how to - october 2011

HOW TO: CHOOSE A tECHniCAl COllEGE • CHOOSE A lASiK SURGEOn

CHOOSE A CREDit UniOn • CHOOSE A COllEGEDiAGnOSE REStlESS lEG SynDROmE

CHOOSE A REtiREmEnt COmmUnity • BUy HEARinG AiDS CHOOSE An ASSiStED liVinG FACility • CHOOSE A BAnKCHOOSE An HVAC COmpAny • CHOOSE A CHiROpRACtOR

October 16, 2011

TABLE OF CONTENTS

October 16, 2011

HOW TO CHOOSE A TECHniCAl COllEGE

HOW TO CHOOSE A lASiK SURGEOn

HOW TO CHOOSE A CREDiT UniOn

HOW TO CHOOSE A COllEGE

HOW TO DiAGnOSE RESTlESS lEG SynDROmE

HOW TO CHOOSE A RETiREmEnT COmmUniTy

HOW TO BUy HEARinG AiDS

HOW TO CHOOSE An ASSiSTED liVinG FACiliTy

HOW TO CHOOSE A BAnK

HOW TO CHOOSE An HVAC COmpAny

HOW TO CHOOSE A CHiROpRACTOR

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Anyone planning to con-tinue their education be-

yond high school, or who is in high school and wants to get a leg up on their college course work, might want to consider enrollment at a technical col-lege. Technical colleges have much to offer students of all levels, and picking the right one may help you achieve your aca-demic and career goals.Students who enroll in technical

colleges vary greatly. Some of the types of students in Georgia who

elect to take coursework at a techni-cal college include:

Beginning students• High school graduate, no college

transfer students • Previous college experience

returning students• Have already attended classes at a

particular technical college

dual enrollment• Current high school student taking

diploma or certificate classes

transient students• Transferring credit to home col-

lege

CertifiCate studentsTechnical colleges may offer differ-

ent types of programs. Credentials offered:• Associate Degrees• Diploma• Technical Certificate of Credit

There are some differences between the programs and program require-ments may vary slightly from school to school. Differences in the pro-grams are:

assoCiate degree• Core classes may transfer to anoth-

er 2- or 4-year college• Highest level of test scores needed

to be “program ready”• College Algebra needed for most

programs• Largest number of hours needed

for graduation

diploma• Slightly lower test scores needed to

be “program ready”• Fewer hours needed for gradua-

tion• Core classes will only transfer to

another technical college

teChniCal CertifiCates of Credit• Fewest credit hours needed for

graduation• Test scores and transcripts may not

be required.

admissionsBasic admissions procedures includ-

ing turning in all required items to the admissions department or officials by the suggested dates, and an applica-tion fee, an application for admission, official transcripts, valid entrance exam scores, and a copy of resident alien card (if applicable). All required items must be submitted on or before the suggested date of the quarter or semester you wish to enter. Be sure

to check with the school so that you know your deadline.Entrance exam requirements may

also vary from school to school. Be sure you know which exam scores will be accepted at the school to which you are applying. If you need to take additional tests, check with that school to see if they administer any entrance exams.Many colleges will require that exam

results be current. They may require that exam scores be no less than five years old, and they will usually stipu-late minimum required scores.Technical colleges may admit stu-

dents at different levels. Some of these levels may be divided as fol-lows:

regular • Applicant met minimum admis-

sions requirements and will not be required to take remedial classes.

provisional/developmental• Applicant is required to take a

specified number of remedial classes, usually in English, math or reading.

proBation• Based on previous college-level

work.Technical colleges may have many

programs that are structured to meet a wide variety of needs from a wide variety of students. If you plan on continuing your education, or want to gain an edge on your college edu-cation during your high school years, consult a technical college to see how their programs can help you achieve your goals.

CHOOSE ATECHNICAL COLLEGEQualifying

for admissions

❒ Some test scores that are accepted by technical colleges are: ASSET, SAT, ACT or COMPASS.

❒ Depending on grades from high school or college courses, you may be exempt from certain portions of exams. Check with the institution you are interested in to determine if you meet their criteria.

❒ Transient students may not need to take entrance exams.

page � The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011


Tired of your contacts and glas-

ses? LASIK may be for you. While LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) doesn’t always result in perfect vision, says the Eye Surgery Education Council (ESEC), it can allow people to more freely pursue their hobbies, physical activities and

careers.It’s a lifetime investment —

and one with many benefits. In order to successfully free

yourself from contacts and glasses, it’s important to know

what to expect, and to find an experienced surgeon whom you

can trust with your windows to the world.

