Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Disability Friendly Transportation Autos And Ramps Help Disabled People


Physically mans, the physically challenged individuals cannot use their legs to walk. Therefore, the only vessel that could help them move around easily is a wheel chair. New age models have wheelchair ramps or slanted platforms.

These trendy disability friendly transportation ramps provide a special platform adjacent to a staircase. They enable the wheelchair to simply roll down the top of a slanted plane. These can be bolted at one place permanently, especially if, a disabled person would use them daily. If not, he or she can install them temporarily for easy access of a building. They can comfortably rest on the floor or a cement slab.

Portable ramp models are useful travelling aids for handicapped individuals. Many vacation resorts and facilities lack suitable supplies for the disabled. Even so, this transportable appliance can easily make a person's far away from home trip more safe and enjoyable. They can collapse and fold easily when not in use. Ramps for wheelchairs are not the only items that make the lifestyle of a handicapped individual easy.

People with special needs have unique vehicles with personalized features. Each vehicle is different and it has its bad and good side. What is more, these autos can contain just the disability friendly transportation features a user wants. In other words, he or she can get an item that suits his or her particular needs.

So, what makes personalized autos different from any other? They usually have all the features a normal disabled person auto would have. Additionally, they can include unique features that a certain physically challenged person would require. Many of them mimic the construction of automatic transmission cars. Thus, they possess user-friendly, hand-controlled units that are either temporary or permanent fixed controls.

The fact that these disabled autos have many other exclusive features makes them unique. To be specific, many of them have wheelchair ramps. As mentioned earlier, these are flat, inclined platforms that help disabled people climb up stairs. Moreover, many autos have safety mechanisms such as locking wheels and automatic brake sensors. Other remote controlled models have an entry to the wheelchair on all sides.

Today, the internet provides an incomparable shopping centre made up of several stores. As a result, selecting an appropriate device can be one of the most challenging tasks. First, one must examine what the disability friendly transportation vessel should contain; based on the nature and seriousness of the physical disability he or she suffers.

Your Personal Skills Inventory


If you are at all concerned about losing your job - and today who isn't - it might be time to conduct a personal skills inventory, and rethink not only your job but your career. During the month of November 2008, over 500,000 Americans lost their jobs, driving unemployment levels to the highest point in 14 years, almost 7% of the population. These are staggering numbers, and something that everybody who works for a living should be concerned about.

The recession that we're currently in is here to stay and is building up to full force and effect. Most financial experts agree that the recession is going to get a lot worse before it gets any better. For that reason, people need to be thinking now about their financial future, and how they're going to deal with the coming hard times. Before we even discuss or think about the concepts of wealth preservation and wealth creation however, we first need to consider how we intend to generate an income in these difficult economic times.

As you think about your personal situation, a logical place to start is to reevaluate what you do for a living, and the joy and satisfaction you get from it. Many people find themselves working in a career or at a job that they initially got into out of necessity, graduating from school, and taking the first thing they could find. Over the years, their career has grown but not necessarily in a direction that they would prefer, or that they want. This is the reason why so many people undergo a midlife crisis-they find themselves in a situation that they no longer enjoy, and that is not fulfilling their personal needs. Due to the amount of time that you spend at work on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis, it's important that you enjoy what you do for a living in addition to making the money that you need to live.

A skills inventory can help you assess what you do well, as well as what you enjoy. Start by writing down the things you're good at, and be detailed. Follow that list of skills with a list of the things that you enjoy doing. If financial conditions dictate that you change your job and that you find a new source of income, you might as well take the time now to align what you do for work with what you enjoy doing.

Why Do You Need a Car Accident Lawyer?


If you're asking about why you need a car accident lawyer, you're probably considering hiring one. Such question arises when the need comes up. It's either this or you just want to brace yourself for what may be bound to happen. It's a good thing that you're starting to be prepared but instead of doubting why you should get a legal expert in case something happens, you should be confident in what you're about to do.

  • Death

If the road mishap took a life or two, you know that it's a matter that should be forwarded to authorities. Being the one on the spot, you are sure to worry less about the situation if there's a professional who will save you from the mess you're in.

  • Personal injuries

When someone was hurt, you have to settle things properly. A transport accident lawyer will assess things for you and figure out who should pay for the damages. Medical expenses can be a lot to handle so if you think you shouldn't be the one shouldering them, an attorney will let you know so.

