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  • Inside Medicare: What do I need to do if I don’t want to change my Medicare plan?

    Inside Medicare: What do I need to do if I don’t want to change my Medicare plan?

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION:  I looked at my insurance for 2025. It looks good, and I don’t want to change my plan. Now what do I do?

    ANSWER:  I spend a lot of time discussing changes to insurance coverage, but many individuals with Medicare are reviewing their plans for 2025 and finding them to still be good and useful products. The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period is well underway, and we are hearing this from several individuals. The year 2025 has seen significant changes, with many insurance plans not available in the new year (at least 12 plans). However, this change doesn’t impact everyone.

    When evaluating your options, I understand the decision to stay with your current plan, as long as it continues to meet your needs in the coming year. The www.medicare.gov website is a valuable tool in this evaluation process. If you have set up a login and password to access the site, the information will be tailored to your current coverage and how it will work in the upcoming year.

    When reviewing that information, you may determine that there is no better coverage available, considering pricing and the pharmacies you use. In this situation, you can simply maintain your insurance without moving to an alternative plan. This decision to keep your same coverage requires no action from you. The plan you are currently enrolled in will roll over into the new year, and there is nothing more you need to do after evaluating your coverage. You do not need to contact the plan to inform them, and you should not re-enroll in the plan you are already in. This applies to Medicare Supplement Plans, Stand-Alone Part D Plans (prescription drug coverage), and Medicare Advantage Plans of all types.

    Individuals with Medicare are encouraged to evaluate their coverage options each year to ensure they have the best possible coverage for the coming year. An individual’s health situation can change yearly, including medications, doctors, and plan offerings. Therefore, this annual evaluation is essential to ensure you are doing the best you can for the upcoming calendar year. This evaluation process should include a brief review of these factors, as well as how well your plan performed this year. Are you satisfied with the coverage, customer service, medication coverage at your pharmacy, and pricing structures? If your answers are yes, and your medications are covered in a way that works for you, then you likely do not need to make any changes.

    I want to note that one significant change this year involves pharmacy status. Several plans are altering how pharmacies are included in their coverage. A shift from a Preferred to a Standard contract for Part D coverage at your pharmacy can lead to a substantial change in your medication costs. Some plans are even excluding certain pharmacy chains completely. If this happens and you do not switch to an alternative pharmacy, you would have no Part D coverage at your current location. For example, a client and I reviewed their coverage yesterday: their current pharmacy was preferred, and their medication had a $0 co-pay during the deductible and initial coverage phases. The alternative pharmacy they were considering had a standard contract, which would increase their co-pays to $18 each. This significant difference in cost led them to decide to stay with their plan and keep their current pharmacy.

    Conversely, you may encounter a situation where your plan changes its contract, and a pharmacy you’ve always used is now considered standard or not included at all. In such cases, preferred pricing will no longer apply, likely resulting in increased medication costs.

    If you decide to stay with your current insurance coverage, you can let it roll over. Remember, there is still time for evaluation if you haven’t done so yet. The Annual Open Enrollment Period runs until December 7 each year, and there are also other Enrollment Periods and Special Enrollment Periods available if your situation changes throughout 2025.

    If you have questions or need assistance navigating your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Lawley Medicare Solutions Team. You can contact Medicare Service Team Lead Gabrielle Connor at 716.849.8223, or submit an inquiry through our contact form below. We’re here to help you find the right coverage for your needs!

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.8223.

  • Lawley Named “Top Employee Benefits Consultant”

    Lawley Named “Top Employee Benefits Consultant”

    Mployer, the leading independent platform for employers to research, review, and evaluate insurance advisors has named Lawley a winner of its fourth annual “Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards” for 2024.

    Mployer’s Top Employee Benefits Consultant Award Program evaluates each benefits broker and consultant office based on their depth of experience across employer industries, sizes, and plan design features, as well as employer client ratings and reviews.

    For over 65 years, Lawley’s goal has been to protect assets and minimize risk to help their customers avoid financial hardship. Lawley serves as a strategic partner in assessing the benefits program that best fits business needs, so you can spend more time worrying about maintaining what you have built, not what healthcare plans to consider.

    With experts in various business categories, Lawley’s Employee Benefits team focuses on understanding the nuances of how you do business, what your employees really need and how to reduce risks and costs to your bottom line. From developing customized healthcare programs to helping you understand and execute compliance audits and claims management, Lawley’s team of consultants act as your Human Resources department or as a partner to your current HR team.

