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Have you had your colonoscopy? This is a question your primary-care provider may ask you during your annual visit. You might dread the question (and the procedure), but its an important part of preventing colorectal cancer.According to the American Cancer Society,  colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. However, its preventable if found and treated early, and the key to preventing it is proper screening. In fact, studies have shown screening has reduced the risk colorectal cancer by 40% and of death from colorectal cancer by 65-70%.Colorectal cancer is a cancer of the colon or rectum, the lower end of your digestive system. Most colon cancers develop from polyps or growths on the inner lining of the colon. There are several different types of polyps and not all polyps are cancerous. Identifying and removing these polyps can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer developing. Early screening is important because people may not have any symptoms until later stages of the disease.Currently, the American Cancer Society recommends colorectal screening for all adults between 45 and 75 years old. Older adults aged 76-85 should be screened based on their health history and their risk for cancer. But which choice of screening is your best option?TYPES OF COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING:Fecal occult blood test: A test that uses a special chemical to detect blood in your stool. A small sample of stool is placed on a card or in a special container and tested for blood in the lab. This type of test is recommended yearly.Fecal immunochemical test (FIT): A test that uses antibodies to detect blood in your stool. This testing is recommended yearly.FIT-DNA test or Stool DNA test (Cologuard): A test that combines FIT testing with a test to detect altered DNA in your stool. This is an at-home test that requires the collection of a full bowel movement. Its sent to a lab and checked for altered DNA and blood. This test is recommended every 3 years.Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: This test is performed by a doctor. The doctor puts a short, thin flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to check for polyps in the lower part of the colon. This testing is recommended every 5 years.Colonoscopy: Considered the gold standard for screening, this is like a flexible sigmoidoscopy but examines the entire colon. The doctor is also able to remove polyps and test them for cancer during this process. This test is recommended every 10 years but may be required more frequently depending on risk factors and results.  A colonoscopy would also be required if any of the above tests were abnormal.Although all these types of testing are options for colorectal cancer screening, your primary-care provider will recommend the appropriate option based on your particular situation. Your family history and other personal risk factors for colorectal cancer will determine which screening is best for you. You should discuss all the options with your primary-care provider.OTHER WAYS TO PREVENT COLORECTAL CANCER:Eat high fiber diet with whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. The fiber helps move potential cancer-causing foods through the intestine faster, reducing the time in the intestineAvoid Red meat and processed meatsLimit alcohol: Moderate to heavy drinking (2-3 drinks per day) increases the risk of colon cancerIncrease physical activity: Studies by the National Cancer Institute have shown physical activity can reduce the risk of colon cancer by 20%Quit smoking: People who smoke may have larger and more colon polyps, increasing their risk of colon cancerWith reduction of risk factors and early prevention, colorectal cancer can be prevented. Please consult with your primary-care provider and dont be afraid to ask them, Am I due for my colonoscopy?Written by:By Erin Wolf, APRN

Moving to a new home can be both an exciting and daunting task. Whether you're relocating across town or to a different state, the process can be overwhelming, especially when you factor in the packing, lifting, and transportation of heavy furniture and fragile items. Many people consider a DIY move to save money, but this can often lead to more stress, time, and unexpected costs. Hiring professional movers, like Blue Star Moving, offers a more efficient and cost-effective solution. In this article, we'll explore the numerous benefits of hiring professional movers and how companies like Blue Star Moving can streamline your move, reduce risks, and ultimately save you both time and money.1. Expertise and Experience in Handling MovesOne of the primary advantages of hiring professional movers is their expertise. Movers from reputable companies like Blue Star Moving bring years of experience in handling all types of moves, from local relocations to long-distance journeys. Their knowledge of the best packing techniques, safe handling of fragile items, and efficient loading and unloading processes ensures that your belongings are in good hands.Professionals have the skills to:Properly pack and secure items to prevent damage during transport.Handle heavy or bulky furniture without risk of injury or damage to your property.Navigate complex logistics, such as narrow hallways, stairs, or tricky parking situations, ensuring a smoother process.This expertise can make a significant difference in how smoothly your move goes, helping to prevent mistakes that could cause delays or unnecessary costs.2. Save Time with Efficient Packing and UnpackingPacking up