What is lasiK?The Food and Drug Administration

says LASIK is a procedure that permanently changes the shape of the cornea — the clear covering on the front of the eye that helps focus light to create images on your retina — by using an excimer laser. During the surgery, a knife is used to cut a flap in the cornea, revealing the middle section of the cornea (stroma). Pulses from a computer-controlled laser vaporize a portion of the stroma, says the FDA, and the flap is replaced. The result is corrected vision.

The speed and development of the computers that run the lasers is a huge advantage today. Lasers are much safer today than they

used to be.Am I A cAndIdAte?Patients can be 18 or 80 years old, as

long as they’re healthy. The ESEC says an ideal LASIK candidate is at least 18, with a stable contact or glasses prescription for at least two years; has sufficient corneal thickness; is affected by a common vision problem; and doesn’t suffer from a disease (vision-related or otherwise) that could complicate the surgery.As with any surgery, there are risks and

complications to consider. Some patients can lose vision; develop glare, halos and/or double vision; be under- or over-treated, requiring additional treatment or the continued use of contacts or glasses; develop severe dry eye syndrome or have results diminish with age, according to the FDA.

FIndIng A surgeonBecome a critical consumer of health

care in your search for an experienced, qualified surgeon. Do your homework. Research Web sites about LASIK, such as www.lasikinstitute.org, and schedule consultations with a few surgeons. Where you feel comfortable is where you should go.But there’s no substitute for experience:

According to the ESEC, several studies have shown there’s a learning curve associated with the surgery. The more procedures a surgeon has done, the better he or she will be at it. A surgeon who’s done 30,000 surgeries, and has eight or nine years of experience is a lot better than getting a cheap fix.Check surgeon credentials — you’ll

want to go to a certified, licensed ophthalmologist who’s had extensive training in refractive surgery. The surgeon should also have manufacturer certification on lasers, which should be

FDA-approved. Contact the American Board of Ophthalmology at www.abop.org, for information on certified surgeons in your area. Interview possible surgeons to see who

suits your preferences: Do you prefer going to a strictly refractive surgery center or a full-service ophthalmic practice? Do you feel comfortable with the surgeon, and his or her staff ? Is the facility comfortable and clean? Does the surgeon offer patient references?

WhAt to expectOnce you find a surgeon with whom

you feel comfortable, the first step is to schedule a preoperative evaluation, during which you’ll receive a comprehensive eye examination. You can’t wear soft contacts for two to seven days (depending on the type of lenses), or hard lenses for a minimum of four to eight weeks prior to the visit. The surgeon will perform a number of tests to determine if you’re a candidate.Many surgeons allow patients to observe

the procedure from a viewing room to get a better idea of what to expect.The surgery lasts approximately 15

minutes. Discomfort is minimal and you should be able to get back to normal life within a few days. And with the technology today, many walk out with 20/20 vision or better — and no contacts or glasses in sight.Remember that perfect vision isn’t

guaranteed. About 56 percent of patients achieve results of 20/20 or better, and more than 90 percent achieve 20/40 or better according to the ESEC. You may still need to wear glasses or lenses for some activities such as reading. Ask your surgeon what results he or she plans to achieve with your eyes.

CHOOSE A LASIK SURGEON

The Eye Surgery Education Council recommends asking surgeons these questions when considering LASIK:

❒ How many LASlK procedures have you performed?

❒ Do you provide a list of patients I can contact?

❒ What’s your complication rate?

❒ What laser do you use? Is it FDA-approved?

❒ What pre-operative diagnostic tests will you perform?

❒ May I observe a surgery?

❒ Are you licensed and board certified? Are you a member of any professional associations?

❒ What’s your re-treatment rate?


www.gainesvilleeye.com

What is a Credit union?

A credit union is a cooperative financial institution, owned

and controlled by the people who use its services. These people are members. Credit unions serve groups that share something in common, such as where they work, live, or go to church. Credit unions are not-for-profit, and exist to provide a safe, convenient place for members to save money and to get loans at reasonable rates.Credit unions, like other financial

institutions, are closely regulated. The National Credit Union

Administration (NCUA), an agency of the fed-

eral government, in-sures credit union

deposit accounts up to $100,000.

What makes a credit union differ-ent from a bank or sav-ings & loan? Like credit unions, these financial in-

stitutions ac-cept deposits

and make loans but unlike cred-

it unions, they are in business to make a

profit. Banks and savings & loans are owned by groups of

stockholders whose interests include earning a healthy return on their in-vestments.

five WaYs to find a Credit union

Credit unions are for everyone, but the law places some limits on the people they may serve. A credit union’s charter defines its “field of membership,” which could be an employer, church, school, or com-munity. Anyone who lives or works in a community, for example, is eli-gible to join a community-chartered credit union.If you don’t belong, here’s how to

find a credit union to join:1. Visit the internet for information

on credit unions near you. 2. Ask your family. One in three

Americans belong to a credit union. Chances are you have a family mem-ber that uses credit union services. And most credit unions allow mem-bers’ families to join.3. Quiz your friends and neighbors.

