Embracing Change: Cutting the Cord and Streaming into the Future

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Senior Tech Support

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Aug 15, 2024

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Illinois - Chicago North/West Suburbs & DuPage County

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You may have heard the term “cutting the cord” recently or have a friend or relative who was eager to tell you about the money they save each month by using video streaming services instead of traditional cable TV. If you haven’t yet heard this phrase don’t worry, it’s just a clever expression to describe the process of canceling cable TV in favor of using video streaming services.

 

In the ever-evolving world of entertainment, many find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to the world of cable television. Perhaps you’re wondering if it's time to bid farewell to cable TV and say hello to the world of video streaming services. It's a decision that can bring about a breath of fresh air to your TV experience while saving money along the way. Cable TV bills do have a knack for creeping up over time which is done by design. Cutting the cord is usually a budget-friendly move and is about striking the right balance between your favorite channels and cost. An additional advantage of cutting the cord is saying goodbye to those pesky cable box rental fees as well.

 

Consider this: with cable TV, you're likely paying for channels you never watch. It's like ordering a buffet and only eating a few select dishes. Streaming services offer a variety of subscription options, letting you choose the channels and content that matter most to you, but before making the leap, it's crucial to understand your viewing preferences. What do you like to watch? Is local network TV enough for you, or do you have to have traditional cable stations like CNN, MSNBC, TLC or HGTV? Is catching the big game a must, or could you care less about sports? 

 

The beauty of cutting the cord lies in its flexibility – it allows you to tailor your entertainment choices to fit your unique preferences, but you need to be very specific about what you must have and can’t live without. All streaming services are not created equal.  This is where it can begin to feel overwhelming and challenging due to all the available options.  To help make the decision a bit easier, consider these factors before making the switch.

 

If there are specific cable channels you can't live without, live TV streaming services like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV offer a comparable channel lineup to traditional cable TV, but without the extra broadcast and network fees that cable companies charge. These streaming services provide access to live channels, including news, familiar cable TV networks, sports, and local programming, giving you the flexibility of streaming with the convenience of live television. This is the easiest and most comprehensive alternative to canceling cable TV.  

 

On the other hand, if live TV or traditional cable TV stations aren’t a priority, you might find that a combination of streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, Disney+, or other video streaming services will meet your entertainment needs. While these services don’t offer live TV or local channels they do offer huge libraries of video content. Depending on how many services you subscribe to this is usually a less expensive option than using a single video streaming service like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV.

 

An even simpler option, as well as the most cost-effective, is to purchase an amplified, digital antenna that connects to an electrical outlet as well as your TV.  These antennas allow you to access “over the air”, high-definition channels with crystal-clear picture quality, providing a budget-friendly option for staying connected to local news and network shows. While this is the most cost-effective option, it is also the most restrictive from a channel lineup perspective and the least reliable of the options I’ve mentioned.  Antenna placement within your home, distance from the broadcasting antenna as well as any objects between your antenna and the broadcasting antenna are all variables that affect signal reliability. But if you don’t watch much TV or don’t generally care about what you watch, this may be the perfect option for you.

 

Even if you do decide to cancel your cable TV subscription don’t cancel your internet service. You still need to have internet service to use video streaming services, but it is very likely that you are paying a monthly rental fee to your cable provider for a modem or modem/router combo unit.  Check your bill if you’re not sure.  A modem is a device that helps bring the internet into your home and a router is a device that distributes the internet wirelessly within your home. They can be separate devices or combined into one device. Instead of renting these devices from your internet provider, an additional cost-saving consideration is purchasing your own modem and router. While there is an up-front cost to purchase these devices, over the long run it is more economical to own this hardware rather than rent it.

 

Making the switch may seem daunting at first, but fear not. Streaming services are designed to be user-friendly, even for those who aren’t digital natives. If you can navigate a TV remote, you can easily master the world of streaming. Most streaming platforms have intuitive interfaces that make finding and watching your favorite shows a breeze.

 

Cutting the cord and embracing video streaming is more than just a change in how you watch TV; it's a shift towards a more personalized and cost-effective entertainment experience. It's about having the freedom to choose what you watch, when you watch it, and how much you're willing to spend. So, why not take the plunge and join the streaming revolution? Your favorite shows, movies, and a world of entertainment await – all at the touch of a button. So, don't be afraid to explore this new frontier in television, where the possibilities are endless, and the savings are real.

