Thursday, December 26, 2013


Smiling to oneself is like basking in Love...
And Love can repair and rejuvenate...

- Mantak Chia

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Most Seniors Prefer to "Age in Place"


AARP reported that 89% of seniors would prefer to stay in their homes as they age, or “age in place” as it is being called.  So deciding whether to make these changes to your home or to move into an assisted living facility can be a difficult choice for many.  You might decide to make some major changes to your home to make it more senior safe.

89%!  Think about it.  That is a large number.  With healthcare changing, being proactive about your health has never been more important than it is now.

Staying in your home if you can is very important.  It is your home, your memories, your life.  At EasyUndies we understand that desire. EasyUndies, now with the disposable EasyPads if you need them, will help you keep the independent life you want.  EasyUndies make the most basic daily event of putting on your undies easier.  EasyUndies can reduce the risk of falling while giving you back the dignity of putting on your own undies. 

Make it safe, make it easy. . .make it an EasyUndies Day!
Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Senior Learning Network


While surfing the Internet I came across this senior networking site. Worth a look!


Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, December 5, 2013

Alzheimer's Study



In my research I came across this medical study.  If you have early or mild Alzheimer's, please check out the link above.  They are looking for people to participate in the study.

Regards,
Rochelle


Wednesday, November 27, 2013


The best place in the world is with someone
who will not only hold you at your best,
but will pick you up and hold you tight
at your weakest.

Rochelle

Thursday, November 21, 2013


We know that equality of individual ability has never existed and never will, but we do insist that equality of opportunity still must be sought.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt 

Thursday, November 14, 2013


Just because a man lacks the use of his eyes doesn't mean he lacks vision.
– Stevie Wonder

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Caregivers Seek Place in Patient Records



What an interesting article on lifehealthpro.com.  A must read.  Think about it.  A caregiver spends a great deal of time with a person.  Sometimes even more than a family member.  So I so agree with this article.  A caregiver’s information should be put into a person’s medical records.  A doctor may be able to get better information that is correct from a caregiver.

Anything that can make our lives easier is important.  And that is why I invented EasyUndies now with the disposable EasyPad. 

Do you suffer from a bad back, injury or Arthritis. Then EasyUndies are for you. They can give back the dignity of the easy of putting on your undies.

Make it easy, make it safe, make it an EasyUndies kind of Day!
Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, October 31, 2013


One's dignity may be assaulted, vandalized and cruelly mocked, but cannot be taken away unless it is surrendered.
~ Michael J. Fox

Wednesday, October 23, 2013


The words you speak become the house you live in.

- Hafiz

What a wonderful saying.  My mom always said do not judge anyone. Help them, talk to them, guide them instead.  That is the way I try to live my life.

My mom struggled with MS for many years. She never gave up.  She pushed herself to live the fullest life she could.  In honor of my mom, I have invented EasyUndies with the disposable EasyPad.  So that everyone can have the dignity and live life without the worries of putting on your underwear.  EasyUndies takes that stress away.

Have a great day!
Rochelle

Thursday, October 17, 2013

Managing Stress


Every single one of us has had a personal family crisis, health emergency or had a dear friend go through a major calamity.  Too much drama in our lives can be overwhelming.  Everyone has something going on.  So do not think that the person next to you has a perfect life.  Perfection only exists in our children. 

It is how we manage this stress of life that matters. Try for five minutes a day to slow down.  Do nothing or do something that brings a smile to your face.  I like to look at funny dog videos.  After a few of them I feel relaxed and can go back to my crazy life.

We all need to take care of ourselves, for we are all important.

Have a wonderful day!
Rochelle

Thursday, October 10, 2013

Parkinson's in Prime Time



What a great story about Michael J. Fox and network TV:



We all struggle with issues in our lives.  But how we deal with it is what counts.  And Michael J. Fox is a perfect example of it.  He brings to TV his struggles with Parkinson's.  He shows how life really is and how a family deals with it.  The humor in the show is real.  No acting; it is how he is. 

What we all need to take away from this is – we all have stuff!  It all comes down to how you deal with it.  Try to look at life as the cup is half full like Michael does, not half empty.  Trust me, a positive outlook on life can make all the difference.

Take care - and remember to smile!
Rochelle

Thursday, October 3, 2013


In life always be open minded, for the next person you meet might just change your life. We are always learning, making mistakes and picking ourselves up for the next chapter in the book of life.  