  • Justice

You can't just pin the blame on the other party to escape the consequences. If you're guilty that the whole accident is your fault, you won't have to worry excessively when there's a legal counsel on your side to advise you on how you should proceed.

  • Bystanders

When innocent people have been involved in the crash, don't ask yourself why do you need a car accident lawyer. Because there were those that you have compromised, they will come to you in rage. To better deal with this, there's a professional offering to help you out.

  • Insurance matters

Road crashes occur from time to time and they can be costly. Repairing your vehicle can be expensive. A legal adviser will fight for your rights. If you're supposed to receive an amount, you will and he'll be the one to let it happen.

You can't do it all on your own. Well, maybe you can but it's going to be a tedious process. Especially if you're new to the whole issue, you have to allow someone to help you out or better yet, let him take the matter in his own hands. As long as he's credible and competent, you can rest assured that everything will be just fine. Once you realize what the professional can do for you, you'll stop asking why you need a car accident lawyer.

How to Handle Emotional Abuse That Has Crushed Your Self Esteem


Q: How do you handle emotional abuse that has crushed your self-esteem? What if you suffered emotional abuse as a child? How do you cultivate a healthy self esteem? Is it possible? It seems that anything is possible if you want to change and improve your life.

A: An adult child of an alcoholic, emotional abuse was a part of my up bringing. When you're a child you don't understand why a parent would drink seven-days a week and abuse you. After all, parents are supposed to love, support, and guide you through life. Unfortunately, most parents were raised in an abusive family. If the cycle isn't broken, it continues into future generations. If you're in an abusive relationship, get out before too much damage is done. Remember, most abusers where abused.

How to Handle Emotional Abuse That Has Crushed Your Self Esteem

1. From childhood. If you suffered emotional abuse as a child, remember your parents did the best they could with the knowledge they had. If no one showed them the error of their ways, how could they change? This isn't to excuse their behavior, only to make you realize your parents were once children. How were they raised? What did they learn about love? If your parents weren't shown affection and love, how could or would they be able to show you? Also, simply believing that all women are nurturers is false. Your mom may not have been able to show or love you because she wasn't loved. The same goes for your father.

Forgive your parents because they did the best they could. You're an adult and can choose a different path. Know that you matter and are valuable. You can have a high sense of self esteem if it's what you want. Don't allow your childhood to keep you stuck in a 'victim' pattern. Break the cycle by recognizing your emotions and self-defeating patterns. Buy a journal and let all of your feelings out. Yell, scream, and shout at the top of your lungs if that feels better. You could also channel your emotions into art projects or work outs. Get all of the 'emotional poison' out of your system before it manifests as dis-ease in your body and mind.

2. From abusive relationships. If you're in an abusive relationship, get out now! You can't change your partner/spouse. Only they have the power to change. This may be difficult for you to read but it's the truth. Also, stop believing the lies you've been told. Remember, most abusers were abused. It's a horrible cycle that keeps repeating until stops its. Find the courage and strength within you to leave the relationship. If you have children, please get out. Most children would rather be from a broken home than be in home. Children learn from their parents' actions and words. What are your children learning from an abusive relationship? If you love your children, leave an unhealthy relationship and go to the nearest shelter or family member.

You may want to ask yourself "Why" you're staying (or stayed) in an abusive relationship. What did you get out of it? What did you learn from it? What part did you play in it? These questions are not meant to say you did something wrong, only to open your eyes as to "Why" you would stay with someone who didn't treat you well. Do you think you deserve love and respect? If not, why not? While painful, a little self-examination goes a long way. It won't be easy at first, but the sooner you learn and recognize self-sabotaging patterns, the faster you can break them and live a happy and healthy life.

Therapy can help

There are all types of therapy from art to spiritual and everything in between. Find what works best for you. You may be weary of speaking to a stranger about your emotional abuse, but you'll feel better once you release all of the emotions you've kept inside. Research therapists and ask questions. Listen to your intuition and select a therapist that 'feels' right to you.

No matter if you suffered emotional abuse as a child or in adulthood, you can cultivate a healthy self-esteem. However, only you have the power to increase and release your self-esteem. You won't get it from a pill or from people. Self-esteem is inside of you and it's up to you to grab a hold of and nurture it. It may not happen overnight but with steady work and perseverance, you can have a high self-esteem. It's your choice.

