The Costs of Caregiving

Posted on: March 9th, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

Elderly father and adult son out for a walk in the park.

According to Caregiver Action Network, more than 65 million people provide care for a loved one who has an illness, is aging or has some other need. Another statistic Medi-Rents and Sales found was that a majority of caregivers, about 66 percent actually, are women.

Caregiving can be a full-time job for most people even if they already work another full-time job. Caregiving comes with stress, time and financial burden that can be life-changing for most caregivers. In today’s blog, Medi-Rents and Sales will be talking about the costs of caregiving.

The stress of caregiving– Sixty-nine percent of caregivers say that the main cause of stress in their life is taking care of their loved one. This stress can be caused by many different factors, depending on the condition your loved one is in. Depending on your financial situation, many local hospices and care facilities have respite programs to take over duties so you can have a break.

The family members of caregiving– Sometimes, caregiving for an aging parent is not a one-person job. Your spouse or children need to help with caregiving, so it takes a toll on other relationships within the family. To deal with the toll it takes on family relationships, make sure to always have open channels of communication to work through the stress together.

The financial burden of caregiving– On average, caregivers spend around $5,000 a year on caregiving tasks like running to get medications to cooking food for loved ones. Also, more than 60 percent of caregivers worried about the toll caregiving would take on their savings account.

Although caregiving is a stress and takes a toll on a normal life situation, it gives a sense of pride knowing you are making a difference in your loved one’s life. Always remember to take care of yourself throughout your journey as a caregiver. Medi-Rents and Sales is your source for all the medical products and services your family member needs.

 

 

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American Red Cross Month, a Great Reason to Give Blood

Posted on: March 9th, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

Week 2 Post 2

In the months of early spring, blood is typically in short supply at the Red Cross blood donation centers. There are many reasons this could be true: people need more blood during this time, donors do not want to travel to donate blood, or there may be less blood drives during this time of year. Medi-Rents and Sales encourages you to donate blood this March in honor of American Red Cross Month to help those in need.

According to the Red Cross, the celebration of American Red Cross Month dates back to 1913 and March was recently reestablished as American Red Cross Month in 2013. Not only is it a time to ask new and previous donors to give blood, but also to celebrate those who have given blood and saved lives by doing so. The Red Cross receives nearly 11 million donors each year and Medi-Rents and Sales encourages you to start the year off right by giving back and saving a life. You can also give back by becoming a volunteer for the local Red Cross.

If you are looking to give blood or volunteer in the Baltimore area, Medi-Rents and Sales has great news for you. The local Red Cross chapter is right around the corner and willing to take donations. Giving back directly in the community is a great feeling because you are helping local people just like you.

Here are a few reasons why you should donate blood:

  • Some of us give blood because there is a disaster in the area that may need help from you.
  • Some of us give blood because it is important to other people’s wellbeing and health.
  • Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend.
  • Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood someday.
  • Some believe it is the right thing we do.

Why do you give blood? Medi-Rents and Sales wants you to share with us! Contact us today if you have any questions about our products or services.

 

 

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Heart Talk- American Heart Month

Posted on: February 4th, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

Red heart shape puzzle with stethoscope

Every 34 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack. This statistic is startling, so Medi-Rents and Sales has critical information about heart disease, heart attacks, and heart problems. All of these conditions are present in the United States because of various reasons, including poor health. There are warning signs to all of these heart conditions and today we are focusing on what to look for.

Heart condition warning signs:

Heart Disease– Heart disease captures a multitude of heart conditions that you may have. From heart arrhythmias to dilated cardiomyopathy there are many different warning signs of each disease. The main components to look for with heart disease of any type are the following:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Fluttering heartbeat
  • Chest pain
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Changes in your heart rhythm

Heart Attack– Also known as myocardial infarction, a heart attack can be debilitating and sometimes fatal. There are preventative measures that can be taken to lower your risk for a heart attack including: eating healthier, eating more fruits and vegetables, exercising, and drink less alcohol. There are also several warning signs for a heart attack, if any of these are present call 9-1-1 immediately. These are just a few of the warning signs:

  • Chest discomfort
  • Pain in your upper extremities
  • Light headedness
  • Nausea
  • Sweating

Cardiac arrest– Cardiac arrest is another serious heart problem that over 500,000 Americans suffered from in 2013. Cardiac arrest occurs quickly and without warning, so if someone you know is experiencing this, contact 9-1-1 immediately. The American Heart Association has important information about cardiac arrest.

