Assisted living facilities are housing options for seniors who may require some help with simple everyday tasks but are otherwise healthy and independent. While assisted living can be the best option for the elderly depending on their health needs, there are many misconceptions associated with it. To help clear the air, here are some common misunderstandings and pertaining facts about assisted living. Loss of Independence – Most people assume that in assisted living facilities, the elderly live a life entirely dependent on their care providers. Fact – People move into assisted living communities because they require at least some form of assistance with their daily tasks. But these facilities strive to help their residents preserve as much independence as possible depending on their health. Activity directors at these centers create programs to aid the residents’ mental and physical health. Large Expenses – Many defer moving to assisted living homes thinking these are expensive. Fact – The expenses are always relative to the facilities available at each assisted living home. You can select one as per your budget. And also, when you compare the costs of living at home with the expenses of assisted living, you will not find much difference. When you add the costs of round-the-clock care, medical treatments, therapies, meals and other facilities, assisted living turns out to be a reasonably-priced residential option for seniors. Lack of Social Life – People assume that assisted living means a life of loneliness away from your family and friends. Fact – Assisted living doesn’t have to mean you live a sad and lonely life. Your family and friends are welcome to visit you. Also, every good facility has programs where seniors can participate and enjoy. You also have the company of other people your age. Residents are encouraged to pursue their hobbies if their health permits. Most facilities arrange excursions and entertainment programs on a regular basis. Many people decide against assisted living due to these prevalent assumptions. But with some research, you can find the best assisted living home for you or your loved one.

Verizon’s prepaid plans have captured a good share of the prepaid users with its attractive offers. Their popular plans include their unlimited phone plans - Go Unlimited and Beyond Unlimited. Verizon prepaid plans are easy and convenient to get as it does not involve any contract, credit check, or even activation fee. The plans are available in different price ranges to suit the needs of different kinds of users. The plans for Verizon prepaid phones are broadly of two kinds - the plans for smartphones which includes data along with calls and texting and the plans for phones other than smartphones. The latter does not include the data feature and has only minutes and texting. There are four kinds of smartphone plans for Verizon prepaid phones based on the amount of data it provides. These plans provide 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB and the unlimited plan. All these plans offer unlimited minutes and texting. The cost for the unlimited data plans start at USD 75 and the other plans with limited data start at USD 35 for a month and can go up to USD 70 for a month. For users with basic Verizon prepaid phones, the unlimited plan is priced at USD 30 a month. This plan has unlimited calling and texting features. There are pros and cons of every carrier and the services they offer. Understanding the pros and cons only help the consumer make an informed choice. The only drawback for Verizon prepaid phones in comparison to contract phones is that these are more expensive. The phones and phone plans are beneficial only if one gets a good network coverage wherever he/she goes. Without coverage, spending money on such lucrative deals is futile. However, this is not an area that Verizon users need to worry about as the carrier offers network coverage throughout the country. Whether you need to opt for a prepaid plan or a contract one from Verizon will depend on your phone usage. Keep your usage in consideration when shopping for phones and phone plans.

A cousin of the original English Bulldog, the French Bulldog or the Frenchie as they are also known, is a small breed of muscular dogs originally used for bull baiting in England. The transformation from a sporting breed to a companion dog happened when the Bulldogs and local ratters were cross-bred by workers who moved from England to France after the Industrial Revolution. With rich American tourists flocking to Europe for exotic holidays, the French Bulldog made its entry into the United States. The French Bull Dog Club of America founded in 1897 is the oldest of its kind exclusively dedicated to this breed. Log on to www.frenchbulldogclub.org to learn more about the history of the club, the types of membership they offer, and the standard health, and breeding of the French Bulldog. Also, www.marketplace.akc.org has on Frenchies on sale, and the Breed Club Rescue website www.frenchbulldogrescue.org has French Bulldog puppies as well as adult dogs, both male and female, up for adoption. These dogs are registered with the American Kennel Club. Here is a short description and some characteristics of French Bulldog puppies:

• You can identify French Bulldog puppies by their bat-like ears, short face, and smooth skin coat texture.
• Their short faces make it difficult for them to breathe with ease. So, French Bulldog puppies prefer mild, pleasant temperatures.
• While the Frenchies are not super energetic, regular walks keep them within a healthy weight range, and this playful breed is good with children and other dogs too.
• Smart and intelligent, French Bulldog puppies can be trained well, and their stubborn streak can be controlled to ensure that they follow simple commands.
• This dog breed is low on maintenance, especially if you live in a small apartment. It is suited well to city life because they are quiet, effortless to maintain, and get along with people.
• Their shiny, silky coats can be managed with some occasional brushing. However, you have to pay special care and attention to keep their ears, skin folds, and anal sacs clean. Try to prevent any accumulation of dirt and grime in their skin folds.
• Feeding French Bulldog puppies the correct quantity of food is essential because this breed is prone to obesity and related health issues.