Monday, March 4, 2013

4 Cases of Compensation Law Claims You Wouldn't Believe Were Successful


Claiming government-funded workers compensation for an injury whilst having sex in a motel?

Claiming negligence after slipping on a chip in the supermarket?

Workers compensation for a flight attendant in a motorcycle injury on a day off?

Suing Google for negative associations with you in their search engine?

These are just a sampler of the colorful compensation claims that have turned law precedence on its head in 2012, offering a goldmine of news opportunity for the Australian media.

The potential precedents set as a result of recent compensation claims include:

Workers Compensation on your Day Off

On the surface it may sound ridiculous but the case has strong merits. It specifically involved the plaintiff making a motor vehicle injury claim as a result of driving to get his Visa - which he was required to organise for his employment. The court president ruled that '[The workman was doing something that he was] reasonably required, expected or authorised to do in order to carry out his work duties'.

Defamation Claims for Negative Search Engine Name Associations

The plaintiff in this scenario had been a victim of having his name associated with organised crime after being an innocent shooting victim in a 2004 incident. After Google ignored his request to remove the links, a jury ruled against Google in favor of the plaintiff. This case may open a potential stream of defamation claims against search engines, a concept that U.K courts have already foreseen by legally stating that search engines are machines, not publishers, eliminating the responsibility of name associations from its search listings.

Having Sex Included as a 'Ordinary Incident of an Overnight Work Trip'

In June, a woman received ComCare compensation for facial injuries as a result of a light fixture coming out of the wall during sexual activity. As a result sex is now considered as a 'lawful recreational activity' of overnight work trips. The defence argued that while it was a regular activity, it was not necessary. The judge stated that if she had been playing cards and been injured, she would have been entitled to compensation, regardless of her employers encouragement to engage in the activity.

Disregarding the Amount of Time a Physical Hazard has been Present

After years of legal battling, a woman has finally received compensation from shopping giant Woolworths after her crutches slipped out from under her as a result of contact with a greasy chip stain in a shopping aisle. As a result, the court will now need to take into consideration all facts of a 'slip and fall' injury claim, not just establishing how long a hazardous substance has been on the ground.

Assisted Living - the Good Bad and the Ugly


What is Assisted Living?

The typical Assisted Living model is based on apartment style living with care services built in. This model encourages independence and autonomy while providing supervision and daily assistance with care needs. Meals are typically served in a main dining area with the intent of a social gathering while enjoying meals selected by the residents. Activities will be offered, including outings, scenic bus rides, and trips to the grocery store, bank, and doctors visits on designated days of the week.

What type of care is provided in Assisted Living?

Assisted Living provides custodial care, not medical care.


  1. Bathing, Dressing, Toileting, Grooming, Mobility, Medication Management


  2. Cooking, Housekeeping, Transportation, Laundry


What can I expect to pay for Assisted Living?

Most Assisted Living facilities structure their costs on an "ala carte" system. You will be quoted a "base cost" or "room and board cost" ranging from $1500-$3000 per month, depending on geography, size of apartment, and amenities offered. Expect to see additional costs added on right away. Based on an assessment of your care needs, the price will increase accordingly. This price can vary from month-to-month, especially if care needs drastically improve or decline over time.

What are the advantages to Assisted Living?


  1. Less expensive than nursing home care


  2. Private apartments to optimize privacy, autonomy, and independence


  3. Three meals a day served in a social dining atmosphere

  4. Security and call bell systems


  5. Designed with accessibility in mind (roll-in showers, etc)


  6. Exercise programs

  7. Care Services available- to be used as little or as much as you require

  8. Activity programs designed to keep residents active, social, and healthy


  9. Most have a beauty parlor on site


What are the limitations of Assisted Living?


  1. Despite staff presence and encouragement, some residents can become isolated


  2. Most do not allow residents to cook, for safety reasons


  3. Assisted Living can not accommodate residents who are wandering or exit seeking


  4. Minimal staffing requirements in most states. On average, expect to see 1 caregiver for every 30 residents during peak hours, and much less at night


  5. While facilities tout their abilities to care for residents through the end of life, many will ask families to hire private caregivers or transfer to a higher level of care if the residents needs are beyond the scope of their staffing levels


What do I look for in an Assisted Living community?