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The Best Bathroom Paint Colors For 2025If you love using color in your home, 2025 is the year for youespecially when it comes to bathroom paint color trends. The timeless, gleaming white bathroom aesthetic has competition this year as bold colors are at the top of every top trend list. Ranging from warm peach to luxurious jewel tones, rich color is finding its way onto bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories. However, that does not mean neutrals are dead far from it. This years crop of color trends truly offers something for every taste.Despite the plethora of options, choosing bathroom paint colors does not have to be difficult. To keep yourself from being swept up in the many paint options and bathroom color ideas that you see online, it is helpful to start by thinking about color in terms of style: trendy, traditional or timelessness. This guide will help you select the best bathroom paint colors for your homes style and your personal taste.How to choose a bathroom paint color? Start with your style.Staying true to your style is important when choosing paint colors: straying too far from your preferences could lead to a less satisfying result. Thinking about your style as you make your color choices will help you find the right shade for your home and your family. Let us start by describing the key style categories, and what each means when it comes to bathroom designs and colors: Trendy: Trendy bathroom color ideas and designs are circulated widely on social media as well as in interior design blogs and magazines. Trendsetters re-think fixtures, finishes and color schemes, providing fresh ideas and inspiration for your project. Alternative metals, innovative features and new colors are the hallmarks of the trendsetting style. Traditional: Traditional bathroom styles feature neutral palettes, polished brass or chrome fixtures, wood cabinetry and natural (or natural-looking) stone counters. While white linens are the traditional choice, the neutral colors of the traditional palette are flexible, enabling you to inject added color into the room with bright artwork or colorful linens. Timeless: Timeless style is simple and balanced and allows you to make simple modifications to update the look of a room. The clean white bathroom is a classic example of a timeless look. Crisp white tile, cabinetry and fixtures do not go out of style and are easy to accessorize. The top bathroom paint colors for 2025There is something for every style, aesthetic and personal taste among this years color trends. Whether you are planning an all-out, maximalist remodel or prefer your bathroom to be a soothing oasis, 2025s color trends offer everything from bold hues to a fresh look at calming neutrals.A peachy pick is the top color trendA good place to start when it comes to bathroom paint color choices is the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, a soft peach shade aptly named Peach Fuzz that is setting the tone for current color trends. Unlike recent years which featured intense shades of fuchsia, periwinkle and yellow, Peach Fuzz ushers in a range of livable, sophisticated colors that nod toward nature and complement the increasing popularity of natural-looking stone and wood accents.One word about on-trend colors: you do not have to stick to the exact shade or palette! Feel free to interpret the trends according to your personal taste. Peach Fuzz, for example, sits between pink and orange on the color wheel and can be easily nudged in either direction, toward terra cotta for an earthier feel, or toward pink shades which are infinitely flexible and flattering.Shades of peach and apricot also pair beautifully with white, neutrals and with the next trend category: jewel tones.Vibrant jewel tones are back in styleWhite-on-white bathrooms and kitchens have been on trend for years and are always timeless. However, for 2025, bold color makes its return. Rich jewel tonesdeep emerald, rich topaz, dark sapphire, dusky ruby and velvety dark shades of plumare being seen on bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories.These vibrant hues stand in stark contrast to the neutral palettes that have been popular for the last several years. Whether used as accent colors or as the focal point of a design, jewel tones can stand alone or play well with neutral colors.Spa-like neutrals define in-home retreatsWhile strong colors are making the headlines for current bathroom color trends, that does not mean that neutral palettes are out of favor. Warm and soothing shades of beige and taupe are fresh choices for those seeking a more tranquil and traditional bathroom look.When thinking about a neutral palette, do not be afraid to look at darker neutral shades. Mid-brown shades of taupe, for example, can be striking when paired with white for a tailored look, or provide a soft background for other accent colors.Which bathroom color trend is right for you?The current years trends offer a multitude of color options and interpretations for every style. To help ensure you are happy with your color choice, keep the following tips in mind: Always test the paint color in the room you are going to paint. Colors can look vastly different on a swatch or in a store than they do on your bathroom walls. Always test a small area first. Do not ignore your lighting. Lighting dramatically affects how a paint color looks in a room. Natural light can make colors appear differently than artificial light. Not considering how the color will look in your bathrooms lighting conditions can lead to unexpected results. Consider the size of the bathroom you are painting. Using dark or very bold colors in a small bathroom can make the space feel cramped and smaller than it is. While these colors can be striking, it is important to use them wisely in smaller spaces. (More on picking paint colors for small bathrooms is below!) Do not forget the paint finish and moisture resistance. Choosing a moisture-resistant paint is the first order of business when it comes to painting your bathroom. However, the finish of the paint (gloss, semi-gloss, matte) can also have a significant impact. Glossy finishes are easier to clean, for example, but they also highlight any imperfections in the walls. Matte finishes, on the other hand, can be easily spotted if splashed with water. Small bathroom paint color tipsWhat is the best color for a small bathroom?  The answer depends on a few things, from the lighting in the room to (as always!) your own taste. When choosing a color for a small bathroom, several factors should be taken into account to make the space feel welcoming and avoid feeling claustrophobic. Here are some key things to keep in mind: Light colors: Lighter colors can make a room feel more spacious. Soft whites, neutrals and pastels can brighten up the space and give an illusion of it being larger than it is. You can interpret color trends by using a lighter shade of a bold color on the walls and using a darker shade sparingly in accents or accessories. Cool tones: Cool blues and greens can create a calming and refreshing ambiance in a small space, and they often reflect light better, contributing to a more open feel. Consistent or monochromatic color scheme: Using a consistent or even monochromatic color palette can help the space feel unified and expansive. If you choose to have multiple colors, make sure they complement each other and keep contrasting colors to a minimum. Accent wall: An accent wall can be a terrific way to use color strategically in a smaller room. Painting one wall in a bolder or darker shade can add depth without overwhelming the space with a dark color. The right color can transform your bathroom, turning it into a sanctuary or highlighting beautiful design and materials. Whether your style is trendy, traditional or timeless, this years color trends offer beautiful options for all baths, regardless of size. Keep our tips in mind, and if you need more ideas, schedule a free bathroom design consultation with one of our professionals.  Schedule a free, in-home design consultation today with your Local Re-Bath location at 251-220-9284. Servicing Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe & Washington counties in Alabama.

