facilities can also cause the younger residents to become depressed not only because of their disabilities or illnesses, but because they’re constantly surrounded by the elderly and dying, and quite simply, they’re lonely.

Some homes have already accommodated these younger guests by giving them their own wing, offering poker instead of bingo, pizza and pop instead of meatloaf and tea.  They even take them out on outings. If this trend continues, the nursing home industry will have to adapt in order to not only give the elderly comfortable quality care, but also the young who suffer from debilitating injuries and illnesses.

Sources: 

Nursing Home Abuse Blog

 

Time Healthland

McKnight's Long Term Health Care News

The insanity plea

 by John L. Messina

The recent tragedy in Tucson has focused the nation on the fragility of life and also on what damage can be wreaked by a demented mind.  And already there are calls to impose the death penalty on the killer.   The young man obviously committed the heinous crimes.  How can he be defended?  

Everyone is entitled to a defense.  In this case the strategy of the defense may be simply to avoid the death penalty.  Another strategy may be the assertion of what is commonly called the “insanity defense.”  That defense is a real one, but one that goes against our nature and belief that those who commit crimes must pay for them. 


The insanity defense is not new.  In the English-speaking world, evidence of
cases in which pardons were granted on the ground of “madness” exists from medieval England. In the United States, the insanity defense has always been an accepted part of criminal law doctrine. Today most states define insanity as a mental impairment that impedes a person's ability to understand the wrongfulness of his or her act. It focuses on the ability of the criminal to mentally appreciate what he or she was doing.  Some states also permit a defense when the disability impairs the person's ability to control the act, even though the person may realize he or she is doing something wrong.  The defense has been controversial  After all, it allows those who commit murder to escape  punishment.  However, those acquitted in this way are usually confined to a mental hospital for a long time under lock and key, just like a criminal.  The difference is, they get the medical assistance they need to deal with the mental illness that caused them to commit the crime in the firstplace.  Nonetheless, at some future time, if they can prove they are no longer mentally ill, they may be released.  They can never be tried for the crime as they have been acquitted. 

Another defense that can be made is that the criminal, while not “insane” at the time of the crime, is not presently able to participate in his or her defense at the time of trial.  If that is accepted, the trial is deferred.  If the prosecution can later show the person is capable of assisting in the defense, he or she can be tried and convicted, as there never was a finding of acquittal. The burden on proving insanity is on the person claiming it.  The prosecution does not have to prove sanity at the time of the crime.  Jurors are generally suspicious of the defense and, absent a strong showing of mental aberration, the defense simply fails.

In conclusion, the “insanity” defense while controversial is still necessary in a civilized society, to prevent the punishment or execution of those who truly could not possibly have known they were committing a terrible crime or could not have rationally controlled their behavior because of severe mental illness.  It is a defense that should be used sparingly and jurors should hold the person claiming it to strict proof.  The insanity defense will probably be used in Arizona.  We can only hope that justice will take the appropriate course, whatever that is.  In the meantime, we at MBC continue to mourn the loss of six lives and continue to hope and pray for the recovery of the surviving victims, including Representative Gabrielle Giffords.

MBC attorney speaks at Nation Business Institute seminar

MBC attorney, John R. Christensten, participated as a speaker at NBI's, Plaintiff's Personal Injury From Start to Finish, seminar.  He spoke on the topic, Statutes Which Affect Liability Evaluation, which covered the statute of limitations, auto accident statutes, and recreational and sovereign immunity.

He also participated in the presentation, Understanding the Law of Damages, in which he focused on such issues as: non-economic damages, pain, suffering, and inconvenience, disability, disfigurement, and loss of of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death claims and statutes, among others.

At the conclusion, John received an rating of 'excellent' from the seminar attendees.

Here's what they had to say:

"Knowledgeable speaker"

"Very solid; quite excellent; quality presentation"

"I have seen John speak before and he is a great presenter."

"I am a 25 year practitioner and I learned."

"Speaker's extensive experience allowed informative case examples for principles of law being discussed."

"Stated information clearly and easy to understand.  Made great connections between rules and actual cases."

Congratulations to John on a job well done.  Visit our Facebook fan page to find out about upcoming speaking engagements  by the attorneys at MBC.

