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Live Longer and Prosper: AMBA’s Tips to Help You Improve Your Life Expectancy

Isaiah on August 12, 2024

Want to know the secret to living a longer and healthier life? Eating well, exercising regularly, getting plenty of sleep, and avoiding bad habits remain essential to living and staying active longer. However, researchers have also uncovered exciting new clues about the science of aging well. AMBA’s got the tips to help you increase your life expectancy.

The current life expectancy for someone in the U.S. is more than 76 years. A century ago, the average life expectancy was closer to 54!

Source: 

Life Expectancy in the U.S., 1900-2018

Your Lifestyle is More Important Than Your Genetics

For many decades, the conventional wisdom was that family history was the single most important factor in health. Genetics do play a major role in one’s risk factors for health issues like diabetes, heart health, obesity, and certain cancers. However, many factors are in your control.

Eating habits and exercise may be the most critical factors associated with living longer and healthier. Ensure your diet includes plenty of high-fiber foods, lean proteins, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables. It’s also important to avoid the foods that cause the most harm, such as ultra-processed foods, excessive red meat, and added sugars. It’s also recommended to avoid tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption.

Physical activity is also essential. It’s common for people to experience a gradual loss of muscle, reduced energy, and achy joints as they age. It’s crucial to remain motivated and active. But doing that can raise your risk for disease, disability, and even death. It’s important to work with a doctor to find the types of physical activity that can help you maintain your health and mobility.

Even frail older adults can benefit from regular physical activity. One study included over 600 adults, ages 70 to 89, who were at risk for disability. The individuals were randomly placed in either a moderate exercise program that included brisk walking, strength and balance training, and flexibility exercise or a comparison group without structured exercise. After two years, not only did the exercise group gradually work up to an impressive 150 minutes of weekly activity, but the researchers also found that if individuals in the exercise group suffered an injury, they recovered faster than those in the comparison group!

The combination of different types of exercise—aerobic, strength and balance training, and flexibility—is vital to healthy aging. However, an active lifestyle is more than just getting your daily steps in.

Stay Social 

It’s long been known that strong relationships and regular social interaction improve the quality of life. However, new studies reveal that meaningful relationships and a sense of purpose can also increase one’s chances of living longer and that societies with the most long-lived populations enjoy a high level of social engagement with roles for older individuals.

Engaging in social and productive activities you enjoy, such as taking an art class, joining a hiking club, or volunteering in your community, may help maintain people’s sense of well-being and independence as they age. 

The key to healthy aging is to engage fully in life—mentally, physically, and socially. Enjoying peace of mind and a sense of security for your loved ones can also play an important role. The Whole Life policy from AMBA and NCRGEA can help. This plan can give you the peace of mind of protecting your family from the high cost of final expenses. Advantages include pre-approved acceptance for applicants 45-85, reasonable rates that never increase, and assurance that you will never be canceled as long as premiums are paid. Learn more at www.AMBAlifeinsurance.com/NCRGEA or call 800-956-1228.

Sources:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2023/12/12/can-you-get-diabetes-from-eating-too-much-sugar/71764449007
https://ebm.bmj.com/content/early/2024/04/16/bmjebm-2023-112583https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6969951/

The Top Fashion Trends for Glasses for Autumn 2024

Isaiah on August 12, 2024

When the leaves turn into beautiful shades of gold, staying stylish takes its own fall turn. One of the most essential fashion statements you make is with your eyewear. Want to stay one step ahead of what will be hot in glasses trends this autumn and enjoy healthier vision? AMBA is here to provide the insights you need!

Warm Hues and Earthy Tones

Autumn fashions are driven by color schemes that reflect the autumn scenery. These shades can include rusticated reds, brassy reddish browns, and rich yellow-gold hues. These colors look great on frames. Different shades of tortoiseshells and animal prints blend into brown and black outfits for a look perfect for people who love statement-making eyewear.