French Bulldog puppies are little wonders that can enamor you in no time. Be sure you are completely ready before welcoming these puppies into your home and heart.

The musculoskeletal disorder of spondylitis has now become quite common. It is a lifestyle related disease that affects the muscles. The sharp pain experienced by victims in related body parts can make life miserable and depressing. Medication like pain killers may provide instant relief momentarily, but they are neither efficient nor advisable in the long run. Coping with the pain using natural therapies is the best way to heal spondylitis. Combine natural treatment with traditional medicines that combat ankylosing spondylitis for better and quicker results. The best way to deal with this musculoskeletal disorder is to bring positive changes in your lifestyle particularly in regard to one’s eating habits. The parts of the body that are predisposed to spondylitis are:

• shoulders
• ribs
• hips
• knees
• feet
• eyes
• jaw
• bowel
• heart (rare)
• lungs (rare)

Symptoms vary across individuals. Common symptoms can include:

• Stiffness in muscles
• Spinal fusion
• Problem in vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Red, watery eyes
• Weak lungs
• Difficulty in breathing
• Cauda equina syndrome
• Perpetual tiredness or exhaustion
• Stomach or bowel problem

Not everyone faces severe complications arising due to ankylosing spondylitis, as the symptoms range from mild to severe. Cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis Though there is no known factor responsible for ankylosing spondylitis, genetics is said to play a crucial role. It has been observed that men are more prone to develop severe ankylosing spondylitis in comparison to women. The initial symptoms differ among men and females. While women complain about neck pain, men suffer pain in their lower backs at the beginning of ankylosing spondylitis. The disorder of ankylosing spondylitis mostly occurs during adolescence. There is no one complete treatment to cure ankylosing spondylitis, but there are treatments and methods that can minimize the pain and improve the flexibility of the muscles thus helping the afflicted people to lead a near-normal lifestyle. Hot Compresses: An efficient therapy against spondylitis Use a hot water bottle or heating pad on the affected area to reduce the pain and inflammation. Take a bath with regular warm water before exercise. People who have diabetes or other skin-related problems are suggested to consult a doctor before using heat therapy. It is one of the most effective measures in treating spondylitis, till date.