Last week a ten- year- old boy shot and killed his mother after fighting about chores.  Also last week, locally, a four- year- old boy accidentally shot his mother in the side while his two- year- old sister sat nearby watching Elmo.  Sadly, these aren’t isolated incidents.   The biggest question is not why, it’s how.  How did these children gain access to these guns in the first place?  

Ironically, the ten year old’s mother had given the boy the .22 caliber rifle as a Christmas gift.  The four year old knew exactly where the 12-guage semi-automatic shotgun was kept, retrieved it from the closet, and loaded a shell into it that his father had let him handle earlier, yet forgot to put away.

The majority of fatal accidents involving firearms occur at home.  There are about 60 million handguns in the U.S. with an average of two to three million being sold each year.  Approximately 1.7 million children live in homes with guns which are loaded and unlocked, and every day eight children are fatally shot.

In homes that have handguns, it’s more likely that a gun will be used to shoot a family member or friend rather than in self defense.  These shootings typically take place when:

• A child finds a gun at home and is showing a friend when the trigger is pulled accidentally.

• A depressed teen or adult becomes suicidal.

• An argument between family members escalates out of control.

•  A friend or family member is mistaken for an intruder.

As mentioned above, it’s not just about accidents; it’s also violent crime and suicide.  Nearly 1,500 children a year commit suicide by gun.  An adolescent is twice as likely to take their own life if they have access to a firearm inside the home.  About 7,000 violent crimes are committed each year by children using guns from home.  The killers aren’t only teens, either.  Ten years ago, a six year old boy from Michigan took a gun to school and killed a fellow classmate.  Children as young as three years old may have the strength to pull the trigger of a gun.

This blog isn’t about your Second Amendment right, and the gun control debate isn’t likely to be resolved any time soon, however, gun owner or not, there are steps you can take to try to better ensure America’s children’s safety where guns are involved.

If you have children, start talking to them about gun safety at a young age.

• Tell them guns are off limits —make sure they know to never touch a gun at home, and if they go somewhere in which they encounter a gun, to leave the area immediately and inform an adult.

•  Explain the difference between television/video games and real life and how guns in real life can do real harm to someone.  Some of the TV and video game shootings don’t look real and this could confuse a child.

• Teach them how to deal with disputes in a rational manner, rather than using violence. 

You should find out if your child’s friends have guns in their home and ask how they are stored.  Then you’re informed and it’s up to your discretion whether or not you let your child play there.

If you own a gun:

• Keep guns stored safely.  Even if you’ve talked to your child about gun safety, sometimes their curiosity will still get the better of them.  Store your ammunition and firearms in separate, locked locations, and hide the key.  Don’t tell your children where the guns are kept.  Also, storing firearms in a glass case is not the best option as the glass can be broken and the guns removed.

• Use a gun lock so that the trigger cannot be pulled without a key.

• When handling or cleaning a gun, never leave it unattended.

• Be a role model.  Don’t use your gun in a way you wouldn’t want your child to imitate.  Perhaps even become active in your community or your child’s school by helping promote gun safety.

Many gun owners feel they don’t have to lock up their weapons if they don’t have children.  Eventually, however, a child will more than likely visit, whether a relative or friend’s child.   Plus, hundreds of thousands of guns are stolen from homes every year.

So, keep in mind the shooting accidents and gun violence that take place every day.  If you own a gun, play it safe and keep it locked.  The life you may be saving could be your child’s or your own.

Your friends at MBC.

Sources:

FamilyEducation.com

The News Tribune

ABC News

University of Michigan Health Systems

American Academy of Pediatrics

USA Today

Popular Fidelity

Give Emergency Vehicles Some Room

Did you know that you could be fined for not giving an emergency vehicle enough space when they’re stopped on the side of the road?  Well, you can.  In 2007, the Move Over Law was passed in the state of Washington in order to protect police, emergency technicians, tow operators, and Department of Transportation workers being killed or struck during routine traffic stops, accident response, impounding or towing of vehicles, and highway construction.  

Since 2007, the number of collisions involving emergency vehicles actually increased instead of decreasing.  The aftermath made it necessary to make the law stricter, so Move Over is getting a little help from the new Emergency Zone Law, which went into action on January 1, 2011.  

