For the first half of 2009 statistics are reporting that there are more women employed in our country than men. This has been caused by the layoffs and cutbacks in male dominated fields such as banking, manufacturing and construction. Females have traditionally chosen recession proof professions in health care and education. Unfortunately women have continued to earn less and receive fewer benefits. With a reversal of roles in the family a large number of couples are reporting marital stress as they become anxious about their income and retirement benefits. There has also been a 37% decrease in the number of divorces filed due to the financial strain that occurs when a family is divided into two different households.
When you are going through the tough times in life it is important to remember that it’s better to have a partner that emotionally supports you. Dr. Noelle Nelson author of Your Man is Wonderful (January 2008) gives helpful suggestions on keeping a positive attitude and avoiding the ‘Blame Game’. She states that it is important to face the issue as a team and not adversaries. Couples should focus on the strengths of their partner to explore other possibilities of income. Then set goals to resolve the problems and celebrate your victories together.
As we all wait for the economy to stabilize this can be an important time to retrain or return to school. You can contact your social network and let them know you are currently looking for employment to see if they have any leads for you. Use your time well and check on-line employment resources daily while you are job hunting. You can keep your stress under control by exercising daily, eating healthy and sleeping a minimum of seven hours. Discuss with your partner how to equalize household responsibilities and help with the children. If you have a difficult situation that you have not been able to discuss with your partner it might be helpful to seek counseling to relieve those tensions. The loss of employment has created experiences for you that were never planned but realize that the recession will not last forever. Time has a tendency to resolve all concerns.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Preparing for the flu season
The flu season is quickly approaching and it will have parents analyzing every cough and sniffle from their children. Health officials are suggesting that every family have a plan on how to stay home with their children when needed. They also ask that you review with your children the importance of washing their hands thoroughly.
Proper hand washing is the best prevention from colds and flu. It only requires one minute of your time. Suds your hands thoroughly in warm water and soap while counting to 20. Use a single towel to pat dry your hands and then use the towel to open the restroom door. Hand sanitizers should be 60 to 90% ethyl alcohol or isopropanol and used in addition to proper hand washing only.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius reports that the flu vaccines are currently available and the HINI vaccines will be available the first part of October. Healthy adults should only need one dose of the vaccine instead of the recommend two doses for higher risk individuals. The Federal government has ordered 195 million doses of the vaccine. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for healthcare workers, children and young adults ages 6 months to 24 years, pregnant women, and people caring for infants younger than 6 months. People over 60 years seem to have developed some immunity while 24 years and under have not. Health officials have emphasized that children who have died from HINI were suffering with various complications from nervous system disorders or developmental delays.
Researchers have developed two antiviral drugs that they believe combat the flu very well. Tamiflu which comes in a pill form and Peramivir which is given intravenously have given promising results when used with patients suffering with the flu. If your family is having flu symptoms you should contact your primary care doctor’s nurse to discuss your symptoms and how to monitor their care.
Proper hand washing is the best prevention from colds and flu. It only requires one minute of your time. Suds your hands thoroughly in warm water and soap while counting to 20. Use a single towel to pat dry your hands and then use the towel to open the restroom door. Hand sanitizers should be 60 to 90% ethyl alcohol or isopropanol and used in addition to proper hand washing only.
Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius reports that the flu vaccines are currently available and the HINI vaccines will be available the first part of October. Healthy adults should only need one dose of the vaccine instead of the recommend two doses for higher risk individuals. The Federal government has ordered 195 million doses of the vaccine. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for healthcare workers, children and young adults ages 6 months to 24 years, pregnant women, and people caring for infants younger than 6 months. People over 60 years seem to have developed some immunity while 24 years and under have not. Health officials have emphasized that children who have died from HINI were suffering with various complications from nervous system disorders or developmental delays.
Researchers have developed two antiviral drugs that they believe combat the flu very well. Tamiflu which comes in a pill form and Peramivir which is given intravenously have given promising results when used with patients suffering with the flu. If your family is having flu symptoms you should contact your primary care doctor’s nurse to discuss your symptoms and how to monitor their care.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Honoring our grandparents
This Sunday is designated as National Grandparents Day in our nation. Today there are more than 6 million children or approximately 1 in 12 children that are being raised by their grandparents or other relative. This has been a gradual trend in our nation over the last few decades due to divorce, neglect, teen-age pregnancy, death of parents, incarceration, unemployment, abuse, alcohol, drug usage or abandonment.
