New USDOT Reduces Restrictions on Air Travel with Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Traveling with Oxygen just got easier! As of May 13, 2009 patients who require oxygen therapy will be able to breathe a little easier when they travel. Under a new U.S. Department of Transportation regulation, every FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) approved oxygen concentrator is allowed on every flight that takes off or lands in the U.S. This is regardless of whether or not the individual airline on which the patient is traveling has approved the machine.

Traveling on a plane for someone who needs oxygen therapy has been a hassle in the past for most and impossible for some. Until this regulation was passed, airlines have been allowed to refuse a patient use of a concentrator on the aircraft, even if the machine was FAA approved. Now, all an oxygen patient must have is a statement dated within 10 days of departure from a physician stating necessity of oxygen therapy and an FAA Approved label on the oxygen concentrator being used.

Airline cabins are typically pressurized to simulate oxygen levels found at 8000 feet above sea level. The Invacare SOLO2, the Respironics EverGo and the Invacare XPO2 portable oxygen concentrators, all of which are FAA approved, are designed to function at altitudes of 8000 feet or more, which enables the user to still get the amount of oxygen they need throughout the flight. Each of these FAA approved oxygen concentrators offers extended battery life and a number of accessories to make travel even easier.

The Invacare XPO2 is one of the lightest concentrators on the market, weighing only 7.3 pounds. It comes with its own carry bag or can be set on a cart and pulled, making it very easy to travel with. The Respironics EverGo has excellent battery power for long trips, up to 8 hours with dual, rechargeable batteries. It also comes with a carry bag and rolling cart and is still lightweight at only 10 pounds with two battery packs attached. The Invacare SOLO2 is one of few concentrators that offer continuous as well as pulse flow settings. The SOLO2 Concentrator has easy to change batteries and, unlike its competitors like the Eclipse 3, can fit under an airplane seat with the rolling cart still attached. All three units offer included AC/DC power adapters to be used in a wall outlet or a car so you can charge and use your portable oxygen concentrator anywhere you go!

When planning for an airline trip, keep in mind that most airlines require that passengers carrying portable oxygen concentrators have enough batteries for twice the duration of the flight, as well as one extra battery. Even with new regulations, it is still a good idea to call the airline on which you are flying to make sure you are taking all of the proper precautions before traveling by air with an oxygen concentrator.

Author: Lois Douglas

About ActiveForever
ActiveForever is the leading source of very well priced life-enhancing products that address almost all physical disabilities, injuries or pain. Products include daily living aids, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, emergency supplies, durable medical equipment, medical nutrition, low vision and hearing loss devices, physical therapy products, land and aquatic exercise therapy products. For more information, please visit www.ActiveForever.com

Originally published May 2009

FAA Approved Portable Concentrator Gives Oxygen Therapy Patients Convenient Way to Travel

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – February 2009 – ActiveForever Medical Supplies, Equipment, and Healthcare Innovations has received word from the Invacare Corporation that the Invacare ® XPO2 ™ Portable Oxygen Concentrator has received FAA approval for air travel. The Federal Aviation Administration SFAR No. 106 has been amended to include the Invacare ® XPO2 ™ portable concentrator for use onboard passenger aircraft. A part of the ActiveForever line of products since its introduction in May 2008, the Invacare ® XPO2 ™ is one of the smallest oxygen concentrators available, yet offers all of the capabilities of larger, more expensive systems. Backed by a 5 year warranty, the Invacare ® XPO2 ™ Oxygen Concentrator combines reliability and durability with clinical performance. “We are so thrilled to see more reliable and functional alternatives to the original FAA approved oxygen device become available. These new competing quiet and almost maintenance free FAA approved oxygen therapy machines are expensive and not well covered by insurance, so we’re happy to see more solid brand names and increased reliability behind the equipment choices now,” said Erika Feinberg, CEO of ActiveForever. “We’ve seen the grief a wrong choice can cause, and the elation the right choice can make, so we always do our best to steer everyone to the best choice of equipment. Since we do not engage in insurance billing at all, ActiveForever.com is one of the largest outlets in the country, and we have a decisive mission to make life better for everyone, we are able to offer the best pricing with great passion behind it.” The XPO2 portable concentrator weighs only six pounds and incorporates Sensi-Pulse ™ technology, an innovative five-setting pulse dose oxygen delivery system that keeps oxygen patients saturated during all activities of daily living. It operates from battery, AC or DC power. The two-and-a-half hour battery duration (at setting 2) may be doubled to five hours through the use of an optional one-and-a-half pound supplemental battery that attaches easily to the carrying case. Other features include quiet, simple operation, and a contemporary, non-medical look, all of which are very important to oxygen patients.

“We’ve been very pleased with the launch of the XPO2. Invacare is proud to offer providers oxygen solutions for the entire continuum of care of their patients. Now that the XPO2 has FAA approval, we will meet an even greater variety of patient needs,” said Joseph Lewarski, vice president, Invacare respiratory division. Invacare will approach individual airlines for their approvals regarding in-flight use of oxygen systems. Southwest Airlines has already approved the system.

Author: Richard Chandler
Contact: Media@ActiveForever.com
Direct: 480.459.3200

About ActiveForever
ActiveForever is the leading source of very well priced life-enhancing products that address almost all physical disabilities, injuries or pain. Products include daily living aids, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, durable medical equipment, medical nutrition, low vision and hearing loss devices, physical therapy products, land and aquatic exercise therapy products. ActiveForever provides a multitude of product solutions for arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, stroke rehabilitation, sports injuries, pain relief, foot/ankle, hand, hip/knee and other physically limiting conditions. The company also offers unique and life-enhancing gift ideas. Visit top ranked www.ActiveForever.com 800-377-8033

Discovery Centers: Contain interactive retail and meeting/education centers
Reserve and use them for free!
Scottsdale 480-767-6800 and Peoria AZ 623-215-8470

Print Catalogs: Free for your facility to share with your patients and caregivers anywhere in the country.

Originally published February 2009

U.S. Local Business Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement

WASHINGTON D.C., October 21, 2008 — ActiveForever has been selected for the 2008 Best of Scottsdale Award in the Medical Supplies category by the U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA).   The USLBA “Best of Local Business” Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USLBA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community. Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2008 USLBA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USLBA and data provided by third parties.

About ActiveForever
ActiveForever is the leading source of very well priced life-enhancing products that address almost all physical disabilities, injuries or pain. Products include daily living aids, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, durable medical equipment, medical nutrition, low vision and hearing loss devices, physical therapy products, land and aquatic exercise therapy products. ActiveForever provides a multitude of product solutions for arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, stroke rehabilitation, sports injuries, pain relief, foot/ankle, hand, hip/knee and other physically limiting conditions. The company also offers unique and life-enhancing gift ideas. Visit top ranked www.ActiveForever.com 800-377-8033

Discovery Centers: Contain interactive retail and meeting/education centers. Reserve and use it for free! Scottsdale 480-767-6800 and Peoria AZ 623-215-8470

Print Catalogs: Free for your facility to share with your patients and caregivers anywhere in the country.

About U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA)
U.S. Local Business Association (USLBA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USLBA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

The USLBA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.

SOURCE: U.S. Local Business Association

Originally published October 2008

One of Arizona’s top “Companies to Watch” opens a new interactive retail and education center in its Scottsdale national headquarters

While most companies are stuck on the economic roller coaster ride, ActiveForever Therapy Equipment, Medical Equipment, Supplies and Healthcare Innovations continues to grow and expand through even the worst of times. With its national headquarters poised in the middle of Scottsdale’s surgery center, adjacent to Scottsdale Healthcare Hospital, ActiveForever has been experiencing the community’s appreciation, and needs to expand, again.

