What is Psoriasis?

Have You Started Your Winter Skincare Routine?  Follow These 11 Steps for Supple Skin this Season   Most of us know how important it is to protect our skin from the suns damaging rays in the summer. But did you also know its important to have a winter game plan to keep your skin moisturized and glowing? In fact, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) designates November Healthy Skin Month to educate and empower people of all ages to learn how to take great care of their skin. Its the bodys largest organ, after all and everybodys got it!    Read on for some skin-loving actions you can take this month and all season long.   1.    Protect your skin from the sun if youre going to go outside. Yes, even in winter! Keep those summer habits alive and slather on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and dont forget to cover up with protective clothing and a broad-brimmed hat. UVA and UVB rays are alive and well all winter long and they can still cause damage to your skin, raise your risk for skin cancer and contribute to premature aging.   2.    Avoid tanning beds. You may be tempted to keep your sun-kissed look going all winter long courtesy of a tanning bed, but resist. Research shows that UV rays from tanning beds can increase your risk for skin cancer and could age your skin, resulting in more wrinkles.   3.    Learn the ABCDEs of skin cancer. There are certain changes to your moles, birthmarks and skin that may be cause for concern. Known as the ABCDEs, if you notice these signs, the National Institute on Aging recommends making an appointment with your primary care provider or a dermatologist to make sure its not an indication of cancer:          Asymmetry (i.e. one half of the spot looks different from the other half)          Borders are irregular          Color changes or it has more than one color          Diameter is larger than a pencil eraser          Evolving; meaning it in size, shape, symptoms (such as itching or tenderness), surface (especially if its bleeding), or shades of color   4.    Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Winter brings colder temperatures and drier air, and your skin may need a little extra TLC to feel its best. To avoid or treat dry, itchy skin, the AAD suggests applying moisturizer right after you step out of the shower, so it can lock in the extra moisture. Further, the AAD recommends using an ointment or cream instead of lotion, because those products tend to be less irritating and more effective when dealing with dry skin. Just make sure the items you select are gentle and fragrance-free, otherwise they may feel a little harsh, especially if your skin is cracked or chapped.   5.    Dont neglect your lips. The cold weather, the dry air, the wind and the sun can all wreak havoc on your skin and cause your lips to chap. Use a non-irritating lip balm or lip moisturizer to seal moisture into your smile.   6.    When you shower or bathe, opt for warm water, not hot. It sounds counterintuitive and a little less enjoyable. Who doesnt love a hot shower when its freezing cold out? But in truth, hot water will only further dry your skin, because it may strip off natural oils you need to retain moisture.   7.    Consider using a humidifier. Winter air tends to be dry, and when the heater kicks on in your home, its even more so. A humidifier returns some of that moisture to the air, and your skin may thank you for it.   8.    Quit smoking. Have you ever met a 40-year-old heavy smoker who looked much older? Thats because tobacco isnt doing the skin or other systems in the body any favors. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, the long-term effects of smoking may include dry skin, uneven pigmentation, bags around the eyes, sagging around the jaw and deepening wrinkles and furrows on the face. If you need help quitting tobacco, talk to your doctor or reach out to the American Lung Associations Tobacco Quitline.   9.    Make healthy food choices. What you eat and drink impacts the way your body functions, and research has shown that if youre not getting the right nutrients your skin may show it. Strive to eat a healthy diet, filled with whole foods, antioxidants and fiber. Make a habit of consuming lots of lean proteins, fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. And dont forget to drink lots of water. Proper hydration may also help your skin look and feel better.   10.  Find ways to manage your stress. Stress can worm its way through our entire physical being and cause disruptions in surprising ways. According to the AAD, stress can affect the way our skin appears by increasing inflammation, slowing down the wound-healing process and potentially interfering with skin conditions. Because our glands produce more oil when were stressed, people with acne experience breakouts, and people with psoriasis and eczema may have flare-ups. To help regulate your system, try different stress management endeavors, such as exercise, meditation, mindfulness, yoga and deep breathing. When you find one you like, make a daily practice of it.    11.  Get your zzzzzs. When you sleep, your body can focus its energy on repairing different systems, including your skin. Research has shown that people who arent getting enough sleep on the regular may show earlier signs of aging, experience diminished skin barrier functions and feel less satisfied with their appearance. Aim for seven to nine hours a night to get the biggest benefits from sleeping.    Itchy, uncomfortable skin isnt a winter requirement. By making a few simple changes to your routine in the fall, you can help put moisture back where it belongs, quickly, before things get uncomfortable.   If youve made the changes above, however, and you find that you still have some skin concerns, schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor or a dermatologist today. They can address any possible skin conditions and offer personalized advice to help keep you feeling healthy and radiant in every season.   To learn more about Medicare or Health insurance in our area in Alabama, contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama at 251-344-2115