Take care,
Rochelle
www.easyundies.net

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Joy!


I woke up today, a bit cold outside.  Both of my dogs, Gort and Sophie are cuddled next to me. They both get so excited when I wake up.  The look they give is pure joy!  We should each start our day like Gort and Sophie!  Pure joy!

Take care,
Rochelle
www.easyundies.net

Thursday, September 19, 2013


You hear people say this one has a great life or that one has it all.  People always want someone else's life.  I listen to people talk about life, what they think it should or should not be.  Listening, trying to understand why someone doesn't make the life they have the one that is ok.  

The fact is life is life.  We all need to find our life, our way.  Wanting what  others have is not facing who we each are as an individual.  No one’s life is perfect.  We all have challenges in our lives.  Some you can see on the outside, some are only on the inside.

What is important is what each one of us does with our life.  Make it the best life you can have.  It is not about things and items.  It is about who you are, what kind of a person you want to be. Look at challenges in your life to make you stronger.  Each day, start your day with a positive note and end it with a positive note.  Keep that up and you will see a smile stay with you all day.

Try to always look to the future.  Tomorrow will be better than today.  And yesterday is over.  Find something to bring your spirit alive.  Each and every one of us has something to offer in the world.  We all count and we all can make a difference.

Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Answers on Transportation


I came across this article and thought it was worth sharing.  If you have any kind of mobility or dexterity issue or know anyone who does, please take the time to read the article on transportation.  It has some great advice.


Take care,
Rochelle

Friday, September 6, 2013

Viewing Life through a Different Lens


This excellent blog, Finding A Purpose, inspires us to view our challenges through a different lens. Diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis are still without a cure, and the effectiveness of medications will vary depending upon the person. However, in seeing the positives in our lives, we can “remake ourselves” and endure the challenges of debilitating diseases such as MS.

Blog Link


Thursday, September 5, 2013

Assisted Living Median Costs Are Up 4.55%


For 10 consecutive years Genworth Financial has surveyed long-term care service providers in 437 regions across the country.  Looking back at the past five years of survey results, the company discovered some emerging trends across the long-term care services.  Overall, the cost of care among facility-based providers has steadily increased.  However, assisted living and adult day health care have registered the highest increases. Assisted living costs have risen the most – 4.26 percent since 2008.

The average annual price for assisted living was $41,400 which is half the cost of care in a nursing facility, $83,950.  The three most expensive states for assisted living were Alaska ($72,000), New Jersey ($71,928), and Delaware ($66,396).  The three least costly states were Georgia ($32,430), Alabama ($31,200), and Missouri ($27,450).  Annual assisted living costs in most southeastern states were significantly less than the national average.

With all of these rising costs it is important to be proactive about your health and living conditions.  EasyUndies Medical Garments are one of those proactive products. EasyUndies can help reduce the risk of falling.  Being independent as you age or if you have any kind of mobility or dexterity issues is important.

Make it safe, make it easy, make it an EasyUndies day.

Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, August 29, 2013

Why Alzheimer's Requires a Higher Form of Compassion


I recently came across the site: remembering4you.com, a site in my opinion worth checking out.  If you or a loved one or anyone you are caring for has Alzheimer's, this site is for you. 


I found the above article very important.  Alzheimer's is like no other illness. The mind is a very interesting and special thing.  But when a person becomes confused it can be concerning for all. 

Please let me know your thoughts on this article.

Take care,
Rochelle
www.easyundies.net

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

One Unintended Consequence of the Baby Boom


As the current crop of baby boomers age, the AARP points out that there will be fewer caregivers available relative to those needing caregiving support in the coming decades. This demographic consequence of the baby boom reinforces the need for adaptive clothing as well as other resources that provide the tools for independent living.

Article Link

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Going Green in Senior Living



What a great article from www.alfa.org!

As the population ages and grows, conserving our precious resources is important.  Yes it is expensive to retrofit facilities to a green environment, but in the long run worth it.  We all can do our part in small ways.  Each small step adds up to larger ones.

EasyUndies Medical Garments are one of the green products that can make a difference in your life and for the environment.

EasyUndies are 100% cotton and washable, reusable alternative to traditional underwear.  If you have any mobility issues or dexterity issues or are recovering from an injury, EasyUndies are for you.

Please check out our site www.easyundies.net  The team at EasyUndies is dedicated to making your life, your day, your world just a bit easier.