The new law will level hefty penalties on drivers who speed past emergency vehicles stopped on state highways, or fail to give first responders more room in the Emergency Zone.  The Emergency Zone is defined as the adjacent lanes of roadway 200 feet (or 10 car lengths) before and after a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights, a tow truck using red lights, an emergency assistance vehicle using warning lights, or any police vehicle using emergency lights.  

Drivers traveling on a roadway with at least two lanes in their direction of travel must move over a lane from the shoulder when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle with its lights activated. They're also required to slow down and proceed with caution.

On roadways with only one lane in their direction of travel, motorists must pass to the left of an emergency vehicle if they're able to safely do so, while yielding the right of way to all vehicles traveling in the opposite direction.

The penalties for not following the Move Over and Emergency Zone Laws are as follows:

• Failure to move over or slow down in an Emergency Zone come with a $248 fine, which has doubled with the new law. 

• Fines double for exceeding the posted speed limit in Emergency Zones.

• If a motorist drives in a manner as to endanger any emergency worker, he or she could be charged with Reckless Endangerment.

• If convicted of Reckless Endangerment, a driver’s license could be suspended for up to 90 days.

Here at MBC, we had a case in which a U.S. Marshall’s vehicle was struck when he had pulled to the shoulder in order to help a collision victim.  He was left with multiple injuries including a concussion and lower back injury.  He still suffers from limitations and pain as a result of the collision.

So take care when approaching a stationary emergency vehicle.  These people are just doing their jobs, helping the stranded, assisting with collisions, saving lives.  They may be saving yours one day.

Sources:

Washington State Patrol

Seattle Times

Ski Lift Safety

The end of 2010 saw an abundance of ski chair lift incidents.  Six people were taken to hospitals after five ski lift chairs fell to the ground at a Maine ski resort.   A 10 year old girl was injured last week after falling about 15 feet from a chairlift at Hidden Valley.  About 100 people had to be evacuated from Crabbe Mountain's ski lift when the emergency brakes on the system activated and stopped the lift.

These are only a few of the chair lift incidents that took place within days of each other the last couple weeks that have people asking themselves, are chair lifts really safe?

 It’s not just skiers asking this question either.  Ski resorts are double checking procedures and equipment to make sure everything is up to standards where safety is concerned.  Lawmakers in Montana are looking into a chairlift safety bill.  Even before these incidents the Alpine Meadows Ski Resort in Lake Tahoe had installed Magnestick harnesses on their lifts to keep children safely in place.

While many of these incidents were caused by high winds or power outages, you, the skier, can also take precautions to ensure your own safety on the lifts.

When boarding the lift use extreme caution.  While waiting for the lift, remove the pole straps from your wrist and put both poles in one hand.  When the lift nears the back of your legs, grab the center bar with your free hand and sit, scooting all the way to the back of the chair.  If you need extra accommodations ask the operator before getting in line.

When riding the chairlift, keep your ski tips up and hold on tightly to all your gear. Keep the safety bar down at all times during the ride.  Don’t lean forward, swing your legs, nor do anything else that would cause your chairlift to swing.  If your chair has footrests, keep the skis securely in them throughout the ride.  Be alert to your surroundings.

Always keep your safety bar down until told to raise it.  There should be signs directing you when it is safe to raise the bar, but if not, raise the bar only when you are approaching the station. Be careful of potential injuries. The bar can hit you or your chairlift partner on the head if swung with excessive force.

Watch for signs or markers that tell you when to disembark the chairlift. Check for loose clothing that could get caught on the lift chair. When approaching the station, scoot forward on your chair and raise your skis slightly so you can glide off the lift. If there are no markers, simply stand up when you feel your skis touch the snow. After standing up, ski to the side, out of the way of other chairlift passengers. When getting off of the lift, hold on to your ski poles tightly. 

If you feel like you’re about to drop something while on the lift, do NOT lean forward and grab at the item.  Just let it fall.  Tell the operator at the station so he or she can help you leave the lift safely and recover any personal items. 

Many accidents can be avoided by simply following the ski resort rules.  For those accidents that may be the fault of defective equipment or inadequate maintenance, you  may need to call an attorney.


Stay safe and have fun on the slopes.