Many credit unions have a “com-munity” field of membership, serv-ing a region defined by geography rather than by employment or some other association. Ask friends in the community if they know of a credit union you may join.4. Read the yellow pages. Some

credit unions rarely advertise, so you might not know about them unless you look them up. A yellow pages display ad may state a credit union’s field of membership. If not, at least you’ll know what number to call to ask about membership eligibility.5. Contact the Credit Union Nation-

al Association. Dial (800)358-5710 or visit www.cuna.org and check their online database of credit unions.

Credit unions vs. BanKs

A credit union is a cooperative, not-for-profit financial institution. It is owned and controlled by its mem-bers, and organized to bring savings and give credit to those who belong. Proponents of credit unions say earn-ings are returned to members in the form of higher savings rates, lower loan rates, fewer fees, and expanded services.In contrast, a bank is a financial insti-

tution that accepts deposits and makes loans to corporations and individuals for a profit. A savings and loan insti-tution is in business to accept depos-its and make loans, primarily for first and second mortgages, at a profit.Credit unions see healthy returns

on investments in order to help their members, while other financial institu-tions send investment returns to their stockholders.Credit unions give members a voice.

Members vote for a board of direc-tors from the general membership.Directors serve on a voluntary basis

and hire a Chief Executive Officer, who in turn hires staff to manage the credit union. All members receive in-formation on the state of the credit union, generally in the form of news-letters and other periodicals, such as the credit union’s annual report.U.S. credit unions have a flexible,

highly organized cooperative network the Credit Union System. The system works at the local, state, and national level.There are over 10,000 credit unions

throughout the country serving over 80 million members.

A credit union is a cooperative, not-for-profit

financial institu-tion. It is owned and controlled

by its members, and organized

to bring savings and give credit to those who belong.

CHOOSE ACREDIT UNION

IMPORTANTNOTES❒ Credit unions offer many of the same services as banks, usually at better rates and terms: checking, consumer loans,mortgages, and investment accounts.

❒ Credit unions are not for- profit, and exist first and foremost to serve their members.

❒ Credit union members are also owners. Memberselect a volunteer Board of Directors to strategically guide the organization.



www.georgiasown.org


The high school years are often regarded as a time of

carefree enjoyment, and little or no responsibility. But what many students don’t realize is these are critical preparatory years for college.Academic performance in high

school, including the rigor of courses taken, continues to be the most important admission factor, followed by standardized admission tests, according to the

National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC).And in an economy where jobs

aren’t as plentiful as they once were, two- and four-year degrees are be-coming increasingly vital, which is making college admission increasingly competitive.The good news is that while the

number of students enrolling in col-lege has grown by 39 percent in the last 30 years, the number of institu-tions of higher education has grown by 44 percent, says the NACAG. So, there are plenty of options available to you, even if you don’t get into your first-choice school

it’s never too earlYAs juniors, most students will take

the ACT and SAT admission tests, which 90 percent of universities re-quire in order to be considered for ac-ceptance, according to the NACAC. This is a good time to get into the col-lege groove and start looking at your options.The first step is to consider what at-

tributes you’re looking for in a college. Do you want a large campus or a more intimate one? Does the college offer a reputable program in the major you

plan to study? Prioritize a list of the attributes most important to you.If you need guidance, ask someone

who’s already been through the ap-plication process, such as college stu-dents who went to your high school, suggests The College Board. Get to know your counselors, ask a career planner at a local college or get advice from a teacher.College fairs are great sources for

gathering materials. The NACAC says a very high percentage of admissions officers continue to make frequent visits to high schools. Visit with re-cruiters and take this opportunity to learn about different schools.Visit schools’ web sites and check

features, such as size, academic repu-tation, admission standards, majors available and scholarships available. Make a second list and match it with your first — note which schools fit your needs and narrow your options down to five to seven schools.

the right fitIt’s critical to visit all of the schools

so you get an accurate feel of what each campus is like.You may be a fan of an institution

since you were 3 years old, but you might realize it’s not the right fit for you once you’re a [high school] gradu-ate. Summer is a great time to visit be-

cause it’s quiet. Decide which schools you feel most comfortable at. Hang out in the student center tour the dorms, check out what extracurricular or on-campus activities are offered, and even sit in on a class. Many col-leges host visitation days for potential students. It’s a great way to feel the spirit of the campus. Some students

prefer the organized group visits where they can meet faculty and tour with current students.After a thorough review, decide which

campus styles fit yours. Make sure to note important dates, such as appli-cation deadlines, housing deadlines and enrollment deposit deadlines, and meet them. You have one chance to make a good first impression and of-ten a late application won’t even he considered. Apply to your top three choices to keep your options open.