From the bottom of our heart, Medi-Rents and Sales wants you to know the warning signs of all heart conditions. We hope you never experience a heart attack or any other heart condition. If you have questions about our home medical products, contact us today.

 

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A Month for New Love: Fall in Love with Your Health

Posted on: February 4th, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

small red hearts with heart shaped gift box on white background

The winter months can seem long and dreary because the sun doesn’t shine as much and you don’t get much time outside. Although these are the inevitable realities of winter, you should still take the time to be healthy. Medi-Rents and Sales wants you to fall in love with your health again this month. That means every part of your health including physically, mentally, and emotionally. The winter months can bring depression, weight gain, and mood swings. We have tips for you to fall in love with your health.

Fall in love with your health-

Emotionally– Emotional health is also the key to happy living even through the cold winter months. From relationships to your stress levels, always keep your emotions in check. Rid yourself of toxic relationships and manage your stress by talking to someone about it. You will feel better if you are able to get your emotional health under control.

Physically– Your physical health plays a large role in your overall wellbeing, so it is best to always take care. Eating well can save you from common illnesses like the cold and it can keep you active even as your age increases. Take care of your physical health this winter by exercising regularly, you can always find great at home exercises on the internet. Mind your eating habits, even though we are typically stuck inside during the winter, that doesn’t mean you should binge eat. Stick to the basics: eating well, staying active, and social.

Mentally– Mental health is just as important as your physical health. Long winters can bring a spike in seasonal depression. If you are ever feeling down and sad, seek a medical professional’s help immediately. Seasonal depression can take a toll on your overall mental health and can be debilitating.

Medi-Rents and Sales wants you to have a wonderful winter season and you deserve to fall in love with your health. Contact us today for questions about our products and services.

 

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To CPAP or Not to CPAP, That is the Question

Posted on: January 2nd, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

Week 4 post 1

Do you have sleep apnea? One of the only treatments of sleep apnea is CPAP therapy. So, to CPAP or not to CPAP, is that even a question? CPAP therapy has shown time and time again that the benefits can greatly help disruption in sleep due to sleep apnea. Medi-Rents is a supporter of sleep apnea treatment through CPAP therapy and we have a lot to offer in this category.

The benefits of CPAP therapy:

  • CPAP therapy has been shown to provide users with a better night’s sleep. Sleep apnea therapy significantly helps breathing patterns throughout the night because of the continuous airflow.
  • Studies have shown that CPAP therapy may reduce the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events like heart attacks. This also significantly reduces problems associated with heart disease.
  • Within days of starting CPAP therapy, blood pressure can dramatically reduce. The average reduction in blood pressure caused by sleep apnea is equivalent to a hypertension prescription’s effects.
  • CPAP therapy has been seen to help those with diabetes because it improves insulin sensitivity and glucose levels. After three months of therapy, patients with type 2 diabetes saw a reduction in glucose.

CPAP therapy has many obvious benefits besides regulating sleep patterns and breathing through the night. Medi-Rents has sleep specialists and respiratory therapists on our staff that are willing and able to help you through your CPAP therapy journey. We provide same day delivery of sleep apnea equipment in as little as three hours of your order. We strive to provide our customers with the quality service and products we know you deserve.

Medi-Rents wants to let you know the importance of consistently wearing your CPAP device throughout the night. It is important to wear the device at least 70% of the time, or at minimum, 4 nights per week. The more you wear the device, the better you will sleep. Contact us today if you have any questions about our CPAP therapy devices or any other products.

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Oh so Delicious Oatmeal Recipes

Posted on: January 2nd, 2015 by Medi-RentsBlogger

A good start to any day. Fresh fruits and cereal

When you think of breakfast, do you think of warming up to a delicious serving of oatmeal? Oatmeal has many health benefits and it is packed with fiber to keep you healthy. Oatmeal is a simple, delicious, and nutritious choice for breakfast, so Medi-Rents is bringing you a few delicious recipes to try!

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 cup skim milk
  • 1 ripe banana, sliced
  • 2 dashes cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup pureed canned pumpkin
  • 1 dash ground cloves
  • 1 dash ground nutmeg
  • Handful frozen blueberries (optional)

Directions: Put the oats, milk, sliced banana, and cinnamon into a small pot on the stove. Stir continuously over medium high heat for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture gets thick and creamy (and starts bubbling). Stir in the frozen blueberries now, if you like. Turn down heat to medium low and add the canned pumpkin and a dash each of ground cloves and ground nutmeg.