    “We are honored to be recognized for our efforts to provide the best employee benefits for our clients and their employees,” says Brian Murphy, Partner of Lawley.

    “We are proud to recognize this distinct group of 2024 top-rated insurance advisors as part of our fourth annual Top Employee Benefits Consultant Awards,” said Brian Freeman, CEO of Mployer.

    About Mployer:

    Mployer is transforming employee benefits by empowering employers and leading benefit consultants to easily assess, rate, and communicate the value of employee benefits. Providing industry-first transparency through unbiased research, benchmarking, and advanced analytics, our goal is to support employers and brokers in providing benefit plans that optimize costs and employee-employer relationships. Disclaimer: Rankings are dynamic, and this report may not reflect the rankings currently listed on Mployer’s website.

  • Inside Medicare: What vaccines are covered in full through Medicare?

    Inside Medicare: What vaccines are covered in full through Medicare?

    Lawley Medicare Solutions Learning Center:

    Ask Janell!

     

    QUESTION:  I regularly get vaccines like the flu shot and now the COVID vaccine. Are these free? What about COVID tests?

    ANSWER: Immunizations and vaccines are covered in different ways and by different parts of your Medicare coverage. I will explain this coverage and what you should expect. It’s important to remember that, as with any medical treatment, your first question should be, “Is this appropriate for me?” Then you can consider the cost of the treatment as part of your decision-making process. Keep in mind that there are certain situations and medical conditions where a vaccine may not be recommended, so it’s essential to discuss your options with your physician.

    You might assume that all vaccines and immunizations are treated the same under Medicare, but unfortunately, that’s rarely the case. Different immunizations for various diseases can often be covered by different parts of Medicare, and they can be billed and administered in different ways. Each vaccine also comes with its own health benefits and risks to consider.

    The flu shot and the pneumococcal vaccine are covered under Original Medicare Part B. Both of these vaccines have been around for a long time, predating Medicare Part D Prescription Drug coverage, and they are typically free under Original Medicare and most Medicare Advantage Plans. However, there may be instances where you are charged a fee for the administration of the vaccine, as not all types of insurance cover those administration costs. Many county governments set up walk-in clinics for these vaccines, and you can also receive them in your doctor’s office.

    The flu vaccine and the COVID vaccine are both annual immunizations, should you choose to receive them. The pneumococcal vaccine is not an annual vaccine; it is also covered by Medicare Part B. There are two different versions of the pneumococcal vaccine, and you should consult with your physician to determine if and when it is appropriate for you.

    The most commonly used shingles vaccine is Shingrix. This vaccine is handled differently than the ones previously mentioned. The Shingrix vaccine is billed through Medicare Part D, NOT Medicare Part B. To receive the Shingrix vaccine, you must obtain a prescription/order from your doctor’s office, after which you can get the vaccine from your pharmacy. It is covered under your Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage benefit. If you have a Medicare Advantage (MA) Plan that includes prescription drug coverage, the vaccines will be covered under the Prescription Drug benefit of your MA plan. The Shingrix vaccine consists of two doses administered at specific intervals. All Medicare Part D plans fully cover the Shingrix vaccines, typically with a $0 copay.

    Next, let’s talk about the COVID vaccine. Like the flu shot and pneumococcal vaccine, the COVID vaccine is covered by Original Medicare with a $0 cost. The latest updated version is now available, and you may have seen commercials encouraging you to get vaccinated. If you have had COVID recently, it is generally recommended to wait three months before getting vaccinated, and this should be discussed with your physician.

    The COVID vaccine is usually administered through local pharmacies. You can find locations and make appointments via the website www.vaccines.gov. By entering your zip code, you can see pharmacy locations and schedule your vaccine at a convenient date and time. This website also allows you to search for county-run vaccine clinics, which are often held during this time of year. Many vaccine clinics are being organized in October and possibly into November, depending on your location.

    Getting the COVID vaccine is certainly easier now than it was a few years ago. Regardless of your age, you can receive this vaccine if you and your physician determine it is appropriate.

    Another topic of interest is COVID test kits. These kits are available to order up to four at-home tests at no cost via www.COVIDTest.gov. These kits can be ordered for any household, regardless of the ages of the individuals living there. This benefit is not provided through Medicare and is not age-specific.

