THE ISLAND
Check Up YOUR LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE • PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
THE RIGHT CARE. RIGHT NOW. East Meadow Farmingdale West Islip See Our Ad On Page 5
Open 7 days a week. No appointment needed.
EDITION EIGHT: SERVING FARMINGDALE
2
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Do you know the health benefits of music? Let us tell you.
•Improves Mood, Memory & Cognition •Eases Pain• Lessens Anxiety •Reduces Stress
Sounds great, right?
SEVENTH STREET MUSIC
Offering Private Music Lessons In Your Home • Servicing All Of Long Island
Call Us Today & Book Your First Lesson On Us!
917-387-4516 www.seventhstreetmusic.com
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
3
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
LET’S HELP GET THE ENVIRONMENT HEALTHY WITH SOLAR POWER! CALL OR CLICK FOR YOUR FREE QUOTE TODAY!
631-348-0001
Take The Plunge & Lock In Our End Of Season Rates & Start Saving Energy Today!
With a combination of tax credits & smart financing, you can OWN a PV solar system without laying out money. In fact you can be in positive cash flow in the first month.
• Eliminate Your PSEG Bill Forever! • Own Your System & The Power It Creates. • L.I. Power Solutions Can Install A Solar Panel With NO OUT OF POCKET COST! • 12 Year Low Interest Financing Available. • Local Based Contractor. • Good Credit/Bad Credit - We Have A Program For You! • Full 25 Year Warranty. • NOT A Lease Or PPA.
394008C081121
www.LIPowerSolutions.com
me Home nt
ment
ting &
nsulting & essing Processing ing
eds A Little TLC e N e n o y r e Ev 516-719-0909 At Home SUFFOLK
516-719-0909 Hourly or Live-In Companion Family Respite for Vacations & Functions
Hourly or Live-In Companions
Short and Long Term Care
eople with Special Needs Queens & Manhattan
Post Surgery/ Long or Short Term Care Respite for Family Hourly or Live-In Rehab & Facility Care Companions 24/7 Emergency Service Vacations & Functions
Post Surgery/ FacilityCare CareAgency ong Island’s PremierRehab Home&Health
e with Special Needs ens & Manhattan
TLCcompanions.com
LongThere’s or Short Term NoCare Place 24/7 Emergency Service
Like Home!
Serving The Entire Tri State • TLC Arrives To Care For Your Loved Ones With Maximum Safety
Long Island’s Premier Home Health Care Agency
TLCcompanions.com
631-846-0909 www.TLCcompanions.com
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
390352BC081121
g Island’s Premier Home Health Care Agency
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
4
r e v o c s Di
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
In an all new community located in the heart of Levittown, at Village Green your loved one will enjoy beautifully appointed private apartments and exceptional community amenities, along with assistance with activities of daily living and specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Call (516) 271-2500 to schedule a visit! Make sure your loved one doesn’t miss this opportunity for exceptional care in an all-new senior living community.
90 schoolhouse road • levittown, ny 11756 VillageGreenSeniorLiving.com 394112C081121
IS YOUR CAR HEALTHY? LET US GIVE IT A CHECK UP...
RAV
COURTESY PICK UP We Will Pick Up Your Car for You
AUTOMOTIVE
24 HOUR TOWING FREE ESTIMATES
REPAIRS FOR ALL FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTOMOBILES
Includes: Mileage Maintenance Schedule Check • 10W30 Oil/5W30 Oil/5W20 Oil • Oil Filter • Up to 5 Qts. Oil • Check All Fluids & Tire Pressure
2946
$
(Some Cars Filter Type & Oil May Be Higher)
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
10 OFF
$
ANY SERVICE
$100 OR MORE With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined.
Buying A Used Car? Don’t Buy A Lemon!
PRE-PURCHASE INSPECTION
8999
$
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
SYNTHETIC OIL CHANGE $ 46
59
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
LUBE, OIL CHANGE & FILTER
INCLUDES: • Mileage Maintenance Schedule Check • 10W-30, 5W-30, 5W-20 Oil (Up To 5 Qts. Oil)
• Filter • Check All Fluids & Tire Pressure
29
$
46 +Tax
Some Car Filters & Oil May Be Higher
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
10% DISCOUNT On All Repairs For Active Or Retired Members Of Service CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON? ABS LIGHT ON?
FREE
SCAN FOR CODES ONLY
10% OFF All Replacements of TIRES, BATTERIES, BELTS, HOSES & WIPER BLADES
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
AIR CONDITIONING RECHARGE SPECIAL Up To 1 Lb. Freon 134A Only.