Grandparents accepting the additional responsibility of parenting their grandchildren are experiencing additional stressors to their lives. They feel more strain due to their own concerns of health and financial responsibilities. If they have downsized their home for their retirement they will need more space to accommodate the children. The additional medical care expenses of the children can also be a burden for them. Their dreams of retirement change dramatically along with their social life and interests. There is also the emotional duress of coping with these changes and accepting their fate of raising their grandchildren.
Historically grandparents have been a support to the family system sharing their wisdom and knowledge with other generations. Today they are stepping up to the challenge of raising their grandchildren and fulfilling the role of parent and grandparent to these children. Support for grandparents raising grandchildren is vital to the well-being of the caregivers. Studies show that grandparents that are successful in their new role receive support from other family members, their church and support groups.
Raising grandchildren can be both challenging and highly rewarding. Grandparents also understand that there is no greater gift than receiving the love and respect of their grandchildren who appreciate the sacrifices that have been made for their safety and well-being. So take the time this weekend and let your grandparents know that you appreciate how they have enriched your life. Have you hugged your grandparents today?
Grandparents accepting the additional responsibility of parenting their grandchildren are experiencing additional stressors to their lives. They feel more strain due to their own concerns of health and financial responsibilities. If they have downsized their home for their retirement they will need more space to accommodate the children. The additional medical care expenses of the children can also be a burden for them. Their dreams of retirement change dramatically along with their social life and interests. There is also the emotional duress of coping with these changes and accepting their fate of raising their grandchildren.
Historically grandparents have been a support to the family system sharing their wisdom and knowledge with other generations. Today they are stepping up to the challenge of raising their grandchildren and fulfilling the role of parent and grandparent to these children. Support for grandparents raising grandchildren is vital to the well-being of the caregivers. Studies show that grandparents that are successful in their new role receive support from other family members, their church and support groups.
Raising grandchildren can be both challenging and highly rewarding. Grandparents also understand that there is no greater gift than receiving the love and respect of their grandchildren who appreciate the sacrifices that have been made for their safety and well-being. So take the time this weekend and let your grandparents know that you appreciate how they have enriched your life. Have you hugged your grandparents today?
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
The 'Brain Gym' workout for all ages.
There is a new fad crossing the country. Individuals wanting to exercise their cognitive muscle are trying the new ‘Brain Gym’ concept. In a study published in 2006 in the American Medical Association a clinical trial involving 2,832 older adults found that “cognitive training” such as identifying patterns in a series of letters or words helped improve memory and reasoning skills. A more recent study of 487 adults aged 65 and older found that people who exercised with brain fitness software for 40 hours over eight weeks noted significant improvement in memory and attention skills.
The new NeuroActive Bike or “brain bike” has been reported to combine the benefits of physical activity while pumping more blood to your brain. This concept is also supposed to lower the risk of cognitive decline. All ages have been enjoying the “brain bike”. It is powered by your pedaling and has a wireless mouse for the games. The “brain bike” is currently being placed in fitness centers, schools and retirement homes.
Scientists continue to look for the causes and cures of age-related illnesses. While they seek the answers there are still several low cost ways that can keep us mentally fit. Low-tech games such as Checkers and Chess are favorites for all generations. The Crossword puzzles, Scrabble, and Sodoku puzzles continue to keep the brain sharp for problem-solving. Keeping socially active with book clubs, dancing and other hobbies are also great ways to keep the brain healthy.
Scientific research consistently reports that the brain has significant potential to acquire new knowledge at all ages. The neuroplasticity of the brain has the ability to change and map new neural pathways, stimulate new cell growth and deliver better blood flow and oxygen to the brain. This process should help to improve your short and long-term memory and accelerate your processing speed. Wichita, Kansas has their own ‘Brain Gym’ expert Dorothy Gray who is a licensed Brain Gym instructor and consultant. Contact her today to learn more about how to exercise your brain daily so you can have optimum mental health at any age.
The new NeuroActive Bike or “brain bike” has been reported to combine the benefits of physical activity while pumping more blood to your brain. This concept is also supposed to lower the risk of cognitive decline. All ages have been enjoying the “brain bike”. It is powered by your pedaling and has a wireless mouse for the games. The “brain bike” is currently being placed in fitness centers, schools and retirement homes.