    If you have questions or need assistance navigating your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Lawley Medicare Solutions Team. You can contact Medicare Service Team Lead Gabrielle Connor at 716.849.8223, or submit an inquiry through our contact form below. We’re here to help you find the right coverage for your needs!

    At Lawley Medicare Solutions, our Medicare and Individual Health Consultants are dedicated to helping you make the most informed decisions about your healthcare needs. We offer personalized service and expert advice tailored to your unique situation. Contact us today by phone or email to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re getting the best coverage for your needs.

     

    Read all Inside Medicare articles HERE.

     

    LAWLEY HAS A TEAM DEDICATED TO MEDICARE INSURANCE!

    Our licensed Medicare & Individual Health Insurance team can help clients understand the details of Medicare insurance plans, assist with choosing the right benefits and coverage, and provide guidance when life events that affect health coverage occur.

    For questions, concerns, or to reach Lawley Medicare Solutions, fill out the contact form below or call 716.849.8223.

  • Hurricanes, Flood, and Your Homeowners Insurance

    Hurricanes, Flood, and Your Homeowners Insurance

    Hurricanes and floods can cause significant damage to homes, resulting in costly repairs and even total property loss. As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand what type of damage is covered by your homeowners insurance policy and what additional endorsements or policies you should consider to ensure that you’re adequately protected.

    How to Buy Flood Insurance

    Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States and can significantly damage homes and property. According to FEMA, just one inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 in damage to a home. You can look up your address in the Flood Map Service Center to find out if you work or live in areas prone to flooding. Even if you’re not in a high-risk flood zone, floods can occur anywhere and cause widespread damage.

    If you live in an area prone to hurricanes and flooding, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurance companies. To purchase flood insurance through the NFIP, contact your insurance agent or visit the NFIP website at www.floodsmart.gov. Flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period, so buying a policy well before disaster strikes is essential.

    How to Prepare for Potential Hurricane Activity

    When faced with an impending or ongoing flood, your utmost concern should be the safety of yourself, your family, and your pets. Keep track of the local news and weather updates and enroll in emergency alerts. It is also essential to have a communication strategy to ensure you can stay in touch during a power outage.

    Fill your gas tank well before the storm hits to ensure you can leave the area if necessary. Review your emergency plan with your family and take the following steps to prepare your property for high winds and potential flooding:

    • Clear your property of lightweight objects that could blow around during a storm, such as lawn furniture, bikes, grills, building materials and propane tanks.
    • Cover your doors and windows with storm shutters or plywood.
    • Prepare to cut power to your home if you see downed power lines or flooding or you must leave your home.
    • Gather supplies, such as clean drinking water, food for humans and pets and medications.

    If flooding is predicted or imminent in your area and civil order has been issued, homeowners with an NFIP policy may receive up to $1,000 to help pay for loss avoidance supplies, such as sandbags, lumber, storage expenses, water pumps and tarps.

    Types of Hurricane Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance Policies

    Most homeowners insurance policies provide some financial protection against damage caused by hurricanes, including wind damage, falling trees, or debris and damage caused by heavy rain or flooding. Review your policy carefully to understand the specific types of hurricane damage covered.

    Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover the following types of hurricane damage:

    Wind damage—Damage caused by high winds, such as shingles blown off roofs, broken windows, and siding damage, is typically covered.

    Falling trees or debris—If a tree falls onto your home or debris causes damage to your property during a hurricane, your homeowners insurance policy should cover the cost of repairs.

    Water damage—Damage caused by water from rain that enters through a damaged roof, broken windows, or doors is typically covered.

    It’s important to note that homeowners insurance policies do not usually cover damage caused by flooding—a common occurrence during hurricanes.

    Additional Endorsements and Policies to Consider

    If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, you may want to consider additional endorsements or policies to ensure you’re adequately protected. Your agent may recommend that you consider the following:

    Windstorm coverage—This endorsement helps provide additional coverage for damage caused by high winds and hurricanes.

    Sewer and drain backup coverage—Heavy rains and flooding during hurricanes can cause sewer and drain backups, resulting in extensive damage and costly repairs. Adding this coverage to your homeowners insurance policy can help provide financial protection against this type of damage.

    Extended replacement cost coverage—In a catastrophic hurricane, the cost of rebuilding your home may exceed your homeowners insurance policy limits. Adding extended replacement cost coverage to your policy can provide additional coverage to help cover these costs.