Caring for Aging Parents: Let FirstLight Lighten Your LoadWatching your parents age and begin to need help can be one of lifes most emotional and challenging transitions. As they require assistance with everyday tasksfrom getting dressed to grocery shoppingit can feel overwhelming to shoulder these responsibilities on your own. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to support you and your loved ones with compassionate care that makes a difference.The Challenges of Caring for Aging ParentsBeing a primary caregiver for your aging parents can be as rewarding as it is exhausting. Between managing your own responsibilitieswork, family, and personal needsit may feel like there arent enough hours in the day. Many caregivers find themselves stretched thin, sacrificing sleep, hobbies, and social connections to meet the needs of their parents.This cycle often leads to burnout. The constant physical, mental, and emotional demands can leave you drained, making it harder to provide the care your loved ones deserve. Its common to feel like youve lost your sense of self, but remember: you dont have to do it all alone.Supporting Your Aging ParentsThe level of care your parents need depends on their situation. Some may only require occasional check-ins, while others may need help with daily routines like showering, preparing meals, or managing medications.As health challenges grow, these responsibilities can feel like a full-time job. Its a heavy load for one person to carry, especially when trying to balance everything else in life. Thats where FirstLight Home Care steps in to help.How Companion Care Makes a DifferenceAt FirstLight, we offer a range of senior care services, including companion care, dementia care, respite care, and more. Our caregivers are carefully matched to each familys unique needs, bringing much-needed relief to those caring for aging parents.Companionship and Emotional SupportLoneliness is common among seniors, but our compassionate caregivers bring connection and joy to their daily lives. Whether its sharing stories, assisting with communication, or helping them stay socially active, our team is here to keep your parents engaged and happy.Daily Living AssistanceFrom light housekeeping to meal preparation, our caregivers ensure your loved ones home remains a clean, safe, and healthy space. They can also help with hygiene, toileting, and mobility, all while treating your parents with the dignity and respect they deserve.Relieving Family Caregiver StressHaving professional support means youll have more time and energy for yourselfand for your parents. Instead of being overwhelmed by caregiving duties, you can focus on strengthening your relationship with them and creating meaningful memories.Let Us Support Your FamilyCaring for aging parents is no small task, but you dont have to do it alone. At FirstLight Home Care, were here to share the load and provide expert care that brings peace of mind to you and your family.Whether your parents need help with daily activities, companionship, or more specialized care, our trained caregivers are ready to step in and provide the support they deserve.Reach out to FirstLight Home Care today to explore personalized care options near you.Ready to learn more?Discover how FirstLight can make life easier for you and your loved ones. Contact us for personalized pricing or visit your nearest location to begin. Together, we can help your parents live their best lifewhile giving you the space to thrive, too.  Call FirstLight Home Care in Bloomington at 612-473-3227.

Six Simple Strategies to Help Seniors Sleep BetterHow did you sleep last night? With National Sleep Awareness Week taking place from March 10th to 16th, its the perfect time to think about your bedtime habits and explore ways to improve your sleep quality.A restful nights sleep is like a reset button for your body and mind, and its especially important for seniors. Good sleep can boost your mood, sharpen your mind, and strengthen your immune system. However, as we age, getting those precious Zs can become more challenging. Changes in sleep patterns, along with environmental and emotional factors, often lead to restless nights.If counting sheep has become your nightly ritual, dont worryyoure not alone, and help is here. The Seniors Helping Seniors team has six simple, practical tips to help you sleep better and wake up refreshed. Lets dive in!1. Stick to a Relaxing Bedtime RoutineYour body loves routines, especially when it comes to winding down for the night. Create a calming bedtime ritual that works for youlike reading a book, doing some light stretches, or meditating. These activities signal to your body that its time to relax. Not sure where to start? Your Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver can help you incorporate these soothing habits into your evening routine.2. Power Down Your ScreensScrolling through your phone or catching up on emails before bed might seem harmless, but the blue light from screens can disrupt your natural sleep hormones. Try putting your devices away at least an hour before bedtime. Instead, swap that screen time for a calming activity like listening to music or journaling.3. Create a Cozy Sleep SanctuaryA good mattress and supportive pillows can make all the difference in how you feel the next morning. Look for bedding that keeps you at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Your bedroom should also be dark, quiet, and coolthink of it as your personal sleep haven.4. Limit Afternoon NapsA quick nap can recharge your energy, but long or late-day naps might mess with your nighttime sleep. Keep naps short20 to 30 minutesand try to rest earlier in the day. This way, you can still enjoy a power nap without affecting your bedtime.5. Get Moving During the DayPhysical activity isnt just great for your overall healthit also helps you sleep better. Even 30 minutes of light exercise like walking or yoga can work wonders. Just remember to keep workouts earlier in the day, as late-night exercise might leave you too energized to fall asleep.6. Mind Your Evening MenuWhat you eat and drink before bed can influence your sleep. Heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol close to bedtime can leave you tossing and turning. Instead, try something soothing, like a cup of herbal tea or warm milk, to help you unwind. Need help with meal planning? Seniors Helping Seniors caregivers are happy to lend a hand.Bonus Tip: Keep Your Wake-Up Time ConsistentYour body thrives on routine, so try waking up at the same time every dayeven on weekends. A consistent wake-up time helps regulate your internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed.If youve tried these tips and are still struggling with sleep, it might be time to seek professional advice. A healthcare provider or sleep specialist can help identify underlying issues, like sleep apnea or restless legs syndrome, and recommend tailored solutions.Sleep is vital for your health and well-being, and you deserve to wake up every day feeling your best. Your Seniors Helping Seniors team is here to support you in creating healthy sleep habits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Sweet dreams!