Month: September 2017

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Elderly rehabilitation center sherman Retirement living options Skilled nursing springfield il

Retirement Living Options Assisted and Independent Living Communities

Assisted lifestyle

Have you been exploring different types of retirement homes? Whether it’s for someone with a medical condition that requires monitoring and daily assistance or an active retiree that enjoys going on outings, there are different retirement living options available.

Assisted Living Communities

Over 75% of the individuals who live in assisted living communities experience at least two chronic conditions. High blood pressure, Alzheimer’s disease, and other dementias are the most common, however.

Roughly four out of every ten residents require some assistance with daily living activities. While some residents receive assistance with three or more activities, bathing and dressing are two of the more common.

Most assisted living communities either provide or coordinate a variety of services that assist residents with being as independent as possible. This includes these are other helpful services and resources:

  • 24-hour supervision
  • Three meals a day in a group dining room
  • Snacks in a group dining room
  • Personal care services
  • Health care services
  • Medication management
  • Social services
  • Transportation arrangements
  • Laundry service
  • Housekeeping
  • Maintenance

Independent Living Communities

The ProMatura Group, LLC’s “2009 Independent Living Report” showed that residents in independent living retirement communities were more likely to create friendships and explore new activities. Furthermore, most of the residents indicated that they had a more positive experience than they had expected they would.

When retirees engage in a variety of activities, they tend to be more happy than retirees that do not. According to a recent survey, retirees were happiest when they participated in three or four activities on a regular basis. It’s interesting to note that a recent Money readership survey showed that nearly half, or 48%, of the retirees responded that they were happier than expected. One of the major reasons for this with 81% of the retirees was due to experiencing good health.

Choosing a Retirement Home

Since there are different types of retirement homes, it’s important to visit them. When you take a tour of the grounds, apartments, and other facilities, then you will have a better sense of what these communities have to offer. You can also ask questions about the various types of on-site and organized outings as well as learn about the other amenities that are available. Having the opportunity to meet other residents would also be beneficial when making a decision.

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Activities for alzheimer residents Care options for alzheimers patients

What Are The Warning Signs For Dementia?

Assisted living orland park

Alzheimer’s is one of the most deadly diseases affecting American adults today. It is a degenerative disease unable to be slowed down, prevented or cured, although many medical initiatives have been put in place to find viable long-term solutions. Affecting millions of American seniors as we know it and with a cure still not in our grasp, we instead have to look toward facilities that can accommodate those starting to show signs of the condition. Memory care activities for seniors are resources that can be accessed through in-home care or through an assisted living facility.

If you have a loved one beginning to show the telltale signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, it will help to know the next step so both of you can look toward the future with hope.

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that impacts millions of people every year. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the country and it’s estimated one in three seniors will pass away with either Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Nearly two-thirds of all Alzheimer’s patients are women, which translates as well to assisted living residents — a recent survey found almost 75% of seniors in assisted living communities to be women.

Is Dementia Different?

Dementia comes in varying degrees of severity, with Alzheimer’s being considered the most common as well as the most difficult. It is best to view dementia as a blanket term for a cluster of symptoms generally associated with the onset of age and the difficulties brought on both mentally and physically. Memory care activities for seniors is one such solution to help encourage a higher quality of life for those afflicted.

What Are The Warning Signs?

There are many signs your loved one could be experiencing the first stages of dementia. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, reduced awareness, forgetfulness, memory loss, impaired judgement and mood swings. Additional symptoms can include difficulty in motor control, disassociation and depression. As medical advances continue there are more and more resources available to help determine the risk for dementia.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities are one of the best options for elderly persons facing Alzheimer’s or dementia. These residences promote a higher quality of life as well as the independence that can be taken away from the disease — your average assisted living apartments will provide 24-hour medical supervision, basic meals, health care services and medication management. Social services, such as community events and travel, will also be encouraged.

What Are Some Memory Care Activities For Seniors?

Memory care activities for seniors are designed to counteract, as best possible, the long-term effects of dementia. These can be social, independent, daily or weekly — all of these are designed to help those with Alzheimer’s function to the best of their ability. Nearly four out of every 10 assisted living residents receive assistance with three or more daily activities, such as dressing or bathing. Group activities involving reading, painting or exploring personal interests do wonders for helping residents connect with others.

An Independent Living Report conducted by the ProMatura Group back in 2009 found the majority of respondents reporting a better experience at their facility than they expected. If your loved one is in need of options, a retirement home can provide both of you with the first step.

