The flu, vaccines and prevention

Posted on 11 January, 2013 by activeforever

By now you must be well aware of the severe flu outbreak weaving a fevered path of annihilation across the country; scoffing at immune systems and even resulting in deaths.

Physicians from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) warn us that this particular flu strain is distinctly severe.

Credit: science.howstuffworks.com

The proportion of all deaths in the United States last week caused by pneumonia and influenza reached 7.3 percent, above the epidemic threshold of 7.2 percent, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Friday.

-Source: Reuters

So naturally you’ve had an ear-full of scientific jargon surrounding this flu virus, its corresponding vaccine (H3N2), the shortage of said vaccines and of course, Tamiflu. Not to mention the debate about whether or not stocking up on Tamiflu is even worth it.

Since it is something we at ActiveForever struggle with ourselves, we won’t even touch the discussion about sickies going in to work, loaded to the gills with contagion and all.

Credit: The Press-Enterprise, (PE.com)

So, while we wholeheartedly believe in arming yourself with insight into what has now turned the corner into an all-out epidemic, we decided that what we ultimately wanted to do was remind you of ways in which to stay out of the whole thing altogether.

Germ-laden locations to steer clear of for a while

Grocery store (Just say ‘NO’ to shopping carts, for now.)
Playgrounds (Ew.)
Public restrooms (Hands are still dirty during the initial phase of faucet operation.)
Offices (You need a day off.)
Restaurants
Libraries (Really? Just get it online people.)
Cruise ships (This one’s easy for those of us who customarily drain their cruise budget on food and shelter.)
Malls

Source: Lifescript

Ready?? Break! Let’s wash our hands of this nasty ol’ flu bug!

Seriously though, let’s really wash our hands… at home, or with sanitizer. A lot.

And don’t forget… Be on the lookout for these warning signs:

fever
cough
chest pain
nasal discharge
headache
malaise, or a vague feeling of illness
muscle pain
shortness of breath
chills
excessive sweating
nausea
vomiting
joint pain and stiffness
sore throat
nosebleeds

Credit: pbs.org

Here’s to your health!

Resolution and Weight/Weight Loss Revelations

Posted on 4 January, 2013 by activeforever

Let’s face it. These days, weight loss tops the list of the most popular New Year’s Resolutions. Of course many also hope to get a new job, better education, etc., However it seems that all but the conviction to shed a problematic fat suit is engulfed in the wake of the post-holiday surrender to reality.

Not that we are lazy or that we give up easily, it’s just that continuing on with the same job or level of education does not increase our risk of diabetes, heart attack, stroke, along with a whole host of serious health issues that are part of and parcel of being—and staying— overweight. (In other words, your physician will not peer at you from behind a furrowed brow of concern in response to your modest salary.)

Many of us view the debut of a new year as a solid, tangible break from the past that translates into a “break” from our old, unhealthy habits. It’s a whole new paradigm; another chance.

As we should. Depending on your disposition, you can either view the American obesity epidemic as discouraging or an opportunity for growth; *not* in the physical sense of course.

Percentages of Overweight Americans Ages 20+

More than two-thirds (68.8 percent) of adults are considered to be overweight or obese.
More than one-third (35.7 percent) of adults are considered to be obese.
More than 1 in 20 (6.3 percent) have extreme obesity.
Almost 3 in 4 men (74 percent) are considered to be overweight or obese.
The prevalence of obesity is similar for both men and women (about 36 percent).
About 8 percent of women are considered to have extreme obesity.

Source: Weight-control Information Network

Yesterday we wrote about some healthy weight findings that we found to be a little unorthodox: A recent study claims that those who carry a few extra pounds around have a lower risk of premature death than that of their healthy weight counterparts. The article does not address obesity however. A person is obese when their BMI (body mass index) is 30 percent or above.

This is a different story. An article in USA Today “weighs” in on the topic with the help of a few reputable physicians. The piece is a fitting follow-up to yesterday’s post. Plus it includes links to diet and exercise tips and information on how to lose weight by forming healthier habits.

Need help sticking to your resolutions? We do too!