Scientists continue to look for the causes and cures of age-related illnesses. While they seek the answers there are still several low cost ways that can keep us mentally fit. Low-tech games such as Checkers and Chess are favorites for all generations. The Crossword puzzles, Scrabble, and Sodoku puzzles continue to keep the brain sharp for problem-solving. Keeping socially active with book clubs, dancing and other hobbies are also great ways to keep the brain healthy.
Scientific research consistently reports that the brain has significant potential to acquire new knowledge at all ages. The neuroplasticity of the brain has the ability to change and map new neural pathways, stimulate new cell growth and deliver better blood flow and oxygen to the brain. This process should help to improve your short and long-term memory and accelerate your processing speed. Wichita, Kansas has their own ‘Brain Gym’ expert Dorothy Gray who is a licensed Brain Gym instructor and consultant. Contact her today to learn more about how to exercise your brain daily so you can have optimum mental health at any age.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Your College-Bound Student
It’s a proud day when you watch your child leave for college. As a parent you have been working toward this moment since your child was born. This transition from child to young adult can be exhausting and emotionally draining for the parent. You have done all the preparatory work with finances, dormitory room preparation and now you are ready to give your college-bound freshman a positive send-off.
Emotionally parents must be prepared to let go of their young adult and develop a new role of support. College is a huge economic investment for parents and student alike so discussing expectations should be done early in the preparation stage. Your college bound student should be able to balance their checkbook, know how to make their own doctor appointments and fill prescriptions as needed.
If your student calls you in a panic coach them through the choices that are available. This is an important learning situation for them to build confidence in themselves. Your student will be faced with many new dilemmas from roommates to college professors. Try not to become too involved with these concerns. Trust your student to resolve the concern to the best of their abilities. Let your student know you are proud of them and will be supportive in this time of transition. Send them e-mails and text messages to let them know you are thinking of them.
The days will pass quickly and your student will be home to visit on the holidays. You will see them grow to the adult you have always envisioned. It will be a memory to celebrate together.
Emotionally parents must be prepared to let go of their young adult and develop a new role of support. College is a huge economic investment for parents and student alike so discussing expectations should be done early in the preparation stage. Your college bound student should be able to balance their checkbook, know how to make their own doctor appointments and fill prescriptions as needed.
If your student calls you in a panic coach them through the choices that are available. This is an important learning situation for them to build confidence in themselves. Your student will be faced with many new dilemmas from roommates to college professors. Try not to become too involved with these concerns. Trust your student to resolve the concern to the best of their abilities. Let your student know you are proud of them and will be supportive in this time of transition. Send them e-mails and text messages to let them know you are thinking of them.
The days will pass quickly and your student will be home to visit on the holidays. You will see them grow to the adult you have always envisioned. It will be a memory to celebrate together.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Wichita Staycation
Webster dictionary has just added the new term staycation to the English language. It is defined as a vacation in which the vacationer stays at home or makes day trips to area attractions. A staycation is the perfect economical alternative to the conventional vacation that may take more cash flow than you are willing to spend with the status of our current economy.
The Wichita area is very family friendly and has a wide variety of activities to choose from and experience. If your family enjoys the outdoors there are several area lakes where you could go fishing or camping. You could ride your bikes to a local park and picnic or attend a free activity at your local library. There are several swimming pools throughout the city and area YMCA’s for all types of sports or relaxation. That evening try playing a baseball game or plan a barbeque with friends.
For other entertainment ideas you could visit the wide spectrum of museums that Wichita has to offer. Go to the Wichita Chamber of Commerce website for all the local choices. Depending on your family interests there is the Historic Old Cowtown Museum, Mid-American All-Indian Center, Exploration Place, Botanica Gardens and the Museum of World Treasures all located within a few minutes of each other. For animal lovers the Sedgwick County Zoo has several new exhibits to explore or try walking through the Great Plains Nature Center. When the stars come out head to the Lake Afton Public Observatory to learn more about the constellations or experience the Starlite Drive-In for a movie marathon.
For the shopaholic Wichita has a nice variety of shopping malls and stores throughout the city. There is Towne East and Towne West Square Malls that have a wide variety of stores if you want to add a few things to your wardrobe or redecorate a room. If you’re looking for those unique items you might try Clifton Square, Bradley Fair or the Waterfront for ideas. Don’t forget the Delano District downtown which offers a unique variety of shopping, dining, music and theatre entertainment.