National Caregivers Day: Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Keeping Caregivers Healthy

                                                     PRESS RELEASE:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              C.J. Girod                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     President                                                                                                                                    412-944-2470                                                                                                                      Info@swpaSeniorCare.com                                                                                 National Caregivers Day: Seniors Helping Seniors In-Home Services Offers Advice for Keeping Caregivers Healthy Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA President C.J. Girod is placing a spotlight on advice and insights for keeping caregivers healthy for National Caregivers Day on February 21st.  PITTSBURGH, PA  Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, a franchisor with over 180 franchise partners with more than 350 territories nationwide, has grown rapidly in recent years by building a workforce of talented caregivers who create meaningful relationships with their senior care clients. These individuals build meaningful connections with the seniors they assist, enriching lives through personalized care. On February 21, in recognition of National Caregivers Day, Seniors Helping Seniors services is celebrating the caregivers whose unwavering commitment has solidified the brand as a trusted leader in in-home care."Caregivers are the heart of our mission, playing a vital role in bringing comfort, care, and joy to countless lives," said Namrata Yocom-Jan, Seniors Helping Seniors president.National Caregivers Day is celebrated nationally every third Friday in February. It was established in 2015 by Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies (PAHHHA).  Family members serve as the primary caregivers for most older adults and individuals with disabilities in the U.S. Recognizing this reality, Seniors Helping Seniors network has expanded nationwide, offering family caregivers a chance to transform their dedication and passion into rewarding career opportunities. At the same time, the brand provides much-needed support to family caregivers, helping alleviate caregiver burnout challenges. Our senior caregivers are the backbone of what we do and an invaluable part of our franchise, said C.J. Girod, President of Seniors Helping Seniors Southwestern PA. They bring joy and comfort to seniors by delivering compassionate care and assistance with daily tasks that become more difficult with age. By supporting our caregivers as much as our clients, we create a community that thrives on empathy and mutual respect. Nearly half of caregivers in the U.S. are over the age of 50, putting them at increased risk of health challenges. To address this, Seniors Helping Seniors services, which focuses on hiring seniors (individuals over the age of 65) as caregivers, offers extensive support to promote the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of its team members.Weve worked hard to ensure that Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care is not just the best choice for our clients but also a fulfilling opportunity for caregivers nationwide, Girod said. This commitment is something were incredibly proud of, and we remain dedicated to creating a supportive environment where anyone with the passion and skills to provide exceptional care can thrive. Our caregivers truly embody the spirit of giving and receiving.  ABOUT SENIORS HELPING SENIORS Seniors Helping Seniors franchise system was founded by husband-and-wife duo Kiran and Philip Yocom. Kiran, who grew up in India, later worked to advance humanitarian efforts alongside Mother Teresa. After moving to the U.S. in 1995 and marrying her husband Philip, the Yocoms felt called to provide loving care to seniors and to cultivate an exchange of gifts at every generational level. Together, the Yocoms founded Seniors Helping Seniors in-home services in 1998, opening the brand up to franchising in 2006. With a mission to be the most respected and rewarding homecare provider in the U.S., Seniors Helping Seniors locations stands apart from competitors as the only company that prioritizes hiring active seniors to provide care services to their less-active counterparts. Seniors Helping Seniors service aligns caregivers and care recipients based on the abilities and needs of both by offering a wide range of care services. Seniors Helping Seniors network has grown to has grown to 300-plus locations, and over 180 franchise partners in 35-plus states and international markets. For more information on Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care, visit https://seniorshelpingseniors.com/.