Choosing a major If you’re not sure what you want to

major in, check out the career centers of colleges you visit to see if you can narrow down your interests. Many offer testing to pinpoint your strong suits and secondary skills, which may help you make a decision. College counselors are also available for as-sistance.Look for a college that offers a wide

variety of general studies to take first. These courses may lead you to a ca-reer choice.

maKing the gradeIf you don’t have the best grades in

high school, or don’t get into your college of choice, consider attending a community college first and then transferring.It’s a fantastic option. Because you

can start over. After 30 semester hours at a community college, schools are no longer looking at high school grades and scores.Remember, choosing a college is an

important decision and an individual process — start planning early to find the institution that can give you the most satisfying college experience.

CHOOSE ACOLLEGE

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS WHEN DECIDING WHEN TO GO TO COLLEGE:

❒ The top 10 criteria to consider when choosing a college are: a school curriculum, quality of instruction, average class size, admission requirements, quality of facilities, campus life, location, transferability, graduation rates and cost.

❒ When getting started in final decision process, start planning early. You’ll need plenty of time to gather information, visit campuses, apply for admission and securehousing.

❒ Scholarships are a great way to help pay for col-lege. Meet with your counselor and research scholarship books to check what scholarships might beavailable for you.


www.gsc.edu

The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Do you find yourself un-able to sit

still to watch your fa-vorite evening pro-gram, or unable to stay seated during your vacation flight, or not able to fall asleep due to leg discomfort or jerking? If so, you may be among the 10 million

adults in the United States with Restless Leg Syn-

drome (RLS). In the past, RLS, was called Ekbom’s

Syndrome.

What are some of the symptoms that might strongly suggests that

this is your problem? The first and foremost symptom is experiencing an unpleasant, creepy crawling, jit-tery sensation in your legs that results in a very strong urge to move them.

This unpleasant sensation starts at rest and is characteristically relieved by walking, pacing or at times by simply stretching or jiggling the legs.

These symptoms, at first, are hardly noted during the day and are felt primarily at night. Often along with these sensations you may find that you have been told that you have “jerks” in your arms or legs while you sleep. The severity of these symp-toms may range from annoy-

ing and infrequent to distressing and daily.

You may also want to question others in your family as RLS runs in families in up to half of sufferers, and research-ers have found sites on chromosomes for RLS.

What Can You do to get relief from rls?

If your symptoms are mild and infre-quent, first try some lifestyle changes.

some Common Changes that help are: 1.) Avoid caffeine 2.) Cut back on alcohol and tobacco 3.) Try moderate exercise 4.) Try relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga 5.) Have good sleep hygiene 6.) Do activities that increase mental alertness in the evening 7.) Begin and end your day with a massage or muscle stretching

If, despite all the above practices, your symptoms are increasing and disrupt-ing your life and sleep patterns, then re-ferral to a physician who is knowledge-able in the diagnosis and treatment of more advanced RLS is indicated. The physician should be able to screen for related neurologic problems that could be making your RLS worse and guide you in the more advanced treatments that are sometimes necessary to con-trol RLS.

DIAGNOSE RESTLESS LEG SyNDROmE


www.gainesvilleneurology.com


The first thing is to find out what

retirement communi-ties are located in the area where you or your relative(s) prefer to live. The weather is an im-portant factor and the proximity to hospitals, doctors, pharmacies, retail malls/stores is im-portant.It is a good idea to ride

around to the various re-tirement communities to

get your first impression of the appearance, architecture

and location. It is also good to check the internet Web site of

each area retirement community. The Web site will provide key in-

formation about the services that are offered and the accommoda-tions.Other pertinent information may

be obtained from the Department of Human Resources Licensing and Sur-vey reports. This information may be obtained via the Internet, at the local Department of Human Resources or at any retirement community that has a licensed nursing wing or assisted living unit. The Dunn and Bradstreet Finan-cial rating, the State Nursing Home As-sociation, The Better Business Bureau and Long-term-Care Ombudsman are four additional agencies where retire-ment community stability and histori-cal information may be obtained.

InterVIeW WIth KeY stAFFCall for an appointment and meet the staff; each retirement commu-nity is run by an executive director and managers of multiple depart-ments. These include nursing,

marketing, dietary, housekeeping, laun-dry, social services, recreational activities, maintenance of the physical plant and the grounds, security, business and transpor-tation.Make an appointment with the director

of marketing or the admissions coordina-tor.The marketing director will show you

around the property and introduce you to the staff and management who will answer any questions you may have. It is important to assess the length of employ-ment of the executive director and key managers, their educational credentials, experience and licenses.

tour propertY, AccommodAtIonsA tour of the retirement community is

imperative to assess the types and sizes of cottages, apartments and rooms associ-ated with each level of care. Safety fea-tures, emergency response equipment and handicap accessability are important fea-tures of the tour. The tour allows a poten-tial resident to evaluate the size or space needed for their furnishings, the closets and storage space.The cleanliness and maintenance or up-

keep of the property may also be assessed on the tour. Staff-resident interaction, so-cial activities and residents’ appearances may also be observed.