Current trends are leaning towards red as the color of fall eyewear. Red frames—ranging from bright cherry to deep oxblood—constitute one of the ultimate fashion accessories. Red frames not only match well with bold and colorful clothing, but they also make a bold statement with a neutral outfit. 

Elevated Classics

Classic frame silhouettes retain their timeless charm, but new materials and accents provide updated, modern allure. Embellishments like layered colors (such as champagne gold) and textured finishes add depth and visually exciting embellishments.

Translucent Frames

Understated transparent frames make an impression since they help your eyes be visible through light or slightly tinted frames. When paired with sparkling pieces or gradient-tinted effects, transparent frames add a touch of bold subtlety and glamour.

Vintage Revival

Everything old is new again! Retro glasses have become fashionable again. With their throwback shapes and current updates, such as bold colors or sparkles, retro glasses provide vintage shapes borrowed from the past. 

Look for circular and oval lenses like those of the 1960s—1970s. Shapes like cat eyes or browlines are continuing to make a comeback.

Bold and Chunky Frames

Thick frames are perfect for people who want their eyewear to make a bold statement. These chunky lenses are based on styles popular during the new wave movement of the 1980s. The look is being modernized with statement brow lines and transparency effects. 

Mixed Materials

Combining various textures and materials to frames gives dimension to fall eyewear trends. For example, the fusion can include wooden top rims, transparent lower frames, or metal accents on acetates.

Metallic Accents

A new trend that continues to gain popularity is frames adorned with metallic accents to add glitter and shine. Lustrous silver, golden, and rose gold temples, hinges, and lenses complete the glamorous look.

Fall 2024 boasts many exciting eyewear trends, so you are bound to get the perfect frames to match your style. One thing that always looks good: significant savings on your next pair of glasses. NCRGEA and AMBA have a Vision Plan that can help you get the eyeglasses and the prescription that’s just right for you at great discounted rates. This plan includes annual WellVision checkups and coverage on a large selection of designer eyewear. Best of all, you’re pre-approved! Sign up now at www.AMBAdentalvision.com/NCRGEA or call 800-956-1228.

Sources: 

https://www.whowhatwear.com/fashion/trends/autumn-winter-2024-fashion-trends
https://stylecaster.com/lists/glasses-trends-2024/https://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/a60813851/2024-sunglasses-trends/

Hard Facts About Falling

Isaiah on August 7, 2024

Among people over 65 years of age, falls are the primary cause of severe injuries and accidental death. About 3,000,000 older Americans are treated for fall injuries annually in emergency departments.

Most falls are due to a combination of risk factors, which may be personal or environmental-related. The more risk factors at any given time, the greater the chances of falling.

But if you reduce the number of risk factors, you can prevent a fall and avoid injury. Follow AMBA’s tips to help you stay safe and reduce your risk of falling.

Did You Know?

More than 25% of older Americans suffer a fall each year. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injury. 

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/index.html#:~:text=Each%20year%2C%20millions%20of%20older,your%20chances%20of%20falling%20again. 

Sensory Deficits

It’s common for vision, hearing, and sense of balance to become increasingly compromised as people age. These limitations can lead to issues like tripping on unseen hazards or being unaware of audio warnings, such as the sound of a nearby pet. Likewise, the ability to maintain balance and stability (and to regain it quickly once one stumbles) tends to reduce with age.

It’s important to create a safe environment in your home. Improving your home to mitigate or prevent sensory-related risks can help keep you safe:

  • Install more lighting throughout the house, including each room, hall, and stairway.
    • Turn off the television as you leave a room to reduce background noise.
    • Remove clutter and obstacles on or close to the floor, such as cords and cables.
    • Replace low chairs that are difficult to sit in or rise from.
    • Install grab bars and handrails throughout the home.
    • Place nonslip matting in the bath or shower.

Health Conditions

Many diseases and conditions typically associated with aging are directly tied to the risk of falling.

People with diabetes, heart disease, neurological conditions, and other chronic diseases are at a higher risk for falls. If you have health issues, starting and maintaining a doctor-recommended exercise routine is essential. Tai Chi can be an excellent option because it emphasizes lower body strength, stability, and balance—all critical for reducing the risk of falls.