'A good opportunity to recognize changes': Holidays a time to check in with elderly relatives

3MORE'A good opportunity to recognize changes': Holidays a time to check in with elderly relativesStay alert for mind, health changes in seniors this holiday season Roberta BurkhartPittsburgh Post-Gazetterburkhart@post-gazette.com Dec 25, 2024 5:00 AM2Holiday get-togethers offer ample opportunities to create cherished moments with loved ones, but they can also reveal subtle clues about changes in older relatives mental and physical health.While sharing meals and traditions with seniors, its worth paying attention to more than just their recollections from the past, as small signs of cognitive decline may surface in the present.Holiday gatherings present a unique chance for family members to check in on their aging friends and relatives, said C.J. Girod, president of Seniors Helping Seniors of Southwestern Pa. Its a good opportunity to recognize changes. If you're around someone a lot, you might not recognize subtle changes that are happening as much as someone who hasnt seen mom or dad for a couple months, Mr. Girod said.Alzheimer's disease afflicts an estimated 6.7 million Americans, and that number is only growing, according to the National Institutes of Health. This number could grow to 13.8 million by 2060, barring the development of medical breakthroughs to prevent, slow or cure the disease. Alzheimer's remains the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans aged 65 and older.The Alzheimer's Association estimates that 11.9% of Allegheny County residents age 65 and older have Alzheimer's disease, according to 2023 data. That compares to 11.5% statewide, with Allegheny ranking fourth highest of Pa.s 67 counties, with only Philadelphia (15%), Delaware (12.3%) and Montour (12.2%) with higher rates. Locally, it means about 28,500 people have Alzheimer's in Allegheny County.Talk it outAbsence may make the heart grow fonder, but it also sharpens the eye.These infrequent reunions can reveal changes in our elderly loved ones if you know how to look for the signs, said Theresa Lalak, a community liaison and certified dementia practitioner at Seniors Helping Seniors. The Mt. Lebanon-based licensed home care agency pairs elderly clients who need household and personal care assistance with a staff of active seniors who not only can offer help but also empathize and share a golden years point of view.Sometimes, if youre just reminiscing about the past, the conversation may stay light enough so as not to reveal any potential warning signs of decline. Instead, delve deeper and ask questions to make sure that their cognitive abilities are the same, Ms. Lalak said.For instance, are they managing finances OK, or are they managing their household OK? And then do that extra step of double-checking if you can. The best example is with food: If youre in their home, look to see that they have food in their cabinets, theres not expired food, that their dishes are clean in the cabinets and things are in order.If something seems amiss especially concerning food, hygiene and medications then warning bells should start ringing in your head.Ask yourself, Ms. Lalak advised, questions including: Are they more confused? What is their personal hygiene? Do they look like they have clean clothes on? Do they smell good? Theyre freshly showered? If youre in their home, is their home the same way it used to be? Is it just as decluttered and organized? Is there spoiled food in the refrigerator? The goal, she said, is to home in on any changes. Following the 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's and Dementia guidelines from the Alzheimer's Association can help you decide if its time to step in.Assess the situation. So have your eyes and ears working, and if theres other family members there as well, discussing with them if they have noticed anything and take action before there's an emergency situation or crisis that arises, Mr. Girod said. Oftentimes, he noted, clients come to Seniors Helping Seniors already in crisis mode, and need assistance immediately.Frequently, family members are in a situation where they need to take immediate action but