Dining in Wichita has become a wonderful experience with every cuisine available from the major restaurant chains to the small business owner sharing their own special cultural dishes with us. After dinner the Warren Theatre offers movie choices throughout the city in luxury surroundings.
Becoming a tourist in your own community keeps your money at home and allows you the opportunity to try new activities that you may never have made time for before. So plan that staycation and start relaxing today. You’ll find that Wichita has a lot to offer for every age group in your family.
The Wichita area is very family friendly and has a wide variety of activities to choose from and experience. If your family enjoys the outdoors there are several area lakes where you could go fishing or camping. You could ride your bikes to a local park and picnic or attend a free activity at your local library. There are several swimming pools throughout the city and area YMCA’s for all types of sports or relaxation. That evening try playing a baseball game or plan a barbeque with friends.
For other entertainment ideas you could visit the wide spectrum of museums that Wichita has to offer. Go to the Wichita Chamber of Commerce website for all the local choices. Depending on your family interests there is the Historic Old Cowtown Museum, Mid-American All-Indian Center, Exploration Place, Botanica Gardens and the Museum of World Treasures all located within a few minutes of each other. For animal lovers the Sedgwick County Zoo has several new exhibits to explore or try walking through the Great Plains Nature Center. When the stars come out head to the Lake Afton Public Observatory to learn more about the constellations or experience the Starlite Drive-In for a movie marathon.
For the shopaholic Wichita has a nice variety of shopping malls and stores throughout the city. There is Towne East and Towne West Square Malls that have a wide variety of stores if you want to add a few things to your wardrobe or redecorate a room. If you’re looking for those unique items you might try Clifton Square, Bradley Fair or the Waterfront for ideas. Don’t forget the Delano District downtown which offers a unique variety of shopping, dining, music and theatre entertainment.
Dining in Wichita has become a wonderful experience with every cuisine available from the major restaurant chains to the small business owner sharing their own special cultural dishes with us. After dinner the Warren Theatre offers movie choices throughout the city in luxury surroundings.
Becoming a tourist in your own community keeps your money at home and allows you the opportunity to try new activities that you may never have made time for before. So plan that staycation and start relaxing today. You’ll find that Wichita has a lot to offer for every age group in your family.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Marital Bliss
Couples that have been together for any length of time often forget what the original attraction was to each other. The day to day irritations of quirky habits begin a cycle of unresolved differences. The dirty laundry on the floor, dishes that need to be put away, a toilet that needs fixed become big issues when the partner feels neglected, unloved or not appreciated.
Relationships are a two-way street. If one partner nags relentlessly communication stops and the blame game begins. Most arguments are based with one partner’s concept of how things should be done from finances to laundry. Discussing these concerns with “I” statements will help diffuse the issue and open the partner to active listening. Sharing your needs in a respectful way and brainstorming at least two alternatives to try will allow couples to step out of the argument and begin to problem-solve the concerns.
Staying emotionally and intimately connected to your partner is difficult with the hectic pace of today. Couples should try to allocate one evening a week as their “date night” and take turns in planning an activity. It can be as simple as staying home and turning off all electronic devices so that you can both focus on each other without interruption. This lets your partner know that spending time together is a priority for you. When you fix their favorite meal, compliment their strengths, or purchase a thoughtful gift your partner will feel loved. That thoughtful gesture will bring a smile to their face and keep your relationship healthy.
Best wishes,
Gina
Relationships are a two-way street. If one partner nags relentlessly communication stops and the blame game begins. Most arguments are based with one partner’s concept of how things should be done from finances to laundry. Discussing these concerns with “I” statements will help diffuse the issue and open the partner to active listening. Sharing your needs in a respectful way and brainstorming at least two alternatives to try will allow couples to step out of the argument and begin to problem-solve the concerns.
Staying emotionally and intimately connected to your partner is difficult with the hectic pace of today. Couples should try to allocate one evening a week as their “date night” and take turns in planning an activity. It can be as simple as staying home and turning off all electronic devices so that you can both focus on each other without interruption. This lets your partner know that spending time together is a priority for you. When you fix their favorite meal, compliment their strengths, or purchase a thoughtful gift your partner will feel loved. That thoughtful gesture will bring a smile to their face and keep your relationship healthy.
Best wishes,
Gina
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