an entire household can take weeks when done on your own. When you hire a professional moving company like Blue Star Moving, the process becomes much faster and more efficient. Their trained staff is skilled in packing techniques that not only maximize space but also ensure that your items are safe during transit.Key time-saving benefits include:Faster Packing: Blue Star Moving professionals can pack your items quickly and safely, often completing the job in a fraction of the time it would take you to do it yourself.Expert Organization: Movers know how to group and pack items logically, making unpacking easier and more efficient once you reach your new home.Avoiding Distractions: With experienced movers handling the packing and transportation, you can focus on other important tasks like setting up utilities, managing paperwork, or organizing your new home.By outsourcing these time-consuming tasks, you can significantly reduce the overall time spent on the move, allowing you to settle into your new space more quickly.3. Minimize Risk of Damage and InjuryMoving heavy furniture and fragile items can be a risky endeavor, especially when you're not properly prepared. Accidents, such as dropping furniture or injuring yourself while lifting a heavy box, can lead to both physical harm and costly property damage. Professional movers like Blue Star Moving are trained to handle these risks with safety protocols and the proper equipment.The benefits of hiring experts include:Safe Handling of Fragile Items: Professional movers are equipped with high-quality packing materials and know the best techniques to protect fragile items like glassware, electronics, and artwork.Avoiding Property Damage: Movers are experienced in navigating through doorways, hallways, and staircases without damaging walls, floors, or furniture.Preventing Personal Injury: Lifting heavy objects improperly can result in serious injury. Blue Star Moving's team is trained in safe lifting techniques, minimizing the risk of harm.By entrusting the heavy lifting and handling to professionals, youre not only protecting your belongings but also ensuring that you and your family stay safe throughout the move.4. Avoid Hidden Costs and Unexpected ExpensesOne of the biggest misconceptions about hiring professional movers is that its an expensive option compared to doing it yourself. While the initial cost may seem higher, the truth is that hiring professionals can save you money in the long run. Here's how:No Hidden Costs for Damages: If you damage items while moving them yourself, youll either have to repair or replace them, which can be costly. Blue Star Moving ensures that your items are protected with insurance coverage, saving you from unexpected costs.Efficient Use of Resources: Professional movers come with their own packing materials, trucks, and equipment. This means you wont need to rent or buy moving supplies or a truck, which can add up quickly.Reduced Risk of Delays: DIY moves often encounter delays, whether due to insufficient help, equipment issues, or logistical problems. Professional movers plan everything in advance, reducing the risk of delays and additional costs associated with extended moving times.By investing in a professional moving service, you can avoid hidden costs and ensure that your move stays on track financially.5. Stress-Free Moving ExperienceMoving is stressful enough without the added pressure of managing all the details yourself. With Blue Star Moving, you can rest easy knowing that experts are handling everything for you. From the moment you contact the company until the last box is unpacked, their team is dedicated to providing a smooth, hassle-free experience.Professional movers can:Coordinate and plan the logistics of the entire move, ensuring everything is done efficiently.Handle the heavy lifting, which means you wont have to worry about physical exhaustion or injury.Provide support and guidance throughout the process, from packing to settling into your new home.Hiring professionals not only reduces stress but also gives you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are being handled with care and expertise.6. Tailored Moving Solutions for Your NeedsEvery move is unique, and professional movers like Blue Star Moving understand that. They offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs, whether youre moving a small apartment, a large family home, or even a corporate office. Their flexibility ensures that your move is handled according to your preferences and requirements.Services offered by Blue Star Moving may include:Packing services: Full packing or partial packing options depending on your needs.Storage solutions: If your new home isnt ready yet, they offer short-term or long-term storage options.Specialty moving services: For items such as pianos, antiques, or fine art, Blue Star Moving can provide specialized equipment and care.This level of customization ensures that your move is handled in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible.ConclusionWhile the idea of a DIY move may seem like a way to save money, hiring professional movers like Blue Star Moving is often the smarter financial decision in the long run. With their expertise, time-saving services, protection against damages, and ability to minimize stress, they provide a comprehensive moving solution that ensures your transition to a new home is smooth and seamless.Choosing Blue Star Moving is an investment in a hassle-free, efficient, and cost-effective move, allowing you to focus on what matters mostsettling into your new space with peace of mind.