theyve never had a sit-down conversation with their elderly relatives to discuss what kind of options they are comfortable with or desire, Mr. Girod said.Ms. Lalak agreed: Thats a difficult conversion, but you do need to initiate it so that, as the person needs more assistance, you will know how best to help them and what they would like. Dont wait until the person is very sick or theres a crisis. Not getting such information ahead of  time, she said, means youre not prepared at an emotional time.Keep in mind that initiating these types of conversations can be hard on both sides, and embarrassment, frustration and other emotions can arise.If you notice that, for example, someone has a change in hygiene, instead of saying, Hey grandma, when is the last time you showered? You should come from a place of love and know that, over time, people are going to need some help. A better approach would be to offer help and come from a place of love. Ms. Lalak suggested something along the lines of, Grandma, can I help you shower, can I help you with your laundry or  how can I get help to you in the home?Dont assume the worstIf you are noticing significant changes in behavior, keep in mind that there are many reasons it could be happening.It is important to just not say, Oh, the person has Alzheimer's or dementia if theyre forgetful or if things are not going well. There are many things that can cause some changes in your cognitive abilities: If the medications aren't being taken correctly, if theres a reaction, if theres a new disease, also if a person isnt eating properly and they have very poor nutrition or if they arent sleeping well, Ms. Lalak said. All of those things can cause some cognitive impairment that could be temporary and not necessarily the permanence of Alzheimer's or dementia.One of the simplest ways to help a relative is by organizing their medications into a pillbox or into prepackaged pharmacy packs, Mr. Girod said. This organization not only helps to remind the senior to take their medication at the appropriate times, but its also a great clue for caregivers to know if there have been missed doses.Its easy to see if theyve missed a day, he said.Additionally, helping seniors to keep an updated list of all their medications can be an essential part of a successful health care plan. They should be taking that list to every regular checkup and specialist appointment and sharing it with all of their doctors. When a patient has multiple specialists, theres no guarantee that the health care team is sharing medication information.Recognizing these early indicators during holiday gatherings can be the first step toward ensuring your loved ones receive the care they need.There are a variety of services available to area seniors, from transportation and community centers to nursing home alternatives and caregiver support. To find services in their area, search for Agency on Aging within their county of residence. First Published: December 25, 2024, 5:00 a.m.Updated: December 25, 2024, 10:09 p.m.Roberta Burkhart is a Post-Gazette health and wellness reporter. A Penn State graduate, she previously covered breaking news, lifestyles and arts & entertainment in Pittsburgh, Williamsport, and Morristown, N.J.  rburkhart@post-gazette.com  @njbertie

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Senior Tech Support

Computer & Internet Services 1811 Stoddard Avenue, Wheaton, Illinois, 60187

Senior Tech Support, based in Wheaton, Illinois, provides specialized in-person and phone-based technology support, training, and education specifically for older adults across the Chicagoland area. The services encompass resolving issues with Apple/Microsoft devices, iOS/Android systems, smart devices, printers, Wi-Fi networks and so much more. Senior Tech Support emphasizes teaching and empowering clients how to use their devices to enrich their lives, focusing on patience and personalized support. They offer straightforward pricing for in-person assistance at $125 per hour and phone assistance at $20 per 15 minutes. Founder Tony LaPalio and his team are committed to fostering long-term relationships with clients, tailoring solutions to individual needs.