Resolution and Weight/Weight Loss Shockers

Posted on 3 January, 2013 by activeforever

Perhaps prompted by all the hyper-idealistic discussion about resolutions (which always inevitably revolve around diet and weight loss,) the Los Angeles Times recently reported that a few extra pounds is fine for your health.

I don’t know about you, but this news prompts in me a rare reaction of simultaneous shock and comfort. It evokes the former because it flies in the face of virtually everything else I’ve heard regarding weight and health for ohhh… my lifetime; a.k.a., more than the past thirty years.

It’s comforting because I am—like many of you I’m sure (hey, we’re Americans)—a few pounds overweight. I’m working on it though. My meticulously planned resolutions are on track now for three days and counting.

Regardless, the story is worth a gander. Plus the page features a Dr. Oz “Real Age” calculator. It’s smack dab in the middle of the story in the form of a Google Ad, but as far as ads go, you have to admit, it’s a good one. If you’ve never calculated your real age, it’s worth a go. It can be a real eye opening experience; and depending on your lifestyle, that can be either good or bad. You’ve been warned.

If this short series of bombshells are not enough for you, take heed. Solace comes in the form of another article listed off to the left of the page under “RELATED.” There is a link to a bit of news that ran in late December. It reports that running is actually a more effective way to shed pounds than weight training.

(Huh?) What is going on in this bizarro world of ours?

Personally, I’m happy about this one too. I like lifting weights, but through the years I have found a shortage of things in this world that that offer a greater sense of satisfaction and well-being than a good, hard, sweat-inducing, mind-wandering, run.

Not only does it promote a leaner body and a stronger heart, but it just as equally results in clarity of mind and an overall sense of calm.

Ahhh… 2013 is going to be a great year. I can feel it.

Ooohhh…. Jackpot.

Heart Disease: Not Confined to those with Diabetes & High Blood Pressure

Posted on 26 December, 2012 by activeforever

People tend to believe only the seemingly unhealthy are afflicted with heart disease. It’s a common misconception that the disease only strikes those who are already suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

A new study reported today by NBC News, revealed that one in 12 U.S. service members has plaque buildup in the arteries around their hearts. Simply put, this early sign of heart disease exists in large numbers in one of the country’s healthiest demographics—the military.

So what does that mean for the rest of us?

Heart disease is the number one cause of death for both men and women in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Often referred to as the “silent killer,” the disease claims approximately 1 million lives a year. It’s a good idea to remain ahead of the information curve in regards to the warning signs.

What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?

Symptoms depend on the cause, severity, and type of heart disease. Common signs and symptoms in heart disease include:

chest pain or abdominal distress
cough
cyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin
enlarged veins in the neck
fainting (passing out)
loss of appetite and weight loss
palpitations, an unusual awareness of the heartbeat
shortness of breath
swelling in the legs
weakness and fatigue

Other signs and symptoms are also possible.

Image: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Hemorrhoids Among Most Widely Searched Terms in 2012

Posted on 21 December, 2012 by activeforever

Yes, that’s right. At the top of the list, accompanying Whitney Houston, Hurricane Sandy, Presidential Election, Kate Middleton, etc., as the most frequently searched terms this year, were “hemorrhoids,” according to Google’s annual “zeitgeist” report.

Analysts speculated that this could be due to the personal nature of the condition people prefer to cure hemorrhoids at home, rather than talk to their physician about it.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels that are found in and around the anus and lower rectum. They can be internal, which means inside the anus. Or, they may be external, which means they are found outside the anus.

The 5-star customer rated Carex Inflatable Invalid Ring Cushion provides instant relief. $13.57

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Hemorrhoids are dilated blood vessels, but the reasons why they occur are not always clear. Some types of hemorrhoids run in families.