Sources:
Ehow

Trails.com

Associated Press

Montana Snow Sports

Pittsburgh Post Gazette

Time & Transcripts 

Charity Week; Day Five: Think Globally, Act Locally

Everyone wants to make a difference where the big picture is concerned, but how do you do it?  Where do you start?  The best place to start is at home with your local organizations.  Here are some local charities that MBC contributes to.

Tacoma-Pierce County United Way:
They believe education, income and health are the foundation for a good life. Education is essential to getting and keeping a job. Income is important for economic stability. Good health is critical for everyone.  They're working to build lasting opportunities for a good life for all who live in our community.  MBC attorney James McCormick sits on their board of directors.  Visit their website to find out how to get involved.  Click here to find United Way in your area.

Catholic Community Services:
Every year MBC adopts a family in need for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Click here for sponsorship, here to donate. We also donate blankets, coats, socks and other needed items to their Hospitality Kitchen.


Cancer Society Relay for Life:
Many of the employees here at MBC also participate in the Relay for Life each year.  You can sign up a team, join a team, register as a survivor, or sign up as an individual here.  If you'd rather just donate to a team, individual, or to the even itself, click here.  Click here to find Relay for Life events in your area.

Northwest Harvest:
We team up with the Washington State Association for Justice and Northwest Harvest, our statewide hunger relief agency, to feed families in need.  Volunteer here.  Find many ways to donate here.

These are just a few of the charitable organizations MBC supports.  We also support:

Judicial Dispute Resolution
Thurston, King, and Pierce County's Volunteer Legal Services
Tacoma-Pierce County YMCA
The Brain Injury Association Of Washington
Seattle University School of Law's Access to Justice Institute
Northwest Immigrant's Rights Project
International Rescue Committee
Tacoma-Pierce County Sexual Assault Center
Volunteer Advocates for Immigrant Justice
Lance Armstrong Organization LIVESTRONG Challenge
ACT Theater
Seattle University School of Law Immigration Court Project
Muscular Dystrophy Association
Saint Patrick's School
The Red Cross
Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium

And don't forget, as the Tacoma News Tribune reported earlier this week, with the economy as depressed as it is our local Tacoma-Pierce County Food Bank could use your help.

 Make it a point to remember those that are less fortunate this  season, both globally and locally.  Happy holidays from those MBC.

Charity Week; Day Four Children's/Youth Organizations

There are so many worthy organizations doing good for the children of the world, it was hard to pick just a few to focus on.  There are those dedicated to child protection, those trying to help the children of the world through sponsorship programs, and those committed to youth development.

We'll start with the child protection organizations.

Children's Defense Fund:
Their mission is to "Leave No Child Behind"^®  to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. 

CDF provides a voice for all America's children, paying particular attention to the needs of poor and minority children and those with disabilities. They also educate about the needs of children and encourage preventive measures before they get sick, drop out of school, get into trouble or suffer family breakdown.  Here's where you can donate.

U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program:
The Toys for Tots Program collects new, unwrapped toys during October, November and December each year, to distribute as Christmas gifts to needy children in the community.  By doing this, they hope to deliver a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens.  They have many different ways you can donate.  Click here to find out more.




The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children:
The NCMEC's mission is to serve as the nation’s resource on the issues of missing and sexually exploited children. The organization provides information and resources to law enforcement, parents, children, including child victims as well as other professionals. Donate here.  You can also visit their website to find out other ways to get involved.

Children in the U.S. and all over the world live impoverished, marginalized and vulnerable to harm and illness.   Your sponsorship can provide a pair of shoes, a meal, or much needed medical care.  Here are some sponsorship sites to help you get started.

Children Incorporated:

Children, Incorporated provides resources for children in need internationally. They

envision a world in which each child has the education, resources and opportunity to build a better life.  Click here to find out how you can make a difference.

Christian Foundation for Children and Aging: 

The CFCA provides personal attention and direct benefits to children, youth, aging and their families so they may live with dignity, achieve their desired potential and participate fully in society.  They invite people of good will to live in daily solidarity with the world’s poor through one-to-one sponsorship.  They build community by fostering relationships of mutual respect, understanding and support that are culturally diverse, empowering and without religious or other prejudice.  Grounded in the Gospel call to serve the poor, CFCA is a lay Catholic organization working with persons of all faith traditions to create a worldwide community of compassion and service.  There are many ways to get involved with the CFCA.  Click here to find out how.