9999
$
+Tax With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
SUMMER SPECIAL Up To 2 Gals. Anti-Freeze Includes: Checking Hoses, Belts & Heating System
8999
$
Most Cars +Tax
With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
MANAGER’S SPECIAL
25 OFF
$
FRONT OR REAR BRAKES With Coupon. Offers Cannot Be Combined. Expires 9/30/21
NY STATE INSPECTIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR ALL MODEL YEARS AUTHORIZED SHOP CERTIFIED TECHNICIANS
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
39 ALLEN BLVD., FARMINGDALE
516.847.0011 EDITION EIGHT
394010C081121
MILEAGE MAINTENANCE
SCHEDULE CHECK
WITH LUBE, OIL CHANGE & FILTER
HOURS: MON-FRI 8AM-5PM SAT 9AM-3PM • SUN CLOSED
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
5
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
SETTING THE STANDARD IN URGENT CARE
It’s great to know caring medical professionals are waiting to see you. Whether it’s an injury, sore throat, seasonal allergies or the flu, our team will see you and your family quickly. We’re open every day with extended hours to fit your schedule. No appointments needed. East Meadow
Farmingdale
West Islip
516.346.5090 AFCUrgentCare.com/East-Meadow
631.576.4190 AFCUrgentCare.com/Farmingdale
631.400.3430 AFCUrgentCare.com/West-Islip
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
390398BC081121
WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU NEED US
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
6
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
HIGHLIGHTS
Welcome to THE ISLAND
Check Up Health and wellness has always been very significant, however, recently more than ever it seems to be front and center in all of our lives. This industry encompasses many different businesses, whether it be a yoga studio, dentist, veterinarian or senior living community, there is one thing in common; one's well being. The Island Check Up is a brand new magazine published by Long Island Media Group, which focuses on health and wellness. This publication is mailed in 12 local editions to a total of over 100,000 homes. Looking to view all of the editions? Not a problem. Visit www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu today!
Healthy Habits Can Become Part Of Your Daily Routine Simple Ways To Maintain Memory As You Age How To Eat To Improve Your Energy Levels Brush Up On Pet Dental Health Strategies To Protect Your Mental Health
08 10 14 16 20
PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP Publisher: Jeff Lambert • Art Director: Josh Marlowe Editor: Felicia Edwards • Marketing Manager: Noelle Stanuch 565 Broadhollow Road, Suite 3, Farmingdale, NY 11735 631.226.2636 • info@longislandmediagroup.com www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
Copyright © 2021 by Long Island Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The publisher will not be responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, and such responsibility, if any, shall be limited to the first use of advertising, in the case of repeated use. The publisher reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising at its sole discretion. The advertiser shall represent that all artwork and copy provided by the advertiser is owned by the advertiser, and it has the right to utilize such in this publication.
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
EDITION EIGHT
7
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
8
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Healthy Habits Can Become Part Of Your Daily Routine
A
person’s habits can have a strong impact on his or her overall health. Unhealthy habits like smoking and living a sedentary lifestyle can increase a person’s risk for various conditions and diseases. On the flip side, healthy habits like eating a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep can bolster a person’s immune system and reduce his or her risk for various ailments. Some healthy habits, like daily exercise, can be time-consuming. Busy adults may not have time to exercise vigorously each day, though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services urges men and women to find time for at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity each week. But not all healthy habits take up time. In fact, adults can incorporate various healthy practices into their daily routines without skipping a beat.
per day can contribute to six pounds of weight loss over the course of a single year. In addition, a study from the North American Menopause Society found that stair climbing can help postmenopausal women reduce their risk for osteoporosis and help them lower their blood pressure.
• Drink more water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that water helps the body maintain a normal temperature, lubricates and cushions joints, protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and helps to rid the body of waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movements. Adults who are thirsty can choose water over soda or other sugary beverages. The CDC notes that sugary beverages like soda and sports drinks contain calories but little nutritional value, making water • Take the stairs. Taking the a healthier way for individuals to stairs instead of the elevator quench their thirst. can have a profound effect on • Go for daily walks. overall health. According to Walking benefits the body in Duke University, climbing just myriad ways. For example, the two flights of stairs combined Harvard School of Public Health
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
notes that women who walk 30 minutes per day can reduce their risk of stroke by 20 percent and potentially by 40 percent if they walk briskly. In addition, researchers at the University of Virginia Health System found that men between the ages of 71 and 93 who walked more than a quarter mile per day had
EDITION EIGHT
half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as men who walked less. A 15-minute walk around the neighborhood each morning coupled with a 15-minute walk after dinner can help adults dramatically improve their overall health. • Eat more greens. Eating more greens is another healthy habit that doesn’t require a major overhaul of an individual’s lifestyle. The U.S. Department of Agriculture notes that dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, are rich in vitamins A,C, E, and K. The Mayo Clinic notes that vitamin E alone can help people maintain their vision and promote a healthy reproductive system while also improving the health of the blood, brain and skin. The USDA also notes that green vegetables contain very little carbohydrates, sodium and cholesterol. Adults won’t have to reinvent the dietary wheel to incorporate more greens into their diets, and the results of doing so can have a significant, positive effect on their overall health. The right habits can help people live healthier lives, and such habits need not require any major life changes.
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
Dr. Michael Salamatbad, D.O.
Causes Of Headaches Continues To Confound Medical Researchers
T
he exact causes of many headaches continues to confound medical researchers. Though the Cleveland Clinic notes that certain environmental factors, such as exposure to allergens or strong odors from household chemicals, can trigger headaches, the mechanism that causes muscles or blood vessels to swell or tighten remains something of a mystery. During a headache, the mysterious mechanism activates specific nerves that affect muscles and blood vessels, and these nerves then send pain signals to the brain. Harvard Medical School notes that tissues that surround the brain and some major nerves in the brain also can signal pain. HMS also reports that while there are more than 300 types of headaches, only about 10 percent of them have an identifiable cause. And what triggers a headache in one person will not necessarily do so in another. However, HMS notes that people who suffer from migraines, an especially severe type of headache that can increase a person’s risk of heart attack, tend to remain sensitive to the same triggers. That’s good news, as it means that people who can identify their headache triggers can then take steps to avoid those triggers in the future in the hopes of reducing the frequency of their headaches.