The CEO, Erika Feinberg explains, “When we first purchased the company, re-designed the business and relocated the headquarters to Scottsdale in 2002, I didn’t even have retail in the business plan. People were finding our company online and through our print catalogs in medical offices and then stopping into our headquarters to purchase the products. Now, thanks to the patient referrals from in-home care companies, surgery centers, medical and fitness centers here in Arizona, we have over 10,000 square feet of retail in Arizona.” Since retail is not Feinberg’s favorite part of ActiveForever’s business, she felt the need to make it into something more, so the company is in the process of implementing a new concept of interactive retail that can serve the local community as well as its online customers nationally.

The interactive retail store concept allows someone to come in and experience a grouping of products that cater to specific topics, such as hip, knee or ankle surgery, Parkinson’s or neurological issues, exercise therapy, bathroom safety, low vision or hearing loss.

So, you might see a fitness trainer or sports therapist walk into the ActiveForever.com Discovery Center and proceed to the exercise therapy center and enjoy trying and learning about the latest equipment such as the Power Plate, Yogacize Resistance Bench, PilatesStick or Deep Muscle Stimulator. An online customer can experience the exercise therapy center via the website’s demonstration videos, or through the network cameras in the retail showroom. Since the company does not engage in any insurance reimbursement, the entire product selection is carefully tested and chosen as the “best choices” of products in each market category, and you’ll find the pricing of all the products to be very attractive due to its website’s high volume of sales.

ActiveForever also chose to include a meeting room in both its Arizona Discovery Center locations. The meeting rooms are open to the public to reserve for free. Since the company relies so heavily on customer feedback from the healthcare and medical communities, the meeting rooms offer a tremendous benefit to the community and offers a very appreciated social interaction that feeds ActiveForever’s mission and continued growth.

About ActiveForever
ActiveForever is the leading source of very well priced life-enhancing products that address almost all physical disabilities, injuries or pain. Products include daily living aids, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, durable medical equipment, medical nutrition, low vision and hearing loss devices, physical therapy products, land and aquatic exercise therapy products. ActiveForever provides a multitude of product solutions for arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, stroke rehabilitation, sports injuries, pain relief, foot/ankle, hand, hip/knee and other physically limiting conditions. The company also offers unique and life-enhancing gift ideas. Visit top ranked www.ActiveForever.com 800-377-8033

Discovery Centers: Contain interactive retail and meeting/education centers. Reserve and use it for free! Scottsdale 480-767-6800 and Peoria AZ 623-215-8470

Print Catalogs: Free for your facility to share with your patients and caregivers anywhere in the country.

Originally published October 2008

Don’t let low vision impair your independence

Whether you suffer from low vision due to Diabetes, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, or another disorder, one of the most challenging and frustrating aspects of the condition can be maintaining an independent lifestyle. Reading the newspaper, a prescription bottle, and the label on a package of food are just a few of the daily living tasks that, up until this point, you probably took for granted. You are not alone: although estimates vary, there are roughly 10 million people in the United States that have been diagnosed with low vision or blindness.

Thanks to modern innovation in low vision aids, people who are visually impaired can still lead independent lifestyles. While low vision aids typically will not perfect your vision, and are in no way designed to cure vision loss, they can certainly improve the your your ability to go about daily living tasks that many of us take for granted.

Low Vision Magnifiers for Use at Home

The Prisma Color Video Magnifier also uses a standard television for its display, but can be used for much more than just reading. Perhaps the most versatile of low vision magnifiers in terms of what can be done while using it, the Prisma features a powerful camera mounted above a small integrated table. The height of the camera is adjustable to increase or decrease magnification and to accommodate larger objects. The Prisma Color Video Magnifier is great for small art projects and crafts, but is also useful for reading books, magazines, and maps. It features multiple viewing modes to make reading easier based on your individual needs.

Are you unable to read your computer screen even after enlarging the text size as much as possible? The Clarity WinZoom CD allows you to see your computer screen with more clarity by enhancing images from 1.5x to 36x all the while maintaining crisp quality of enlarged images and text. Focus tracking helps the user identify the cursor, tracks your typing, and more. Used for a variety of visual impairments, the Clarity WinZoom CD can also read text to the reader (and reading speed can be adjusted). On a smaller scale, the Clarity WinZoom Lite Computer Screen Magnifier magnifies what is on your computer screen by up to 4x, it also enlarges the size of the mouse pointer on the screen. Both are affordable solutions for a variety of visual impairment levels.

The ColorMouse USB RM Electronic Magnifier Mouse Magnifier utilizes magnification on your computer screen in an all new way. Once you download the included software, click the software icon on the computer desktop, anything you run the ColorMouse over becomes a high quality, magnified image on your computer screen and can be resized to fit your individual needs. Anyone with macular degeneration or visual impairment will find the ColorMouse Electronic Magnifier great for everything from reading homework and office work to magazines and more!

Portable Magnifiers for Use on the Go

If you’re off to a sporting event or a play, the Eschenbach MaxEvent Glasses give you a convenient way to magnify objects from ten feet away and further. More comfortable than most other head-worn low vision aids, MaxEvent Glasses feature flexible temples for an ideal fit and a mirrored coating that eliminates sun glare. Each lens is adjustable individually to accommodate your particular low vision needs. Eschenbach MaxEvent Glasses include a free carrying case so they can be protected when you are on the go.

If you want the benefits of a portable video magnifier without having to wear it, the Eschenbach Mobilux Portable Video Magnifier is perfect for you. The first magnifier of its kind to integrate Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (AMOLED) technology, the Esenbach Mobilux delivers imaging 1000 times faster than LCD magnifier screens, and can be read clearly from any angle up to a 170 degree angle (LCD screen magnifiers lose contrast when viewed at anything other than a 90 degree angle). Everything about the Mobilux Portable Video Magnifier was designed to be user intuitive, completely frustration free, suitable for users with any level of vision impairment, and to provide unprecendented versatility and imagery on the go.

Hand Held Magnifying Glasses: Sometimes Old Fashioned Technology Works Best

For many, a standard magnifying glass is the ideal choice of all low vision aids. They are simple to use, have a large viewing area, and are now typically built with lightweight materials. The Donegan 3x Aspheric Hand Magnifier is a lightweight magnifying glass that features a rectangular shaped viewing area to make reading books, magazines, and menus much easier. The Donegan 3X Electric Lighted Handheld Magnifier offers the same magnification level and same viewing area, but adds the convenience of a small light to further illuminate the area. This lighted magnifier plugs into a standard oulet with the detachable cord and can also be stored in a purse or briefcase.

Watches for Low Vision

Low Vision Aids are Designed to Make Your Life Easier

Whether you suffer from Diabetes, Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration, or another cause of low vision, a variety of products are available to help you maintain your independent lifestyle. While they will in no way cure your condition, and may not make your vision completely clear during use, they will do exactly what they are designed to do: make your life easier.

Originally published March 2008

ActiveForever is proud to introduce ten ways to relieve the tension and stress of everyday life. Whether it’s sore muscles, headaches, lack of sleep, or all of the above, these ten products will help you calm down, relax, and enjoy a stress-free lifestyle.

Spa-N-A-Box Portable Spa:

Everyone loves the sensation of sitting in a spa: warm water, massaging jets, and much more room to stretch out in than a bathtub. Unfortunately not everyone has the space to install one. The Spa-N-A-Box Portable Spa makes it possible for everyone to enjoy the spa experience year round, indoors and out. Set up takes roughly twenty minutes, is completely tool-free, and does not require any plumbing. Best of all, the Spa-N-A-Box plugs into any standard outlet. It includes a self-locking, insulated vinyl cover, a thermostatically controlled heater, and a starter set of filters. Buy your Spa-N-A-Box Portable Spa today and soak your troubles away.