Become InFormed ABout serVIces, etc.During the initial and follow-up inter-

views and tour, it is vital to be informed about the amenities, services and levels of care that are provided and included in the admission contract. It is imperative that a potential resident be advised about whether the retirement community is a buy-in or lease arrangement, the price, re-fund policy, pet policy, etc. All amenities

such as meals, housekeeping and laundry/linen service, telephone, cable television, transportation and social activities should be explained.A full service, multilevel continuum of

care retirement community offers levels of care that range from independent liv-ing in villas and apartments, to assisted living or personal care to skilled nursing care. It is preferable to move into a retire-ment community where a resident may “age in place” and not have to relocate to another property or facility if they should have changes in their condition or require personal assistance or nursing care. The social or recreational activity pro-

gram should be assessed when making the decision about your future lifestyle. An activities or social calendar should be available for you to study. A varied pro-gram of activities offering mental or sen-sory stimulating activities, physical activi-ties and cultural entertainment should be included so that a resident has multiple daily options and may be as active as they choose to be.Examples of popular activities include

bridge and other card games, movies, bingo, aerobic exercise classes, exercise equipment for individual or group use, birthday parties, special theme parties and seasonal or holiday celebrations.Also, outings with provided transporta-

tion that include tours of the area, lunch-es at local restaurants and trips to cultural events should be included in the social calendar. Arts and crafts classes should be available for those who enjoy creative pursuits.A transportation program should be pro-

vided to assure transportation to doctor’s appointments and other essential pickups, deliveries or personal transportation to shop, obtain medications and other essen-tials since many senior citizens choose to stop driving.

CHOOSE ARETIREmENT COmmUNITy

THE TOP FIvE THINGS YOu SHOuLD KNOW..

❒ Find out what retirement communities are located in the area where you or your relative(s) prefer to live.

❒. Interview key staff, including marketing, dietary, housekeeping, security and transportation managers and directors, to name a few.

❒. Tour the property to assess the living conditions, safety features and handicap accessibility.

❒. Become informed about services, amenities and continuum of care.

❒. Commu-nicate with the resi-dents, their families and friends.Plan an overnight stay at the facility.

� The Times How-To Guide Advertising Supplement | Sunday, October 16, 2011

Experience our vision of how life should be lived!

(678) 207-2345

Forget about the little things like home and yard maintenance,and get back to enjoying life’s little precious moments.

Live Active, Live Well and Live Life at The Holbrook!

FOR MORE INFO CALL

678-207-23453319 Thompson Bridge Roadwww.trinitylifestyles.com


Hearing aids are not some-thing anybody chomps at

the bit to go buy like the latest IPad or cell phone. But maybe they should be. Hearing loss oc-curs so gradually that most peo-ple wait several years after the loss first becomes a problem to even consider doing something. But early treatment of hearing loss has the potential to trans-form one’s life.The National Council on the Ag-

ing did a study with more than 2,000 people experiencing hearing loss, as well as the significant others of

those with hearing loss, and found that people who

decided to use hearing aids demonstrated

impressive im-provements in their social, emot iona l , p s y c h o -logical, and p h y s i c a l well-being. Specifical-ly, hearing aid usage is positively related to

many quality of life issues.

hearing loss treatment was

shown to improve:• Earning power

• Communication in relation-ships • Intimacy and warmth in family rela-

tionships • Ease in communication • Emotional stability • Sense of control over life events

• Perception of mental functioning • Physical health There are two different professionals

that can help people with their hear-ing needs. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) defines them in this way:

audiologists identify and assess disor-ders of the hearing and balance systems of children and adults. Audiologists select, fit, and dispense amplification systems such as hearing aids and relat-ed devices; program cochlear implants; and provide instruction, rehabilitation, and counseling services to enhance hu-man communication. A graduate (doc-torate or master) degree is required for practice.

hearing instrument specialists as-sess hearing and select, fit, and dispense hearing aids and related devices. They provide instruction, rehabilitation, and

counseling in the use and care of hear-ing aids and related devices to enhance communication. They must be licensed by the Secretary of State in the state in which they are practicing. A further certification for hearing aid specialists and audiologists is achieved by passing an exam from the National Board for Certification in Hearing Instrument Sci-ences.The website www.healthyhearing.com

is a great resource for anyone looking for information on hearing healthcare and amplification devices. No matter the educational background or experi-ence of the hearing healthcare provider (HHP) you choose to see, you should expect to be treated with dignity and re-spect as the HHP focuses on your indi-vidual requests and needs. After all, it’s your quality of life they should be most concerned with and must select the best possible device for you.