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
9
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Family Practice
EXCELLENT SERVICE DEDICATED TO CLIENT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL & RELIABLE
NOW INTRODUCING BOTOX & AESTHETICS AT YOUR FAMILY FRIENDLY PHYSICIAN We Advise And Educate Our Clients About Proper Services In Order To Achieve Their Beauty & Aesthetic Goals “Love Dr. Mike, Great bedside manner and he actually care about helping you get better. It’s hard to say that about most other doctors. I’ve been going to him for about 3 years and never a complaint. Lorraine and the rest of the staff are wonderful. If you want a great family physician this is the office and Dr. you want!”
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
9A Broadway, Massapequa
EDITION EIGHT
516.797.1800
Ask for Lauren Regarding Aesthetics & Botox
394473C081121
AUGUST 2021
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
10
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Signs Your Young Child Is Having Vision Problems
Simple Ways To Maintain Memory As You Age
A
dults confront various agerelated side effects as they transition from middle age to their golden years. Skin may begin to wrinkle and hair may turn gray, but those are just the visible side effects of aging. Many additional effects are unseen, but those changes can have a profound effect on adults’ quality of life. According to the Mayo Clinic, various parts of the body are affected by aging. For example, the cardiovascular system changes as people grow older. Blood vessels and arteries stiffen
A
s many a parent can attest, decoding a youngster’s needs can be challenging when that child is not yet able to fully communicate. Diagnosing health issues may require a little trial and error. So it’s no wonder many parents are not aware if their children are having issues with vision. Routine wellness exams by your child’s physician can help to determine if a child is having problems with his or her vision. Doctors may detect subtleties that parents may not see, including signs that suggest kids are having trouble with their vision. The American Optometric Association recommends vision exams at age six months, three years and before entering first grade, as well as every two years thereafter until age 18. Initial vision assessments typically take place in a pediatrician’s office. Parents can speak with their children’s pediatrician and ask if he or she can look for signs of vision trouble in their sons or daughters. Some pediatricians may recommend children visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist. In addition to speaking with their children’s pediatricians, parents can keep an eye out for the following warning signs children may exhibit when they’re www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
experiencing vision disorders. • Squinting, which can be a sign of compensating for poor vision. • Sitting too close to the television or holding a tablet screen close to the face. • Covering or shutting one eye. • Rubbing eyes due to visual fatigue and not general fatigue. • Pulling toys or other objects closer. • Head tilting, which could be a signal that vision may be better in one eye than the other. • Inability to make steady eye contact or track an object in an infant older than three months of age. • Crossed or misaligned eyes after age four months. • Children who are easily distracted in learning situations or have difficulty paying attention may be losing interest due to trouble with their vision. A proactive approach to eye health by parents when children are young can help correct problems early on and ensure children can see and function successfully through the years. Early treatment can lead to major, long-term improvements in vision.
as adults age, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through them. Though many changes are linked to aging, other changes commonly associated with aging, such as a decline in memory, reasoning and other thinking skills, are not natural. The Alzheimer’s Association® notes that dementia is not a normal part of aging. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, and these are the result of damage to brain cells that affect a person’s ability to communicate. That damage is not inevitable, even if it’s commonly associated with aging. The Harvard Medical School notes that fleeting memory problems experienced with aging often reflect normal changes in the structure and function of the brain. It’s important that those changes not be mistaken for dementia, and
EDITION EIGHT
it’s equally important that adults recognize there are many ways they can protect and sharpen their minds as they age. • Continue learning. HMS notes that a higher level of education is associated with improved mental functioning in old age. The reasons for that are unknown, but experts theorize that advanced education compels people to remain mentally active, which in turn helps them maintain a strong memory. Even aging men and women who are still working in challenging fields can benefit from pursuing a new hobby or learning a new skill. • Use the tools at your disposal. It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that organizational tools like planners, maps and lists can help people maintain their memories. However, HMS notes that expending mental energy on finding car keys or trying to remember what to buy at the store makes it harder to learn new and important things. • Let all your senses play a role. HMS reports that the more senses a person uses to learn something, the more his or her brain is involved in retaining a memory. HMS cites one study in which adults were shown a series of emotionally neutral images that were each presented along with a smell. Participants were not asked to recall what they saw, but were later shown a set of images and asked to indicate which they had previously seen. The participants had excellent recall for the odorpaired images, and researchers believe that’s because additional parts of the brain were activated when participants were asked to use more than one sense. Memory loss is not an inevitable side effect of aging, especially for adults who take steps to maintain their memories as they age.
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
11
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
STRUGGLING WITH STAIRS? WE WILL MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS ACCESSIBLE TO YOU INSIDE & OUT Need A Short Ter m Solution?