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Advantages of private schools Private schools advantages Why private schools are better

Facts on Private High Schools

School in miami florida

Every year there are a large number of American parents that must face an incredibly difficult decision. For some, this decision is quite easy because they will simply send their children to either the high school they attended or whatever is the best recommended public school in the area. However, other parents will have to decide between sending their children to public high schools or private high schools.

There is no question that there is a clear distinction between the type of culture and experience public high schools provide and private high schools provide. Understand that on average, most private schools are small and just about 86% of all private high schools contain less than 300 students. If you need to choose between public and private high schools, here are some important facts that you should know.

In the United States, there are currently 30,861 private schools that enroll around 5.3 million students. This means that private schools comprise about 24% of the nation’s schools and also enroll just about 10% of all the students within the United States. When compared to public schools in large cities, private schools have nearly 1.5 times the enrollment size of said public schools.

On average, most private high schools are going to be nearly less than half the size of public schools. In the year of 2007, 91% of all parents surveyed stated that the dedication of the teachers was one of the main reasons as to why they decided to send their child to a private school. in that same study, just about 72% of all parents also stated that they believe the private school their child attends is very safe.

Between the years of 2011 and 2013, nearly 4,428,000 children ages three and four attended preschool. This is essential and important because many of these students that attend preschool will do better than the students that did not attend preschool. This is because preschool allows younger students to begin developing important skills at a younger age than the other children that do not attend preschool.

80% of all parents that have enrolled their children in a religious private school stated that they are very satisfied with their school of choice for a number of different reasons. The NCES released data revealing that 88% of all private high school students will apply to college, compared 57% of public high school students that apply to college.

The percentage of private high school seniors that graduate is just around 98% which is astonishing. Also know that out of the 305,842 private high school graduates that graduated in 2011, just about 64% attended a 4-year college by the fall season of the following year.

Some private high schools are co-ed whereas some only enroll members of the same sex. Just about 96% of all private high schools are coeducational whereas 2% will only roll girls and boys. Understand that because these private high schools have classes that are smaller, it will allow teachers to better focus on their students. As a matter of fact, 12.5 students for each teacher is the ratio of a private school whereas a public school has a ratio of 15.4 students for each teacher.

In Conclusion

Public high schools and private high schools will, without question, give your child vasty different experiences Whether or not those experiences are good or bad when compared to one another is mostly up to you and what you want for your child. While public schools will feature a diverse cast of students, private high schools will for the most part feature people who are affluent and have the proper amount of money to send their child to a private high school. Make sure you understand all of the facts that separate these two types of schools so that way you can make the best decision for your child’s future.

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Countertop company Laminate countertop fabrication Order custom countertops online

Choosing Between Post Form and Self Edge Laminate Tops

Quartz countertop

As with fashion trends that emerge and disappears, then surging with a comeback, laminate has done just that. Before its resurgence, laminates used to be people’s favorite material in making of countertops and it almost became a household name. But with the introduction of other solid surfaces, laminate became less popular and undesired by many. After years of uncompetitiveness, laminate has experienced its fair share of evolution with a variety of colors and amazing patterns.

In addition, laminate tops styles now come in several finishes to provide unique themes and appearances. From conventional matte and glossy touches to contemporary textures, you can personalize the look of different surfaces in your house. If you are looking for a pocket-friendly surface, laminate countertops are your option. Laminate surfaces can be used for kitchen countertops as well as in different types of bathroom vanities. However, you should know that there are two main types of laminate surfaces. These are self-edge and post form laminates and below are some of their differences.

Post Form
These kinds of countertops are developed by adhering laminate to an edged low-density fibreboard. Rolling over is needed to ensure the surface is uniform and no build up of bubbles. Post form laminate manufacturers pre-laminate countertops in a variety of lengths ranging from 8 feet to 12 feet. The unfinished countertops are then sent to a fabricator, where end caps, holes and final cuts are done.

Some of the advantages of post form laminates include a set on end splashes that can be bond with coved or attached backsplashes. Post form countertops also have fine edges that feature a square edge end caps for a seamless finish. You can choose from a list of 10 different type of edge finishes completing your countertop design. Lastly, post forms are perhaps the cheapest laminate option.

Self edge tops
These are custom made countertops that offer neat surfaces without seams. Using particle board as the substrate, laminate sheets are bonded together with a strong adhesive liquid. The fact that the tops are custom made makes it possible to create unique designs that fit specific configurations as well as clients needs. Unlike post form laminate manufacturers, self-edge countertops angles and curves can be made to perfectly fit any kitchen or bathroom setting. However, the custom-made top will often feature a brown line where edges meet. Another issue with self-edge tops is that are at risk of damage in case moisture penetrates the spaces between countertops and splash. To avoid this, you can use plywood core minimizes bulging of the substrate.