Breakfast Cookie Dough Oatmeal:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
  • 1/2 scoop protein powder
  • Dash of cinnamon
  • Pinch of stevia or other sweetener
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Dash of vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoon nut butter
  • 1 cup milk

Directions: In a bowl, mix oats, protein powder, cinnamon, sweetener, sea salt, and vanilla extract.  Add nut butter and, using a spoon, break up and stir until mixture resembles crumbly cookie dough. Top with milk and then add toppings of your choice.

Apple Pie Baked Oatmeal:

Ingredients:

  • 2/3 cup milk of choice
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 3 tbsp ground flaxmeal
  • 3 1/2 tbsp coconut or vegetable oil
  • 1/16 tsp uncut stevia, or 2 tbsp sugar of choice
  • 2 1/2 cups peeled and chopped apple slices (about 2 large apples)
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 3-6 tbsp brown sugar or or coconut sugar or xylitol, depending on desired sweetness
  • 1/2 cup raisins, optional
  • 1 tsp cinnamon or apple pie spice
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup more milk of choice

Directions: Preheat the oven to 375 F and lightly grease an 8-in square baking pan. Combine the first five ingredients in a mixing bowl. In a separate mixing bowl, stir together all remaining ingredients except the last 1/2 cup milk of choice. After letting the liquid ingredients sit for at least 5 minutes, pour into the prepared baking pan. Then pour the bowl of dry ingredients over top and stir. Finally, pour the remaining 1/2 cup milk over everything. Bake 35 minutes. Broil an additional minute if desired.

Now that you have a few recipes to enjoy tomorrow morning, let Medi-Rents know how delicious they are! We are here for your medical equipment, sleep apnea, and therapy needs. Contact us today if you have any questions.

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Looking Back on 2014, Year in Review

Posted on: December 18th, 2014 by Medi-RentsBlogger

 

In a few short days, it will be 2015 and 2014 will be in the rearview mirror. Can you believe it? Medi-Rents thinks this year flew by, but we are looking forward to what 2015 has in store for us. Today, we are going to reflect back on our health blogs of 2014. We have handpicked a few of the most important topics we believe you should remember. Week 5 post 1

Concussion: A Mild Brain Injury can Cause Serious Problems

There are an estimated 1.7 million people who sustain a TBI annually in the United States alone. Of those injured, almost 80 percent are treated and released from an emergency department and most of those are for concussions.

What is a concussion? We have all heard of concussion and many of us (or our kids) have had one. A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.  A concussion means that there has been change in the way your brain normally works. Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth as seen in car accidents, falls and sports.

Benefits of Exercise for People with Diabetes:

Although exercise is good for you, with diabetes exercising needs to be watched more carefully and your doctor can tell you what a safe blood sugar level is for you. The benefits of exercise for diabetic patients can be great if done properly.

Benefits of exercise for diabetic patients:

  • Blood sugar control
  • Weight control and loss
  • Raise good cholesterol
  • More overall energy
  • Reduced stress level
  • Stronger heart, muscles and bones
  • Improvement of circulation

Blood Pressure: Make Control your Goal:

Did you know that one of three American adults has high blood pressure? That’s 67 million people! Unfortunately, more than half of these people with high blood pressure do not have their condition under control. Medi-Rents wants to be sure that you maintain a healthy blood pressure and if not, at least know how to control it.

Now that you remember a few health tips to bring into 2015, we wish you a happy New Year. Enjoy the time spent with family and friends. Contact us if you have any questions about what we offer.

 

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Meaningful Gift Giving for Kids

Posted on: December 18th, 2014 by Medi-RentsBlogger

Week 2 post 2

Let’s face it; your child doesn’t necessarily need another new toy for the holiday season. This year, have you considered switching it up to a more meaningful gift? MediRents has a few ideas for you to consider when it comes to meaningful gift giving. If you still want them to have a few toy type presents to open during the gift exchange, that’s great too. Adding meaningful gifts to your gift exchange will be memorable for years to come.