Far Infrared Sauna:

The Far Infrared Sauna gives you all of the health benefits of sauna use without temperatures in excess of 220 degrees through the use of far infrared heat therapy. Far infrared rays are able to deeply penetrate your body without heating the air around it, enabling the temperature in the Far Infrared Sauna to remain at much more comfortable level. This not only allows you to enjoy longer sessions of stress relief and relaxation, but it also allows the Far Infrared Sauna to include an integrated CD player and reading light. So put on your favorite music, grab a good book, and let the therapeutic health benefits of the Far Infrared Sauna remove toxins from your system, relax your muscles, and relieve your stress and tension.

emWave Personal Stress Reliever:

Introducing a stress relief technology that balances your emotions, mind, and body, the emWave Personal Stress Reliever is a scientifically validated, handheld stress reliever. Unlike other devices that simply give instruction on deep breathing, the emWave is a complete stress relief kit. It includes a “Coherence Coach” CD with a stress relief software application. By measuring your heart rhythm coherence, based on your levels of emotional stress, the emWave Personal Stress Reliever is able to give you stress relief training to increase coherence levels through narration, animations, and music. It’s great for relaxing before in an important meeting or event, improving sleep, and overcoming stress associated with health issues or stressful situations. Buy the emWave Personal Stress Reliever today and enjoy a happier, more relaxed, stress free lifestyle.

Contour Back Max:

Finding the right position to lay back and relax in is easy with the Contour Back Max. The unique, 3-piece design supports your body in over 8 comforting, therapeutic positions. Whether you are sleeping, reading, or even meditating, the Contour Back Max fits the natural curves of your body with its high-quality, medical-grade foam. The three pieces attach with zippers and feature a soft, machine-washable, velour cover for maximum comfort. Increase circulation, reduce back pain, and relieve stress and tension with the Contour Back Max.

PilatesStick Portable Body Sculpting System

Pilates has been used for years as a way to tone and sculpt the body as well as stretch and relax your muscles. Unfortunately Pilates classes can be quite costly, especially if you feel the need to go a few times a week. The PilatesStick Portable Body Sculpting System is a low cost way for everyone to do pilates exercises in the comfort of their own home. Used in pilates classes all over the country, the PilatesStick Portable Body Sculpting System features high quality construction and a patented alternative to standard tubing to prevent pinched skin and pulled hair. It includes foam anchors that allow it to be held in place by virtually any door in your house as well as a twenty minute instructional DVD to get you started. Regardless of your level of fitness, the PilatesStick Portable Body Sculpting System is a great tool for relieving stress and tension from a long day.

Better Sleep Pillow:

How well you sleep at night can be directly tied to how stressed you are during the day, and vice versa. The Better Sleep Pillow enables you to find the right sleeping position so you can relax and feel refreshed the next morning. Uniquely designed with lateral recesses and a center tunnel for arm positions, the Better Sleep Pillow is great for all sleeping positions, especially back and side. It provides support for your shoulders, head, neck, and arms, reducing discomfort and numbness. The Better Sleep Pillow aligns your neck and spine properly to improve breathing and reduce snoring, helping those around you to sleep better as well. The soft, velour zippered cover is machine washable for added convenience. Sleep better with the Better Sleep Pillow to help reduce your stress and help you wake up feeling refreshed.

Marpac Marsona 1288A Sound Machine:

A stressful day on the job can leave you thinking about work when you should be thinking about sleep. The Marpac Marsona 1288A Sound Machine is the “top of the line” sound machine which creates soothing white noise to help you feel more relaxed and fall asleep. The digital sound quality is so realistic it gives you the sensation of being whisked away to a remote location, far from the stress of everyday life. Whether you enjoy the sounds of the surf, a brook, or a thunder storm, the Marpac Marsona 1288A Sound Machine gives you numerous options for primary and overlay sounds as well as easy to use controls for a timer and volume. Relax from a stressful day, relieve tension, and enjoy a good night’s sleep with the Marpac Marsona 1288A Sound Machine.

Body Back Buddy:

Stress can create tension in your back, neck, and shoulders which leads to painful migraine headaches. With the Body Back Buddy, you can give yourself a deep, penetrating massage on any part of your body, thanks to the 11 therapy knobs and the s-shaped design. Each knob is specially placed for certain parts of the body; for instance, the two short knobs that are side by side are ideal for massaging both sides of the neck. The Body Back Buddy is engineered to be strong and lightweight and was designed by a certified massage and neuromuscular therapist. It can be kept at home, in your office, or practically anywhere. Those who work at a desk all day will enjoy relief from tight, cramped muscles. Enjoy relief from stress and tension with a deep, penetrating massage from the Body Back Buddy.

Obus Forme Personalized Comfort Driver Seat:

Whether you are on a long car trip or dealing with traffic during your work commute, sitting in the car for an extended period of time can cause stress and tension originating from your back. The Obus Forme Personalized Comfort Driver Seat provides you with the comfort of heat, massage, and lumbar support in virtually any vehicle. The high-density foam adds an additional level of cushion and comfort to your existing car seat with the integrated heater helps to keep muscles from tightening and stiffening. Six motors allow the Obus Forme Personalized Comfort Driver Seat to provide you with three levels of massage in your upper back, lower back, bottom, and thighs. The massaging sensation and warmth help you to be calm and relaxed while driving, making this a great way to help prevent road rage! Enjoy relief from tension and stress with the Obus Forme Personalized Comfort Driver Seat.

Jeanie Rub Massager:

When it comes to relieving tension and stress and relaxing from a long day, nothing works better than a good massage. Unfortunately, a professional massage can be costly and hard to come by. The Jeanie Rub Massager delivers up to 4,600 RPMs of massaging power to penetrate deep into your muscles, relieving tension and loosening knots. There is no pounding, jabbing, or rotating of fingers like other brands. The most widely-used hand-held, therapeutic massager available, the Jeanie Rub Massager enables your friends or loved ones to give you a professional quality massage in the comfort of your own home. Accessory posts are available to penetrate deep into specific pressure points and the Jeanie Rub Massager is available with or without variable speeds. Relax your tight muscles and massage your stress away with the Jeanie Rub Massager.

Originally published March 2008

Scottsdale-Based Medical Supplies Company Credits SCORE’s Mentor Services, American Express OPEN with Prosperity

SCOTTSDALE, AZ – February 24, 2008 – ActiveForever, a leading medical equipment supplier and healthcare products innovator was recently recognized by SCORE, a non-profit organization that provides entrepreneurs with small businesses advice, as one of its regional success stories. Utilizing both the advice of SCORE’s volunteer business counselors and the financial benefits of the American Express OPEN small business program, ActiveForever has enjoyed unprecedented growth and success in the five years since the company was purchased and re-designed by CEO Erika Feinberg.

“Here I was, a technology executive, knowing how to run a company, and knowing how to run a web business, but knowing nothing about the print catalog business, a warehouse and distribution center business, advertising and absolutely nothing about running a multi-location retail business. You could imagine my relief to find out about the existence of SCORE. There’s nothing better than the luxury of being able to stand on the shoulders of old pros who all have their areas of expertise. I say that in present tense because even though ActiveForever is no longer a small company, our issues are getting a bit more complex, and SCORE still comes to the rescue.” says Feinberg.

SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” was founded in 1964, and has since helped thousands of small business achieve success through the expert advice of its 10,500 volunteers nationwide. The business counselors at SCORE consist of both working and retired executives and business owners who dedicate themselves to entrepreneur education. Through this education, SCORE encourages the formation, growth, and success of small businesses nationwide.

ActiveForever utilized the advice from multiple counselors at SCORE, ranging from an attorney to a retired pharmacy owner, to help deal with everything from marketing its company to dealing with unprecedented growth. “Turning to the SCORE counselors is a dream. Due to the complexity of my needs, SCORE deployed a team of counselors to our brand new headquarters five years ago, and it was like working with learned parents who tells it as it is. There was no hidden agenda, and each counselor brought unique expertise to the table.” states Feinberg.

The other integral part of ActiveForever’s success was the use of the American Express OPEN small business services. OPEN is a team at American Express, dedicated to serving the needs of small business owners through a combination of products and services. ActiveForever optimized the use of its American Express Business card to help manage the company’s product inventory acquisition, and has used the card’s rewards points for everything from travel expenses to office supplies. “We certainly leverage the reward points program to its fullest. We have avoided significant business expenses by using points for all of our travel, and even leveraged the points to help outfit two of our facilities with new tenant improvements and equipment acquisition. We also take advantage of the points for employee incentives, and even ski trips,” tells Feinberg.

Feinberg herself has become a mentor to CEO’s running both large and small businesses. She institutes very creative and well thought out operational and marketing programs that have enabled the ongoing success of ActiveForever. To arrange Erika Feinberg to speak at your next corporate sales training, customer service training or marketing conference, contact Richard Chandler, Media Contact.

About ACTIVEFOREVER
Established in 1993, ActiveForever offers the convenience of one-stop shopping for more than 10,000 competitively priced, life-enhancing products that address almost all physical and clinical needs. Products include aids for daily living, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, durable medical equipment, low vision aids, ergonomic products, and land/aqua exercise therapy products. ActiveForever also provides a multitude of product solutions for arthritis, Parkinson’s Disease, diabetes, stroke rehabilitation, low vision, hearing loss, pain relief, sports injuries and other physically limiting conditions. The company also offers unique gift ideas. For more information, visit www.ActiveForever.com or call 1.800.377.8033.

Author: Richard Chandler

Originally published Feb. 2008

ActiveForever Opens New West Valley State-of-the-Art Education Center, Interactive Retail Store and National Distribution Center

Leading Medical Equipment and Supplies Provider Supports Growth with the Opening of Retail Distribution Centers in Arizona

PEORIA, AZ – November 2, 2007 – ActiveForever, a leading medical equipment supplier and healthcare products innovator has grown its interactive retail and distribution centers to include Arizona’s West Valley. The company is known for its life changing product solutions which cater to and aid people with various injuries or physical challenges. Due to the demand of its increasing customer base, the company is opening a location in Peoria, AZ which will include national fulfillment, an interactive retail store and a state-of-the-art education center. The Grand Opening of the store will be November 10, 2007 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. During these hours there will be a give away every hour on the hour, product demonstrations, a few hot rods for show and breakfast. Also during the Grand Opening a 5% donation of each of your purchases will be donated to a charity of your choice.

The cause-related campaign titled “Life Changing Gifts” will benefit the following organizations: the ALS Association, the Arthritis Foundation, the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Research Center The Alzheimer’s Association and the Foundation for Senior Living.

The location was chosen specifically for the demand increase in the West Valley. This centralized location at Olive Avenue and the 101 Freeway has access to some of Arizona’s most popular urban and economic centers in addition to numerous hospitals and healthcare systems. ActiveForever’s CEO, Erika Feinberg was involved first hand with the planning and implementation of the center.

“Designing and building ActiveForever has been one of the most thrilling experiences of my life,” exclaimed Feinberg. “It is so much fun watching someone experience ActiveForever in person.”

Feinberg emphasized the importance of customer feedback to the creation and growth of the center. “Our customers are normally very smart and live active lives. They often offer exceptional insights that keep us on track. Their feedback keeps us excited and doing the right thing for the communities we serve.”

The ActiveForever education center will house a conference room that can be reserved by the public for life planning or health related programs and support groups. The room is outfitted with network cameras allowing remote access to demonstrations and seminars as well as health screenings. The retail store will contain a variety of top selling health innovations including mobility aids, bathroom safety equipment, pain management supplies, rehab equipment and low vision products.

The company will also continue its involvement with local community organizations and causes. In November ActiveForever will be launching its “LifeChangingGifts” campaign during the busy holiday season. These philanthropic efforts will benefit non-profit organizations including the ALS Association, the Arthritis Foundation, the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Research Center and the Foundation for Senior Living. For more information, visit www.LifeChangingGifts.org

Click here to see a photo gallery of the Peoria Store and Warehouse Grand Opening.

About ACTIVEFOREVER

Established in 1993, now one of the top ranked web businesses in the country, ActiveForever offers the convenience of one-stop shopping for more than 10,000 competitively priced, life-enhancing products that address almost all physical and clinical needs. Products include aids for daily living, bath, safety and hygiene products, mobility aids, durable medical equipment, low vision aids, ergonomic products, and land/aqua exercise therapy products. ActiveForever also provides a multitude of product solutions for arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, stroke rehabilitation, low vision, hearing loss, sports injuries and other physically limiting conditions. The company also offers unique gift ideas, a print product catalog and two interactive retails stores in Arizona. For more information, visit www.ActiveForever.com or call 1.800.377.8033.

View Invitation: ActiveForever Grand Opening Invitation

Author: Richard Chandler

Originally published November 2007

Far Infrared Heat Therapy – The Latest Innovation in Pain Relief, Blood Circulation, and Healing

The proven health and therapeutic benefits of Far Infrared Heat Therapy, or light therapy, while familiar to health professionals, are still a mystery to most consumers. A recent “explosion” of Far Infrared Heat Therapy products on the market has prompted many people to show interest in the benefits of using those products, but like most new technological applications, the majority are still skeptical as to whether or not these products actually work.

What is Infrared Heat?

Infrared is a band of light that we perceive as heat. While we cannot see infrared heat, we can feel its effects. Infrared radiation, or radiant heat, represents over half of the energy emitted by the Sun and is divided into three segments: near, middle, and far. Infrared rays heat our body by a process called conversion. Through conversion, far infrared heat can penetrate organic substances such as the human body without heating the air in between. You may notice a similar effect on partly cloudy days: when a cloud obscures the sun, you suddenly feel cooler, but the air temperature around you has not had time to be affected. The cloud blocked the sun’s infrared rays from penetrating your body. By using far infrared heat as opposed to traditional heating methods, you enable the heat to penetrate deeper into your body without the skin discomfort of heating pads, hot towels, and some pain relief gels/creams. However, less discomfort is just one of many benefits of far infrared heat therapy.

What are the benefits of Far Infrared Heat Therapy?

The human body is composed of 90% water. Far infrared rays cause resonance in water molecules, activating them and ionizing them. Because of this effect, Far Infrared Heat Therapy offers a variety of proven health and beauty benefits.

Far Infrared Heat Therapy effectively helps to increase blood circulation without putting strain on your heart and increases the levels of oxygen and white blood cells in your blood. It also stimulates the production of collagen (a building block for human tissue) in your body and helps to rid your body of toxins by causing you to perspire. You get the benefit of a stronger immune system, better cardiovascular health, and a faster ability to heal from soft tissue injuries such as tears, pulls, and sprains. Believe it or not, Far Infrared Heat Therapy also serves as an effective way to help cure hangovers.