• Straight, Curved, Narrow Staircases • Fold Up Against Wall • Factory Trained Technicians • New, Reconditioned & Rentals STRAIGHT UNIT
$
2,795
NEW AND INSTALLED
Same Day Appointments & Installations
FREE ESTIMATES STAIR LIFTS • WHEEL CHAIR LIFTS • RAMPS Over 20 Years Serving The New York Tristate Area Following All CDC Guidelines For Your Safety!
NEW YORK
Please Mention CHECK-U MagazineP When Calling
410 SUNRISE HIGHWAY, WEST BABYLON, NY 11704
631-647-8855 • 631-327-3339
Licensed & Insured
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
www.StairGlideNY.com EDITION EIGHT
393904C081121
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
12
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
AUGUST 2021
Add Spark to Salad Dishes with Fresh Veggies
S
alads are a dietary staple across the globe. Salads are traditionally served chilled or at room temperature, and many are enhanced by oil, vinegar or another dressing. Many people are quick to think of certain varieties of lettuce as the prime base for salads. However, just about any fruit or vegetable can serve as a foundation for a tasty salad. Zucchini and tomato provide excellent nutrition and can be very hydrating. These versatile ingredients can be combined to form a robust salad to accompany any meal or one that can be enjoyed on its own. Such is the case with this recipe for “Raw Zucchini Salad” from “The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook” (Rockridge Press) by the editors of the Rockridge Press. Refreshing and filling, this salad may quickly become a staple of your diet.
Raw Zucchini Salad Serves 2 1 medium zucchini, shredded or sliced paper thin 6 cherry tomatoes, halved 3 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 3 to 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons freshly grated low-fat Parmesan cheese
Directions Layer the zucchini slices on two plates in even layers. Top with the tomatoes. Drizzle with the olive oil and lemon juice. Season to taste. Top with the basil and sprinkle with cheese before serving.
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
13
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Long Island’s Premier Hyperbaric Oxygen & Wound Care
Conditions Treated: • Diabetic Ulcers • Osteomyelitis • Arterial & Venous Insufficiency • Non Healing Fractures • Post Surgical Wound Complications • Compromised or Failing Skin Grafts
North Shore Hyperbarics is a comprehensive wound care clinic with all treatments being performed by our Board Certified Doctors.
Kevin Harrison MD FACS Mary Friscia DPM 450 Sunrise Highway • Massapequa NY 11762 Office: 516-809-9217 • Fax: 516-487-4156 www.nshyperbarics.com www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
390351BC081121
www.nshyperbarics.com
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
14
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
How To Eat To Improve Your Energy Levels
A
little extra energy during the day could benefit just about anyone. Late morning mental fatigue and the post-lunch yawns may seem unavoidable, but there are plenty of ways to improve energy levels throughout the day. One such means to getting an extra hop in your step involves utilizing food. The health care experts at Kaiser Permanente® note that every part of the body, including the brain and heart, require energy to work. The body gets that energy from food. According to the National Health Service, the publicly funded health care system of the United Kingdom, a healthy, balanced diet is the best way to maintain sufficient energy levels throughout the day. A dietary approach rooted in eating to energize can change the way people eat, potentially helping them avoid unhealthy foods that won’t give them the boost they need. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics echoes the sentiments of the NHS, noting that eating better is an effective way to improve energy levels. The AAND also recommends additional strategies for people looking to foods to provide an energy boost.
can find its way onto your plate, which should include a combination of whole grains, lean protein, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat dairy. If that’s too much for a single sitting, ensure these food groups are represented on your plate at some point during the day. • Avoid added sugars. Added sugars can adversely affect energy levels. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that consuming too many added sugars, which are found in sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and iced tea and sweet snacks like candy, increases a person’s risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The AAND notes that the energy provided by foods with added sugars is typically misleading, as it wears off quickly and ultimately leads to an energy crash. If you’re looking to eat and drink for energy, then choose water or low-fat milk instead of coffee and soda and replace sweet snacks with fruit.
approach also can prevent the between-meal hunger pangs that compel many people to reach for whatever food is readily available, even if it’s unhealthy. When eating every three to four hours, remember to prepare smaller portions than you would if you were eating three meals per day. The AAND points out • Choose the right snacks. The AAND that feeling comfortably full but not stuffed is recommends snacks have lean protein and a good indicator that you’ve eaten enough. fiber-rich carbohydrates. Low-fat Greek yogurt, • Eat every three to four hours. The • Aim for balance. A balanced plate should apples, a handful of unsalted nuts, and carrots AAND notes that eating every three to four include foods from multiple food groups. The are some examples of healthy snacks that will hours helps to fuel a healthy metabolism. This AAND notes that even a small amount of fat provide an energy boost between meals.
How Adults Can Take Active Roles In Their Health Care
A
dults play a significant role in their own health care. Adults focused on getting fit may visit various fitness facilities before signing up for a membership, and individuals who want to improve their diets may spend countless hours poring over healthy recipes and the latest trends in nutrition. Such research pays dividends, and the same commitment can be applied to choosing the right health care services.