    Making Sure You’re Covered

    Your agent can help you assess your current homeowners insurance coverage to determine whether you have adequate coverage in case of a hurricane.

    Contact Lawley today to learn more about properly insuring your home and get a personalized quote.

     

    © 2023 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved. This Know Your Insurance document is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.
  • Lawley Welcomes New Hires – October 2024

    Lawley Welcomes New Hires – October 2024

    As we continue to expand throughout New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, Lawley is proud to welcome our newest hires. Adding additional employees in all departments, specifically in employee benefits and business insurance, provides us with more opportunity to deliver quality, personalized service to our clients.

    Abriah Baker, Business Insurance Assistant Account Manager | Serves the business insurance department by creating summaries, certificates, policies & proposals, and completing coverage reviews.  Abriah holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Caroline Bristol, Retirement Account Executive | Supports the Retirement Plan Advisors by facilitating client relationships and managing a robust book of business to align with strategic initiatives. Caroline holds a Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) license and earned a bachelor’s degree from Mercyhurst University.

    Carrie Kesler, Business Insurance Account Manager | Carrie provides excellent customer service and ensures effective working relationships with current and prospective clients.

    Ellen Madsen, Client Service Specialist | Bringing 10+ years of experience, Ellen conducts plan analysis and proposal preparation, processes enrollment applications, and oversees renewal packages. Ellen earned a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Niagara University.

    Evan Doheny, Surety Service Associate | Responsible for responding to bond placement and marketing requests for the surety team. Evan earned a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College.

    Jack Cryan, Business Insurance Certificate Technician | Jack serves the business department by resolving compliance issues, reviewing insurance documents, and ensuring alignment with project requirements.  He holds a NYS Property & Casualty Brokers License and earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius University.

    James Marotta, Employee Benefits Analyst | Works with carriers and vendors by gathering financial data and rates for prospective and current clients. James earned a bachelor’s degree from University at Buffalo.

    Joe Moran, Insurance Advisor | With 10+ years of experience, Joe works with clients to provide creative and efficient solutions that best meet their property and casualty insurance needs.  Joe is a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Construction Risk Insurance Specialist (CRIS), and earned a bachelor’s degree from The State University of New York at Fredonia.

    Lindsy Solano, Business Insurance Account Manager | Serves as a liaison between carriers and clients and ensures collaboration throughout the business insurance department.  Lindsy brings 5+ years of experience and holds a Life, Accident, & Health License and a Property & Casualty License.

    Matthew Siva, Retirement Account Executive | Matthew coordinates fund and plan design changes, conducts plan review meetings, and works with Retirement Plan Advisors to identify and make recommendations that are beneficial to each client’s needs.  He holds FINRA Series 6,63, & 65 licenses and a Securities Industry Essentials (SIE) certification.

    Megan Rowland, Surety Service Representative | Responsible for addressing client inquiries, processing renewals, and issuing performance and bid bonds. Megan holds a NYS Property & Casualty License.

    Miranda Winch, Personal Insurance Account Technician | Ensures comprehensive account reviews by identifying and communicating any gaps in coverage to the account manager.  Miranda brings 5+ years of experience and holds a Property & Casualty Brokers License.

    Nicholas Ratajczak, Business Insurance Marketing Assistant | Supports the business insurance marketing team through the development of supplemental applications, new business applications, and reviewing all submissions for accuracy. Nicholas earned a bachelor’s degree at West Virginia University.

    Owen Stanton, Captive Account Associate | Owen facilitates the renewal process for existing group members, oversees new business applications, and performs analyses to assess overall captive performance. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Canisius University.

    Phil Scaffidi, Employee Benefits Consultant | Serves as a trusted advisor to provide employee benefits needs that align with the company’s goals. Phil holds a Life, Accident, & Health License and earned a bachelor’s degree from Nazareth University.

    Robert Meyer, Loss Control Consultant | With 30+ years of experience, Robert performs consultation and evaluation of hazards and controls and conducts walkthroughs of worksites.  Robert is authorized in OSHA 30 hour – Construction and is Adult First Aid/CPR/AED certified.

    We encourage you to stay tuned as we feature new employees every quarter. To learn more about current positions available, including remote and hybrid positions, visit our careers page here.