Take care,
Rochelle
EasyUndies founder

Thursday, August 8, 2013

Movement as Medicine



What a good article.  I feel the need to share it.  Dance for Parkinson's Disease.  What a wonderful thing.  But dance is something we all should do.  It is good for the soul!  Even if you can't stand and must sit.  Move your hands and close your eyes and dance.  And if your mobility is limited to no movement.  Close your eyes and dance.  It will be good for your.  Do not let it make you feel sad.  Turn it around.  You can dance and fly by just closing your eyes.  Enjoy!

Sincerely,
Rochelle

Challenge the Negative Stereotypes of Growing Older


This excellent article on Aging in Place takes a slightly different angle. It lists 10 proactive ways seniors can remain involved in their community and advocate for the ability to age in place. I especially like the call to action, “Challenge negative stereotypes of growing older….” What better way to challenge the stereotype of a sedentary lifestyle for the elderly than to take a leadership role in the movement to age in place?

Article Link

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Blogs for Info


With today's social networking society finding information is easier than you think. Sign up for blogs, they are a wealth of information.  People who are going through what you are going through can help.  They have ideas that have been tried.  Why reinvent the wheel when you can find it on the Internet.  Join groups in your area.  Check out your local hospital.  Today many hospitals offer free classes in caregiving and dealing with many illnesses.  Also be proactive and seek out information.

Have an easy day.

Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, July 25, 2013

NYC Triathlon 2013



This month my son participated in the 2013 NYC Triathlon.  I am so proud of my son. But I also need to share with everyone how proud and honored I am to have watched all the participants in this race.  If ever in life I feel like I can't do something I will always remember the men and women who ran, swam and biked in this race.  I watched people with amputated legs, men and woman in wheelchairs, and a blind woman who was tethered to another person.  It brought tears to my eyes to watch.  No matter what life brings your way you have to live life to the fullest.  To not be afraid to live.  I learned a lesson that day.  Do not be afraid of life. . . live it to the fullest. 

Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Beautiful


When an old man died in the geriatric ward of a nursing home in an Australian country town, it was believed that he had nothing left of any value. Later, when the nurses were going through his meagre possessions, they found this poem. Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and distributed to every nurse in the hospital. One nurse took her copy to Melbourne. The old man's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the Christmas editions of magazines around the country and appearing in magazines for mental health. A slide presentation has also been made based on his simple, but eloquent, poem. And this old man, with nothing left to give to the world, is now the author of this 'anonymous' poem winging across the internet. 

Cranky Old Man.....
What do you see nurses? . . .. . .What do you see?
What are you thinking .. . when you're looking at me?
A cranky old man, . . . . . .not very wise,
Uncertain of habit .. . . . . . . .. with faraway eyes?
Who dribbles his food .. . ... . . and makes no reply.
When you say in a loud voice . .'I do wish you'd try!'
Who seems not to notice . . .the things that you do.
And forever is losing . . . . . .. . . A sock or shoe?
Who, resisting or not . . . ... lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding . . . .The long day to fill?
Is that what you're thinking?. .Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse .you're not looking at me.
I'll tell you who I am . . . . .. As I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, .. . . . as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of Ten . .with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters .. . . .. . who love one another
A young boy of Sixteen . . . .. with wings on his feet
Dreaming that soon now . . .. . . a lover he'll meet.
A groom soon at Twenty . . . ..my heart gives a leap.
Remembering, the vows .. .. .that I promised to keep.
At Twenty-Five, now . . . . .I have young of my own.
Who need me to guide . . . And a secure happy home.
A man of Thirty . .. . . . . My young now grown fast,
Bound to each other . . .. With ties that should last.
At Forty, my young sons .. .have grown and are gone,
But my woman is beside me . . to see I don't mourn.
At Fifty, once more, .. ...Babies play 'round my knee,
Again, we know children . . . . My loved one and me.
Dark days are upon me . . . . My wife is now dead.
I look at the future ... . . . . I shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing .. . . young of their own.
And I think of the years . . . And the love that I've known.
I'm now an old man . . . . . . .. and nature is cruel.
It's jest to make old age . . . . . . . look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles .. .. . grace and vigour, depart.
There is now a stone . . . where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcass . A young man still dwells,
And now and again . . . . . my battered heart swells
I remember the joys . . . . .. . I remember the pain.
And I'm loving and living . . . . . . . life over again.
I think of the years, all too few . . .. gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact . . . that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, people .. . . . .. . . open and see.
Not a cranky old man .
Look closer . . . . see .. .. . .. .... . ME!!

