Disability Law Claims Blog

Childhood Obesity Remains a National Epidemic |Disability Attorney

Though rates of childhood obesity have not decreased Florida is on the forefront of preventing and reversing childhood obesity and the illnesses that go along with it.  A new study shows that childhood and adolescent obesity, even when other factors such as diabetes are not present, puts the child at a higher risk for heart disease.

Florida has passed and will enact a law that requires all junior high students to complete one semester of P.E. per school year.  Proponents of the law hope that an early and ongoing exposure to physical education will give children the opportunity to try and hopefully stick with an exercise program they enjoy.

In 2007 Florida passed similar legislation that requires all elementary students to participate in P.E. for at least 150 minutes each week.

If you would like some tips on how to keep your family healthy please click here.

Need help filing for long-term disability?  Let a team of experienced attorneys fight for your disability benefits.  Contact LaVan & Neidenberg today for your free consultation.

Are You Prepared For a Natural Disaster? | Florida Disability Attorney

Any task can be more difficult when you find yourself suddenly disabled.  Though everyday life may be a challenge, a disaster is the true test of preparedness and communication.

A recent event, hosted by AbilityFirst, brought together government officials, volunteer officials, the elderly, disabled and their caregivers.  The conference was aimed at ensuring that all people who are at risk or have special needs are able to get out of their residence safely and quickly in the event of a natural disaster. 

The goal of the conference was to ensure that everyone who needs help gets it when disaster strikes.  The most effective way of doing this is by having a plan.  The question is: Do you have a plan?

If a natural disaster occurs, be it a hurricane, fire or flood, do you have a way to leave your residence in time to avoid being trapped in your home?

Be sure to discuss this issue with friends or family members.  Make a plan, both verbal and in writing so that everyone knows what to do and how to help you in the event of an emergency.  Doing this will save you and your loved ones time when every second counts.

If you have are disabled and need help fighting for your disability benefits please contact your Florida disability attorney at LaVan & Neidenberg today for your free consultation.

Epilepsy Affects Millions of Americans

Unless you know someone who suffers from epilepsy, an all too common seizure disorder, the condition may not seem like the devastating disorder that it is.

Though there are varying degrees of severity, epilepsy can be a life altering and disruptive disorder.  People who suffer from the condition do not know when a seizure will strike.  The seizures offer little to no warning and can happen at any moment.  Though medication and other treatments are available, finding the right balance of medications can be challenging.

The father of a Florida boy who suffers from epilepsy recently started on a 7,000 mile bike ride.  His aim is to raise awareness of the disorder that has affected his son for 13 years.  Hopefully people across the U.S. and Canada will be inspired to learn more about the seizure disorder and donate their time and money to help find a cure for epilepsy.

If you or a family member has been affected by epilepsy you may be eligible for disability compensation.  Please contact your Florida disability lawyer at LaVan & Neidenberg for your free consultation.

Disabled Florida Residents Face Major Changes in Medicare

Experts are hopeful that major changes to the Medicare system will lead to better patient care and follow-up for the disabled.  Some of the highlights of recent reports to the Senate Finance Committee include a pay increase for primary care physicians, closer scrutiny of the decisions made by specialists and penalties for hospitals that do not offer proper follow-up care.

The sweeping changes are designed to improve patient care and streamline the current system.  Hopefully more of the uninsured in Florida will be able to take advantage of the new and improved system.  In addition, if the changes are positive, the Medicare overhaul could provide a model for Medicaid and the U.S. healthcare system as a whole.  

If you need help filing for or appealing your Veterans', long-term or Social Security disability claim please contact the attorneys at LaVan and Neidenberg today.   

Just a Little Salt Reduction Can Lead to a Healthier Heart

Everyone knows that when it comes to salt in our diets less is better.  But how much is too much?  Do I really have to give up salt entirely?  Am I doomed to eat bland food forever? 

Researchers have answered these questions...in a way.  More specifically they worked to answer the question: Can decreasing salt even a little improve the population's future risk for heart disease, heart attacks and strokes?  The answer was yes.