  • Fall (the season) Safety Tips for Workers

    Fall (the season) Safety Tips for Workers

    As we transition into autumn, it’s crucial to prioritize personal safety within our workforce. While we can take proactive steps to prepare employees for safe working conditions, ongoing communication about safety practices is essential. Here are key strategies to enhance safety awareness as weather conditions change and to reinforce our site policies.

    EMPLOYEE SAFETY TIPS

    1.  Maintain a supply of spare clothing to address unexpected temperature drops.
    2.  Encourage layering to manage body temperature effectively, preventing overheating.
    3.  Remind employees to stay vigilant of their surroundings to avoid slips, trips, and falls.
    4.  Stress the importance of appropriate footwear for varying autumn conditions.
    5.  Recommend flu vaccinations this season to mitigate health risks associated with seasonal illnesses.
    6.  Ensure hand sanitizer is readily available to minimize the spread of germs.
    7.  Promote hydration by suggesting warm beverages alongside water as temperatures cool.
    8.  Advise against wearing loose clothing near rotating machinery to prevent accidents.
    9.  Encourage employees to store coats and jackets properly to eliminate trip hazards.

    LEADERSHIP ACTION ITEMS

    Fall is an ideal time to address ongoing maintenance and enhance our safety protocols. With winter approaching, it’s vital to conclude projects and implement preventative measures. Consider the following:

    1.  Clearly communicate which cold weather personal protective equipment (PPE) is permitted onsite, including space heaters and warm accessories.
    2.  Stock sidewalk salt to manage unexpected ice in pedestrian areas effectively.
    3.  Inspect gutter systems to ensure proper drainage away from facility foundations.
    4.  Complete all outdoor maintenance projects before winter conditions arrive.
    5.  Repair potholes in parking areas to prevent them from becoming hidden hazards under snow.
    6.  Regularly clear fallen leaves from walkways to reduce slip risks.
    7.  Ensure the heating system is functioning effectively before colder temperatures set in.
    8.  Verify that outdoor emergency supply containers are stocked with essentials like blankets and first aid kits.
    9.  Inspect reflective gear, replacing any worn items to ensure visibility.
    10.  Audit emergency flashlights, ensuring batteries are charged and spares are available.
    11.  Remind employees to inspect ladders prior to use for holiday decorations.
    12.  Secure and protect outdoor equipment from potential damage due to adverse weather.
    13.  Conduct an audit of stop signs, walkways, and entrances for safety improvements.

    By proactively addressing these considerations, we can help ensure a safer working environment as we move through the autumn season. Let’s work together to keep safety at the forefront of our operations.

  • October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

    October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

    October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. During this month, the public and private sectors work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity and serves as a reminder to safeguard your personal data and ensure privacy.

    Here are four strategies from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance that everyone can use to stay cybersecure throughout the year:

    Use strong passwords and password managers

    Cybercriminals are often able to determine or guess simple passwords. Passwords should be at least 16 characters long, random, and unique for each account. The use of password managers—secure programs that maintain and create passwords—is encouraged. These easy-to-use programs store passwords and fill them in automatically on the web.

    Implement multifactor authentication (MFA)

    MFA is a layered approach to securing data and applications. This tool requires a user to present a combination of two or more credentials to verify their identity for login. MFA enhances security because even if one credential becomes compromised, unauthorized users will be unable to meet the second authentication requirement and will not be able to access the targeted physical space, computing device, network, or database.

    Recognize and report phishing

    Many cyberattacks result from a recipient of a phishing message accidentally downloading malware or giving sensitive information to a cybercriminal. You should learn the signs of a phishing attack to avoid accidental engagement in these attempts. They can be recognized by their use of alarming language or offers that are too good to be true.

    Update software

    Ensure that your software programs stay up to date by installing security updates as soon as possible. These updates close security vulnerabilities and help protect users from cyberattacks.

    More Information

    For more information on Cybersecurity Awareness Month, review CISA’s webpage for the observance. Contact us today for more cybersecurity guidance and cyber insurance solutions.


    Disclaimer:  This brochure is provided for informational purposes only. The information provided herein is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should it be construed as advice regarding coverage. Eligibility for coverage is not guaranteed and all coverages are limited to the terms and conditions contained in the applicable policy. © 2008, 2013, 2016 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.
  • Understanding Neurodiversity

    Understanding Neurodiversity

    Neurodiversity isn’t new, but awareness of it has been gaining mainstream traction in recent years. In 1998, Australian sociologist Judy Singer coined the term “neurodiversity” to recognize that everyone’s brain develops uniquely. Neurodiversity refers to diversity in the human brain and cognitive functions, such as thinking, learning and behaving.

