Functional Capacity Evaluation Cost
Written by Brian B

Functional Capacity Evaluation Cost

Functional Capacity Evaluation Cost

On average, a Functional Capacity Evaluation costs $845. Prices will range from $772-$871, according to MDsave.

Average Functional Capacity Evaluation Costs

FCE tests are certainly not a cheap process. There are several different FCE test types and pricing options will differ. The United States Social Security Administration recently added two FCE methods, including:

Mental Functional Capacity Evaluation

This is a test in which mental health is assessed. Physical healing ability is essential, yet emotional healing can take much longer. This assessment features many different emotional tasks for the individual.

Physical Functional Capacity Evaluation

This test can be difficult, especially for individuals who have been injured recently. Tests are performed to make sure individuals are fit for day-to-day tasks. There are a number of physical tests, but thankfully you can fully prepare for these ahead of time.

What Is A Functional Capacity Evaluation?

Employers pay workers’ compensation insurance to cover their employees. Employees can file a claim for benefits in the case of a job injury or illness, including pay loss benefits and medical benefits, among other things, to cover expenditures while they recuperate.

However, in order to file and process a claim, it is necessary to demonstrate the injury and objectively quantify the severity of the harm. It’s crucial to assess how much an injury or illness affects a worker’s capacity to fulfill their job duties.

Employers and insurers must evaluate whether a person is genuinely ready to return to work — and in what capacity — once he or she has healed and been approved to return to work. Insurers and businesses want to make sure that people don’t return to work too soon, putting themselves and others at risk. Some of these difficulties are addressed by a functional capacity evaluation (FCE) for workers’ compensation.

A functional capacity evaluation, in essence, aids in the assessment of damage or disability. A disability or damage can be visible at times. Determining how badly someone is hurt and how much their injury impacts their ability to work, on the other hand, is more difficult. An FCE is a professional who works to define injuries and professionally evaluate the level of ability in a systematic manner, which is often required to determine the appropriate amount of benefits. Instead of just designating all wounded workers as “incapable” or “damaged,” a functional capacity evaluation examines each worker individually to identify the best course of action.

What Is A Functional Capacity Evaluation Test?

An attorney, an insurance carrier supplying workers’ compensation coverage, or your employer may order an FCE. The FCE is a set of examinations that assesses your physical ability in relation to your job. An evaluator certified to conduct these examinations will always administer the tests in an FCE.

A functional capacity evaluation is intended to be both safe and objective in its assessment of an accident or sickness. The tests that make up an FCE will assess a worker’s ability to:

  • Motion-capacity
  • Physical stamina
  • Capacity to lift
  • Flexibility
  • The ability to carry goods and maintain stamina
  • Other skills essential for their position

If you have a handicap or illness, a functional capacity evaluation might help you evaluate if you can return to work. If you are able to return to work, an FCE can help you assess if you need to return to work in a limited capacity or whether you need to make special accommodations.

What Are the rules of pickleball?

Read on to learn more about how to play Pickleball! 1. Court Setup and Equipment Court Size: 20' x 44', the same size for both singles and doubles. Net Height: 36 inches at the sidelines and 34 inches at the center. Paddle and Ball: Played with a solid paddle (wood, composite, or graphite) and a [...]

Avoiding Falls In Public and at Home

Avoiding falls in public is crucial for seniors to maintain their safety and independence. Here are some practical tips to help prevent falls and reduce the risk of injury: 1. Wear Proper Footwear: Supportive Shoes: Choose shoes with good arch support, non-slip soles, and a secure fit. Avoid wearing high heels, flip-flops, or slippery-soled shoes. [...]

Is Pickleball A Good Sport For Seniors

Pickleball is often considered an excellent sport for seniors for several reasons: 1. Low Impact: Joint-Friendly: Pickleball is generally easy on the joints compared to high-impact sports like tennis or running. The smaller court and slower pace reduce stress on the knees, hips, and other joints. 2. Moderate Exercise: Cardiovascular Benefits: The game provides good [...]

Home Safety Tips
Written by Brian B

Home Safety Tips

Home Safety Tips

Creating a safe environment at home, especially for seniors, is very important. Watch out for these home hazards, and use the following tips to stay safe!

Common Home Safety Hazards

Here are a few of the most common residential safety hazards:

  • Fires.
  • Falls.
  • Choking.
  • Cuts.
  • Carbon monoxide.
  • Strangling.
  • Drowning.
  • Burns. 

