It is estimated that 7% of the US population has diabetes. Diabetes is a disease where insulin is not properly produced or used by the body. Insulin is used by the body to break down food, particularly sugars and starches, and convert it into energy.

For those with diabetes, monitoring the blood sugar (glucose) level helps be more likely to stay healthy. One method of monitoring the glucose level is a glucose meter. Glucose meters are small portable battery powered devices that help people check their blood sugar level at any time. Some patients may need to check their blood sugar level more often than others, but it is recommended to consult with a doctor first. Self-monitoring of blood glucose is recommended for all people with diabetes.

If you are interested in receiving a free glucose meter then fill out this enrollment form. Medicare and most private insurances will pay for your diabetic supplies.

Labels: diabetes

Durable medical equipment (DME) is medical equipment that is used to perform daily activities in the home. This equipment is used to help a medical necessity and is prescribed by a doctor. This equipment is used primarily in the home and can be used repeatedly. Examples of durable medical equipment are wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, oxygen machines, electric wheelchairs, and mobility scooters. If the durable medical equipment is medically necessary Medicare may cover a portion of the cost.

Labels: durable medical equipment

The amount of disabilities among US senior citizens has decreased over the past two decades. Seniors are becoming healthier and has thus caused a continued decline in disability. A study from the National Long-Term Care Survey (NLTCS), found in the National Academy of Sciences, reported that disability among seniors age 65 and older fell from 26 percent in 1982 to 19 percent in 2005. The study also showed that chronic disability among American seniors with both severe and less severe impairments has decreased. Researchers have noted that assistive technology and other mobility and medical advances may be factors in these declines. This is good news to seniors and shows that we are headed in the right direction of getting healthier and avoiding physical disabilities in our later years.
source: thematuremarket.com, by K.S. Date 02-02-2007

Labels: disability, seniors

Do you have limited mobility? Is it difficult to do daily tasks at home? Many people wonder if they need a wheelchair or would qualify for an electric wheelchair. A simple way to get some feedback is by taking this five question mobility quiz. It can answer some questions for you and help provide suggestions about qualifying for an electric wheelchair through insurance. Evaluate your mobility and possible need for an electric wheelchair. Try taking this mobility quiz; it will take less than a minute!

Labels: mobility

Problem: Sore or dry eyes.
Probable Cause: The CPAP mask or headgear may be positioned improperly
Solution: Reapply the CPAP mask and readjust the headgear

Problem: Redness on the face where the CPAP mask contacts the skin
Probable Cause: It may be an irritation or allergy to mask material
Solution: Use a barrier between the skin and the mask, such as Cann Ease or Duoderm which is prescribed from a physician

Problem: Runny Nose
Probable Cause: Nasal reaction to air flow
Solution: You may need to increase the room humidity or you may need a humidifier to use with your CPAP unit

Problem: Cold nose
Probable Cause: Room air temperature is too cold. Air cools while traveling through the tubing
Solution: Reposition the tubing so that it runs under the bed covers to reduce heat loss

Problem: Dryness or burning sensation in throat or nose
Probable Cause: Air is too dry. The relative humidity is less than 40%
Solution: Increase the room humidity (or moisture in the air). Ask your physician about nasal sprays or gels. Make sure that you are keeping your mouth closed and take slow relaxed breaths through the nose. Try using a chin strap

Problem: Nasal, sinus, or ear pain
Probable Cause: Sinus infection or middle ear infection
Solution: Stop using the CPAP unit and contact a physician

Problem: Feeling of discomfort from the sensation of too much pressure
Probable Cause: Pressure above 12.5 cm/H2O may cause feelings of discomfort but are necessary to relieve sleep apneas
Solution: It may take up to four weeks to adjust to the CPAP sleep therapy system. Try to relax when using the unit. Take slow deep breaths through your nose with your mouth closed.

Problem: Pressure delivered seems significantly lower or higher than usual
Probable Cause: Possible unit malfunction
Solution: Call Orbit Medical or your CPAP supply company

Problem: Air from the unit seems warm
Probable Cause: 1.The filter may be obstructed by debris. 2.The filter or slotted vents on the front and back of the unit may be blocked by bedclothes, curtains, etc. 3.The room temperature is too warm
Solution: 1.Replace or clean the filter. 2.Move the unit away from bedclothes or curtains that block the flow of air around the unit. 3.Turn down the thermostat at night. Or try adding a second length of tubing to the circuit to allow the air to cool. You can also try placing the unit on the floor where the air may be cooler.

Problem: Air blows in your face
Probable Cause: The open side of the swivel connector is positioned wrong
Solution: Turn the closed side of the swivel connector toward your face

Problem: Unit seems too loud
Probable Cause: Patient is not used to unit; it may take a week or two to adjust
Solution: Make sure you are sleepy when you go to bed and make sure mask is fitted correctly

Labels: CPAP

Many of us are living with special needs or are sometimes labeled as disabled. Even though we may be a little different than what is considered normal, we are still people - just like everyone else. A person could be deaf, or have a learning disability, or physical disability, but that is not the important thing to look at. It is important not to focus on what is different than other people but to focus on our strengths. Focus on our abilities not our disabilities. Everyone has disabilities and abilities in some way or the other.

There is adaptive equipment to help solve the problems of the disability. The world is becoming more accessible and technology is rapidly advancing. There are wheelchair sports, assistive technology, stair lifts, research, education and groups of people advocating rights for the disabled. Try to use your disability as an ability. If it is impossible to manage a disability alone some sort of assistive technology may be the answer. For more information and links on disabilities please visit the Orbit Medical resource directory.

Labels: assistive technology, disability