So whether you choose between post form and self-edge laminate countertops, you want to ensure that proper installation is done to ensure its durability. When you opt for a post form, it’s important you consult various post form laminate manufacturers to get a better understanding of your option.

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Home for sale Real estate san antonio Realtors in dallas tx

When Buying a House, Good Advice is Essential

Real estate

Buying or selling a house is one of the most important things that anyone will do in their lifetime. Most people don’t know very much about real estate to start out, and will inevitably make mistakes. Whether you’re buying a house or selling, realtors can be a good source of information and advice. It’s important to remember that choosing a home to live in is a very personal choice, and you should choose a home where you will be happy.

First time buyer? You’re not alone
If you’re a first time home buyer, you have plenty of company. Just under a third or or 32% of home buyers are buying their first home. It’s a good idea to know at the outset that you’ll have to learn the ropes, and to begin planning ahead. You’ll have to do your homework, and in fact there are even home buying classes you can take.
Family, friends, and colleagues are all good sources of information about the technical aspects of buying a home. There are also many online forums where you can even post questions about neighborhoods, prices, school districts, commutes and more. That allows you to map out desirable neighborhoods, commute times, and nearby shopping, outdoor and cultural facilities even before you begin looking at houses.

Getting good advice
The best source of advice about buying a home may be realtors. They are experienced in the field and know all the kinds of things you should look out for. As many as 78% of people who recently bought homes felt that they got useful information from their real estate agent. In fact trust and reliance on real estate agents has been growing over the years, and as of 2014, 84% of home buyers did so through a realtor. In 2010, that number was 69%.
The most difficult part about buying a home may be finding the right one. More than half or 52% of home buyers say that finding the right home is the most difficult part. Townhouse or single family house? City or country? Do you need a walkable neighborhood, public transportation and a coffee shop down the street? Picking the right house can be a very individual choice, and the best advice is to choose one that you like. You’re the one who will be living there, and for a long time.

Planning ahead is essential
If you know that buying a home is part of your plans in the near future, there are some steps you can take in advance so that you’re prepared. Establishing good credit and saving enough money for a down payment are both essential. Most lenders and buyers will require a down payment worth anything from 5 to 20% of the total value of the home.
Once you’re starting to look seriously at houses for sale, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage. That way when you do find a house you like and make an offer, you know that the financing is available. Home inspections and insurance are also essential steps to complete before inking the deal.

The world of real estate can be a scary place but if you’ve done your homework, and found good advice, you should be able to negotiate it with ease. At the end of it all, you’ll be a proud homeowner.

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Texas veterans mortgage rates Va home loan rates tx Vet loan requirements tx

Important Information On Veteran Loans

Va loan advantages and disadvantages

Every single year a large number of people sign up and register to go and fight for this country. This means that every year there are a large number of people who are thus deployed to go fight in a war against the enemies that threaten the United States of America. With this in mind understand that there are then, in turn, a large number of people who return home from fighting in the war and must try to adapt to life at home.

A lot of veterans have a very difficult time coming home and returning to a normal life for a number of reasons. Some of this involves the fact that they may suffer from serious mental damage done to their mind while being involved in combat. These people have possibly seen their friends die in combat or have suffered from traumatic life or death experiences and it is difficult for them to move past this.
This is where VA loan lenders come into play as they try to help veterans. Here is what you need to know about VA loan lenders, VA home loan rates, and how they help veterans.

Right now in the state of Texas alone, there are over 1.5 million Veterans. The median income for these Veterans in the state of Texas is around $40,226. This is not a lot in the state of Texas which is why VA loan lenders are so important to Veterans. Understand that in the state of Texas in 2016, more than 58,774 home loans were given to Veterans to help them have a house to live in.

That is just one example of how VA loan lenders help Veterans, here are some others. The VA home loan program has helped 22 million Veterans achieve home ownership and in 2016 the VA helped guarantee more than 707,107 home loans to Veterans in need. Currently, VA mortgage rates offered are as much as 50 basis points lower than those available from normal mortgage companies.

Loans offered by VA loan lenders do not need mortgage insurance while also allowing for 100% financing. In order to be eligible for a VA loan, the soldier must have served six years in the National Guard or Reserve, 90 days during war time, or 181 days during war time. However, a spouse of a soldier killed in battle can also qualify. In the year of 2015, first-time homebuyers received a total of 134,808 home loans while previous home buyers received a total of 187,307 home loans.