Fires

There were more than 363,000 residential fires in the year 2018, according to SafeWise. With more than 3,000 lives lost in these fires, it’s crucial that homeowners do everything they can to prevent these disasters. Follow this guide:

Buy A Fire Extinguisher

Every homeowner should have at least one fire extinguisher in the home. Make sure all family members know exactly where it is located and how to operate the extinguisher. Storing the extinguisher by the kitchen and/or fireplace is suggested.

Install Fire Alarms

Fire alarms should be installed on every level of the home. Some alarms can be monitored using a mobile app.

Unplug Any Unused Appliances

Ensure that all appliances are in good working order, and that no wires are frayed. Do not overload any electrical outlets. It is suggested to unplug any appliances that aren’t used frequently.

Falls

Make sure your home is as safe as possible to neutralize any possibility of slips or falls. Follow these tips:

Floors

  • Keep paths free of any furniture in each room of the house.
  • Secure all throw rugs with double-sided tape or nonslip backing.
  • Make sure there are no other objects, such as papers, boxes, shoes or blankets on the floors.
  • Keep all wires securely taped or coiled next to walls.

Kitchen

  • Keep most frequently used items on the lower shelves.
  • Have a sturdy step stool in the kitchen, if needed.

Bedrooms

  • Tub and/or shower floors should have nonstick rubber mats.
  • Have grab bars to use for getting in and out of the tub.
  • Grab bars can be placed around the toilet, as well.

Bathrooms

  • Light(s) should be near the bed within reach.
  • Light the path from the bed to the bathroom well with nightlights.

Stairs

  • Remove any loose objects from the stairs/steps.
  • Fix any broken or uneven steps.
  • Make sure there is no loose or torn carpeting in the area.
  • Have sufficient lighting above the stairways.
  • Make sure there is a light switch at the bottom and top of the staircase.
  • Have handrails on both sides, making sure they are not loose or broken.
  • Handrails should run the full length of the stairway.

Choking

Unfortunately, choking is one of the leading causes of accidental deaths in the U.S. Use these safety tips to protect yourself and your family from this hazard.

  • Inspect children’s toys for any loose parts.
  • Keep all choking hazards out of reach.
  • Cut up children’s food in small pieces.

Other Hazards

Pests and chemical hazards always pose a threat to homeowners. Use these safety tips:

Top Non Slip Shower Mats For The Elderly
Written by Brian B

Top Non Slip Shower Mats For The Elderly

Top Non Slip Shower Mats For The Elderly

If you are searching for “non slip shower mats for the elderly“, Measurabilities is here to highlight some of our top picks!

Yimobra Memory Foam Bath Mat

Seniors looking for soft shower mats cannot do much better than the Yimobra memory foam mats. This mat will work for any area in the bathroom due to its comfortable feel. There is much more to love about this product beyond its soft texture, though! The mat can be customized to fit your exact needs, available in a wide variety of sizes. One of the biggest benefits of this product is its tremendous rate of water absorption.

Features:

  • Comfort due to use of memory foam.
  • Great water absorption rate.
  • Wide range of sizes available. 

See more information about the Yimobra mat here.

Webos Foldable Non Slip Rubber Bath Mat

This bath mat does not feature suction cups, as it is meant to be positioned on textured surfaces. In some cases, suction cups have damaged certain bathroom surfaces. A foldable design will make storing this mat a breeze. Just because it has no suction cups, does not mean it’s not secure. In fact, that could not be further from the truth. This is a terrific mat option for seniors.

Features:

  • Lots of drainage holes.
  • Dries off quickly.
  • Three different color options.

See more information about the Webos mat here.

Epica Anti-Slip Bath Mat

This model is extra long, meaning it can be used both as a tub and non-slip shower mat. Beyond the versatility, this mat has many suction cups, repelling water naturally. Once the mat is placed on the floor, you can rest assured that it will not move an inch. This mat was designed specifically for the elderly, but works great for children, as well. The Epica is also mildew and mold resistant.

Features:

  • Sturdy to the floor.
  • Mold/mildew resistant.
  • Great for large bathrooms.

See more information about the Epica mat here.

Vive Shower Mat

Easily covering the full surface of a standard shower stall, the Vive shower mat is known to eliminate pooling water. This mat features 200 individual suction cups to stay in place. It is also mold and mildew resistant, just like the Epica mat. Most reviewers of this product have raved about its soft and comfort feel to the touch.

Features:

  • Easily covers large shower area.
  • One central hole to eliminate water buildup.
  • Comfortable on feet.

See more information about the Vive mat here.