Other factors that increase a person’s risk for hemorrhoids include:

alcoholism
anal intercourse
chronic diarrhea
cancer of the rectum or colon
a diet that lacks fiber
frequent coughing and sneezing
liver disease, such as cirrhosis
loss of muscle tone in the rectum due to aging and rectal surgery
obesity
jobs that require standing or sitting for long periods of time
pregnancy
straining due to constipation

Activeforever Now Provides Easy International Shipping

Posted on 5 December, 2012 by activeforever

ActiveForever is like a caring and protective mother, always on the lookout for your health, safety and well-being. Their fervent dedication to this mission solidifies their place on the cutting edge of all the newest products, developments and solutions for wellness.

For some time now, ActiveForever has had to resist a persistent demand to fully expand their operations to regular international shipping. They feared high incidences of fraud and complications in reconciling with international banks.

As the oldest and most trusted provider of health, fitness and safety products in the United States, ActiveForever offers very high service levels. They feared that would be diminished a bit with their international customers.

All that has changed, and they are thrilled to announce their new partnership with Bongo International. By joining forces with this industry leader in intelligent, eCommerce transactions, ActiveForever is properly equipped to provide their worldwide customers with a seamless, intuitive shopping experience.

“In the past, the international check-out process was convoluted and disparate,” said ActiveForever CEO and Chief Happiness Officer, Erika Feinberg. “The user had to visit a different website, create a separate account and allow a third-party company to place the order on their behalf.”

Now, regardless of whether an ActiveForever order is placed from France or Ohio, the check-out process is completed with little more than the click of a button.

The company has proven their ability to provide quality products worldwide, and are pleased to benefit their global customers with Bongo’s smart, simple, Check-out Solution.

“There is no longer a goofy process,” said Feinberg. “Now location is a non-issue, our customers simply check-out with no middleman and the order is received.”

Feinberg added that so far, the response has been remarkable.

“Our international customers seem thrilled that we’re making our product offering freely available to them with this easy process.”

ActiveForever Mobility Aids featured on Stroke-Network.com

Posted on 29 November, 2012 by activeforever

ActiveForever has teamed up with Stroke-Network.com to address the issues surrounding Stroke recovery.

This week we discussed mobility aids for the different steps of the rehabilitation process. After all, you’ll never reach your recovery goals if you don’t keep moving.

The Carex Ultra Ride Rollator Transport Chair is versatile enough to accompany you through each step of the recovery process. $127.32

We carry an extensive line of Carex mobility products at the best prices in our Stroke and Neuro Rehab line. These products are smart, adaptable for different phases of progress, and created with the goal of progress in mind.

According to to the American Stroke Association, Stroke is the No. 4 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the United States. Although in recent years there have been increasing occurrences in younger adults as well.

Stroke kills more than 137,000 people a year. There are different types of Strokes, however a commonality is the fact that likelihood for survival and speedy recovery is increased exponentially with timely detection and treatment.

That’s why we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to raise awareness of the signs, symptoms, effects and issues, surrounding Stroke.

Winning Winter Tips

Posted on 29 November, 2012 by activeforever

What comes to mind when you think of healthy foods?

Green tea, broccoli, bran flakes? of course. But hot cocoa?

According to CNN.com Health, the rich sweet goodness in a cup is right up there when it comes to a winning winter diet. That’s some welcome news! Looks like we’re doing things right after all. So drink up, but you might want to hold off on the marshmallows… At ActiveForever, we’re always thinking about your health and ours, so thought we’d bring you this informational little blurb to start your day off right.

While we’ve got you in a health-oriented state of mind, be sure to check out our luxurious skin care products in honor of National Healthy Skin Month. There’s nothing like showing the harsh winter weather who’s boss by pampering your largest and arguably most precious organ this time of year. Women especially need to take heed as they have a thinner, drier dermis than that of their male counterparts. Barrier creams reinforce the skin’s natural shield and prevent precious moisture from exiting the skin’s surface.

‘Tis the season, so all of our winter products are moving fast, especially where attire is concerned. Our collection of heated and insulated clothing is material proof that you really can be stylish and comfortable at the same time.

Also, be sure to pick up your copy of our Essential Gifts catalog while supplies last!

Give the gift of health this season!