BUy HEARING AIDS

Hearing Instrument

Specialists assess hearing and select, fit, and

dispense hearing aids and related

devices


www.hearGA.com


Choosing an assisted living facility can

be a difficult but im-portant decision, one often complicated by emergency situations that rush decision-mak-ing. However, making a positive transition to an assisted living facil-ity only takes careful re-search. The main goals of as-

sisted living are to aid resi-dents — often the elderly

— in tasks, and provide a living experience where the

mind and body are kept active. Assisted living facilities general-

ly provide housing, group meals, personal care and support services,

and social activities in a residential setting. The staff assists residents with simple household tasks, getting

dressed, dietary needs, administering medication and more.

taKe the first step The first step is to determine the fa-

cility characteristics you or your loved one may benefit from. According to the AARP, formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons, assisted living facilities best serve those who don’t require skilled nursing or long-term assistance. Would your loved one enjoy a larger facility with many new people or a more intimate setting? Do you have any specific medical needs? Some facilities include special pro-grams and facilities to aid residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s, for example. Once you’ve determined your needs, compile a list of fa-cilities to visit. The AARP recom-mends a number of sources, in-cluding the local yellow pages;

state agencies and your local area agency on aging. Make sure to ask friends or relatives for advice as well.

looK around Visit several facilities, touring at least

three. Beware of facilities that require ap-pointments to visit. Reputable establish-ments should allow you to visit anytime during visiting hours. When visiting, make careful observations.

Check for cleanliness — in bathrooms, public areas and dining rooms. Is the at-mosphere friendly? How does the facility assess and meet residents needs? Does the staff seem attentive and polite? Observe and talk to the residents. Do they seem well-cared for? Check for safety measures. As the Ameri-

can Association of Homes and Services for the Aging suggests, look for well-lit stairs and halls, handrails in bathrooms and ways for residents to summon help if needed. Check to see if smoke alarms are installed in each room and hallway, that halls and passageways are clear and that exit doors are clearly marked, not locked and operate freely — especially disabled assist doors. Facility staff should know evacuation pro-cedures, and emergency numbers should be prominently posted.

CheCK Credentials Find out if the facility is properly licensed

by the state, and if there is any history of problems or disciplinary actions related to the licensee.In Georgia, the Department of Human

Resources is the licensing agent for assisted living facilities. Through the DHR, you can find out information about assisted living facilities and their compliance with state li-censing requirements.The DHR also is active in investigating

complaints about assisted living facilities and working with the facilities to make im-provements for residents.

Within the DHR is the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which has responsibility for investigating complaints and resolving problems affecting residents of long-term care facilities.The Long-Term Care Ombudsman pro-

gram in Georgia is more than 25 years old. In 2002 it was established as a separate of-fice within the DHR’s Division of Aging Services. The Office of the State LTCO works

through Area Agencies on Aging to address needs of residents in care facilities.In addition to investigating complaints,

Ombudsman work to promote community and family involvement in facilities, provide information on how to select a facility, and educate communities about the needs of residents in assisted living facilities.For more information, visit www.geor-

giaombudsman.org, call 888-454-5826, or contact your local aging program.

Consider Costs Families should thoroughly examine all

the costs involved. Are costs itemized or is there a flat fee? Some facilities may cost several thousand dollars per month. Ask for all charges up front and in writing to avoid surprises.

ease the transition If looking for a loved one, involve him or

her in your search process. Once you de-cide on the facility, bring your loved one for a visit. Keep lines of communication open to ease the transition. Find out what cus-tomizations you can make to the new space to make it feel more like home. Find out about social activities. Activities are essen-tial for preventing boredom, loneliness or depression. Activities at some facilities in-clude: shopping trips, bingo, dance therapy, movies and arts and crafts. Finding some-thing to enjoy and people to do it with can make the move to assisted living a positive experience.

CHOOSE AN ASSISTED LIVING FACILITy

Tips: Choosing an assisted living facility

PLANNING❒ Begin discussion and research early. Don’t wait for an emergency. ❒ Determine the type of care needed. What do you or your loved one need help with? Is specialized care needed?❒ Look for facilities in your area. To contact the nearest Agency on Aging and other services for adults, call Elder Care Locator at (800) 677-1116 or check its Web site:www.elder care.gov.