Chenille Striped Rug Slip Bath Mat

This is one of the most popular non slip models because it is machine washable. The Chenille offers a soft cushioned first step out of the shower. Lots of suction cups with this model allow it to stick securely to any surface. The design is also very attractive and customizable.

Features:

  • Great suction strength.
  • Machine washable.
  • Comfortable. 

See more information about the Chenille mat here.

functional capacity evaluations and physical therapy
Written by Brian B

5 Best Shoes For Elderly To Prevent Falls

Best Shoes For Elderly To Prevent Falls

Seniors should value comfort, design and, of course, safety above all else when it comes to footwear. Here is a look at some of the best shoes to prevent falls.

Senior Footwear Necessities

Before picking out a pair of shoes, seniors need to know exactly which elements to look for in a new pair of shoes. Here are a few necessities:

Soles: Make sure the midsoles of the shoes are sturdy and not too flexible. This ensures stability during movement. Any shoe that is too flexible on the inside can easily cause falls within or outside the home. Sturdy shoes will be more slip resistant than brands featuring a flexible sole.

Closed Heels: Seniors should wear shoes with closed heals at all times. Oftentimes open heal shoes do not fit tightly enough, causing the foot to slide and create balance issues.

Size: Shoes that fit properly should be priority number one for the elderly. Shoes that are too big can cause falls, while shoes that are too small can easily cause discomfort. Try multiple pairs on before making any purchases.

Material/Design: Look for a pair of shoes that features a slip-resistant sole. A smooth sole can be slippery.

Weight: This is another important element to watch out for. Historically, heavy shoes have been a problem for seniors. If you have trouble lifting your feet to walk, falls will occur. The heels of the shoes should be no more than one inch in thickness.

Elderly Shoes

5 Best Shoes For Seniors

Here are some of the best shoes for seniors today:

1. Sketcher’s Women’s Go Walk

Featuring a lightly padded collar and cushioned 5Gen midsole, these are some of the best shoes for elderly women to wear in and around the house. These shoes will slip on and off easily, so neither of these processes will feel like a chore. For women wishing for a choice of colors, this pair works very well. A thick rubber sole provides extra grip, perfect for movement on any sort of surface. This pair is also very lightweight, too, making falls very uncommon. The Gen5 cushioning also keeps the pair comfortable for the long haul.

2. Propet Tasha

The only drawback to this pair is the somewhat high price tag, but the cost is worth it when it comes to safety. Comfort is another factor that the Tasha is not lacking in with its rubber outsole. These shoes feature a unique U-shaped design which is built into the sole. This helps support a natural gait.

3. New Balance 990

New Balance has been popular for many years, known for its variety of wide offerings, ideal for those prioritizing comfort first. The 990 is a bit pricey like Tasha, but the shoes will last a very long time. Most seniors have commented on the great heal stability with the 990 pair. Multiple color options can make shopping a fun experience, as well.

4. Hush Puppies Men’s Gil

This is the ultimate comfort footwear for senior men lounging around the house. The pros are endless: a long-wearing rubber on outsole, smooth leather upper and contoured removable EVA footbed. The leather uppers provide the perfect mix of support and comfort. Durable rubber soles are in place to prevent spills. These shoes can be offered with either laces or velcro.

5. Propet Men’s Stability X Strap Sneaker

If you are looking for a pair that resembles running shoes you may have worn years ago, this is your pair! These shoes are designed specifically to prevent falls, though, making them a popular choice for the older generations. The Strap Sneaker pair comes with a removable footbed, contoured heel stabilizer and a rubber outsole.

Is Gout The Same As Arthritis?
Written by Brian B

What Is The Difference Between Arthritis And Bursitis

What Is The Difference Between Arthritis And Bursitis

If you are searching for “what is the difference between arthritis and bursitis“, this article should help!

What Is Arthritis

Arthritis actually encompasses more than 100 diseases. The main symptom found in arthritis is joint pain, causing inflammation in multiple joints in the body. This will result in stiffness, pain, swelling and a limited range of motion. If left untreated, arthritis will get more severe over time.

Here are two different types of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis

One of the most common forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is generally found in adults over the age of 65. Due to its prevalence in seniors, this is known as the “wear and tear” disease. It is most often found in knees, hips and hands. OA causes pain, swelling and stiffness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

This autoimmune disease attacks healthy cells in the body. Usually, RA attacks multiple joints at the same time. Hands, wrists and knees are the most commonly affected areas. RA can cause joint damage, leading to limited range of motion, deformity and chronic pain. Additionally, RA can impact the lungs, heart and eyes.