Limiting your salt intake, even a little, may be easier than you expect.  Not salting your food as you cook is a good step.  So is cutting down on processed foods.  Highly refined, processed foods often rely on salt to make them palatable.  Even foods that don't taste "salty" may have more than you expect so always read the label for the sodium content. 

The good news is that you don't need to go salt free.  In fact, some salt is necessary for survival.  However, don't use this as an excuse to give the salt shaker an extra shake or have another helping of potato chips.  Pass on the salt, just a little each day, and your heart will thank you!

If you need help filing for disability or fighting a denied disability claim please contact a lawyer at LaVan and Neidenberg today for your free consultation.  We are located in Florida but work to help the disabled from across the country.

Heart Disease Awareness Crucial in Women

Take care of your heart.  By now you have probably heard this a million times.  The reason heart disease in women is such a hot topic is that for a long time heart problems were thought of as a men's health issue.  In reality cardiovascular disease kills many more women than men each year.  It is the #1 killer of women and is the major cause of disability in women.

If you didn't know this, you are not alone.  A new survey shows that 65 percent of women are aware that heart disease is their #1 killer.  Though this number is up slightly from last year it does not mean that women are taking measures to protect themselves.  One-third of women underestimate their own personal risk of getting the disease and one in four women still die of heart disease.   

The risk factors read like a list of lifestyle no-no's and red flags: Obesity, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity and family history. 

Even if you don't believe that you are at risk please take a moment to fill out the free Heart Aware Risk Assessment provided by the University of Miami in Florida.  Here's to your heart!

If you need any additional information about the disabling effects of heart disease or need help filling your disability claim please contact us today for a free consultation.

Resource Guide for Disabled Athletes and Family Members in Florida

The Paralympics, Special Olympics and local programs such as Achievers of America give everybody, disabled or not, a chance to participate in an athletic program.  From recreational athletes to serious professionals use the links listed to find a program that is right for you.

The Achievers of America is a grassroots organization that encourages anyone to come out and play softball or bowl once a week.  Based in Florida, the group works to build self-esteem and team work, all the while fostering positive relationships between the participants- some with disabilities and some without.

The following links are intended to help you become involved as a volunteer or an athlete.  With opportunities to get active and build self-confidence, why not become a part of these amazing groups?

1.  Paralympics

• Resources for potential athletes.
• Learn more about the USOC Paralympic Military Program.
• Contact information for every sport and program.
• Create or join a local Paralympic sports club.

2.     Special Olympics

• General information for Special Olympics Florida.
• Become a Special Olympics Volunteer.
• Become a Special Olympic Athlete.
• Links and resources for family members of Special Olympics athletes.
• Look for a local program.

3.      Achievers of America

• Contact information for athletes, their family members or caregivers.
• Find out about upcoming events.

No matter what disability affects you or a family member, there is a place where everyone is an athlete and everyone is welcome.  I hope that the information provided helps you find an organization that is right for you.

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It's not a disease of the old: Arthritis myths debunked

Florida's Disabled Face Impossible Choices

The disabled in Florida have the right to be upset.  Though the system does benefit many disabled citizens, it also leaves some without the services they need to survive and thrive.  Many wait years for their disability benefits to be approved.  Still other disabled adults and their caregivers, already in the system, are now facing difficult decisions.

State budget cutbacks are forcing caregivers to decide between services they receive.  Maybe they have to cut back on help in the home, placing a tremendous burden on caregivers. Some have had to decide between the day center the participant enjoys and the therapies they need.  What would you do?  What could you do in the face of such impossible choices?

Thousands have filed appeals but only 700 will be passed on for consideration.  Group homes and day centers are closing or barely scraping by.  Though the system was surely in need of an overhaul the people with disabilities are the ones who suffer. 

If you need help filing the paperwork associated with insurance appeals or claims please do not hesitate to call.  At LaVan & Neidenberg we are here to listen and to help.     