Save the Children:
Save the Children is the world’s leading independent organization for children.
Their vision is a world in which every child attains the right to survival, protection, development and participation.  Their mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children, and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives.  Click here to donate, here to sponsor.

And here are some programs designed to keep our children education and help them gain the confidence they need to reach their full potential in life.  

Big Brothers and Sisters:
The mission of Big Brothers and Sisters is to help children reach their potential through professionally supported, one-to-one relationships with mentors that have a  measurable impact on youth.  Learn how to donate here.  Volunteer to be a big brother or sister here.

Scholarship America:
Scholarship America is a national education service organization that mobilizes support for students getting into and graduating from college. Since 1958, Scholarship America has distributed more than $2.4 billion in scholarship assistance to more than 1.7 million students.  They let you decide where your money goes, whether it goes where it's most needed, to support initiatives to support students, to your regional office, local chapter, for those who lost family in the 9/11 attacks, or for those with unexpected financial burdens that would otherwise not allow them to stay in school.  Click here to donate.

Girl Scouts of the USA:
The Girl Scouts is the world’s preeminent organization dedicated solely to girls—all girls—where, in an accepting and nurturing environment, girls build character and skills for success in the real world. In partnership with committed adult volunteers, girls develop qualities that will serve them all their lives, like leadership, strong values, social conscience, and conviction about their own potential and self-worth.  Always want to be a girl scout leader?  Click here.  To donate, click here.

Boy Scouts of America:
The Boy Scouts is one of the nation's largest and most prominent values-based youth development organizations. The BSA provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness.  Click here to volunteer your time, here to donate.



Please come back tomorrow when we talk about the charities we personally donate to and other local organizations that could use your help.

Charity Week; Day Three, Animal Protection

For you animal lovers out there, here is a list of charitable organizations protecting the rights of our furry little friends.  

It was hard to find ones that are both top rated by the American Institute of Philanthropy, and meet the 20 standards from the Better Business Bureau, but here are a couple that do just that. 

 

Associated Humane Societies:

The mission of  Associated Human Societies Inc., is to provide the highest quality care to all animals including their rescue, housing, veterinary care, placement whenever possible, and when required, a peaceful end.  They also try to prevent cruelty to all animals throughout the United States through intervention as well as the promotion of humane education regarding the proper care and treatment of animals at both public and private levels.  Click here to donate.

The Jane Goodall Institute: 

Founded by renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, the Jane Goodall Institute is a global nonprofit that empowers people to make a difference for all living things. Their work builds on Dr. Goodall’s scientific work and her humanitarian vision. Specifically, they seek to improve global understanding and treatment of great apes through research, public education and advocacy. They contribute to the preservation of great apes and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in local communities.  Lastly, they create a worldwide network of young people who have learned to care deeply for their human community, for all animals and for the environment, and who will take responsible action to care for them.  Learn how to volunteer here.  Donate here.

One popular charitable organization dedicated to protecting wildlife is the World Wildlife Fund.  The WWF is not a top rated charity, but it does satisfy the BBB's 20 standards.

WWF's mission is the conservation of nature. Using the best available scientific knowledge they work to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth and the health of ecological systems by protecting natural areas and wild populations of plants and animals, including endangered species; promoting sustainable approaches to the use of renewable natural resources; and promoting more efficient use of resources and energy and the maximum reduction of pollution.  With the WWF, you can do more than just donate.  You can also adopt and travel.

Here are a couple more that are top rated, but don't meet all of the BBB's 20 standards:

Marine Mammal Center 

Their goal is to expand knowledge about marine mammals and to inspire their global conservation. Their core work is the rescue and rehabilitation of sick and injured marine mammals, supported by state-of-the-art animal care and research facilities, a corps of dedicated volunteers, and an engaged community. Here's how to donate.

The Farm Sanctuary:

The Farm Sanctuary has worked to end cruelty to farm animals and promote compassionate living. They rescue animals from abject cruelty, expose the callousness and disregard for life that drive the “food animal” industry, and advocates for legal protections for farm animals. To donate and find out how you can get involved, click here.

  Please come back tomorrow when we highlight Children/youth organizations.  Thanks for reading.