Remember this poem when you next meet an older person who you might brush aside without looking at the young soul within. . .we will all, one day, be there, too!

PLEASE SHARE THIS POEM.
The best and most beautiful things of this world can't be seen or touched.
They must be felt by the heart.

Take care,
Rochelle
easyundies.net

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Great quote!


To be yourself is very easy, you don't have to do a thing. No effort is necessary. You don't have to exercise will, you don't have to do anything to be yourself. But to be something other than what you are, you have to do a lot of things.

- U. G. Krishamurti


Take care,
Rochelle
www.easyundies.net

Friday, July 5, 2013

Multiple Sclerosis Patients Especially Sensitive to Heat


Water is very important to us all.  It is very important to keep hydrated.  Have a glass of water  first thing in the morning when you wake up.  It will help your body get started.  Wake up the heart.  Have a glass of water before each meal.  And if you get bored with water try adding some fresh fruit to it.  Keeping hydrated is the most important thing for all, but especially for Multiple Sclerosis Patients.



Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Living with MS...


This excellent blog suggests “...[living] with MS: no resolution”. Each day is a little different, and the challenges do unfold without warning. In fact, imbalance, so vividly described, can be one of the most frustrating symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis, and it impacts basic life tasks. Know that some days are better than others. Perhaps, Living with MS: resilience.

Article Link

Thursday, June 27, 2013


Bad news is time flies.
The good news is you're the pilot.

- M. Altshuler

What a wonderful quote!
Enjoy,
Rochelle

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

The Spoon Theory


The Spoon Theory by Christine Miserandino attempts to explain what it feels like to live with a debilitating disease, in her case, Lupus. In my mother’s case, it was Multiple Sclerosis. The challenge is trying to manage the number of “spoons” a person happens to have on any given day and the tough choices that go along with doing so. The analogy is excellent, and it helps one realize that the associated fatigue and limitations that accompany so many of these conditions are very real.

Article Link

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Fitness Day


What a great story.  This should be the bible that everyone of every age follows.


Enjoy!
Rochelle

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

In-Home Care


The decision to age in place is a significant one. Ironically, whereas skilled in-home care is often covered by insurance, policies such as Medicare are limited in their coverage of more routine in-home services. Medicare will not cover, “Personal care given by home health aides like bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom when this is the only care you need.” Therefore, before deciding whether a loved one can age in place, consider the assistance (s)he may need and whether the family will pay out-of-pocket or be eligible for insurance coverage. Utilize adaptive clothing and make simple modifications to the home to make daily living easier. Ensure the person has easy access to help if needed. Overall, while the benefits to aging in place are many, there are financial costs to be considered and adequate planning is a must!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Interior Design for People “Aging in Place”


Making an older person’s home safer used to just mean adding grab bars in the bathroom or a hospital bed. But many people planning to “age in place” want more than simple function; they want beautiful design. They don’t want their home to feel institutional. This article in The Huffington Post discusses a wide range of options to make your home safer without sacrificing style.

Thursday, June 6, 2013

Laughter


When you are ill life seems so unfair.  Why me, what have I done?  The truth is nothing.  Life has a way of doing what it is going to do.  Try to look at life as the cup is half full and not half empty.  I know that is a tall order.  But each day try to smile a bit more than the day before.  Try to laugh a bit harder then the day before.  I believe we can't always change what life brings us.  But we can change the way we look at it.  Each and every life is something special.  Remember that.  Smile and laugh more.  Trust me, it can't hurt and it might even help.

Sincerely,
Rochelle 

Thursday, May 30, 2013


As you arrive somewhere, see if it feels right in your heart. . .

If it doesn't, then change direction. . .

- Bear Heart

What a wonderful quote!

Enjoy,
Rochelle


The Charcot Project

In reading through so many of the blogs and stories about Multiple Sclerosis, one common thread is the vast effect of the disease upon an individual’s emotions. Sometimes the emotion is anger, and the frustration of limited mobility can impact the entire family. Other times the emotion is depression and withdrawal. But there are bright spots on the research front. The Charcot Project in England is approaching MS as an infectious disease, which behaves like a virus. (http://multiple-sclerosis-research.blogspot.com/p/charcot-project.html). The approach is very compelling and quite unique. So, look ahead and manage each day knowing that progress is being made against MS.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Kitchen Remodeling for Wheelchairs


A great story from Mother Nature Network about remodeling a home for a wheelchair. I remember when my mom was in a wheelchair. My parents’ home, although on one level, was not designed for a wheelchair. This brought many challenges for my mom. My dad did the best he could to adapt the home for my mom. 