    There’s a high chance that you or people around you are neurodivergent—even if you aren’t aware of it. In fact, it’s estimated that 15%-20% of the global population is considered neurodivergent. This article explains neurodiversity, neurodivergent conditions, strengths and challenges of neurodivergence, and tips for fostering a neurodiverse environment.

    What Is Neurodiversity?

    Neurodiversity is the concept that the differences in brain functions are variations—not deficits—in the way people experience and interact with the world. Individuals who exhibit such variations are considered “neurodivergent.” There’s a growing understanding that individuals who are neurodivergent are not disabled but rather differently abled.

    Since there isn’t a “normal” way for a brain to work or function, the larger population is said to be “neurotypical.”

    Forms of Neurodivergence

    Neurodivergence is often used as an umbrella term covering several conditions, including the following:

    • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
    • Autism spectrum disorder (autism)
    • Down syndrome
    • Dyscalculia (difficulty with math)
    • Dysgraphia (difficulty with writing)
    • Dyslexia (difficulty with reading)
    • Dyspraxia (difficulty with coordination)
    • Mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder
    • Sensory processing disorders
    • Tourette syndrome

    In the neurodiversity movement, neuro-differences are typically recognized or appreciated as a social category similar to differences in ethnicity or gender.

    Challenges Facing People Who Are Neurodivergent

    People who are neurodivergent have differences in the way their brain works. First and foremost, neurodivergence is generally nonvisible. That’s a significant hurdle, as looking at a person who is neurodivergent would not let you know they are neurodivergent. That leaves many people who are neurodivergent having to disclose their specific needs to do their best work or be socially accepted.

    Additionally, some people who are neurodivergent struggle because of systems or processes that create new challenges or don’t allow them to demonstrate their strengths. For example, they may have challenges fitting in socially, behaving in expected ways or easily adjusting to change. Some common and challenging symptoms of neurodivergence include:

    • Atypical physical behaviors (e.g., expressing tics and shouting at unexpected times)
    • Atypical responses to sensory input (e.g., sensitivity to light, sound, heat, cold or crowds)
    • Inflexibility or inability to adapt or change
    • Learning challenges (e.g., difficulty focusing or reading)
    • Social communication difficulties
    • Speech and language challenges

    These symptoms are simply examples since specific challenges hinge on the individual’s form of neurodivergence.

    In general, society is often tailored for neurotypical minds. As a result, neurodivergence can often be misunderstood, making people who are neurodivergent feel the need to camouflage in neurotypical societies, situations and organizations. This complex behavior is called masking and can be done deliberately or subconsciously. One of the most significant issues with masking is that it creates a lot of exhaustion and stress and can increase the risk of burnout.

    Masking differs between individuals, but the behavior is often triggered by an inaccessible environment or a need to fit in, avoid judgment and have a sense of belonging. Ultimately, masking and being unable to be authentic can have serious mental health implications.

    Strengths of People Who Are Neurodivergent

    Since people who are neurodivergent are cognitively different from people who are neurotypical, they can bring unique strengths to situations or environments. Furthermore, people who are neurodivergent can often make connections that neurotypical people might not.

    Consider the following general but powerful skills and talents of those who are neurodivergent:

    • Fresh, unique perspectives
    • Exceptional focus and concentration
    • Out-of-the-box problem-solving skills, which support innovative and creative thinking
    • Strong observational skills and keen attention to detail

    While people who are neurodivergent tend to excel in those areas, it’s vital to remember that every person is different. The strengths of these individuals have an opportunity to shine when they’re given the proper credit and support.

    Fostering Neurodiversity

    There are ways you and every person can challenge or influence cultural norms and contribute to a neurodivergent-friendly environment. Consider these tips for fostering neurodiversity:

    • Practice awareness. Understanding neurodiversity is the first step. Take it upon yourself to learn more about neurodivergent features, their specific strengths and challenges, and how to reduce the associated stigma.
    • People with neurodivergent features may feel misunderstood or left out. Let others know you hear them and respect their ideas and choices.
    • Respect individual differences. Regardless of neuro-differences, everyone has a different learning or working style. Everyone thinks, processes information and learns differently, so respect those differences and leverage individuals’ strengths.
    • Communicate clearly. There’s room for error if communication is not specific or clear enough. To reduce potential confusion, ensure communications are specific and include actions so the recipient understands the ask or task. For example, in the workplace, ask your teammates or direct reports what their communication preferences are. Keep in mind that respecting neurodiversity may also mean respecting nonverbal choices.
    • Avoid value-based labels. Terms such as “low functioning” and “high functioning” are often used with neurodivergent conditions, such as autism. Avoid using those terms, as they assume a person’s level of function is based on neurotypical function.