People often develop bad habits like biting their nails and overeating sweets without realizing the potential harm they can do to their teeth. These habits can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other severe dental problems that cause pain and discomfort. Here, we discuss a few such unhealthy habits that damage the teeth. By being aware of these habits and altering them, you can extend the longevity and health of your pearly whites. Using the teeth as tools Using your teeth as tools to open bottles, tear packages, or break hard nuts can cause significant damage. These actions can chip or crack the teeth, damage dental work, and cause jaw problems or gum bleeding. Always use the appropriate tools for these tasks and protect your teeth. Biting the nails Nail biting is a common habit associated with stress and anxiety. Besides damaging the nails, it can harm teeth. The constant pressure exerted on the teeth from nail biting can lead to tooth fractures, misalignment, and jaw problems. Finding alternative stress-relieving activities can help break this habit. Using a toothbrush with hard bristles A toothbrush with hard bristles may seem to provide more efficient cleaning, but long-term use can cause the enamel to erode and make the teeth more sensitive to damage. Gentle toothbrushes not only do the job of cleaning well but also support dental health. Chewing ice and hard objects Chewing on ice, pens, or hard candies can cause tiny cracks in the teeth, leading to significant problems over time. These habits can also damage existing dental work, like fillings or crowns. Avoid chewing on hard objects to protect your teeth from unnecessary harm. Consuming acidic foods and drinks Acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, sports drinks, energy drinks, vinegar, and carbonated drinks can weaken and erode the enamel, making the teeth more susceptible to decay and sensitivity. Rinse your mouth with water after consuming acidic foods and wait at least 30 minutes before brushing to minimize the effects of the acid content. Playing sports without mouth guards Engaging in contact sports like ice hockey, football, lacrosse, or boxing without wearing a mouth guard puts your teeth at risk of injury. A sudden impact on the face can result in broken or knocked-out teeth. Wearing a properly-fitted guard can protect your teeth during such activities. Skipping flossing Irregular flossing is among the most unhealthy habits that damage the teeth. Brushing alone cannot reach the tight spaces where food particles and plaque accumulate. Flossing helps remove these substances, preventing tooth decay and gum disease. So, make it a habit to floss daily to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Using excessive whitening products Teeth whitening products can enhance your smile, but excessive or improper use can be dangerous. Research shows that these whitening products usually contain hydrogen peroxide, an ingredient that can weaken dentin—the protective layer of the teeth below the enamel. Consult a dentist before using products or practices to whiten your teeth at home. Ignoring dental issues Neglecting dental problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth sensitivity can worsen the condition over time. On the other hand, prompt dental care can prevent further damage to the teeth and gums. Delaying or skipping dental check-ups Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and prevention of dental issues. Dentists can detect the early signs, provide professional cleanings to remove plaque and tartar, and offer personalized advice for maintaining healthy teeth. Delaying or skipping these appointments can worsen oral problems, and you would require extensive and costly treatments later on. Experts recommend check-ups and cleanings every six months. Overconsuming staining foods and beverages Frequently consuming deeply pigmented foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and berries can stain your teeth over time. Brushing or rinsing the mouth after consuming these items can minimize the staining effects. Additionally, professional teeth whitening treatments can help restore the natural brightness of your smile. Frequent snacking Snacking throughout the day, especially on sugary or starchy foods, exposes the teeth to a constant acid attack. Each time you eat, the bacteria in the mouth produce acid that damages tooth enamel. To avoid this, limit snacking on these items and opt for healthier options like fruits, vegetables, or nuts. Using toothpicks incorrectly Toothpicks can help dislodge food particles stuck between the teeth. But instead of forcefully prying or jabbing them between your molars, use gentle strokes. Interdental cleaners can also safely remove trapped debris. Teeth grinding Teeth grinding is the habitual grinding or clenching of the teeth, often during sleep or stress. The excessive force exerted on the teeth while grinding can affect the enamel, lead to jaw pain, and weaken the teeth gradually. Thumb sucking Thumb sucking is a common habit among infants and young children, as it provides them with comfort and security. However, prolonged thumb sucking can have adverse effects on dental health. The continuous pressure and suction on the thumb can cause misalignment of the teeth and jaw, leading to an open bite or an overbite. It can also affect teeth growth and speech development. If thumb sucking persists beyond the age when permanent teeth begin to erupt, parents should encourage their children to break the habit gradually to prevent long-term dental problems.

Who does not love a cup of warm coffee? Many people start their day with coffee. It's not just a beverage present in the morning routine of many people, but also a drink that brings friends and loved ones closer. Getting to know someone over a cup of coffee could be one of the best conversations we ever had. Every one of us have that special composition, that special blend, which we like, be it hot, cold, with milk or without it, sweet or bitter. You could be a cappuccino lover, an espresso person or a latte drinker, drinking your favorite cup of coffee in the morning is the one thing that may start your day. Making coffee at home is a lot cheaper than getting it from outside and no one knows better than you about your perfect blend of the magical beverage. Investing in a coffee machine is a great thing to do, if you love the drink, and just can't start your day without it or the person at that coffee place just can't get your coffee right. There are a number of things to consider before buying a coffee machine, based on its price and functionality. Check if the machine brews different drinks or just one and how complex or easy it is to use. There are various other things to consider such as the product reviews, after sales service, refilling options, technical care and so on. With great deals and discounts such as Nespresso coupon codes, you can save a lot and have your coffee too! Buying coffee machines for starting your own business is a great idea, considering so many people love the beverage and just can't function without it throughout the day. Coffee machines for a business are different from that at home; they are bigger, faster and make large quantities of coffee in lesser time. Nespresso coffee machine Nespresso offers a range of machines to brew espresso, latte and cappuccino for home users and also various lines such as Aguila, Gemini and Zenus range for business owners. They also offer various payment systems for your ease. VertuoLine If you are an espresso lover, Vertuo Line from Nespresso combines barista coffee with traditional brewing techniques. To satisfy the broad range of tastes and preferences of gourmet coffee lovers worldwide, Vertuo Line includes a great choice of coffees and espressos with varying intensity and taste. Original Line The other line of coffee machines by Nespresso is the Original Line. It comprises a wide range of machines and flavors for those who love authentic espresso. Some Original Line machines feature an integrated milk-heating and foaming system to produce lattes and cappuccinos. Nespresso coupon code Nespresso offers coupons for free shipping on 200+ Original Line capsules or 150+ Vertuo Line capsules and free shipping on $50+ orders. In addition, they have many more coupons and deals to let you save money and enjoy your favorite beverage.