The penetrating heat of Far Infrared Heat Therapy can be used as a beauty treatment as well. It reduces the appearance of crow’s feet, fine lines, and wrinkles. In addition to helping heal scars, wounds, and cuts, it also smoothes your skin’s texture, lessens coarseness, and reduces pore size.

Far Infrared Heat Therapy penetrates deep into soft tissue, making it an ideal source of arthritis pain relief. Athletes and the elderly will benefit from an effective means of loosening sore muscles and stiff joints without the use of ointments or creams that can burn and have an unpleasant odor. Those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease, and Parkinson’s Disease can enjoy an easy to use form of pain relief. In addition to making you perspire and removing toxins from your body, Far Infrared Heat Therapy serves as a means of weight loss and cellulite reduction for those who cannot exercise due to health concerns or mobility issues.

How is Far Infrared Heat Therapy administered? Thanks to the demand for pain relief applications as well as the growing knowledge and popularity of Infrared Heat Therapy, a wide variety of products are available to help you enjoy the benefits of this technology. Ranging in price from as low as $80 to as high as $2,600, Far Infrared Heat Therapy technology is used in handheld devices, stationary systems, products with built in massagers, and even highly effective home saunas. The Light Relief® is an example of a handheld infrared therapy device. It uses either an AC adapter or batteries and can be held against your body with your hand or attached to your body using the long strap included with the product. It is a great solution for targeting pain in specific areas such as your joints, hands, and neck. The DPL – Deep Penetrating Light Therapy System is a device that consists of two large panels, mounted on a stand, that contain dozens of infrared LED lights. The DPL can sit on a table to apply the skin-related benefits of infrared therapy to your face, or the two panels can be removed and either held or strapped to the body. When removed from the stand, the two infrared panels are ideal for relieving pain, healing, and increasing circulation in larger parts of the body such as the lower back, the upper back, thighs, shoulders, and abs. Perhaps the most effective form of Far Infrared Heat Therapy, the Far Infrared Home Sauna offers many more benefits than any other device. Unlike traditional saunas that heat up to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit, the Far Infrared Home Sauna only reaches a maximum of 150 degrees. The infrared technology allows the heat to penetrate even deeper into your body while eliminating the discomfort of extremely high temperatures. The air is fresh and steam-free as opposed to being humid and stale, and this sauna uses a fraction of the energy a traditional one uses. Because the temperatures are low enough to not affect electronics, the Far Infrared Home Sauna includes a sound system with CD player and a reading light.

Will Far Infrared Heat Therapy Work For Me?

Far Infrared Heat Therapy has been shown to work on people of all backgrounds. The range of benefits from this effective form of heat therapy can be felt regardless of skin type, physical disabilities or limitations, and athletic condition. Simply use the available types of Far Infrared Heat Therapy for 15 – 30 minutes per day and enjoy the benefits of a healthier lifestyle. For more information on the wide variety of infrared heat therapy products, click on the links below.

Infrared Blood Circulation Massager

Ultra Deep Kneading Massager with Infrared Technology

Far Infrared Home Sauna

Light Relief Therapy

DPL – Deep Penetrating Light Therapy System

Thermotex Infrared Heating Pad

Author: Richard Chandler

*Originally published October 17, 2007

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Dec. 4, 2003 – To better reflect the company’s mission to positively impact and change people’s lives, Independent Living Products announces its official name change to ActiveForever, Inc. (www.ActiveForever.com). ActiveForever is the nation’s leading online and catalogue provider of cost-effective aids for daily living for disabled, injured and physically challenged individuals and senior citizens.

“We have expanded our product line to include many items for active healthy individuals, as well as those coping with sports injuries, physical disabilities or illnesses,” explains Erika L. Feinberg, chairman of ActiveForever. “With more than 10,000 products, we make it easy for our customers to access the latest and greatest products, equipment and gadgets they need to maintain or enhance their active, independent lifestyles.”

ActiveForever’s life-enhancing products can help a wide range of people, including those coping with impaired vision or debilitating diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, ALS and Parkinson’s, individuals who are recovering from a stroke or surgery, as well as healthy individuals who need a “helping hand” because they live alone or were injured playing sports or during other “weekend warrior” activities such as doing home repairs. Popular products from among the more than 10,000 offered, include: adaptive silverware and kitchen utensils, safety items, talking products such as calculators and clock radios, coice-activated TV remote controls, scooters and other mobility aids, ergonomic workplace solutions, zipper pulls and a wide-range of exercise equipment.

To ensure that the products offered meet the diverse needs of the purchasers, ActiveForever performs extensive, ongoing market research with a broad spectrum of individuals, including: those who use the products and their families and caregivers; researchers; physical and occupational therapists and executives at assisted living facilities, community outreach organizations and associations. Products can be ordered online at www.ActiveForever.com or by phone at 1.800.377.8033. Arizona residents and visitors can visit the Discovery Center, ActiveForever’s popular, interactive, fun showroom that allows customers to try out many of the products. All items are competitively priced and are shipped the same day.

During the holiday season, Feinberg reminds patients, family members and healthcare providers that there is no better gift than the gift of independence and improved quality of life.

About ActiveForever

Established more than 10 years ago, ActiveForever (formerly Independent Living Products) offers the convenience of one-stop-shopping for more than 10,000 competitively priced, life-enhancing products that address almost all physical and clinical needs. Products include aids for daily living; durable medical equipment; specialty garments; urological and ostomy accessories; ergonomic workplace solutions; splints and braces; mobility equipment and accessories; water and land-based rehabilitation and exercise equipment; home automation, modification and safety items; as well as great gift ideas. ActiveForever continuously researches and develops products to offer individuals with physical challenges and those that just need a “helping hand” the highest quality and best pricing on items designed to enhance their quality of life.

ActiveForever’s Discovery Center-Interactive Retail Store is located at 10799 North 90th Street in Scottsdale, Ariz. For more information visit www.ActiveForever.com or call 1.800.377.8033.

**This was originally published December 4, 2003

Recently, in a discussion group I belong to someone asked how they could increase speed and endurance while training for a marathon, and because I know many of you use athletics to stay active forever I wanted to share the same information here.

First and foremost, for those of you who are already marathon runners or are training to be – congratulations! Great job! There are numerous studies proving what you marathon runners already know – running slows the aging process. It’s true! Besides the well-known weight loss advantages of running, lesser known benefits include osteoporosis prevention, decreases memory loss (particularly in elderly), increases mental sharpness, and can even give you stronger orgasms (don’t believe me? Harvard University did a study!).

There are two VERY effective tools for increasing speed and endurance while training for a marathon:

The first is the Powerlung, for conditioning all of the cardio/pulmonary muscles; choose the dark blue model for the highest resistance.

The other is the LaserTouchOne – a PHENOMENAL healing tool!  If you’re competing, you’re not one to sit still and let your body heal.  There’s nothing like this! It’s the only FDA approved device that combines cold laser with electric stim, AND it only requires treatment times of two minutes.

Additionally, resistance training on land and under water has proven to be very helpful for increasing speed and endurance (not just for marathon training, but lots of other athletic training too). Some popular choices:

RESIST Running Resistance Parachute – Specifically designed to increase an individual’s speed and endurance.

AquaVee Portable Swim System Kit – This is an inexpensive alternative to the Exerswim Portable Swim Current Generator, and turns any size pool into an Olympic swim pool. If you travel frequently, the AquaVee works great in hotel pools too!

Underwater treadmills are ideal for resistance training under water. Our favorite is the Incline Aquatic Underwater Treadmill by Aquabilt, and the 302 model features a flywheel and is perfect for serious athletes (for additional resistance use with the AQx Aquatic Training Shoes).

