Since 1991, Florida Telecommunications Relay, Inc. (FTRI) has improved the lives of Floridians experiencing hearing loss and speech impairments, through its specialized telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (EDP). Established by Floridas Telecommunications Access Systems Act (TASA) in response to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, FTRIs EDP oers an array of devices designed to bridge communication gaps.  Per TASA, a monthly 7-cent surcharge on landline phone bills covers the cost of FTRI distributed equipment, and the Florida Relay Service.  By providing equipment at no cost to consumers, FTRI is empowering individuals to lead more independent lives while remaining connected to the world. Let's take a look at several FTRI specialized devices and explore some heartwarming client stories that illustrate their profound impact on everyday lives.   Understanding FTRI Specialized Phones   FTRI specialized equipment caters to a range of communication needs. The devices include amplified phones, cell phone amplifiers, captioned telephones, text telephones (TTYs), and alerting devices. Each type is engineered to address specific needs:   1.     Amplified Phones: These phones are equipped with volume controls that can amplify sound significantly, up to 50 decibels, making it easier for individuals with hearing loss to understand conversations. They also feature tone settings, loud speakerphones, back-lit buttons, and loud ringers.2.     Cell Phone Amplifiers: Amplifiers use Bluetooth technology to wirelessly   pair with smart phones (Android, iPhone).  These portable, rechargeable devices allow a user to enjoy many of the same features found on standard amplified phones, such as volume and tone controls, hearing aid compatibility, and loud speakerphones.   3.     Captioned Telephones:  These devices display real-time captions of the conversation on a large screen, helping those with severe hearing loss to  read what the other party is saying.  Screens can be customized to a users preference, and call transcripts can be saved for future review.   4.     Text Telephones (TTYs): TTYs allow individuals with hearing or speech impairments to communicate via typed messages.   5.     Alerting Devices: These include flashing lights and loud ringers to alert individuals to incoming calls.   Transformative Client Stories   Jack and His Amplified Phone   Jack, a 75-year-old retired teacher, began experiencing hearing loss a few years ago. As his hearing deteriorated, he found it increasingly difficult to keep up with phone conversations, particularly with his grandchildren who live out of state. The frustration of missing out on these precious interactions led him to seek help from FTRI.   Upon receiving the Clarity XLC8, John noticed an immediate improvement. The adjustable volume and tone controls allowed him to customize each call. For the first time in years, he could clearly hear his grandchildren's voices. The device not only restored his ability to communicate, but also brought immense joy back into his life, through an improved connection with his loved ones.   Dave and his Cell Phone Amplifier   Like so many other Floridians, Dave disconnected his landline years ago.  He relied on his iPhone to make all his phone calls. Over time, however, he found himself using texting to avoid making calls whenever possible, because the iPhones volume was simply not loud enough for him to hear conversations clearly.   Daves daughter reached out to FTRI with questions about the Clarity XLCgo Cell Phone Amplifier, hoping it might be easy enough for her father to operate.  Both father and daughter were delighted to learn that the XLCgo connects to smart phones by Bluetooth quite easily, and is designed to be used both at home and on the go.  Once Dave had paired his iPhone to the XLCgo and realized he could once again enjoy conversations over the phone, there was no looking back for him.   Maria and Her Captioned Telephone   Maria, a 62-year-old librarian, was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, which made phone conversations nearly impossible.  This posed a significant challenge in her life, where communicating over the phone was essential for both personal and professional reasons.  Feeling isolated and frustrated, Maria turned to FTRI for a solution.   FTRI provided Maria with a captioned telephone.  This device transformed her ability to communicate. The real-time captions allowed her to read conversations, ensuring she could understand every word spoken.  Saving call transcripts for future reference became routine for her, especially for calls with her doctor to discuss medications. The captioned phone improved her life by restoring her sense of independence, safety, and competence.   Sam and His TTY Device   Sam, a 45-year-old software developer, was born with a severe speech impairment. Communicating over the phone was always a daunting task for him, often requiring the assistance of a family member or colleague. This dependency made Sam feel self-conscious and restricted his ability to handle personal and professional matters independently.   FTRI introduced Sam to a TTY device and the Florida Relay Service, which revolutionized his communication experience.  The TTY allowed Sam to type his messages, which were then converted into voice for the person on the other end of the line by the Relay Service.  Likewise, he received typed responses that he could read. This device gave Sam the autonomy he craved, enabling him to manage personal communications without assistance. The TTY device empowered   Sam, boosting his confidence and fostering a greater sense of independence. The Broader Impact of FTRIThe stories of Jack, Dave, Maria, and Sam are just a few examples of how FTRI specialized phones are transforming lives across Florida. By providing these devices at no cost, FTRI is removing financial barriers that might otherwise prevent individuals from accessing essential communication tools. This initiative is fostering inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their impairments, can stay connected with the world around them. Moreover, FTRI's eorts extend beyond just providing devices. The organization also oers training and support to help users get the most out of their specialized phones. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals are not only equipped with the necessary tools but are also confident in using them eectively. To learn more about FTRIs Equipment Distribution Program, visit www.ftri.org, or call 800-222-3448.