For more information on the author BrightStar Care of Bonita Springs, CLICK HERE.When caring for an aging parent or family member, there are few things as scary as discovering your loved one has fallen. The aftermath can have a major impact on both you and your family's life, and you are not alone. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.8 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries each year. There are safe and reliable steps you can take post-fall to make your loved ones recovery as efficient as possible. If your loved one has suffered a fall, here are seven ways you can help with recovery, both physical and emotional:Have a One-on-One Discussion.After a fall, seniors may be feeling shame, frustration, and fear of their family's reaction. We encourage you to have an honest and compassionate conversation about what happened, and to reassure them that their safety and health is your primary concern. By establishing open communication and trust in regards to their health, they may be more open to receiving help from you, doctors, and/or care professionals.Stay Calm and Show Your Support.It can be stressful, worrisome, and scary when a loved one falls, but it is important to stay calm and strong for your loved one. If the daily care is causing you physical or emotional strain, know that you don't have to do this alone. BrightStar Cares specially trained nurses and caregivers are available to support you and your loved one. The most important thing you can provide your loved one during the recovery process is your love and support.Encourage Follow-Up Appointments with the Doctor.If the fall resulted in a trip to the hospital or a rehabilitation facility, set the follow-up doctor appointments in advance. Its important to have the doctor check up on your loved ones recovery status and examine his or her overall health and vision. Even if you and your loved one are positive that the fall was caused by tripping on a rug, a well-rounded evaluation could uncover potential issues that made that fall more likely. If your loved one is convinced he or she is okay and doesn't need to go, remind them that this is an important step in staying safe and preventing future falls.Help Them Learn How to Prevent Future Falls.Seniors who are recovering from a fall or injury are at a higher risk of future falls, sometimes due to reduced activity from a fear of falling again. Because of this, its important to be proactive about building your loved ones strength and confidence in walking around the house. When well enough to do so, encourage your loved one to get up for some light exercise and activity to improve balance and stability. They may be timid at first, but the long-term results will ensure his or her mobility and safety.Share Home Safety Tips.In addition to learning more about fall prevention, there are many senior home safety tips your loved one may benefit from in the long run. As he or she recovers and regains mobility, take the time to identify and discuss the potential risks and hazards around the home, and how you can work together to figure out how to make his or her home the safest, most comfortable place possible. Additionally, a BrightStar Care Registered Nurse Director of Nursing can conduct a home safety check as part of creating a customized care plan for your loved one.Bring the Family Fun to Them.Depending on your loved ones recovery status and mobility after the fall, he or she may feel isolated or cooped up at home. Brighten his or her spirits by scheduling times during the week for family fun. Put together a pre-dinner board game competition, or set up a family movie night with popcorn and your loved ones favorite treats. If you dont live nearby, have your kids sing their favorite song over the phone, or even film and send the musical act entirely. Your loved one will be sure to love the change of pace, and a boost in mood may encourage them through recovery.Consider In-Home Care.BrightStar Care can provide in-home support, from short-term transitional care to more long-term assistance, to help your loved one recover safely and regain independence after a fall. Some seniors may need just a little help with chores and groceries, while others may need more advanced help with showering or medication management. Whatever the case, starting the conversation about in-home care can be a positive step in helping your loved one recover in his or her own home while allowing you respite.If you have more questions on how to support your loved one after a fall or about in-home care, contact your BrightStar Care agency. Were ready to help.