Hope you appreciate the marathon training guidance, and these tips help.  We just want to shout from rooftops about these things! 

You’ve gone from ignoring advertisements about medical alert systems to needing one for either yourself or an aging loved one, but with the multitudes of personal emergency response systems (PERS) on the market how do you know which medical alert is right for you?

There are two main types of home medical alert systems: emergency response systems with monitoring and without monitoring.

There are numerous terms for medical alert systems (such as PERS) and we’ll use several throughout this information so you’re already familiar with them when you compare medical emergency response systems. PERS consist of three components: a wireless transmitter (which is worn around your wrist, neck, on a belt, etc.), a console which connects to your telephone (usually you need a land line telephone), and an emergency response center.

The transmitter is battery operated, light weight, and may also be referred to as a pendant, necklace, or bracelet (among others).

When the person wearing the transmitter activates it (often in the instance of a fall), the transmitter sends a signal to the console (often called a “base”) connected to your telephone, and the telephone automatically dials out to the emergency response center.

When you are using a home medical alert system with a monitoring service, there is a company that monitors the system and when they’re called (after the transmitter is activated) the monitoring company contacts emergency personnel or other people you have pre-designated.

If you decide to use a personal alert safety system with a monitoring company you will purchase the three components of the system, and pay installation and monthly fees to the monitoring service company. The Federal Trade Commission advises you contact your local consumer protection agency, state Attorney General, and the Better Business Bureau to find out if any complaints have been filed against the monitoring system company you’re considering entering into an agreement with.

Some seniors prefer using a medical emergency response system that doesn’t involve a monitoring service. In that case, when the transmitter is activated and the console (connected to your telephone) receives the signal your phone automatically dials 911 or to a family or friend (which you’ll have pre-determined). This is a more affordable option because there is no installation or monthly fees, and the only added cost is battery replacement periodically.

When considering a medical alarm/alert system it is very important to do your homework, and always ask the following questions of each home medical alarm system:

Can I speak AND listen to the operator through the transmitter/pendant?

If I’m outside when I activate the transmitter can I speak to the operator outside of my house?

Is the monitoring center open 24/7? Have the people answering the phones gone through emergency medical technician (EMT) training?

What happens if I fall in the bathroom and the door is closed? Will I be able to hear (and be heard) through the transmitter still? Is the transmitter waterproof? (not the same as water resistant)

What if I move to another city of state? Can I use the same system with other monitoring services elsewhere?

What is the average life of the batteries in the system? Is there a warning for low batteries?

How long will the operator stay on with me? As long as I need them?

How many transmitter units can one base unit (or console) support?

What features does the system provide if I activate the transmitter but lose consciousness before help arrives?

If you’re finding you like some of the features of both monitored and unmonitored personal emergency response systems, the SilverCare Personal Safety Emergency Alert Device offers a comprehensive elderly alert system without monitoring (so there aren’t any fees or contracts) but will also work with a monitoring service (of your choice) if you want to go that route. SilverCare utilizes state-of-the-art technology and offers everything from medication reminders to remotely turning on/off lights (while remaining incredibly easy to use).

As with all independent living aids, there are numerous options and the right product for each individual is an individual decision. Personal safety alert systems allow the wearers, caregivers, and family members priceless peace of mind. To view an assortment of home medical alert systems, click here. If you have additional questions about which home emergency alert device is the right one for you, feel free to call 1-800-377-8033.

The idea of compression stockings as ugly and worn only by elderly woman is outdated, and everyone from athletes to stylish young women are understanding compression hosiery are the key to healthy legs. In addition to being treatments for deep vein thrombosis and lymphedema, compression stockings also decrease swelling in your legs/ankles (pay attention frequent travelers, pregnant women, and those of you who work on your feet all day), help prevent varicose veins (the removal of which can cost thousands of dollars), and more. With those things in mind, ActiveForever.com and BSN Medical have teamed up to present Leg Health Days, July 18-21, 2011 at retail stores and online.

The public is invited to attend this FREE, Healthy Legs event at ActiveForever’s retail locations in the Phoenix, Arizona area (specifically in Scottsdale, Arizona and Peoria, Arizona). At either of the ActiveForever.com retail locations you’ll be able to have a complimentary personalized fitting for compression garments, and trained staff will be available to answer your questions about compression accessories and stockings. In addition, this free event will feature discounts on all Jobst compression products, gifts with purchases, ActiveForever giveaways, coupons, and more!

On Wednesday, July 20, 2011, the ActiveForever.com retail store in Peoria, Arizona will have all of the above along with food, drinks, prizes, and experienced compression specialists on-site. If you’re on the other side of the Valley, drop by ActiveForever’s Scottsdale, Arizona retail store for all of the same on July 21, 2011. Both days offer a fun, luxurious shopping experience (we know, those aren’t things you normally associate with a medical supply store).

On a more serious note, it is a sad truth that many healthcare professionals aren’t (or weren’t) even taught the difference between anti-embolism stockings (T.E.D hose) and compression stockings so you may have been prescribed (from the beginning) the wrong product for your health needs. At Active Forever we see this often among our customers, and the Leg Health Days are one way to help you be more informed (though free food, drinks, and prizes never hurts). The complaints of compression stockings being uncomfortable are often the result of ill-fitting compression stockings or the wrong product all together.

For those of you who aren’t able to attend the Leg Health Days events in person, we’ve put together an easy-to-understand explanation of compression garments (from stockings to athletic recovery socks) on our compression stockings page on our website.

Also, starting July 18, 2011 to July 21, 2011, you can receive the same discount on all Jobst compression products online! When you are completing your purchase online (or over the phone) simply use the discount code JOBST and the discount will be applied to your purchase. Feel free to share this information with your friends and family, and pass on our invitation to anyone you know in the Phoenix area.  ActiveForever.com is excited and honored to be presenting the free, Leg Health Days event with BSN Medical, and offer customers information and discounts on compression stockings (and accessories) along with personalized fittings, prizes, giveaways, food, and drinks at ActiveForever’s retail locations and compression stockings discounts online.

“Aging in place” is one of the current buzz words for independent living, or allowing a person to remain in their own home as they age and become more elderly. Baby boomers are those who were born between 1948 and 1964, and they are rapidly approaching retirement age. As baby boomers age, are communities prepared to handle what will become a large influx of senior (and then elderly) community members?

According to a report by the Aging in Place Initiative, an organization focused on developing livable communities for people of all ages, “only 46 percent of American communities have begun planning to address the needs of the exploding population of aging Baby Boomers.”

Just how much will the aging Boomers population expand?  Retirement of baby boomers will “peak in 2030, [and] the number of people over age 65 in the United States will soar to 71.5 million – twice their number in the year 2000- or one in every five Americans.”

The Aging in Place Initiative’s “Maturing of America” study (upon which the report is based) looked at a community’s “readiness” based on the following points:

• whether efforts are being made to assess and put into place programs, policies and services that address the needs of older adults and their caregivers;
• whether cities and counties are able to ensure that their communities are “livable” for all ages – not only good places to grow up but good places to grow old; and
• how well equipped an area is to harness the talent, wisdom and experience of older adults to contribute to the community at large.

The “Maturing of America” study found only 46 percent of communities (which participated in the study) had begun planning to address the needs of the rapidly growing numbers of aging community members. A number much less than the 46 percent would be communities which are actually prepared for an influx of senior residents.

Where does your own community stand with being prepared for its aging community members? What services does it already offer to senior citizens?