The National Weather Service outlook for this summer predicts Florida temperatures will be warmer than normal, particularly in the hottest months of July and August.The combination of high temperatures and persistent humidity adds up. Humidity makes it harder for the cooling evaporation of sweat to be effective, so it feels hotter. The Heat Index measures how hot air temperatures really feels because of humidity.  Experts recommend using caution when temperatures rise above 90 (or 84 degrees F with 70 percent or higher humidity). Temperatures above 100 F can be dangerous for anyone. As we age, sweat glands, our bodys mechanism to cool itself, dont produce as much as they once did, and are often diminished by medication. In addition, seniors are more likely to have chronic conditions such as diabetes or lung disease, which reduce our ability to cope with heat. When temperatures are high, seniors are especially vulnerable to developing heat stroke because of the aging bodys decreased capacity to adapt to changes in body temperature.With that in mind, here are some tips for sun safety when its hot:       Drink more water than you think you need. Without enough water, we can feel faint and nauseous, which can cause us to get dizzy and fall. Medications can impact how our kidneys hold water. The cues our brains send that tell us to drink can diminish as we age. Caffeine and alcohol affect our response to heat.      Skip outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is hottest. Find a cool place, such as an interior location with air conditioners and fans, staying out of the sun during the heat of the day. Take a cool shower or bath or apply a cold compress. Many places offer cooling centers with air conditioning, including public libraries, churches, recreation centers and senior centers. Go shopping or to the movies.      Watch for symptoms like dizziness, nausea, headache, being overly tired, rapid pulse or muscle cramps. Behavioral changes, like being confused, combative or delirious are serious and should be checked. Some signs of heat exhaustion or heat-related conditions, which are generally related to an excessive loss of water and salt, include skin thats very warm to the touch, extreme thirst and excessive sweating.  High heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. For any kind of heat distress, move to a cool place and put cool, wet cloths on the body or take a cool bath.   Signs of heat stroke include high body temperature, hot red or damp skin, fast pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and passing out. If you suspect heat stroke, call 911, take the steps above and dont give the person anything to drink.   Sun exposure can impact our skin even more than when we were younger. Aging skin is thin and dry. However, less than half of older adults protect their skin from the sun, which may raise the risk of getting skin cancer.  The American Cancer Society recommends having a skin exam every three years between the ages of 20 and 40, then annually thereafter. While Medicare will not generally cover preventative screening, it will cover a dermatology visit that is medically necessary to assess a problematic skin spot or mole. Free skin screenings are offered for seniors in many places, including at https://www.moffitt.org/diagnostic-services/cancer-screenings/mole-patrol/. Summer is a great time to enjoy the company of others. Games, outings, classes, dances and other activities can keep you busy and social. Mall walking, swimming and water aerobics and gyms can be cool ways to exercise when its hot.  About the Author Reinier Ramirez, MD is a family care provider and the Medical Director of Adult Medicine at Healthcare Network, a nonprofit with a mission to provide quality healthcare accessible to everyone, regardless of job, income, or insurance. Visit HealthcareSWFL.org for more information.

Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their families create and implement healthy eating plans.These plans often include:Increased protein and fiber intake. Protein and fiber are important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors increase or maintain energy and strength. Whole grains have multiple benefits. Whole grains are also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet recommended daily requirements.Calcium is a key component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent. Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors especially those that are at risk for falls.Hydration is critical at any age. Physical changes that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives milk, juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including watermelon, cucumbers and grapes. If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track:Make meals a social occasion Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at meal times.Make healthy eating fit your budget Good food doesnt have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And, maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future.Shop for healthy foods Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet. Encourage people to ask for help If someone has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just arent getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.Comfort KeepersCan HelpIf someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers. Our caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.References Mayo Clinic. Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition. Web. 2017.Next Avenue, Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults. Web. 2016. Public Health Post. Malnutrition in Older Adults. Web. 2017 Healthline. How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age. Web. 2017.