Meaningful gift giving for the holiday season:

  1. They’re favorite book signed every year by your child’s teacher. The book Oh the Places You Will Go is a popular choice for having as a keepsake. Start this tradition when their young and you can have it out after they graduate high school.
  2. Framed pennies from the birth year of everyone in your family. It is easy to find the pennies with the correct birth years and this is a cheap DIY project that is meaningful.
  3. There’s a first time for everything. Take your child to their first theater product, musical or play. It is a fun one on one experience for your child and this is a good way to introduce them to the arts.
  4. A set of letters for hard times. If your child is in college or they will be soon enough, write several “open when” letters for them during hard times. Some examples are: open when you’re sad, you need advice, or you need to know how much I love you.
  5.  Home state wall art. This is a great gift for your child if they have moved for their first job or college. Find a map with your home state, cut it out, and put it in a clear frame.

Meaningful gifts are great for friends and family of any age. Sometimes it’s better to give them a gift that may not have cost too much, but it has more meaning than materialistic presents. MediRents wishes you a happy holiday season. Contact us today if you have questions about our products or services.

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Food Truths: Don’t believe these Nutrition Myths

Posted on: November 4th, 2014 by Medi-RentsBlogger
Nutrition is important to your overall well-being. Make sure you avoid these nutrition myths.

Nutrition is important to your overall well-being. Make sure you avoid these nutrition myths.

The internet is filled with millions of articles and webpages that contain misinformation about anything you can imagine. From news stories to health information, be wary of what you read and if the source is credible. Medi-Rents wants you to be your best and learn helpful health information. Nutrition is a major part of your life, so Medi-Rents will be showing you a few nutrition myths.

4 common nutrition myths:

  1. Foods, like celery can have negative calories. Wrong, it is actually not possible for a food to have negative calories. Although very low in calories, you do not burn more digesting the food. It takes about 20% of the calories in a food to burn it, so you would still be left with a few calories from the celery.
  2. Muscle can turn into fat. You may hear people say, if you don’t use muscle, it turns into fat. This is not true because muscle cannot turn into something else. It is true that you will lose muscle mass, but it most definitely does not turn into fat.
  3. A detox juice diet will help you lose weight. This is a myth because there is little proof to back up the allegations that a detox can “flush your system”. Although a short fast can possibly help you get started on a weight loss diet, it is not necessarily the answer to losing the weight.
  4. Diet soda can make you gain weight. Recently, there has been a lot of hype about diet soda making people gain weight, just like regular soda. A recent study showed opposite results, stating that diet soda can actually help to lose weight.

Your nutrition is important to your overall health. Knowing what is true and false about nutrition can help you live a better life. Visit Medi-Rents for your medical equipment needs.

 

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Managing your Diabetes while Planning a Special Event

Posted on: October 14th, 2014 by Medi-RentsBlogger
Planning a special event? Don't forget to incorporate your diabetes!

Planning a special event? Don’t forget to incorporate your diabetes!

Diabetes can mean every part of your life needs to be planned around your special eating habits and exercise routines. When thinking of planning a special event like your wedding, a birthday party, or graduation; your diabetes needs to be kept in mind. Medi-Rents

and Sales understands that this will take a little extra work, but it will be worth it when your special day comes along. Not only do

we offer diabetic supplies like a Glucose Meter and Test Strips, but we have advice for you to consider for your big event.

  • Know your plan for the event. Living with diabetes can make some days seem even longer. Whether you are celebrating a graduation or a wedding, the day can seem long. Start the day by eating protein and simple carbs, not only should you eat       this in the morning, but also throughout the day.
  • Creativity is important. A bulky glucose monitor or insulin pump may not be the most attractive thing, so find a fun way to
  • hide it. For your wedding dress, ask the tailor to sew a small pocket into the dress. For graduation or a birthday party, you can wear a loose dress where it will not show.
  • Responsible drinking is important. When you know how your body reacts to alcohol, you will save yourself a spike in high blood sugar from fruity beverages and liquor.
  • Dance the night away. Most parties include a little bit of dancing, even if it’s the Macarena.  This exercise is beneficial to treating your diabetes and it is fun.
  • Manage your food portions. A special day doesn’t mean you should go off your diet to the point where your blood sugar becomes out of control. Control your portions and you will feel better too.

Medi-Rents and Sales wants you to enjoy your fun party this fall, but don’t forget to take care of your diabetes too. We are here for all of your diabetic supplies. You can learn more about diabetes wellness is our other blog posts.

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