Growing old can be a beautiful thing, full of new experiences and joys like finally taking that trip you always planned on or helping raise grandchildren. Yet, there comes a time for many seniors when worsening health conditions make basic daily activitieslike bathing or managing medicationrequire assistance. These may be signs its time to consider moving into an assisted living community.Moving into an assisted living community can be a difficultand emotionaldecision. It doesnt help that searching for assisted living costs online brings up all sorts of confusing fees, contracts and services that vary widely. You might be wondering:How much does assisted living actually cost? And is it worth it?How does assisted living cost compare to the cost of in-home care?How can I pay for assistance living?Heres the good news: theres no need to keep searching. Weve got you covered with simple and straightforward answers to the most asked questions about the cost of assisted living. Heres what you need to know about assisted living costs so you can make the best choice.What is an assisted living community?Assisted living communities are far more than just places that provide senior care. They should also be a home where everyday burdenslike transportation and choresare taken care of so your loved one can stay active and engaged doing the things they love most. Assisted living can be best thought of as a busy, involved community atmosphere that lies on the continuum between independent living and full-time, nursing-provided care. Its best for seniors who need a little extra help with some activities of daily living (ADLs) like dressing and medication reminders so they can live their most independent life.What is the average cost assisted living?Assisted living costs can vary greatly depending upon what area of the country you live in. The size of the apartment you choose, and the types and number of services also impact the monthly cost of assisted living. According to Genworth Financial, the average cost of assisted living in 2020 was $4,300 per month. Compare that to the cost of hiring a home health aide and housekeeper in 2020: an average of $9,000 a year! While the monthly cost of assisted living may cause an initial senior living sticker shock, the services and amenities included in the monthly cost make a move to an assisted living community a smart financial decision.What is included in the average monthly cost for assisted living?The true value of assisted living goes far beyond a new place to call home. Assisted living communities offer a wide variety of amenities and services included in the monthly cost to meet your loved ones needs like:Housekeeping, maintenance and laundry services.Nutritious, chef-prepared meals served restaurant-style in the dining room.Utilities and basic cable television.A full calendar of life enrichment programs to participate in each day.Transportation services for errands, appointments and other community outings.Wellness programs and senior-friendly fitness activities.Emergency call systems in apartments and/or an emergency call pendant option.How can I pay for assisted living?No matter your budget, there are ways to make assisted living more affordable. Though most seniors pay with private funds, the monthly cost of assisted living can become much more manageable through senior living financing options like:A Bridge Loan or Senior Line-of-Credit: These short-term, interest-only loans help fund assisted living costs until the necessary money comes in.Deferred Annuity with Long-term Care Rider: Rather than making monthly insurance payments, the investor places a lump sum of money into a deferred annuity. They can then withdraw the money, tax-free and without any IRS penalties, to pay for assisted living.Life Settlement Accounts: With a life settlement agreement, a senior sells their life insurance to a third party and receives a lump sum payment.Veterans Benefits: US veterans and the surviving spouses of veterans can receive monthly benefits to pay for assisted living through the Aid and Attendance Benefit.The Five Star Difference: Affordable, stress-free assisted livingWe know how hard the decision to move into an assisted living community can be, especially when it comes down to figuring out the cost and how to pay for it. Thats why Five Stars senior living experts are happy to help answer your questions about assisted living costs and work with your budget so you can make the most informed decision.In a Five Star assisted living community, our residents receive the services they need in an engaging, active lifestyle they deserve at a cost they can afford. Most importantly, though, they are welcomed into a new home sweet home where life is stress-free, and friends become family. Download our FREE Guide to the Cost of Senior Living eBook and find out if theres a Five Star community near you to learn more.