What Is Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of bursae, which are fluid-filled scars found near the joints. The bursae is there to cushion bones, muscles and tendons, leading to reduced inflammation and joint friction. Overuse, previous inflammatory conditions and prolonged postures can lead to inflammation.

An individual’s risk of bursitis will undoubtedly increase as they age. Repetitive motion or consistent pressure on certain joints will increase the risk of bursitis. Pressure on a specific part of the body, such as kneeling, can cause bursitis. Sometimes a sudden infection or injury can lead to bursitis.

These activities have been linked to bursitis:

  • Gardening
  • Shoveling
  • Sports
  • Bad Posture
  • Carpentry
  • Musculoskeletal Structural Issues

Similarities Between Arthritis And Bursitis

Despite the differences, arthritis and bursitis are similar in many ways. The two conditions will affect bodies in the same locations. This makes it difficult to distinguish between the two conditions at times.

Similar causes include: pain, aching, swelling, tender to touch and redness.

Both will affect these areas: knees, wrists, hips and shoulders.

Differences Between Arthritis And Bursitis

The biggest difference in the two is exactly where the inflammation is occurring. Arthritis occurs in the joint, while bursitis happens in the bursae. How long the symptoms will last is another difference between the conditions.

Biggest differences include: location of the inflammation, onset and length of symptoms.

Senior In Old Home
Written by Brian B

Why Might An Older House Have More Safety Risks Than A New One?

Senior In Old Home

Older homes are typically not as modern or safe as newer homes. This will leave individuals, especially senior citizens, more susceptible to falls and/or injuries.

If you are currently searching for “why might an older house have more safety risks than a new one“, this article will detail the various potential safety hazards.

New Homes Vs Old Homes

Here are a few things that can differ between newer and older homes:

  • Location
  • Price
  • Availability
  • Maintenance Requirements
  • Home Safety
  • Energy Efficiency

All of these items can influence whether you want to live in a newer or older home. Yet, for seniors citizens, newer homes are better suited for their safety needs.

Pros Of Old Homes

Sure, there are many benefits of buying older homes instead of newer models. Most older homes have ideal location, since they were built closer to town centers. Easy access to surrounding restaurants, shops and other amenities are certainly a plus. Older homes are typically in established neighborhoods with long traditions and a greater sense of community.

Older homes, of course, tend to be cheaper than newer homes. Depending on location and condition, these older homes will come with a lower price tag than newer ones in the same area. These older homes are also great for homebuyers not wanting to wait long to move in. Count on excellent availability since older models won’t require any finishing touches from developers, unlike newer homes.

Cons Of Old Homes

Unfortunately, too often the cons will outweigh the pros when it comes to purchasing and living in an old home. For seniors, keeping up with maintenance or remodeling needs that come with an old home is nearly impossible, physically. Some old homes will have inefficient plumbing and/or heating systems. Replacing heating equipment, air conditioners and electrical wires creates a very dangerous situation for seniors. Plus, any repairs will likely come with a hefty price tag.

It’s no secret that newer homes are safer than old ones. Newer homes may come fully equipped with safety features like security locks, lights and burglar alarms. This equipment is essential for a senior living alone. If fires start in the home, is your older model designed to protect you? Newer homes will have smoke alarms and fire doors.

Energy efficiency may not be at the top of the list for the elderly, but this can pose a danger, as well. You’ll want all your walls, floors and ceilings to be well insulated. Seniors will need the home to be at a temperature of their liking, avoiding any potential illnesses.

Old Home Safety Checklist

Here are a few things you can do in your home, you may not have thought of, addressed or knew would assist you in being falls free in and around your home:

  1. Ensure exterior pathways are free of holes, loose stones/bricks, uneven pavement, debris or other slipping hazards.
  2. All entrances are clutter free.
  3. Handrails are present on both sides of all steps and stairways both inside and outside the home.
  4. Kitchen cabinets are easily accessible, with frequently used items placed on lower shelves.
  5. Uncarpeted steps feature a non-slip surface such as adhesive strips.
  6. Electrical and phone cords are placed out of the way, along the wall.
  7. Hallway lighting is easily accessible.
  8. Safety grab bars are present at shower entry and interior of shower as needed.
  9. Bathroom rugs should be rubber, based, non-slip. Bathroom floors, tubs and shower surfaces are treated with non-slip product to ensure increased COF (Coefficient of Friction), when surfaces are wet – critically reducing fall risk – Note: The Bathroom is the number one place for falls in the home).
  10. Access to telephones both landline and/or mobile in or near multiple rooms, including the bathroom.
  11. Furniture should be arranged to allow for easy, obstacle free passage.
  12. Do doorways safely accommodate walkers, wheelchairs and/or transport chairs?
Fall Prevention Checklist
Written by Brian B

Fall Prevention Checklist

Fall Prevention Checklist

If you are searching for “fall prevention checklist” or “home safety“, this list will help you secure your floors, stairways, bedroom, bathroom and kitchen areas.