    Summary

    People who are neurodivergent may spend significant time adjusting to their environment or managing their social impressions. While neurodiversity has its strengths, it also comes with challenges individuals may need to navigate.

    Understanding and accepting human neurodiversity is important so everyone can live their most authentic lives and not feel like they need to adjust their behavior or other characteristics in certain environments. Ultimately, it comes down to treating others with respect and accepting them for who they are.

  • Hygiene Basics

    Hygiene Basics

    Personal hygiene is an important step in staying healthy. Neglecting your personal hygiene is not only a nuisance to others; it may also cause health problems such as gum disease from not brushing your teeth.

    Every external body part requires basic care and grooming on a regular basis to maintain good hygiene and ward off serious infections and diseases. Consider these personal hygiene suggestions for good health:

    Hair Care

    • Keep your hair at a manageable length that is easy to maintain and care for.
    • Wash your hair at least every other day using shampoo and conditioner.
    • Brush your hair three to four times per day with a soft bristle brush or comb.
    • Consider washing your brush or comb when you wash your hair.

    General Body Care

    • Take a bath or shower once per day, especially if you live in a warmer climate.
    • Bathe immediately after engaging in exercise or physical activity.
    • Use a mild soap to lather your entire body thoroughly and dry yourself with a clean towel when done.
    • Put on clean clothes once you finish bathing.
    • People who menstruate should change tampons and pads when on their period as suggested by manufacturers to avoid odors and infections.

    Oral Care

    • Brush your teeth for at least two minutes in the morning, in the evening and after eating a meal. Some electric toothbrushes will time your brushing for you, making it even easier.
    • Pay particular attention to the crevices between your teeth, your molars and even your tongue while brushing.
    • Floss your teeth daily.
    • Use mouthwash to ensure fresh breath after brushing.

    Hand Care

    • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating, after using the bathroom, after sneezing or coughing, after changing a diaper or after handling animals.
    • Dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel after washing.
    • Keep your fingernails at a manageable length by cutting or filing them often.

    Foot Care

    • Wear clean, cotton socks daily and consider placing fresh-smelling powder in your shoes to suppress odors.
  • Breast Cancer – Know the Signs

    Breast Cancer – Know the Signs

    According to recent research, approximately 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer at some time in their lives. Keep reading to learn more about risk factors associated with breast cancer, as well as how to identify and treat this disease.

    Risk Factors

    Medical experts attribute the development of breast cancer to a combination of both unknown and known risk factors. Some risk factors are unavoidable, while others can be prevented through lifestyle changes. The most common risk factors for breast cancer include:

    • Being a woman over the age of 50
    • Having a family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer, or certain non-cancerous breast diseases
    • Starting menstruation under the age of 12
    • Being overweight or inactive
    • Smoking or drinking excess alcohol

    Detecting Breast Cancer

    To detect breast cancer, physicians may use the following tests:

    • Mammogram—This is a breast X-ray. Women over age 50 should get a mammogram annually.
    • Biopsy—This entails the removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope.
    • Estrogen and progesterone receptor tests—These tests are used to determine hormone levels.
    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—An MRI procedure uses a magnet, radio waves and a computer to make a series of detailed pictures of inside the body.

    Treatment Options

    The chance of recovery and the treatment options for breast cancer depend on many factors—including the stage of cancer, how fast the tumor is growing, hormone receptor levels and the woman’s age. Four common forms of treatment used for breast cancer are:

    1. Surgery (ranging from a small lump of tissue being removed to an entire breast)
    2. Radiation therapy
    3. Chemotherapy
    4. Hormone therapy

    Know the Signs

    It’s critical to assess your body regularly for potential signs of breast cancer. Common symptoms include a lump in the breast or underarm area, nipple pain or abnormalities, redness or scaly skin near the breast and discharge coming from the nipple. If you detect any of these signs, consult your doctor immediately. For additional lifestyle and well-being guidance, contact us today.