So, grab some walnuts, but just a few, (they are rich in fat,) the good fat, but still… and shop healthy!

iGrow Laser Hair Rejuvenation System

Posted on 27 November, 2012 by activeforever

There are a number of things that signify youth, health and beauty. Among them are glowing skin, bright clear eyes and firm, smooth nails. Of all of these factors however, the state of your crowning glory is perhaps the most obvious. The impact that a full head of hair has on a person’s looks is undeniable.

The advanced iGrow Laser Hair Rejuvenation System

Is this fair? Of course not. What about those who take impeccable care of themselves but just happen to have genetics working against them?

At one time, they’d have been either out of luck or confined to a questionable looking toupee or wig.

At ActiveForever we are thrilled to report that the iGrow Laser Hair Rejuvenation System has leveled the playing field for the follically challenged. Their unique, patent-pending combination of LED lights and low-level lasers has earned iGrow media attention. The effectiveness of this popular system has been scientifically proven, and a number of happy, healthy-haired heads publicly swear by it.

It’s not a hand-held device, but rather goes on like a helmet, so complete scalp coverage is effortless. Follicles are fattened as you sit, read, catch up on your favorite show, work on your laptop, etc., The innovative iGrow is also iPod and MP3 compatible so you can listen to your favorite music during your 25 minute session a few times a week.

It incorporates 5 pre-programmed modes for a customized session to meet the needs of each man and woman. After 10 to 12 weeks of regular use (or as directed) users can expect to see thicker, fuller, healthier looking hair.

The iGrow is one of ActiveForever’s hottest selling items and now it is 31 percent off. Free ground shipping is included if you order now.

Users rave bout the ease and painlessness of the iGrow system, claiming that it doesn’t cause discomfort like other hair-growth treatments. Now, with such a low price, neither your scalp or your wallet will feel the burn.

This picture displays actual iGrow results.

ActiveForever.com a Finalist in Mission: Small Business

Posted on 29 June, 2012 by AFBlogger

ActiveForever is thrilled and honored to be a finalist in the Mission: Small Business grant program! As you know from our previous blog, once accepted into the program participants (all are small businesses, as defined by program rules) had to each receive 250 votes by June 30, 2012, to become a finalist in Mission: Small Business. We’re pleased to share we’ve received more than 250 votes (and all before the deadline!).

A big THANK YOU from ActiveForever.com to all those who voted for us in this grant program by Chase and LivingSocial. Everyone from our customers to local businesses reached out to support us in this opportunity, and we’re grateful to each and every one of you!

What now? All “Mission: Small Business” finalists will have their applications reviewed by a panel of judges. Up to 12 grants of $250,000 each will be granted to participants (from within the finalists pool), and grant recipients will be announced on or before September 15, 2012.

Thanks again, for your continued support of ActiveForever.com! As soon as we hear something from the Mission: Small Business grant program, we’ll update you!

The Mission: Small Business Grant Program

Posted on 24 May, 2012 by AFBlogger

We at ActiveForever LOVE our customers and supporters!

Please vote for us so we can get into the running for a $250,000 grant!! We deeply appreciate your support! It’s quick and easy!

Here’s how:

Visit missionsmallbusiness.com and scroll to the bottom right of the page until you see the area pictured below.

Click on “Login & Support”

A window will pop-up, asking you to Login to Facebook. Click the Login button.

Go to the bottom of the Mission: Small Business page (NOT the Facebook page) to search for the business name “ActiveForever” Choose the State (Arizona) and City (Scottsdale).

Click the Blue Vote button next to the address on the right side to finish voting.

Please note that the “Supported” Button in the above illustration would read “Vote” prior to you voting.

That’s it! It’s that simple!

We’d love and appreciate your vote! The final day of voting is June 30, 2012.

_______________________________________________________________________

About ActiveForever, Chase Bank, and LivingSocial…

ActiveForever is a fully integrated sales, marketing, & warehousing/fulfillment services agency specializing in Medical Supplies, Safety Equipment, and Innovative Health Products.

Chase Bank is a U.S. consumer and commercial banking business.

LivingSocial is an online business that offers daily deals and discounts.