Perhaps a more important question is how prepared are you for your own aging or the aging of your loved ones? Look at your own home, or perhaps your parent’s home. Our own home is where each of us is most comfortable, but how accessible will your own home be to you as you continue to age? There are hundreds of thousands of independent living aids which help adapt your home to be more accessible to elderly household members; everything from grab bars around the house to bath lifts can be installed to help home remain accessible for as long as possible.

Consider contacting your community leaders with the “readiness” questions posted above to find out for yourself what resources will be available for yourself and your loved ones as all age in your community. Also consider discussing with family members if their aging, long term care desires include aging in place and independent living options. If you are interested in some of the things needed to help make a home more accessible for aging in place, visit our website at ActiveForever.com or call with your questions to 1-800-377-8033.

Smoke from the “Wallow Fire,” a wildfire which has burned more than 200,000 acres in northern Arizona is pushing air quality to unhealthy levels as far across the United States as Georgia (and Alabama).  Firefighters are literally working around the clock to try and get the Wallow wildfire under control, which is currently classified as zero percent contained.  Arizona Governor Jan Brewer declared the Wallow Fire situation a “state of emergency” (releasing funds to pay for emergency responses and recovery expenses), the Colorado Department of Health and Environment (CDPHE) issued its largest smoke health advisory of the season on Monday, and airplanes are having to be diverted from Albuquerque, New Mexico all due to heavy smoke from the uncontrolled wildfire.

There are obvious health concerns which result from wildfire smoke, but many people assume they have to be in the direct vicinity of the fire before they need to worry about their own health.  The smoke billowing across the country carries harmful particles, which can often cover entire neighborhoods but in this case is covering entire metro areas. According to the CDPHE, if there is less than 5 miles visibility in your area then the smoke has reached “unhealthy levels.”

Health Concerns from Wildfire Smoke

Respiratory issues are one of the biggest health concerns in conjunction with smoke from wildfires. You may feel a variety of symptoms from smoke inhalation including coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, difficulty breathing (or shortness of breath), asthma, and more.

Christopher Dann, public information officer with the CDPHE’s Colorado Air Pollution Control Division, identified people who are “elderly, very young, or those with heart disease or respiratory illnesses” as being most at-risk for smoke related health problems; “A little bit of pollution goes a longer way with those folks,” Dann said (according to KUSA-TV, 9NEWS in Colorado).

Best Ways to Protect Against Harmful Smoke Particles

One of the best things you can do to help protect yourself (and your loved ones) from inhaling the wildfire smoke which has blown into your area is to restrict your exposure to smoke conditions. Limit your outdoor activities and stay indoors as much as possible; if the smoke is making an especially at-risk individual sick consider temporarily relocating them. In the western United States, swamp coolers are an often used alternative to air conditioning but people in smoke infected areas should avoid using swamp coolers, which will pull the harmful air particles into your indoor living space. Pay attention to the smoke-related alerts in your community! The New Mexico Department of Health recommends not using anything that burns (i.e. candles, gas stoves, fireplaces, etc.) when outdoor smoke levels are high (KRQE News 13).

You may have seen photos of people being evacuated from areas in the direct path of the Wallow Fire wearing bandanas over the lower part of the faces, but you can protect your health from the harmful smoke particles more effectively by wearing face masks (many of which are very affordable and easy to use). Face masks are particularly important for individuals who are already at higher risk for health problems associated with smoke particles inhalation (i.e. the elderly, children, those with respiratory illnesses, etc.).

Keep Up-to-Date on the Wallow Fire News and Health Advisories

You don’t need to be obsessively glued to CNN, but you do want to pay attention to the status of the Wallow fire, and current health advisories (especially in your own community). Check your state’s department of health, and you can find current information on the Wallow Fire at the Arizona Emergency Information Network website.

Our thoughts go out to all people affected by the Wallow fire, and especially to those firefighters who are putting their own lives in harms way to contain this wildfire. ActiveForever will be offering updates on the Wallow fire via Twitter; if you don’t already follow us you can join us on Twitter @ActiveForever.

For people with mobility issues and limited strength independence can become dramatically restricted, but mobility scooters give people with mobility impairments their independence and mobile freedom back! The new Drive Bobcat mobility scooter has several features which puts it in the top of its class, and ActiveForever.com is offering this new scooter at a discounted price until the end of the month (May 2011)!

Unlike other power scooters, the Drive Bobcat Mobile Scooters feature “anti-tippers” (in both the front and the back) providing a sharp turning radius without the concern of the scooter tipping over. The Drive Medical Bobcat Mobility Scooter is available as a 3 wheel or 4 wheel mobility scooter; both are available from ActiveForever at a special introductory price with FREE SHIPPING for a limited time only. Additionally, the Bobcat medical scooters include flat-free tires (never worry about a flat tire!). These mobility scooters break down into four, easy to transport parts, making them perfect for travel!

ActiveForever consistently seeks out new, innovative, life-changing products for our customers, and we’re excited to be selling the new, 4 wheel and 3 wheel Drive Bobcat Medical Mobility Scooters! We realize there are numerous mobility scooters available on the market and the options can be overwhelming; for information on how to choose the best mobility scooter for you and answers to frequently asked questions regarding medical scooters, click here and scroll down to the bottom of the page. If you’re interested in purchasing either of the Drive Bobcat Mobility Scooters, act now because the discounted price will only be available until the end of the month (May 2011); buy the Drive Bobcat Medical Scooter from ActiveForever.com today and we’ll ship it to you for FREE!

Fashion and fitness are only two of many areas in our society which change and evolve constantly with trends, but medical and health topics also have hot topics consumers should be aware of; one of the current health hot topics we’re hearing a lot about is “integrative medicine.”

What is integrative medicine?

Sometimes called IM or “integrated medicine,” integrative medicine is based on a “partnership between the patient and the doctor, where the goal is to treat the mind, body, and spirit, all at the same time” (WebMD). Not just a trend brought forth by holistic practitioners, integrative medicine is practiced in leading hospitals and health care centers nationwide in places like the Duke Center for Integrative Medicine.

According to WebMD: “The Duke Center for Integrative Medicine is a classic model of integrative care. It combines conventional Western medicine with alternative or complementary treatments, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, biofeedback, yoga, and stress reduction techniques — all in the effort to treat the whole person. Proponents prefer the term “complementary” to emphasize that such treatments are used with mainstream medicine, not as replacements or alternatives.”

If you’ve been using massage or doing yoga for years the idea of integrative medicine isn’t new to you, but public attention and funding for IM didn’t blossom until 1993 when a landmark study found one out of every three Americans had used at least one form of alternative therapy (often without telling their doctors).

What is the difference between conventional medicine and integrative medicine?

The Duke Center for Integrative Medicine clearly compares how conventional medicine works to how integrative medicine works:

Conventional medicine intervenes as needed, relies on the patient to achieve health goals, and is directed by the physician. In contrast, integrative medicine plans across the patient’s life span,  supports the patient to achieve goals, and is “guided by a partnership among patient, physician, and a team of clinical experts.”

A patient utilizing integrative medicine offers conventional medicine looks to diagnosis and “fix” the symptoms of a medical condition, while integrative medicine looks beyond the symptoms so the root cause of a health condition can be understood and healed.

Some holistic practisioners may only use alternative or naturalistic therapies, but integrative medicine utilizes both conventional medicine practices (blood tests, xrays, etc) and alternative therapies together for a patient.

National leading hospitals and medical schools have so embraced integrative medicine, 46 “highly esteemed academic medical centers” (including Duke, Harvard, Columbia, Georgetown, and more) are currently a part of the Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine, with a mission “to advance the principles and practices of integrative healthcare within academic institutions” (according to the Consortium’s website).