Charity Week; Day Two, Environmental Causes

  If you like to support conservation efforts, here are a few charities you might consider.  Again, all are top rated on the American Institute of Philanthropy and meet the 20 standards as set by the Better Business Bureau.

Rainforest Alliance: 
The Rainforest Alliance works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices and consumer behavior.  The Alliance appreciates corporate gifts, but has a few different ways to give.  Click here to find out more.

Union of Concerned Scientists:
The Union of Concerned Scientists is the leading science-based nonprofit working for a healthy environment and a safer world. UCS combines independent scientific research and citizen action to develop innovative, practical solutions and to secure responsible changes in government policy, corporate practices, and consumer choices. Click here to donate.

Earthworks:
EARTHWORKS is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting communities and the environment from the destructive impacts of mineral development, in the U.S. and worldwide.  You can join in their fight to save the environment, or donate here.


The Trust for Public Land:
TPL conserves land for people to enjoy as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come. They have a gift matching program, click here to find out more.

The World Resource Institute:
Their mission is to motivate society to live in ways that protect Earth’s environment and its capacity to provide for the needs and aspirations of current and future generations.  They work with four goals in mind; climate protection, governance, markets & enterprise, and people & ecosystems.  To donate, click here.


You can also donate your time to many of these organizations in order to conserve our natural resources and keep our earth a beautiful and healthy place to live.  Check out these websites and find out all the many ways you can help.

Charity Week; Day One, Fighting Disease

During the season of giving, we know many of you would like to donate your money, much needed items, or volunteer your time to charity.  But where do you start?  

This week, with Christmas right around the corner, we thought we would highlight some  charitable organizations worthy of your contributions.  Today we're starting with the war against diseases.  These are all top rated charities according to the American Institute of Philanthropy.  All those listed also meets all 20 Standards for Charity Accountability set forth by the Better Business Bureau.

Mostly we're focusing on cancer, but there are so many fighting the good fight, they are also worth mentioning.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society: 

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is dedicated to funding blood cancer research, education and patient services. Their mission is to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. Click here to find out how you can help their cause.

Cure Search for Children's Cancer:

Their oncology group is a network of physicians, nurses, and scientists whose collaborative efforts have turned childhood cancer from virtually incurable, to one with a 78% cure rate.  They are dedicated to raising  funds for childhood cancer research, and are committed to conquering childhood cancer through scientific discovery and compassionate care.  Click here to find out how to donate, advocate, and support their cause.

Cancer Research Institute:

CRI is dedicated exclusively to the support and coordination of laboratory and clinical efforts that will lead to the immunological treatment, control, and prevention cancer.  Click here to find out the many ways to donate to this organization.

 Breast Cancer Research Foundation:

Their mission is to  is to achieve prevention and a cure for breast cancer by providing  funding for innovative  research, and increasing public awareness about good breast health. Currently, over 90 cents of every dollar donated goes to breast cancer research and awareness programs. Click here to donate.

Here are some organizations helping fight or cure other diseases or illnesses:

The Foundation for AIDS Research:

The foundation is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research. amfAR plays a catalytic role in accelerating the pace of HIV/AIDS research and achieving real breakthroughs. amfAR-funded research has increased our understanding of HIV and has helped lay the groundwork for major advances in its study and treatment. Here's how to donate. 

American Lung Association:

They work to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through Education, Advocacy and Research.  You can find how to get involved and donate on their website.

Diabetes Action Research and Education Foundation:

Diabetes Action is committed to the prevention and treatment of diabetes and to the funding of innovative, promising research aimed at finding a cure for diabetes and diabetes related complications. Donate here.

Parkinson's Disease Foundation:

PDF is a leading national presence in Parkinson’s disease research, education and public advocacy. They fund promising scientific research to find the causes of and a cure for Parkinson's while supporting people with Parkinson’s, their families and caregivers through educational programs and support services. Find out how you can give to PDF here.

Muscular Dystrophy Association:

MDA is the nonprofit health agency dedicated to curing muscular dystrophy, ALS and related diseases by funding worldwide research. The Association also provides comprehensive health care and support services, advocacy and education. Here's how you can help.

Just a few ideas of ways you can donate this Christmas season.  More worthy charities tomorrow.

Thanks for stopping by,

Your friends at MBC

Tis the Season...