Physical Factors

As people age, the wear and tear of decades accumulate. Degeneration, inflammation, swelling, and instability in joints, bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, or nerves can all affect the ability to balance. Disorders like arthritis that can cause pain in the hips, knees, feet, ankles, back, neck, arms, and feet can reduce mobility, limit activity, and contribute to falls.

Conditioning and exercise are important first steps for people who struggle with walking discomfort. If the issue worsens, ask a doctor for recommendations for pain management or if surgery is an option. 

Medications

There is evidence that falls become a greater danger when more than three prescription drugs are taken regularly. Pharmaceuticals most likely to increase fall risks include psychoactive medications, antihistamines, muscle relaxants, and blood pressure medications. You can review with your healthcare professional whether they recommend stopping or reducing your medications to help prevent falls. 

Still, accidents that require emergency medical attention are a risk that can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. A ground ambulance or air transport could cost thousands, and Medicare may not cover this. Protect yourself from the high cost of emergency medical transportation with the Medical Air Services Association (MASA) plan from AMBA and NCRGEA. Services are paid in full, with no deductibles, co-pays, or dollar limits. Whether home or traveling, MASA covers your ambulance or airlift, regardless of age or medical condition. Learn more at www.AMBAmedtransport.com/NCRGEA or call AMBA at 800-956-1228 M-F 9am-6pm CT.

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/falls/data-research/facts-stats/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/falls/facts.html

https://www.ncoa.org/article/what-medications-increase-the-risk-of-falling-among-older-adults

https://www.cdc.gov/steadi/pdf/STEADI-Brochure-CheckForSafety-508.pdf

NCRGEA Members Have Options Beyond The State’s Dental and Vision Plans

Isaiah on August 7, 2024

We’re diving into the details of your dental plan benefits 

Insurance plans are complex. Small differences in plans can save you thousands, depending on what services you need in a given year. As we age, we often have more needs for care, and with fixed incomes, it’s important to understand the details of your dental plan choices. 

We want to help you compare the dental plans that the State offers with those that NCRGEA provides, to help you make informed decisions. 

 Important notes about plans provided by NCRGEA:

 » Vision plans are also available to NCRGEA members and are similar to the state’s plan. Enroll any time! See details at ambadentalvision.com/ncrgea 

» NCRGEA offers a special rate category: Member + Associate, for a dues-paying spouse of an active NCRGEA member. 

» Hearing Benefits are provided FREE to all NCRGEA Members! 

» NCRGEA Members get great discounts on Identify Theft Protection. 

Dental Plan Comparisons

The State provides a dental plan through UnitedHealthcare. NCRGEA provides two plan options through Ameritas, an A-rated insurance provider endorsed by more than 70 retiree organizations across the country and one of the strongest networks available in North Carolina. Most NCRGEA members choose the Freedom Plan from Ameritas.  

Enroll Online
Enroll by Phone

Benefits Provided By AMBA

AMBA Discounts Can Help You Make Autumn More Awesome

Isaiah on August 2, 2024

With the soaring heat, it may not feel like fall is just around the corner. But before you know it, summer will be over, and it’ll be time to bring back the autumn wardrobe, make sure loved ones have all the latest equipment to succeed at school, and – of course – get out in that crisp autumn air and enjoy some fall hikes! AMBA Discounts has the savings you need to be ready and make the most of your NCRGEA membership!

Fashion

There’s no better way to be fashion-forward than to be ahead of the trends. AMBA Discounts makes updating your wardrobe easy. Whether you’re a fan of luxury, athleisure, or anything in between, AMBA Discounts is your passport to turning heads and looking your very best! AMBA Discounts can provide significant savings on big brand names like Kohl’s, Quince, and Skechers for stylish and sporty fashions and clothes for men, women, and loved ones!