As leading medical institutions, current health care practitcioners, and the public continue to embrace and advance integrative medicine more and more health insurance companies may begin to cover things like massage, tai chi, or even yoga classes (!).

I’m interested, but what now?

Second only to the popular “are we there yet” question is “what now?” You like what you read (maybe have heard about it before), but your insurance would laugh if you asked them to cover a yoga class so what can you do to incorporate complementary therapies into your own life now without taking out a second mortgage on your house? Thankfully it is affordable and easy to start out learning/doing meditation, tai chi (even from your chair!), yoga, and even massage on your own (just click on the links for more information).Anything you can do for a healthier life in general (exercising, eating healthy foods, stress relief) follows the principles of integrative medicine and will help you be healthier overall.

Despite society’s focus on male hair loss as many as two-thirds of all women will experience thinning hair at some point in their lives, but numerous myths about what causes hair loss for women make it difficult to know what can help thinning hair and what can cause it.

#1 Hair loss is generally a male thing.

In truth, women worldwide can experience hair loss or thinning hair both as a result of natural reasons or illness.

#2 Hair loss is passed down through your father.

We blame our parents for many things, but both mom and dad can carry genes for hair loss. Hair loss caused by genetics is called “Androgenetic alopecia.”

#3 Menstruation is affected by hair loss in women.

Again, there are many unhappy things we can associate with menstruation, but hair loss doesn’t have an effect on it. The exception to this occurs if hair loss is a result of a health condition such as cancer, because menstruation can also be affected by the same illness.

#4 Frequent hair coloring, teasing, hair product use, hair washing, etc. causes or increases thinning hair.

This myth has been proven false through specific research which found normal shampooing, hair styling, etc. doesn’t damage hair follicles (thus doesn’t affect hair loss).

#5 Only older women suffer thinning hair or hair loss.

Younger generations will be surprised to learn hair loss typically begins in women anywhere between the ages of 12 and 40. Similar to men, age isn’t the determining factor behind hair loss.

#6 A single factor is the cause of hair loss in women.

While it would certainly be easier if there was only one, a single factor behind hair loss simply is not the case. Hair loss is often a result of a combination of factors.

#7 Extensive hormonal evaluation is required when women experience hair loss.

As you learned above, typical hair loss doesn’t affect menstruation, nor does it hinder pregnancy or endocrine function. You should, however, see a doctor about hormonal evaluation if you are experiencing hair loss in combination with any of the following: abnormal periods, infertility, hirsutism, cystic acne, virilization, or glactorrhea.

While recognizing myths vs. fact about hair loss in women makes you a more informed consumer, it isn’t changing the fact that you are experiencing thinning hair or hair loss. Depending on where you are in the stages of hair loss, there are numerous hair care specialists (maybe even your personal stylist) who can offer you help and explain some of your options or your doctor may be able to recommend someone to you. There are numerous hair loss products on the market, but if the idea of walking into a “hair club for men” building has you about as excited as most guys are to have to buy tampons, consider a hair loss device which delivers the power and results of a commercial product but is designed for ease of use in the privacy of your own home, like the innovative iGrow hair restoration system. The revolutionary iGrow Laser Hair Rejuvenation System is one of the best-selling hair loss products on the market, and you can learn more about it here.

April is National Autism Awareness month, and the increase of autism diagnoses in the United States is quickly becoming a hot health topic.

According to renowned commentator Robert Macneil, “Autism now affects more American children than childhood cancer, diabetes and AIDS combined. In the last decade, the numbers of children diagnosed on the autism spectrum have risen rapidly. The Centers for Disease Control now puts the rate at one in 110.”

Macneil has an autistic grandson, and collaborated with PBS to put together a series currently running on PBS about autism and current autism information.

Mayo Clinic defines autism as “one of a group of serious developmental problems called autism spectrum disorders (ASD) that appear in early childhood — usually before age 3. Though symptoms and severity vary, all autism disorders affect a child’s ability to communicate and interact with others.”

While there aren’t specific, known causes for autism, theories abound as to what causes autism including negative reactions to childhood vaccinations, food allergens (popular “autism diets” are gluten free and/or dairy free), heavy metals in the body, and more.

In an interview with Macneil for the autism broadcast series, anthropologist Richard Grinker, a professor at George Washington University, attributed the autism increases with the broader definition of autism currently in place. Grinker isn’t alone; roughly half of scientists and researchers conclude the increase in autism in the U.S. is simply a result of the wider definition of autism.

“They [increased autism diagnoses] were there all along, perhaps, but because we’re getting better at locating them, finding them and delivering services to these children and adults who really need help,” says Grinker. Environmental influences and genetics are other popular theories for the current increase in autism.

According to the nonprofit organization, Austism Speaks: “There is a growing interest among researchers about the role of the functions and regulation of the immune system in autism – both within the body and the brain. Piecemeal evidence over the past 30 years suggests that autism may involve inflammation in the central nervous system. There is also emerging evidence from animal studies that illustrates how the immune system can influence behaviors related to autism.”

While ActiveForever doesn’t offer products specifically geared towards autistic children, some of the independent living aids can help make your home more safe for children with autism. Whether you are at home, outside, or traveling, many of our child safety monitors can help you know where your child is at all times and keep them safe. If you have a swimming pool a pool alarm like the Safety Turtle Pool Alarm is a necessity. Occupational and physical therapists enjoy the wide range of innovative therapy products we carry. If you’ve found an ActiveForever.com product be particularly helpful or life changing for a child with autism, please share that with us in the comment section below or email to info@ActiveForever.com.

While you may not expect to find a majority of elderly on Twitter, a study recently published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found more senior citizens (aged 65 and older) are participating in monitoring personal health records online than young adults aged 18 to 35.

The study measured participation in implementing the use of personal health records online. According to the American Health Information Management Association, a personal health record (PHR) “is a tool that you can use to collect, track and share past and current information about your health or the health of someone in your care. Sometimes this information can save you the money and inconvenience of repeating routine medical tests. Even when routine procedures do need to be repeated, your PHR can give medical care providers more insight into your personal health story.”

The study’s authors reviewed 32,274 people who had adopted (they termed them “adopters”) using a PHR, and found 27% were “high users” who had logged into their personal health records over ten times in the previous two years. Out of those “high users” 41% (the majority of the high users) were between the ages of 51 and 65 years.

Race and socioeconomic status were shown to correlate with the rate of PHR (or EMR for electronic medical records) adoption through this study as well.

“In this study, we found the presence of a digital divide in a diverse population. Specifically, racial/ethnic minorities and patients with lower socioeconomic status were less likely to adopt a PHR. However, both of these groups used the PHR as much as other groups if they were able to adopt it,” according to one of the study’s authors.

Currently there are online personal health record services, and (for those concerned about privacy issues) there are products which allow you to maintain the same information on your own computer via special software.

According to the AHIMA: “Each supplier has different policies and practices regarding how they may use data they store for the individual. Study the policies and procedures carefully to make sure you understand how your personal health information will be used and protected. Policies to look for include privacy and security; the ability of the individual, or those they authorize, to access their information; and control over accessibility by others.”

The United States Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has put together concise information regarding personal health records, which you can view here, or click here for more detailed information.

To read more about the benefits and disadvantages related to online storage of medical health records, click here. For those concerned about privacy and online identity theft, ActiveForever.com offers USB and card medical records software you maintain, access, and save offline. If you’ve been thinking of purchasing something similar for your aging parents but were concerned it would be too difficult or they wouldn’t use it, the above study suggests otherwise.