This story can give you ideas of how to make changes. Even if you can't afford to do a total remodel, small changes can make a big difference.

Take care,
Rochelle

Thursday, May 16, 2013

A Caregiver's Journey with Pain and Self-Discovery


I read this wonderful story on americannewsreport.com and felt if you are caring for anyone this is a must read. In fact, even if you are not caring for someone it is a must read.

Enjoy,
Rochelle



Sunday, May 12, 2013

A Positive Outlook


This inspiring blog written by Dr. Soania-Mathur mentions a quote by Dr. Viktor Frankl, "Everything can be taken from a man but...the last of the human freedoms - to choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one's own way." She describes her realization that while she cannot control the effects of Parkinson’s on her body, she can control her attitude towards her condition and embrace each day. Movement disorders of any kind are truly a physical challenge, but a positive outlook can help overcome some of the difficulties the day might bring.

Blog link

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Aging in Place


Done right, aging in place can help many older people preserve their independence, functionality, and even their health.

Welcome to the age-friendly movement. As the baby-boomer generation grows older, they are looking for a different life than the generation before them. Aging is more of a number. Many seniors stay active well into their 70s and 80s. Keep your mind active and your body will follow.  Daily walks, talks with friends, and eating right are the keys to aging well.

With the cost of assisted living facilities going up, staying in your home is fast becoming the thing of the future. You know your neighborhood, the local shops. Making your home safe as you age is the key.  EasyUndies is one of those products on the market that can help with safety. EasyUndies is a unique patented product that is an alternative to traditional underwear. EasyUndies can help reduce the risk of falling.

Keeping active and keeping safe is the key to aging in place.
Stay well,
Rochelle

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Balance and Walking with MS


A combination of multiple sclerosis symptoms, such as poor balance and numbness or lack of sensation in the feet or legs, can cause problems with walking. Other symptoms that may contribute to walking problems include fatigue, muscle weakness, and uncontrolled shaking, or tremors, which an estimated 25 to 60 percent of people with multiple sclerosis experience.
Pay attention to the signs that your body is giving you. Allowing more time to complete daily tasks can help minimize the frustration of physical limitations and can help you avoid embarrassing or dangerous situations.

I remember well the many issues my mom had with walking and balance. In developing EasyUndies, helping with my mom’s poor balance was important to me. EasyUndies can help you with the dignity of the simplest task of putting on and taking off your most private clothing item. 

Make it Easy, Make it Simple.... Make it an EasyUndies Day

Take care,
Rochelle
www.easyundies.net

Existing and Living


This wonderful blog post talks about one of the most important aspects of aging, maintaining a healthy mind. One can easily focus on the physical challenges of aging, but just as important is the task of maintaining happiness for the elderly through active engagement and activities. It does make the difference “between existing and living.” I particularly like the focus on finding activities where the senior can give back to the caregiver, so time spent together is more meaningful and not so one-sided.

Blog Link

Thursday, April 25, 2013

Caregiving 101


It happens every day. Someone has a stroke and before anyone realizes what has happened, the family must provide care for their stricken loved one. It can be very overwhelming. If you take a deep breath and follow a few simple rules you will get through this most difficult time.  

Rule 1: Start with a proper diagnosis. Talk to the doctor find out all you need to know. If need be, find a book or video on the condition. Make notes and ask questions.

Rule 2: Talk to your loved one about his or her finances and health care wishes. You may need to get a durable power of attorney for finances and health care. You can do this through an elderlaw specialist. If your loved one cannot communicate his or her decisions, you may need other legal advice.

Rule 3: Try to include your loved one in all sessions if you can. They need to feel that they have some control over their life. That is very important to their mental health. Try not to make decisions alone, involve other family members.

Rule 4: Take advantage of community programs. Programs such as Meals on Wheels and adult daycare programs are available. Talk to your religious leader. They are a good source of information and help.

Rule 5: Don't forget about finding support for yourself. Caregiving can be an overwhelming job. Keeping yourself healthy both mentally and physically is important.

Following these five simple rules will help a family manage the caregiving of a loved one.

Take care,
Rochelle