Adults who are enrolled in employersponsored health insurance plans may feel as though their options are limited in regard to their health care services. However, there are many ways for patients to get more out of their health care plans. • Shop around for a primary care physician. It’s easy to be overwhelmed when perusing lists of in-network primary care physicians provided by insurance companies. Such lists can seem endless and it can be hard to distinguish one physician from another. Adults in need of new primary care physicians can ask neighbors or family and friends who live nearby for recommendations. It’s www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
mammograms have reduced breast cancer mortality in the United States by 40 percent since 1990. Many insurance providers cover annual physicals at no cost to the patient, and screenings can catch diseases early when they’re at their most treatable and treatment is less expensive and less time-consuming. • Be a prepared patient. Prepare a list of questions prior to a scheduled doctor’s appointment. Jot questions down as they come to you in the weeks leading up to the appointment and don’t hesitate to ask important to put the time in when choosing questions during the visit. a primary care physician, as people who are comfortable with their physicians are • Be open and honest with your more likely to schedule annual wellness physician. Concealing behaviors from visits or book appointments when they your physician will negate some of the aren’t feeling well. Such visits can be life- benefits of visiting the doctor. For example, if you live a largely sedentary lifestyle but saving. tell your doctor you’re physically active, he • Schedule annual wellness visits. or she won’t offer advice on how to make Annual wellness visits are very important, exercise a bigger part of your life. Being even for health-conscious individuals who open and honest with a physician enables are not experiencing any signs of illness the doctor to give the best medical advice. or injury. Regular checkups and screenings Taking an active role in their health can uncover health problems even when care is a great way for adults to no symptoms are present, potentially improve their overall health and can saving patients’ lives. For example, Hackensack Meridian Health reports that help them reduce their risk for illness. EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
15
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
FREE TRIAL
Don’t Suffer From Chronic Pain, Stress or Fatigue!
Half Hour Of Acupuncture At Our New Location AMITYVILLE! With Coupon Only. Expires 9/1/21
We offer a wide variety of acupuncture and massage therapy services designed to get to the root of your condition and help you achieve true holistic health and wellness. These services include acupuncture, cupping, Asian body work, deep tissue, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, and reflexology.
NEW LOCATION
59B Merrick Rd. • Amityville NY 631-438-1200
Hours Of Operation: Mon - Fri 9am - 7pm • Sat 9am- 5pm
www.acuwellacupuncture.com
Most Insurances Accepted. www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
Come visit us at any of our locations: St. James & Pt. Jeff Station 393967BS081121
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
16
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Brush Up On Pet Dental Health
C
• Start brushing pets’ teeth. Brushing a pet’s teeth can promote good oral health and potentially prevent serious problems along the way. Always use a pet-safe toothpaste, and talk to a veterinarian about a special dental diet.
ompanionship, unconditional love and security are just some of the perks of pet ownership. People who bring pets into their homes understand that a certain commitment comes with becoming a pet owner. Pet owners recognize they need to provide food, shelter and basic healthcare for their pets, but they may not recognize the role dental health plays in helping pets be as healthy as possible. The American Animal Hospital Association notes that dental disease can start early in a pet’s life. By the age of three, most dogs and cats will have some level of dental disease. If dental disease is left untreated, pets may suffer from inflammation, infection and even chronic pain. The animal health and wellness site VetStreet says that more than 70 percent of cats and dogs over age four are affected by periodontal disease. Bacteria from poor dental health may spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy.
• Invest in other dental products. Seek products that receive the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council to help maintain a pet’s oral hygiene. Avoid products like synthetic bones, antlers and other animal bones, which can fracture an animal’s teeth. • Work with your veterinarian. Vets typically use X-rays to diagnose dental disease, as teeth may appear normal to the naked eye but still be diseased. Anesthesia is frequently used in dental evaluations and cleanings. It makes it safer and less stressful for the animal and the vet. Speak with your vet about the frequency of dental cleanings and care, asking any questions you may have about the safety and efficacy of anesthesia use.
or cat’s mouth may indicate a problem such Pet owners must prioritize their furry friends’ • Acknowledge bad breath. Bad as stomatitis, a common feline condition that breath is not something that comes with the causes inflammation to the oral tissues and oral health. Though often overlooked, pets’ dental health is integral to their overall health. territory of having a pet. Odor from a dog gums.
Signs Dogs Are Having Vision Problems
D
og owners take their furry friends’ health very seriously. Like their human companions, dogs can experience health problems that seemingly come out of nowhere. Unlike the men and women who take care of them, dogs cannot call the doctor when something is bothering them. That responsibility rests on the shoulders of their owners. A dog’s eyes can be a window into the animal’s overall health. According to the pet care professionals at Memphis Veterinary Specialists & Emergency, serious conditions such as liver disease, diabetes and autoimmune diseases can all present indicators in a dog’s eyes. The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation® says that dogs can experience physical and/or behavioral problems when they’re experiencing eye trouble. A host of factors can contribute to vision problems in dogs. Age is one such factor, but diseases such as diabetes and hereditary conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy, also can lead to visual impairment. Before dog owners can work with veterinarians to determine the cause of their furry friends’ vision loss, they must first learn to recognize signs of impairment. The AKC notes that some of these signs may be obvious while others are more subtle.
should book a vet appointment immediately. • Trouble locating food or toys: Most dogs love to eat and drink and play with their toys. So a sudden inability to find food or water bowls or a favorite toy could indicate the dog is having vision problems. • Reluctance to jump on or off a couch: This symptom can be less noticeable than bumping into furniture or having trouble finding food. Dogs that once loved to jump on or off a couch but now stick to the floor may be doing so due to impaired vision and the fear of not being able to see where they’re jumping. • Clinginess: The AKC notes that some dogs cling to their owners as they experience vision loss. • Aggressiveness: Dogs may begin to show aggression as they experience vision loss. That’s because the loss of their eyesight can make them feel vulnerable, leading some to act offensively as a defense mechanism.