Although it’s the-season-to-be-jolly, it’s definitely not the season-to-stay-healthy for many.  The holidays can be a stressful, depressing time for some, not to mention the inevitable weight gain most of us pack on this time of year.  

 

Depression

For some, the holidays are not a joyous time; for some they’re difficult and painful to get through.  This could be because of the loss of a loved one, divorce, or anxiety of the upcoming year.  It can also be a time of introspection, loneliness, and reflection which can bring on feelings of despair. 

 Here are some tips for fighting holiday depression:

• Are your traditions working for you?  If not, get rid of them and create new ones. 
• Go outside, get some fresh air and exercise. 
• If you suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) take vitamin D supplements, or use phototherapy to relieve depressive symptoms.
• Don’t compare the current holiday to holidays past, just enjoy it and make new memories to cherish.
• Do something for someone else. Try volunteering some time or donating needed items to charitable organizations in your area.
• Remember, alcohol is a depressant and may add to your holiday melancholy.
• Spend time with supportive and caring people.  Try to make new friends or reach out to ones you haven’t talked to in awhile.

Loss 

If your depression is caused by the loss of a loved one, have a family discussion about what each member wants to do for the holidays and how much they think they can handle.   

•  If you live alone, invite a friend for dinner, go to a movie, or start a new book.  
•  Alleviate yourself of some holiday pressures.  Limit gift buying and giving, and decorate as much as you are ready for. Let someone else host and cook. Be sure to take care of your own needs and get adequate rest and exercise.
• If you’re up to it, acknowledge the absence of your loved one, toast in their honor, or visit the cemetery or memorial site.  Cry, smile, and laugh, if you need to and enjoy creating new memories and new traditions with family and friends. 

Don't Forget the Elderly

Holidays can be very lonely and stressful for the elderly. Remember to include them in your family gatherings.  The passing on of traditions, becoming the guest instead of the host, deaths of spouses or siblings are all things you might not think about, but can add to their feelings of loss and sadness.   If they’re able, try to involve them in the holiday preparation, let them help decorate or cook.  Make them feel important.

Destressing 

• Try to set realistic goals and pace yourself. Make a list and prioritize the important activities. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Don’t spread yourself too thin, you don’t have to attend every party to which you’ve been invited.

• If you're in charge of preparing the holiday meals, start cooking early so you can enjoy the holidays. Create sauces, jams, cookies, and other items that will keep until the guests arrive in advance.
• Simplify. Bake only one type of cookie instead of a dozen.   
• If you get tired, take a break.  The wrapping, baking, and shopping will be there when you’re rejuvenated.
• Don’t go into the red.  Give gifts of your time or services, or pull names for gift exchanges. Enjoy free activities, such as driving around to look at holiday decorations; window shop, build a snow man, go caroling.
• Return Gifts Later.  The day after Christmas is not the time to return unwanted gifts. Wait until after the New Year when shopping crowds have diminished.

Holiday Weight Gain

The holiday season brings festive family get-togethers, office parties and other traditional activities. What common thread do these activities have? Food, food and more food (with a side of alcohol). The average American gains 5 to 7 pounds over the holidays. 

• When we spend an entire day shopping, we usually end up making poor meal choices by eating fast food, which is high in fat and calories and low in nutritional content. Keep it as healthy as you can.  Avoid "super-sizing", limit fried foods, and avoiding high fat condiments such as dressings, mayonnaise, sauces and cheese. Instead, slather that burger with mustard, ketchup or fat-free dressing or order a salad. 
•  Don't skip meals or eat very little most of the day to save up so that you can eat more at a party or dinner. Eat at your regular times, with perhaps a little lower fat or smaller portions in general. If your meal will be later than usual, have a snack to curb your appetite so that you are not too hungry when you get there.
•  Looking for healthy holiday entertaining ideas? Instead of a traditional holiday cookie exchange, invite friends over for a light meal that includes vegetable soups, fresh breads, fruits and lettuce salads. Plan the event so that food is not the main focus.  Plan activities such as games and a gift exchange.   
•   If you’re traveling during the holiday and staying where there is no gym, bring an exercise band or DVD so you can get your physical activity in. 
•  Modify your recipes to make them lighter.  The sugar and fat content in most holiday recipes can be altered without a noticeable difference in taste. Use low-calorie substitutes for butter, shortening, and sugar, and cook with skim milk.   Strong-flavored cheeses, such as gorgonzola or aged parmesan, add more "oomph" per ounce and have less fat than easy melters such as cheddar.  
• Don't forget the roasted vegetables -- squash, sweet potatoes, parsnips or tomatoes. These vegetables require little if any fat to prevent sticking, and roasting them with your turkey, ham, or prime rib is an ideal cooking method.
•  Watch out for hidden calories in your holiday beverages.  Alcohol is high in calories and some mixed drinks contain up to 450 calories per glass. Soda, fruit punch, and eggnog can be loaded with sugar and calories.  By drinking water and diet sodas you stay calorie free. 
•  Moderation is key; whether we’re talking red meat, alcohol, or cookies, try to balance intake of these items with fruits and vegetables, lean meats and other healthy choices. 
•  Make the season one of sharing. If you are given sweets or other special foods, then share them with family and friends or take them to work.