RESEARCH❒ Examine thefacility’s physical features: Is it clean? Whatfacilities are available?Where do residents eat? Where do they interact?❒ Examine the staff. Do they greet residents? Are they attentive? Do they treat residents well? Are they well groomed?❒ Examine the residents. Are they well-cared for? Are they active? Do they seem happy?❒ Talk to residents


Inspiring the Mind, Body and Spirit

www.trinitylifestyles.com


When you choose a bank, you

choose what could be a lifelong per-sonal and business partner. That’s why a little homework can go a long way in deciding what finan-cial institution will best fit your needs.“Before people con-

sider choosing a fi-nancial institution,

they should realize it’s a decision that should

not be taken lightly espe-cially in light of the eco-

nomic impact of the past few years,” says one veteran

banker. “Many people tend to focus on transaction prices,

high rates of deposit and low rates on loans. I think that’s a trap. There are other elements that need to be considered.”

maKing a finanCial friendTo narrow your choices, you must

first assess your individual needs and identify your “banking person-ality” advises the American Bank-ing Association (ABA), which sug-gests the following questions to ask:

• What is your goal in establish-ing a banking relationship? Sav-ing money? Using a checking account? Getting a loan? All of the above?

• How much money can you keep on deposit each month

and how many checks will you write? That information determines how complex or simple your bank account needs are, from multi-service packages to no-frills accounts.• Will you be buying a home or car, or

making another large purchase in the near future? You may need to investi-gate loan products offered.• If you’ll be saving for a big expense

or your child’s education, review the institution’s savings products. Many banks. offer additional investments, such as mutual kinds, in addition to tra-ditional savings accounts.• Do you prefer using Automated Tell-

er Machines (ATMs) and Internet bank-ing services, or would you rather bank with an extensive branch network with regular, evening and weekend hours?

BanKing ConvenienCeThe institution’s locations, hours, and

proximity to home and work are im-portant to consider so you can easily balance your banking with your busy schedule. ATM, Web and telephone services should also be readily available so the customer can access them con-veniently. “Think about what you will utilize. There may be a branch nearby, but if you do most of your banking on the Web or over the telephone, the place may not be that important.” For those who like to have face-to-face in-teraction with their financial institution, “look at the people aspect, the service you expect. Are transactions handled efficiently and without error? If an er-ror does occur is it resolved quickly and to your satisfaction?’ Then take a close look at the fees asso-

ciated with the services you require, sug-

gests the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Do you use ATMs frequently? Does the bank charge you for ATM transactions at other banks? How much? Compare that to another bank’s ATM charges. Many banks require minimum balances for free checking or savings accounts. The BBB suggests you look at the cost of the fees saved with a $1,500 mini-mum balance, and compare that with the interest you might earn on the same $1,500. If it was invested in a Certifi-cate of Deposit (CD) or other savings instrument Which is more beneficial to you? Use the same comparison to as-sess the benefits or costs of interest-bearing checking accounts.Also, a bank may want you to keep

all your accounts — including credit cards, mortgages and loans — at the same institution, often called “rela-tionship banking,” says the BBB. Ask if you can combine balances to meet fee-free minimum balances or if there are other incentives, If no incentives are offered, you may have to keep your accounts at different banks to get the best deal. Perhaps most important in choosing a bank is the institution’s lon-gevity and durability. “There have been a lot of consolidations and transitions, and that may have changed that ser-vices offered. Look into its financial strength. How does it manage through the tough times, and does it stand by its customers?” Finally do a gut check: Allow yourself a moment to measure your comfort level with the bank. “Do the employees at the bank know you? Do they try to identify your needs over the short term and the long term, or are they simply marketing products to you?”

CHOOSE ABANK

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS WHEN CHOOSING YOuR LIFELONG buSINESS PARTNER:

❒ When checking outbanks, review the feesfor various services andtransactions, advises theAmerican BankingAssociation, but remember, price isn’t the only— or even most important — factor. ... Take aminute to think abouthow comfortable youfeel at each institution.

❒ Ask yourself somebasic questions: Is the staff friendly? Do they try to get to know you by name? Are transactions han-dled efficiently? If there’s an error,how is if han-dled? Does the bank stand by its customers?

❒ What is your goal in establishing a banking relationship? Saving mon-ey? Using a checking ac-count? Get-ting a loan? All of the above?

❒ Will you be buying a home or car, or mak-ing another large purchase in the near future? You may need to investigate loan products offered.


In the summer, there seems to be nothing more important

than good air conditioning. In the winter, nothing is more im-portant than an effective heating system.The key to getting great heat-

ing and air conditioning service is finding the right HVAC com-pany. It’s been said that an HVAC company is like a spouse. Good ones are helpful, reliable and there for you in your times of need, whereas bad ones will cost you a

lot of money, cause you many head-aches and put you in uncomfortable

situations.Word of mouth will pro-

vide the best recom-mendations for an

HVAC company. Ask your fam-

ily and friends who they’ve had good e x p e r i -ence using. When you hear the same name more than once, that’s a good sign.Make sure

that you let the company

know that they were recommend-

ed by people close to you. This will let them

know that they need to do a good job or other customers will

hear about it and maybe consider taking their business to another company.When researching any sort of compa-