In Conclusion

VA loan lenders are incredibly important to all of the many veterans coming home from their time of service. These brave men and women decided to risk their health and well being to protect this country and all of the freedoms we as citizens enjoy each day. It is only right that we, as a society, work to help make their lives as easy as possible when they return home. That way, Veterans can feel appreciated while also returning to a normal life where they can do whatever they want with themselves whether it be starting a business, returning to school, or even starting a family.

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Houses for sale in media Media homes for sale New houses

How do you Classify Luxury Real Estate?

Homes for sale in media pa

When looking at real estate, what do you consider to be luxury real estate? Is it the size of the home, the features, or how old it is? There are many factors that go into consideration when determining the price of a property.

Feature that is often considered in luxury homes is when it was built. According to one study, nearly half of all home buyers are looking for a home that has never been lived in. They want a new home that allows them to design it they way they want it.

They also want to avoid the need for remodeling, renovations, or issues with plumbing, heating, or electrical. They want to be able to just move in and start living their life in their new home. Unless the home has been on the market for a long time, new homes are significantly less likely to have maintenance issues.

Another study reported that nearly half of all home owners are interested in a new home that is energy efficient. This is the most desired feature when looking at homes. Energy efficient can refer to a wide range of features including the appliances in the home, a tank less water heater, solar panels, geothermal heating, and more. Having a “green” home is increasingly popular due to the popularity of it as well as the cost savings on utility costs.

Another thing home buyers are looking for in luxury real estate is walkable neighborhoods. In one study, over fifty percent of respondents stated that the walkibility of their neighborhood was a high priority. This applies to the overall safety of the area, but also to whether or not there are usable sidewalks, well-maintained landscapes, and more.

Obviously new homes are not automatically luxury houses. However, new homes will be up to code and have a finish to them that you don’t find when looking at a previously owned home. They are immaculately clean because they’ve never been lived in. They have that new home smell that you can’t fake with cleaning supplies or air fresheners.

While many people may assume the size makes a home a luxury, that was actually a fairly small factor in recent surveys. The newness of the home, the location, and the features were reported to be the most important.

Commonly sought after features include a master suite that includes a bathroom and walk in closets. A large kitchen with lots of storage is also a highly sought after feature. Extras that target the buyer’s inner desire for relaxation such as a Jacuzzi, hot tubs, swimming pools, and saunas are also sought after features.

When looking at luxury real estate, most people also look at the property. They want a large and well-maintained outdoor space. An outdoor living space has grown greatly in popularity over recent years. This is more than a fenced in yard and patio. People are creating outdoor spaces that can be literally used as a living space with a cooking area, tables, and seating.

When it comes down to it, an individual buyer may be looking for something completely different. These are based on trends and recent studies interviewing home buyers. It will also be based on who will be living in the house. Obviously, parents with six kids will be looking for something different than an older couple with no kids at home. The differences may apply to the house, the property, and the neighborhood.

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Investment property Va home loans

Three Things You Didn’t Know About VA Home Loans

Fha mortgage loans

Home ownership is something that many people in the United States dream of doing. It is a big part of the American Dream and ever since the end of the Second World War, many individuals and families have taken advantage of different programs that have been set up so that people all across the country could become homeowners.

FHA loans, as well as the conventional mortgage, have long been methods by which people have purchased homes. Some have purchased many, including a vacation home or an investment property. Others, only their one, and only family home. Each home buying experience is different, and though the process is clear for some, 59% of homeowners wish they knew the terms of their mortgage better.

For 32% of the people looking to buy a new home, this will be their first home. First time home buyers have a number of special opportunities to buy a new home, with mortgages suited just for them. In March or 2016, the average sale price for a home in the United States was $186,000. Obviously, some were less and some sold for a great deal more.

For veterans of our country, VA home loans were created so that every veteran who wants one can be able to purchase a home of their own. VA home loans are loans that are guaranteed by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, also known as the VA. Qualified lenders can issue VA home loans and they are designed to offer long-term financing to veterans or their surviving spouses if they remain unmarried.

Here are three things that you probably didn’t know about VA home loans and why they are important.

1.) They are reusable

As long as you pay off your loan each time, you can use your VA home loan time and again. Even if you have lost your loan to a foreclosure, you still may be able to qualify for another one.

2.) They are only for primary residences

You might love the idea of a summer home in Cape May or an investment property on the other side of town. Those are both great ideas but you will not be able to use VA homes loans for them. You can only use a VA loan for the home you live in.

3.) There is no prepayment penalty

If you suddenly hit the lottery or decide you would like to double up on your monthly payments, you are more than welcome to do so. Paying your loan off early can shave thousands of dollar off your balance.