Eat Out Fear-Free

1. Cocktails: Order your food first. It’s the first thing you’re offered when you walk into a restaurant. But after just one drink, you’re more likely to order the 2,400-calorie Bloomin’ Onion rather than a green salad to start. Until you’re placed your food order, stick with water. 
2. Ordering: Choose before you go. Check out the menu online or call and ask the restaurant to email or fax it to you. Decide what to order in advance and stick with it.
3. Waiting: Don’t go in on an empty stomach. Have a small low-calorie snack before you eat out so you’re not tempted to munch while you wait for a table or your food. Turn down bread or ask that it be placed out of reach.  
4. Portions: Less is more. Most restaurants give you far more food than you need or can eat. Beat the system by ordering two appetizers instead of an entrée, sharing a meal with a friend, or asking for a take-out container when you order so you can put half your meal aside before you eat. 
5. Cooking styles: Steer clear of fats. Beware of anything cooked with cream, such as sauces or soups, also, butter, oil, gravy, au gratin, breaded, Alfredo, blackened, battered, or fried. Stick with poached, baked, broiled or steamed.  Or ask if your meal can be cooked “light” and ask for sauces and salad dressings (plain oil and vinegar is best) on the side.

Party Time 

• Once again, keep alcohol intake down. Drinking sparkling water instead of alcohol will keep your brain from forgetting to watch what you eat. Not to mention that alcohol itself contains 7 calories per gram. That’s twice as much as sugar!
• As with eating out, enjoy a pre-party snack. Arriving hungry to a party makes us more likely to overeat. Plan and prepare to combat this by eating before a party.
• Move away from the buffet. Find a room that’s not full of food. You’ll be less tempted to eat if you can’t see what you’re missing.
• Bring a party platter of sliced veggies and yogurt dip, or another healthy appetizer.  Then you’ll know there will be at least one healthful choice to nibble on. 
• Avoid recreational eating by setting a one plate rule. At parties and holiday dinners we tend to eat beyond our body’s physical hunger simply because food is there and eating is a social activity.  Also, try to eat slowly and possibly on a smaller plate.
• If you overindulge at a holiday gathering, don't just decide that you have blown it and that you won't try to keep a healthy diet until after the New Year. An occasional lapse does not cause excessive weight gain but several weeks of over-eating may.  Instead of giving up, learn from your mistakes and plan better for the next time.

The Gift of Health

Looking for fitness and exercise gift ideas, here you go:

• Yoga mat 
• Exercise Ball 
• Weights
• Personal Training Session 
• Workout Video 
• Fitness Video Game 
• Jump Rope 
• Fitness Fashion

1. Sneakers
2. running pants
3. bicycle shorts
4. sweats
5. swim goggles
6. towel
7. gym bag
8. outdoor gear for outdoor sports, such as, wool socks, gloves, long underwear, hat

• MP3Player, of if that is out of your budget, a new set headphones and a gift certificate for downloadable workout tunes.
• Gym Membership 
• A gift certificate for indoor sports such as bowling or mini golf.  

Have a healthy and happy holiday from MBC

Sources:
Bangor Daily News
Associated Content
Kaiser Permanante
Nurse Tips
Wellness Corporate Solutions
California Progress Report