  • AMBA Discounts Fashion Savings Include:
  • Shop at Kohl’s: Take 15% off your $100 or more order online.
  • Shop at Quince: Get 15% off your entire order, with a minimum spend of $40.
  • Shop at Skechers: 30% off select Skechers Men’s & Women’s Work, Corporate Casual and Performance styles. Purchases can be made online or at any Skechers retail stores nationwide.

Electronics

Technology is constantly improving for essential devices, from televisions to laptops and more. AMBA Discounts’ partnerships with Apple, Samsung, and Logitech ensure you have cutting-edge technology at cut-rate prices! Enjoy big savings on Apple gear, including Air Tags and iPads; Samsung electronics, including TVs and Galaxy phones; and Logitech products, including ergonomic keyboards and mice, webcams, and Bluetooth speakers.

  • AMBA Discounts Electronics Savings Include:
  • Shop at Apple: AMBA Discounts members enjoy Apple’s Employee Purchase Program, which means you can enjoy the same discounts as Apple’s employees!
  • Shop at Samsung: Save up to 25% and more on televisions, tablets, PCs, digital imaging, and audio/video products.
  • Shop at Logitech: Save 25% on select Logitech products*, plus free shipping on orders over $29.00.

* New release products first 3 months excluded; the discount won’t apply.

Outdoor Gear

Who doesn’t love an autumnal walk in the woods? Taking in the change of seasons and nature’s views is one of the season’s great pleasures. AMBA Discounts “goes the extra mile” for your fall adventures with great savings on Adidas clothes and gear, Garmin durable devices and apps that let you go farther and track your precise location along the way, and the latest Oakley sunglasses, designed with industry-leading levels of impact and UV protection.

  • AMBA Discounts Outdoor Adventures Savings Include:
  • Shop at Adidas: Take 20% off full-price items online.
  • Garmin: Get 20% off select Garmin wearables and accessories.
  • Oakley: Receive 15% off all orders.

There are many more savings to explore with AMBA Discounts, like dining, entertainment, hotels, and car rentals. Best of all, your membership is absolutely FREE. Register for your AMBA Discounts secret activation code now. Already have an account? Start browsing by visiting www.passportcorporate.com. Members, if you don’t have your activation code, please call our office at 919-834-4652 or 800-356-1190

We May Soon Be Able to Grow New Teeth

Isaiah on July 7, 2024

A significant breakthrough could change everything about dentistry.

Every dentist dreams of helping patients grow new teeth. That dream may soon become an exciting reality. 

Scientists are preparing to initiate the world’s first clinical trials of “tooth regrowth medicine” later this year. If the trials are successful, patients—whose solutions are currently limited to getting implants or dentures—will have a new, third option: the ability to regrow their permanent teeth.

How Researchers Hope to Grow New Teeth

Most people develop teeth naturally. However, some people are born missing some or all of their teeth, a condition called congenital anodontia. The belief is that a protein called USAG-1 stops “tooth buds” from developing into either baby or permanent teeth. This treatment would suppress USAG-1 and “benefit tooth growth.”

Because ferrets have tooth buds similar to humans, researchers have already tested the drug on them. The scientists found that not only did they succeed in growing new teeth, but the treatment had no known adverse side effects!

The research indicates that this treatment can be successful for people who haven’t been able to grow teeth from birth and for those who are missing teeth due to cavities or loss.

Researchers are now preparing to enroll patients for Phase 1 of the trial, tentatively set to begin in September. This step is designed to ensure the treatment’s safety. Phase 2 is scheduled to kick off in 2025 and will test to prove the efficacy of the treatment.

If the trials are successful, scientists hope the treatment will be available to the public as soon as 2030. 

This could be a major innovation in oral care. However, maintaining good dental health is still essential. That’s why the Dental Plan from AMBA and NCRGEA is so important. NCRGEA & AMBA’s Dental Plans can save you on routine cleanings and fillings, crowns, dentures, and more. Plus, acceptance is PRE-APPROVED and there is NO WAITING PERIOD on covered services! Sign up now at Ambadentalvision.com/NCRGEA or call 800-956-1228.

Source: https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/health/a60952102/tooth-regrowth-human-trials-japan/