You want the upper-hand on your Social Security Disability claim - don't you? Then request a FREE copy of our publication Secrets Social Security Won't Tell You to learn valuable insider tips on how you can increase the chances of winning your claim. This report normally sells for $14.95 but we will send it to you at no cost if you ACT NOW!  

Exercise Your Way to a Healthier New Year

Almost everyone could stand to lose a few pounds, tighten those abs or work off holiday feasts.  Even though losing weight is on the top of most New Year's resolutions, it is one that often falls to the way side.  Why?  Maybe because most people focus on losing weight and looking great in skinny jeans.  Experts believe that if the focus fell on health and longevity more people would see their weight loss goals achieved by next New Years Eve.

I could scare you with statistics on obesity, cardiovascular disease or diabetes, but I am sure you have seen them and been duly frightened.  Instead, how about giving you some resources to help you achieve and even surpass your fitness goals.  Here we go!

• 1. Lifetips.com is a site dedicated to your health and well being. Their exercise tips are updated daily, giving you easy and practical ways to increase your activity level. Today's tip? Sleep more! What could be easier yet have such a tremendous effect on your health?
• 2. At fitness.com you can join a community of people striving to increase their fitness levels. Even if you are just beginning an exercise routine, this site offers the benefit of interaction with other people who are just like you. From threads to the effectiveness of Wii Fit games to getting on track with weight loss, there is sure to be a forum for you here.
• 3. Webmd.com offers a wealth of knowledge on every heath issue. Their 10 tips for workout success come from everyday people and respected organizations such as the American Council on Exercise.

The power of positive thinking - ways to manage arthritis pain

With arthritis afflicting millions of Americans each year, many of us probably suffer from or know someone suffering from the disease. In any case, this article comes at a good time. While the pain from arthritis can be severe and debilitating, focusing on your pain and thinking negatively can only make matters worse. Why not challenge yourself to try a new approach in 2009:

1. Build your life around wellness 
Rather than focusing on your pain or sickness, use your pain as a signal to take positive action. By learning and practicing relaxation techniques, getting or performing regular messages on yourself, applying hot and cold packs to swollen or tender joints, engaging in moderate exercise, and keeping a positive mental outlook, you can effectively manage and reduce your pain. Lastly, laughing always has a cathartic effect.  

2. Focus on something outside of your body
What better time than the New Year to start a hobby or engage in something of personal interest like, photography or volunteering at your favorite charity? 

3. In with the good, out with the bad 
Leave the bad behind with 2008 and ring in the good with 2009! Ever heard of the expression, "your mind is powerful thing"? Thinking negatively can often lead to increased pain, or at least the feeling that the pain is worse. A positive outlook will get you feeling better about yourself and help to take your mind of your pain.

4. Reward yourself!
Reinforce your positive behavior by treating yourself to something special each time you think about or do something positive.   

Cheers to a Happy New Year!!!

Family history of breast cancer? 7 things you should consider...

Clear the Confusion Surrounding the Installation of Car Seats

In the U.S., improperly installed car seats and boosters are not the exception, they are the rule.  7 out of 10 car seats are not installed properly.  Couple this with the fact that car accidents are the #1 killer of children ages 3-14, and you must ask yourself; how many lives could have been saved if every child's car-seat was properly installed?  How many disabilities could have been prevented?  How many injuries?

Installing car seats can be difficult.  On top of this is there is the matter of finding the right type of seat for your child.  The options are seemingly endless:

• Rear-facing only infant seats
• Convertible car seats
• Forward facing toddler seats
• Combination forward-facing/booster seats
• Belt positioning booster seats
• Backless booster seats

Aside from the type of seat, there is also the matter of following the weight and height requirements for your particular seat.  For example- while some seats allow a child to rear-face up to 33 pounds, some put the limit higher, some lower. 

The safest seat for your child is a rear-facing car seat.  Statistics show that keeping your child rear-facing until they reach the seats limits, generally around 30 pounds, is the best way to keep your child safe in an accident.