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American red cross clothing donations Red cross clothes donation Red cross donations

Reasons to Donate Clothing to the American Red Cross to Positively Impact Your Community

Clothes donations

Have you ever donated to the American Red Cross? If you don?t know much about this charitable organization, that may be why you haven?t taken time to donate to their cause. There are plenty of reasons why the American Red Cross is one of the best non-profit organizations to donate to whether you?re interested in clothing donations or donating other household items. It?s always better to learn as much as possible about an organization before donating to them, that way you feel comfortable with your choice and know that your donations are going to a good place.

Interested in learning more about the American Red Cross and why you should donate to this charity? Keep reading to find out how American Red Cross clothing donations make an impact worldwide and help many people who are in need of some assistance.

How the American Red Cross Positively Impacts People Worldwide

The American Red Cross is one of the largest charities in the United States. Currently, in terms of private donations, this charity ranks the 13th largest. In 2014 alone, it receive $687 million in private donations. Since it is able to bring in so many donations from different people throughout the United States, the American Red Cross is able to help so many people.

The American Red Cross is known for being open every single day of the year. Not a holiday or weekend passes that the American Red Cross closes its doors to someone who is in need. On top of that, they are open every hour of the day. The American Red Cross knows that if someone is in need, they can?t necessarily predict when they will be in need. So, they stay open no matter what time and no matter what day to help someone when they show up seeking assistance.

There are a multitude of ways in which the American Red Cross is able to support and assist families, communities, and individuals who are in need. Of course, many people show up needing clothing and food. The American Red Cross clothing donations and food donations help with these needs of the organization. On top of that, the American Red Cross also helps those in need of blood and shelter. They do blood drives all across the country and have many shelters offering a home for those who have nowhere else to stay.

Why It Is Important for Everyone to Attempt to Give Back

After learning more about the American Red Cross and the opportunity you have to give back in so many ways, you should feel confident in selecting this charity as a place to donate to. Giving back is a great way to impact your community and those in need. That?s why, every year, around 70% of those living in the United States make an effort to donate to a charity. Whether it?s American Red Cross clothing donations or donations to another organization, giving back is always helpful.

There?s never a reason to simply throw away your clothes. When organizations like the American Red Cross can use those clothes to help people who cannot afford to buy their own clothes, you should always make the effort to donate. Unfortunately, instead of doing American Red Cross clothing donations, many people still just throw away perfectly fine clothing items. Every year, each person is estimated to throw away 10 pounds of clothes, according to the EPA.

It may take extra effort to sort through your clothes, organize your clothes into boxes and bags, and drop them off at a Red Cross donation center, but it is worth it in the long run. You can end your day knowing you did something to make a positive impact on the world. If you can?t stop by an American Red Cross donation center, there are even systems set-up for Red Cross pickup. That way you don?t even have to leave your house to donate to a charity.

Do you think you will consider donating to a charity like the American Red Cross this year? What items can you donate to those in need? Let us know in the comments about your experience giving back to your community.

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3 Major Benefits To a Private School Education

Private preschool

Are you thinking about sending your child to a private school? Whether it be high schools or elementary schools, there are many reasons why you should consider doing so. Most parents have the same concerns as you, and all want their children to have the very best education possible.

So to help you understand if private high schools, middle schools, or even elementary schools are the right choice for your child, here are a few benefits to consider:

Specilized Instruction For Your Child

If your child needs specialized aid in their instruction or has a disability that requires individualized education, then a private school is one of the best choices. At a private school, your child will be taught by highly skilled teachers and professionals, giving you the peace of mind that they are learning from the best. There may also be well-funded programs to suit their needs as they advance through their education.

Advanced Academic Cources

One of the hallmarks of a private school is their rigorous academic programs, which are found at most private schools. Even a private elementary schools can have a slightly more difficult course load, encouraging your child to learn more and obtain great studying habits.

Most private schools also have trained teachers that are experienced in the subject matter, and many of them have advanced degrees. Your child will also have a variety of academic activities available for them to explore, such as working in a science lab.

Strong Extracurricular Programs

Many athletic programs are being reduced or even eliminated in many public schools, especially as budgets are cut in school districts. Sports and arts programs are often the first places to be cut during expense cuts for schools, so they are targetted frequently.

Private schools, on the other hand, have made these programs a key part of their educational path. Most facilities think that they are important parts of a balanced education, and some often have athletic programs and equipment that surpass even those that are found at colleges. Some private schools can be geared entirely to the arts, promoting this interests further.

There are a lot of benefits to going to a private school for your child’s educational needs, as can be seen. They can be one of the best options available to better your child’s future.