ny, you’ll want to check with the Better Business Bureau. For an HVAC com-

pany, check with your state’s board of contractors. You can also check the lo-cal mechanical inspection office to be really thorough. You want to make sure any company

you use is reputable. Unfortunately to-day many are not as reputable as we’d like to think.Ask the difficult questions. What are

their prices? Do they offer a guarantee or warranty? What are their usual turn-around times? What manufacturers do they use? You’ll also want to know if the com-

pany has insurance and is bonded for accidents that are likely to happen occa-sionally. This can save you from having to file a claim on your homeowners in-surance should any mishaps take place that cause damage to your property dur-ing the installation.Make sure to check for proper permits.

An HVAC company getting the proper permits can save a homeowner many headaches. Load calculation is another thing that will save you from plenty of problems in the future.It’s a good idea to have a load calcula-

tion performed before installing a new system in any building. The company that you select should be willing to do so. There are HVAC companies that will use a general rule of thumb to size the necessary equipment instead of double checking, and some companies will just install the same size of equipment as equipment that is being replaced. These methods can cause unnecessary

problems for you. Many times you don’t know if a load calculation was done when the first system was installed and changes in the building have probably taken place over the years.A system that’s too big will be ineffi-

cient and cause big problems. A system that’s too small won’t be able to heat or cool the larger area. When you have the

system that is installed to fit the needs of the building, you will save money and be much happier.Following this advice will help you find

an HVAC company that will help save you some money and leave you satisfied with their work.

CHOOSE AN HVAC COmpANy

Ask the difficult questions.

What are their prices? Do they

offer a guarantee or warranty? What are their

usual turnaround times? What

manufacturers do they use?


www.conditionedairsystems.com


Chiropractic care is an alternative non-

invasive medical disci-pline based on the view that spinal health affects the primary functioning of the body. Because a majority of the nervous system passes through and branches out from the spinal column, any misalignment is bound to affect its function. Doc-tors of Chiropractic use

their hands to adjust the bones of the spine, thereby

improving the structure and function of the spine, verte-

brae, and spinal nerves. Neck pain and back pain are of-

ten thought of when thinking of chiropractic. But, Doctors of Chi-

ropractic help with far more than just neck and back pain. Headaches and migraines, sinus problems, sco-liosis, arm and shoulder pain, hip pain and extremities issues (wrists, elbows, knees, ankles and feet) are all areas that may be helped with chiropractic care. Chiropractic manipulation is a recog-nized technique and is a popular pain relief treatment. It is a holistic approach for any age group. People of all ages can benefit from chiropractic care. Chiro-practic is for every body.Chiropractors earn a Doctorate of

Chiropractic in that specialized field. The first two years of chiropractic ed-ucation are focused on coursework in the basic sciences, after which training focuses on diagnosis-related courses such as physiology, extensive radiol-ogy training, chiropractic manipula-tion (use of hands) and/or a tool, such as an Activator may also be recommended as an alternative to drugs or surgery. The colleges

and universities of chiropractic are accred-ited and held to a high standard just as the medical schools the physicians attend. In addition to this chiropractic education, some chiropractors also pursue post-grad-uate diplomat programs in various special-ties, such as orthopedics, sports medicine, rehabilitation, neurology, nutrition, ergo-nomics and other disciplines.

Seven ways chiropractic can improve quality of life:

• Helps to alleviate pain and adjust mis-

alignments of the spine• Helps improve conditions such as incontinence• Boosts energy levels• Increases the immune system• Increases physical activity• Improves quality of sleep• Creates Wellness

Remember that your spine is a sensitive and important part of your health. Chi-ropractic care is a long term, all-natural approach to optimal well-being. Do your research and choose the right Doctor of Chiropractic for you.

CHOOSE A CHIROpRACTOR

CONSIDER THESE FACTORS WHEN CHOOSING A CHIROPRACTOR

• Research the techniques used by the doctor • Where the doctor at tended chiropractic college is important to some people • Research the experience of the doctor

• Call and talk with the doctor and/or staff and learn the dynamics of the environment

• If important, look at the hours of opera- tion and/or if insurance is accepted

• Go online to the Georgia Board of Chiropractic Examiners and see if there are any disciplinary actions pending

• Go onlineto the Georgia Board of Chiropractic Examiners and confirm the doctor is licensed in the state of Georgia • Ask your primary care Physi- cian who they would recommend — co-caring is an important part of good health


• Chiropractic Care

• Massage

• Physiotherapy

• Reflexology

• Therapeutic Exercise / Rehab

• Nutrition Program / Vitamins

961 Green Street, N.E.Gainesville, GA 30501770.534.0656

www.watkinschiropractic.com


www.laniertech.edu

how to - october 2011

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