Then there is the task of knowing when your child will be safe in a booster seat, and which type is safest.  Follow this link for recommendations about when to use a booster seat.  In general, children should use a booster seat until their feet can touch the floor of the vehicle while they are seated with their back against the cars seat.

For new parents and seasoned veterans, ensuring that the correct car seat is purchased and installed can be a dizzying task.  Do not give up!  Your child's life may depend on making the right car seat decisions.

Only a licensed car seat installation technician can ensure that your child's seat is properly installed.  Please follow the links listed below to review the car seat laws in your state and find the inspection station or technician closest to you.  The short, free inspection may just save your child's life.

Car Seat Laws by State:

http://www.elitecarseats.com/custserv/custserv.jsp?pageName=car_seat_laws

Local Car Seat Inspection Locators:

http://www.seatcheck.org/index.html

http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cps/cpsfitting/index.cfm

http://www.usa.safekids.org/tier2_rl.cfm?folder_id=1400

Econimic Hardships Affect Disabled

In years when state and national budgets are not threatened by tough economic times, Americas children, disabled, elderly and needy have a better chance of getting government assistance.  However, in today's difficult economic times, lawmakers are attempting to find room in their budgets to make up for state and national losses. 

As difficult as these decisions are, it is imperative that the programs helping the nations disabled are not cut.  When they are, people lose crucial services.  The loss of home care, one of the first benefits to go, can severely affect quality of life.

In recent years, the number of people filing for long term disability in Florida has doubled.  The wait is long and very often applications are denied.  This leaves the disabled without assistance for months and all too often, years.  If you need help filing for long-term disability or want to appeal the denial of your application, please call the Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg today for a FREE consultation.  1-888-234-5758

Want to learn more about fibromyalgia? Attend a webinar hosted by Dr. Mark Pellegrino, M.D.

Will your wishes be carried out in the event of an emergency?

The burden of mental illness on health and productivity is vast. More than 26 percent of Americans ages 18 and older suffer from a diagnosable mental disorder in a given year.

Many people suffer from more than one mental disorder at a given time. In fact, nearly half of those with any mental disorder meet the criteria for two or more disorders.

Many mental health patients worry they will not be able to communicate their wishes in the event of an emergency. Now, a legal document known as a psychiatric advance directive (PAD) may help.

To learn more about the PAD or to find out if it is available in your state, click here.

One person CAN make a difference...

Feeling isolated because of your disability? Why not join an online community?

Microscopic particles in polluted air can adversely affect your heart...

If you have a long-term disability policy you should apply for Social Security Disability if you can no longer sustain gainful employment.

It's time to put a stop to mental health discrimination!

For decades, people with mental illnesses have faced higher co-payments and deductibles for psychiatric treatment than for the treatment of other conditions. They have struggled with limitations on the number of doctor visits that health plans will allow, and they have paid more money out-of-pocket for antidepressant or antipsychotic medications than for other prescription drugs.

Stents - how effective are they at increasing your stint of life?

My father-in-law has two, my mother-in-law has one, and my aunt recently had one inserted into one of her arteries. Stents seem to be the device of choice for doctors who treat heart patients, but do the benefits outweigh the hassles of this invasive procedure?

A new study suggests that the added costs of stents combined with drugs come without any significant gains in life-years or quality-adjusted life-years in comparison with the use of drugs alone.

So what does this study tell us? If you read between the lines, it tells us that the market for medical devices and prescription drugs is huge. In my opinion, it is all about the money - it always has been. The pharmaceutical companies are grossly wealthy. 

We, as individuals, should release ourselves from the pharmaceutical companies' ties and decide to take a holistic approach to our health. What ever happened to the notion of a establishing and living by a healthy diet and exercise? I'm not talking about diving into a drastic regimen from the start, but rather making moderate changes to improve your overall well-being. It's the little things that can make a world of difference. I know that this requires tremendous commitment and that it's not easy, but it is certainly possible. 

To read more about this study, click here.

Depressed cardiac patients have at least twice the risk of second events in the one to two years after a heart attack

Strong-armed by an insurance giant - Unum's alleged tactic to evade paying out LTD claims