• Physical indicators/behaviors: Dog owners should be on the lookout for red, puffy or swollen eyes. In addition, Memphis Veterinary Specialists & Emergency notes that some dogs may paw at their face • Bumping into walls or furniture: This is a clear indicator that in response to vision loss. a dog is experiencing vision problems. Dog owners who notice this Vision loss in dogs can be caused by many things. The first step to is happening even when there’s nothing to obstruct their dogs’ path helping dogs overcome diminished vision is recognizing its symptoms.
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
17
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Invest in your spiritual health... ...it will change your life! Sunday Service: 11AM •Casual Atmosphere •Live Worship Band •Fun Kids Programs •Small Groups •Authentic Community •Food Pantry Plus, you can scan and watch our services online!
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
18
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
The Decibel Levels Of Common Noises
N
negative short and long-term consequences. For example, the HLAA reports that even mild hearing loss can cause a child to miss as much as 50 percent of classroom discussion. The long-term consequences also are significant, especially for those who don’t seek treatment for hearing loss. According to the HLAA, people with unaided hearing loss earned an average of $20,000 less per year than people who used hearing aids or cochlear implants. Many people suffer hearing loss after attending rock concerts or special events like fireworks shows. Various other noises also can have an adverse effect on a person’s hearing. The experts at Johns Hopkins Medicine report that normal conversation is usually around 60 decibels. These noises often measure at much higher decibels than normal conversation, potentially putting people’s hearing in jeopardy.
oise is everywhere. Though some noise can be very harmful, many noises are associated with something positive. For example, for many people the sound of birds chirping marks the arrival of spring, while others may instantly associate the sound of waves crashing on a shore with the relaxing spirit of summer. Not all noises should be welcomed with open arms, especially by people who are not protecting themselves from noise. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that noise is often expressed in decibels, a unit of measurement that indicates the volume of sound. The greater the number of decibels, the louder the noise and the more harmful that noise is to a person’s ears. And no one is immune to the side effects of exposure to excessive levels of noise, which include hearing loss. For example, the Hearing Loss Association of America estimates that one in five teenagers in the United States experience some degree of hearing loss. That’s unfortunate, as hearing loss can have
Interesting Facts About American Sign Language American Sign Language, or ASL, has helped millions of North Americans who are deaf or have family members who are deaf communicate with their loved ones and colleagues. Though ASL may be most widely embraced in families that include someone who is deaf or hard of hearing, anyone can benefit from learning this unique and valuable means of communicating.
Though people in the United States and Canada communicate using ASL, the NIDCD notes that there is no universal sign language. In fact, British Sign Language, or BSL, is used across the pond in England, and people who know ASL may not be able to understand BSL, or vice versa. The origins of ASL
The NIDCD notes that the exact origins of ASL are not clear, though some suggest it According to the National Institute on may trace its roots back hundreds of years. Deafness and Other Communication Those theories trace ASL to Langue des Disorders, ASL is its own unique language Signes Francaise (French Sign Language), that employs movements of both the hands or LSF. Modern ASL indeed includes some and face. Though ASL has the same elements of LSF, which was used in France linguistic properties as spoken languages, more than 200 years ago. its grammar differs from English. ASL and spoken languages What is ASL?
Is sign language everywhere?
the
same ASL is its own language that is distinct from English. The NIDCD notes that ASL features While it’s known as “American Sign all the fundamental components of spoken Language,” ASL is the primary language of languages, including rules governing many North Americans who are deaf and pronunciation, word formation and word hard of hearing and is one of two official order. Some may even be surprised to learn sign languages in Canada. In Mexico, that, like spoken languages such as English, where the primary spoken language is ASL even has regional accents and dialects. Spanish and not English, the deaf and hard The rhythm of signing, pronunciation, slang, of hearing primarily communicate using and signs in ASL may differ depending on where the person signing is from. Lenguaje de Signos Mexicano, or LSM.