Floors

  1. Keep paths free of any furniture in each room of the house.
  2. Secure all throw rugs with double-sided tape or nonslip backing.
  3. Make sure there are no other objects, such as papers, boxes, shoes or blankets on the floors.
  4. Keep all wires securely taped or coiled next to walls.

Kitchen

  1. Keep most frequently used items on the lower shelves.
  2. Have a sturdy step stool in the kitchen, if needed.

Bedrooms

  1. Tub and/or shower floors should have nonstick rubber mats.
  2. Have grab bars to use for getting in and out of the tub.
  3. Grab bars can be placed around the toilet, as well.

Bathrooms

  1. Light(s) should be near the bed within reach.
  2. Light the path from the bed to the bathroom well with nightlights.

Stairs

  1. Remove any loose objects from the stairs/steps.
  2. Fix any broken or uneven steps.
  3. Make sure there is no loose or torn carpeting in the area.
  4. Have sufficient lighting above the stairways.
  5. Make sure there is a light switch at the bottom and top of the staircase.
  6. Have handrails on both sides, making sure they are not loose or broken.
  7. Handrails should run the full length of the stairway.

Home Safety Tips

  • Try to do exercises each and every day to increase your strength and improve balance. These exercises will likely help you feel healthier and improve your confidence at the same time.
  • Have your eyes checked at least once a year by a doctor. Update/upgrade your glasses, if necessary.
  • Try to wear shoes both inside and outside the home. If you don’t go barefoot or wear slippers, you increase your odds of not falling.
  • Always look at the lighting in and around your home and consider upgrades. Florescent bulbs are very bright and they cost less than other bulbs.
  • Keep all emergency contact information near each phone.
  • Put a phone near the floor or keep your cell phone nearby at all times in case of any accidents.

Source: https://uvahealth.com/sites/default/files/2018-08/Fall-Prevention-Checklist.pdf

Written by Brian B

Best Non-Slip Shower Floor Tiles

Finding the best non-slip shower floor tiles can be a tough task. There are many choices when looking for flooring, but these four options are the top slip-resistant styles available for purchase.

Non-Slip Vinyl Flooring

Vinyl flooring is one of the best non-slip options on the market. There are many benefits to adding this surface to your bathroom area. For starters, vinyl flooring is one of the easiest to maintain, with its resistance to water and stain damage. If a slip does occur, vinyl flooring is well-equipped to break a fall. Vinyl has built-in padding, which will minimize any harm to your body.

An additional benefit to vinyl flooring is its price. Vinyl is one of the more affordable options in today’s marketplace. Its versatility is very appealing to customers, as well. Vinyl can be made to look like wood, ceramic tile, or various other types of popular flooring styles.

Ceramic/Porcelain Tile

Ceramic and porcelain tile are extremely popular flooring types. The biggest pro for both ceramic and porcelain is the smooth surfaces both provide. The possibility of tripping is rare, but slips cannot be avoided at times. The good news is several manufacturers now offer slip-resistant ceramic and porcelain styles.

If the slip-resistant styles prove too costly, simply adding a carpet or mat to the flooring is a very practical option. Adding the extra carpeting will help decrease the risk of slipping on your brand new ceramic or porcelain tile.

Carpet Flooring

Of course, if you prefer to go in a different direction from the porcelain or ceramic tiles, carpet flooring can be a solution. Carpet flooring was wildly popular into the 1970s, while being paired with carpeting in the bedroom. The biggest benefit of choosing carpeting is its versatility. Customers are able to choose from a variety of material types and colors.

Did we mention that carpet absorbs moisture well, obviously? That is one of the biggest benefits of carpet flooring, but it leads to one of the only drawbacks, as well. Carpeting needs time to dry out to prevent mold and mildew.

Glass Flooring

The beauty of glass flooring is this style’s main appeal. Glass flooring has long been a popular upscale option for home bathrooms. This style is more durable than most other styles, and the design options are seemingly endless.

While glass flooring may look the most appealing to the eye, this style is not the best for slip resistance. Glass flooring can be especially dangerous for the elderly. As is the case with ceramic and porcelain tiles though, a simple carpet covering can fix this issue.

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