ActiveForever and Crown Dynamics Announce Sales and Marketing Agreement

Posted on 9 May, 2012 by AFBlogger

Consumers know ActiveForever.com as their one-stop-shop for innovative health products, medical supplies, and occupational health safety equipment.

Customers may be surprised to learn ActiveForever is also a fully integrated sales, marketing, warehousing, and fulfillment services agency. Yesterday, Crown Dynamics Corp. announced they have finalized a sales and distribution agreement with ActiveForever.com.

Similar to ActiveForever.com, Crown Dynamics Corp. provides products and solutions that “promote better health” and enhance overall well-being, so they were a perfect fit to work with ActiveForever. To read more about what customers can look forward to from this joint venture, and what ActiveForever.com CEO Erika Feinberg had to say about it click here.

ActiveForever.com Named Best of Scottsdale 2009 for Medical Supplies

Posted on 24 April, 2012 by AFBlogger

ActiveForever is proud to announce that we have been named “Best of Scottsdale 2009″ in the Medical Supplies category by the U.S. Commerce Association. The USCA “Best of Local Business” recognizes outstanding local businesses throught the country each year and indentifies those that have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category.

Best of Scottsdale Award

At Home with Dealers

Posted on 24 April, 2012 by AFBlogger

HME Business

By J. Daniel Hull, Jay Williams

Jun 01, 2005

Company Name:Active Forever Location/Contact Info: 10799 North 90th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85260 800-377-8033; customerservice(at)activeforever.com www.activeforever.com Established: 1991

Types of products sold: “We research best choices of product solutions for practically every physical challenge you can image for daily living activities,” said CEO Erika Feinberg.

Size of Company (employees, clients per year): 4,000 new customers a month

Home Health Products spoke with Feinberg about Active Forever’s successful Web site and in-store business that operates with zero insurance billing.

Q:What is unusual/unique about the store?

A:All the customer service counselors are on wireless headsets, while they’re talking to someone about an order, they can walk over and play with the product and demonstrate it. The 5,000 square foot store is part of our corporate headquarters and it’s set up like Sharper Image. People can come in to try things.

What we carry is motivated by our local health care facilities; we’re surrounded by three Mayo clinics, Scottsdale Healthcare, St. Josephs Hospital and Bayer Neurological Institute.

Q:Describe your relationship with your manufacturers.

A:We always have a very detailed three-page questionnaire that we run our potential suppliers through before we’ll consider carrying their product. There are many things we require of them regarding returns, maintenance and what type of warranties or guarantees they have on their products. The number one is how quickly they can get us the products. Whether they’re shipping to our warehouse, or to our customer, we require that they ship immediately.

The reason I say that’s so important is because none of us plan for trauma. And when someone needs these things, they need them immediately. We have an arrangement with our shipping company, especially in Arizona, where the product goes out next day without any extra cost.

Q:What is something you have learned from your experience in the HME industry?

A:Most of it is driven by insurance and we completely understand why some HMEs are insurance driven. I encourage traditional DME companies to embrace that and work with us. We’re not competing, because we do absolutely zero insurance billing and we could be a wonderful complement. If their customers are coming in looking for products they don’t carry just pass them off to us and we’ll take care of them. Lots of times, we have people coming in saying, ‘I wonder if insurance will cover this,’ and we just send them to our favorite DMEs.

Q:What has brought you success in the past?

A:The Web site has been around for 14 years. It went through transformation two and a half years ago, and we’re only on the 10 yard line when it comes to vision for the Web business. We still have a long away to go to fulfill our vision of what we’d like people to experience when they’re there. But we’re still getting major awards and recognition for what we’ve done.

Our goal is to have the consumer rely on us the way they rely on a family member–a really smart family member.

Forget we’re in medical and rehab, it’s about thoughtful, wonderful, caring, honest service. Especially since we’re also dealing with trauma, it’s about helping guide the way to more normal living–instead of looking at what’s going to be reimbursed and what’s not going to be reimbursed.

Fun Fact: Anyone who calls into the call center will be greeted with, “How can I make your life easier today?”

This article originally appeared in the June 2005 issue of HME Business.

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