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
• Jet plane, siren, jackhammer: No one wants to walk past a jackhammer in use, and for good reason. Jackhammers measure at roughly 120 to 130 decibels, putting them on par with noises made by jet planes and sirens. Johns Hopkins notes that unprotected exposure to these noises can contribute to permanent hearing loss. • Personal music players: Maximum volume on some personal music players, including smartphones, is 10 times as loud as recommended listening settings. That’s concerning for everyone, but especially for parents of young people who grew up listening to music primarily through personal music players. Decibel levels on personal music players at their loudest levels average around 110, putting them on par with chain saws and radio-controlled airplanes. Few people would put chain saws or radiocontrolled airplanes directly next to their ears, and the same principle should apply when using personal music players. Exposure to noises around 110 decibels can lead to permanent hearing loss. • Motorcycle: Many people have waited next to motorcycles at stoplights. When the light turns green, the sound from motorcycles as they speed off can be especially loud, averaging about 90 decibels. That can contribute to gradual hearing loss over time. It’s important that motorcycle riders keep this in mind, especially if they don’t wear helmets or wear helmets with inadequate ear protection. Common noises can have very harmful effects on people’s overall health. Protection against such noises can help people avoid hearing loss. For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
19
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
SUMMER IS ALMOST OVER - SHED THOSE EXTRA SUMMER POUNDS IV THERAPY
Two Week Lifestyle Special for $129
• • • • •
Medically Supervised Weight Loss Two Weight-Loss Coaching Sessions For Lipotropic (Fat Burning) Injections and More
Medically Supervised Boost Immune System Weight Loss Better Performance Health & Wellness Energy
Vitamins • Minerals • Amino Acids
690 Broadway Ste. 205 Massapequa, NY 11758
203-898-4766
394061C081121
www.revitalizelifestyle.net revitalize.lifestyle444@gmail.com Gift Certificates Available
SUMMER IS HERE!
RECOMMIT TO YOUR SELF CARE H O L I ST I C W E L L N E S S & M E TA P H Y S I CA L S H O P
• MASSAGE • REIKI • ACUPUNCTURE • READINGS • WORKSHOPS • CRYSTALS • SPIRITUAL GIFTS
NOW ACCEPTING NYSHIP INSURANCE FOR YOUR MASSAGE THERAPY! CALL FOR DETAILS
GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH
TRY ONE OF OUR NEW THERAPISTS ERIN, MICHELE, JACQUIE OR VERONICA AND SAVE
15% OFF
VALID ON 60 MINUTE CUSTOMIZABLE MASSAGES ONLY. MUST BE FIRST TIME WITH THERAPIST. NOT TO BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. EXPIRES 10/1/21
WWW.HEALINGHEARTSHOLISTICWELLNESS.COM
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
383750BC081121
935 N. BROADWAY • N. MASSAPEQUA • 516.707.5915
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
20
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Dental Hygiene Is About Strategies To Protect Your More Than Just Your Teeth Mental Health because people with diabetes are more vulnerable to infections than those without diabetes. While that suggests periodontal disease is a byproduct of diabetes, the AAP notes that research points to the relationship being a two-way street. Periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar, making dental hygiene an especially vital component of routine healthcare for people with diabetes.
I
ndividuals tend to learn about dental hygiene at an early age. On the recommendation of their children’s pediatricians, parents may begin brushing their youngsters’ teeth the moment the first tooth breaks through the gums. While proper dental hygiene is vital to oral health, it also can have a profound effect on the rest of the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, poor oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions. Periodontitis is a severe yet preventable gum infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. But the threat of periodontitis doesn’t end in the mouth. The American Academy of Periodontology notes there’s a connection between periodontitis and several other diseases. While bacteria was long suspected to be the link between periodontitis and other diseases in the body, the AAP notes that recent research points to inflammation as the culprit that connects periodontitis with diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. • Diabetes: The AAP notes that people with diabetes are at increased risk for periodontal disease, speculating that diabetes patients’ risk is higher www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
• Heart disease: The AAP notes that research indicates periodontal disease increases a person’s risk for heart disease, with the inflammation caused by the former leading to the latter. People with existing heart conditions also may find that periodontal disease exacerbates those conditions. The Mayo Clinic notes that the link between heart disease and periodontal disease is not fully understood, but enough studies have been conducted for scientists to support the notion that the two are connected. • Can periodontal disease be prevented? Periodontal disease is preventable. A daily dental hygiene regimen that includes brushing after meals, flossing at least once per day and swishing with mouthwash are some simple, healthy habits that can prevent periodontal disease. In addition, the AAP recommends that people at increased risk for periodontal disease, including the elderly and smokers, should discuss their risk with their dental professionals. Dental hygiene can do more for individuals than produce a mouthful of pearly white teeth. In fact, people who prioritize dental hygiene may lower their risks for various diseases.
I
mproving one’s overall health and maintaining that health over the long haul can have a profound impact on quality of life. For example, the Harvard Medical School notes that regular exercise can slow the natural decline in physical performance that occurs as people age. That means routine exercise can serve as something like a fountain of youth that allows people to keep their cardiovascular fitness, metabolism and muscle function on par with their younger counterparts.
reactions. The prefrontal cortex is another part of the brain that needs sufficient sleep to function properly. Without it, the prefrontal cortex, which is integral to impulse control, cannot function properly. Adults can speak with their physicians about how much sleep they should be getting each night. Those needs change as individuals age.