  1. Ask to see the latest survey


  2. Invite yourself to lunch (most will happily invite you first). Do you have menu options? Can family or friends join you for a meal? What is the cost for guest meals?


  3. Do the other residents interact well with each other? Are the staff friendly and kind? Do they know the residents by name?


  4. What is the caregiver-to-resident staffing ratio for each shift?


  5. Is a nurse available? What hours is the nurse in the building?


  6. Does the facility have a comfortable atmosphere? Is it clean? Are there any noticeable odors?
    What safety features are available?


  7. Is transportation available? Is there an additional cost?


  8. How often is the care plan reviewed? Is the resident or responsible party involved in the review? (they should be)


  9. What is the turn-over rate for staff? *Note* Most facilities have a high turn-over rate. It's a huge problem. What is the facility doing to keep current staff and attract new quality caregivers?


  10. If you have a pet, ask about any fees you will be expected to pay for your pet. Typically, an additional move-in fee and cleaning deposit will be incurred.


  11. What cost of living increases can be expected? (we have noticed 3-6% yearly for most communities)


  12. If the community can no longer meet your needs, how much notice will you receive and what assistance will be available to relocate to another level of care?


  13. Trust your instincts!!!


Who pays for Assisted Living?


  1. Private Pay (you)


  2. Long Term Care Insurance- Check your policy for coverage, waiting periods, etc...


  3. Medicaid- If you already qualify for Medicaid, or will qualify in the near future, make sure the facility you are considering has a Medicaid contract- many do not. You can check with the facility or your local Agency on Aging office for a list of contracted facilities in your area. If a facility does have a contract, chances are they are trying to balance Medicaid v.s. private pay in the building. Some will have a waiting list for Medicaid, so plan ahead. Do not wait until a crisis to start your search!!!


  4. MEDICARE DOES NOT PAY FOR ASSISTED LIVING

If you are just starting your search for an Assisted Living Community, you may consider working with a geriatric care manager or placement and referral agency to guide you. These professionals will know the communities in your area and save you valuable time and energy.

Assisted Living - Because I Care


The world of long term care can be a scary and overwhelming place to both residents and families, but with knowledge comes empowerment that can decrease this feeling of helplessness.

I have spent well over 20 years in healthcare and recently I was asked if I was on the company team or my own team, I was so taken back by this because my loyalty to my employer has never been questioned.

I spent a sleepless night tossing this around only to realize that the true answer to this question is I am on the residents team. The simple truth is those who really know me already know this. I will never apologize to anyone for advocating for a resident, and I have learned there are very good facilities that respect this and follow this mission,some even are on the forefront of changing the industry to improve this.

The one thing I always know is if you do the right thing for the right reason everything else will follow. I have assisted and directed a large number of facilities over the years with the mission of either correcting concerns or implementing systems to prevent them from occurring. I never care that my name is on the wall or website of the facility, just that with the implementation of systems it ultimately results in the best care for all residents. I believe that we as healthcare providers because of our knowledge base and ability to look at situations from a nuetral position that family members may not be able to see ,need to make sure that we maintain standards and educate them to the reason why. The regulations set for assisted living are truly in place because either at some time a resident's safety or well being was jeopardized by the lack of the regulation or to prevent such occurrence's from happening, and first and foremost to promote the best quality of life for each resident.

I have so often seen the licensing inspectors viewed as the enemy, the truth is we should all be on the same page resulting in happy well cared for and educated ,families ,residents and staff. Good facilities maintain open communication with their inspector and the visit to the facility is an opportunity to improve the care and services provided.

I have been questioned whether the articles, books or speeches I have written or gave are intended to give a negative attitude toward Assisted living facilities, the answer to this is No!

I want to be very clear that I think Assisted living is a wonderful avenue for our aging population,whether as a bridge to nursing home or as a place that allows residents to age in place.

I want to give a large applause to those facilities willing to go the extra mile to allow this, not just because it is easier for families but because it shows a true commitment to care for residents and help families by developing relationships to help them deal with the aging process. I have to say that if any facility or person takes offence to what I write or say needs to ask themselves one simple question, "does this apply to me?" If the answer is no then it is not directed to them.

The healthcare industry like any other business has good and bad participants, only each individual company or person can know where they are.

The best advice I can give is be honest,educated and willing to to be on the residents team!

As I often tell others Integrity is what you choose to do when no-one is watching, always ask yourself am I doing the right thing for the right reason.