• Eat a balanced diet. A balanced, healthy diet doesn’t just benefit the waistline. According to the ADAA, a balanced diet that includes protein, healthy non-saturated fats, fiber, and When attempting to improve longsome simple carbohydrates can term health, it’s important that reduce the likelihood that mental people emphasize mental health health issues like fatigue, difficulty as much as they do their physical concentrating and irritability will health. The Anxiety & Depression arise during the day. Association of America notes the in your importance and effectiveness of • Volunteer preventive efforts in relation to community. A 2020 study depression and anxiety. In regard published in the Journal of to mental health, prevention efforts Happiness Studies found that can function in much the same way people who volunteered in the that exercise serves physical health. past were more satisfied with Routine exercise helps people to their lives and rated their overall maintain healthy weights, reducing health as much better than people their risk for various conditions who didn’t volunteer. Perhaps the and diseases. Preventive efforts most noteworthy finding in the designed to improve mental health study was that people who began can significantly reduce a person’s volunteering with lower levels of well-being tended to get the risk for anxiety and depression. biggest boost from volunteering. provides Various techniques and strategies Volunteering can be utilized to promote mental opportunities to socialize, which health, and these are simple and can help ward off the loneliness that can sometimes contribute to highly effective. anxiety and depression. •Get enough sleep. According to the Primary Care Collaborative, a not-for-profit member organization dedicated to advancing an effective and efficient health system, sleep and mental health are intimately related. Sleep loss can contribute to emotional instability. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for humans’ emotional responses. When an individual does not get enough sleep, his or her amygdala goes into overdrive, leading to more intense emotional
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
AUGUST 2021
21
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
“
”
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Many people are aware of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, a mental health problem that some individuals develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event. However, for some, it can be hard to understand just how serious this disorder can be. While it has been noted that a diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting traumatic event, that exposure can be indirect rather than firsthand. PTSD is not exclusive to those who have served in the military, however, it has long been linked to combat veterans. At Paws of War, we provide essential and supportive services to our heroes in need by incorporating the love of pets. For example, service dogs can help combat the daily symptoms of PTSD. They can be trained to pick up stress signals and intervene with their owner to shift focus back to a positive environment.
Please visit us on Facebook to see what we are doing throughout our community. To help support our mission, visit www.pawsofwar.org and donate today.
PAWS OF WAR 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset
631.406.6595 www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
22
AUGUST 2021
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Sunday no longer a fun day? We’ve Got Specialists For That SM
Seven days a week!
Orlin& Cohen is Long Island’s only orthopedic network with multiple offices open on weeknights and weekends. Premier team of experienced, compassionate specialists backed by orthopedic physician assistants. In-house orthopedic MRI for convenient, comprehensive care. Walk-ins welcome. No appointment needed.
Immediate After-Hours Care in Merrick, Garden City and Bohemia.
516.536.2800 | 631.706.2800 | orlincohen.com
•
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
•
EDITION EIGHT
OC906_CentralOrthoCompetitiveCampaign Print_CheckUpMagazine_BackCover_8.625x11_Golf.pdf.indd 1
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
393968C081121
•
Rockville Centre Lynbrook Merrick Garden City Massapequa Woodbury Melville Bellmore Bohemia Smithtown Port Jefferson Riverhead Southampton Port Jefferson Station Kew Gardens Staten Island
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
7/8/21 12:38 PM
AUGUST 2021
23
THE ISLAND CHECK UP
Pristine natural surroundings, fresh mountain air, the calls of the orioles sitting in the reeds...
Theraputic.
This is theraputic. Woodloch Resort offers more than just family fun and bonding, you’ll also find a diamond of a golf course at Woodloch Springs, and one of the finest spas in the world at The Lodge at Woodloch. Woodloch - reconnect with your family, with yourself, with nature.
W O O D L O C H . C O M / G O L F | IN THE NORTHERN POCONO MOUNTAINS 000812C081121
www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
EDITION EIGHT
For More Information, Call 631.226.2636
Celebrating Our 37th Year Anniversary Come See Our Brand New State Of The Art Location
WE AC CEPT COMPE TITORS ’ COUPO NS
2 PAIR COMPLETE EYEGLASSES & EXAM
99
$
COMPLETE PAIR OF GLASSES
95 & UP
With this coupon. *S.V. up to 3 SPH-150 Cyl. Bifocals and glasses additional. Compare this offer to any Buy 1 Get 1 offer you’ve seen... AND SAVE! Same restrictions as other coupons. Coupon expires 9/30/21
KID’S SPECIAL
99
$
INCLUDES SINGLE VISION • Plastic • Oversized Lenses • Hundreds of Frames • Bifocals & Glass Additional
4995
$
& UP
EYE EXAM ADDITIONAL. Non-Warranteed. Cannot be combined with any other plan, program or coupon. *S.V. up to 3 SPH-150 Cyl. Coupon expires 9/30/21
PROGRESSIVE NO LINE LENSES
95
199
$
& UP
See store for restrictions. 21 years old or younger. Must be same RX. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Offer expires 9/30/21.
95 & UP
With this coupon. Authorized Varilux Dealer. Varilux Physio available at additional charge. Coupon expires 9/30/21.
WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCES & UNION PLANS Comprehensive Vision Screenings Unified Sanitation Association Local 1199 WE WELCOME EMPLOYEES FROM
HOME DEPOT • CITIBANK • LIRR • MTA • GEICO • CHASE • CAPITAL ONE Patient Payment Plans
0% INTEREST FROM 6 MONTHS TO 3 YEARS
MORICHES VISION CENTER
FARMINGDALE VISION WORLD
GREENLAWN VISION CENTER
631-878-0606
516-420-9595
631-261-3900
225 Montauk Highway
199 Merritts Road 1/4 Mile South of Hempstead Turnpike
745 Pulaski Road Greenlawn Farms Shopping Center
390218C081121
SUFFOLK COUNTY MUNICIPAL EMPLOYEES