According to FBI reports, there are over 1 million burglaries every year across the country. It is essential to keep our homes and businesses safe. One way of doing so is by installing a security system around the premises. The most essential part of this system is the security camera, which helps you keep an eye on the place even when you’re not around. Avoid these common mistakes when installing security cameras: Choosing the wrong location for the cameras The most important factor when installing cameras is their location. For them to truly be beneficial, they need to have a clear line of sight to your areas of interest (such as doors or lockers). Having some visible cameras is also a great way to ward off intruders. Other cameras can be more discreetly placed to monitor areas without their knowledge. That’s not all. Putting security cameras too low lets any criminal disable the surveillance system by cutting the wires or spraying black paint on it. Ensure that the cameras are placed at a higher level, so criminals cannot reach them without a ladder. Having bad security software Security cameras and surveillance systems are only as good as the software that backs them up. Ensure you invest in quality security camera software that can be updated regularly. Not having a backup power source Keeping your cameras online, especially during power outages, is important to prevent burglaries on your property. Install a backup power source when installing your cameras to avoid this risk. Not being careful when you DIY Often, camera installation mistakes happen when people try to put up their cameras themselves. If you would like to carry out the installation yourself, look for easy plug-and-play security options like Lorex Wireless Security Cameras that connect to your WiFi network in minutes and record all the data to an onboard MicroSD card or call a professional camera installation service to do it for you.

Dementia is a psychological condition involving the progressive loss of cognitive abilities, including memory, reasoning, concentration, and the ability to carry out daily tasks. Many patients with dementia show behavioral changes and mood swings, hallucinate, and get disorientated and irritable. Besides early diagnosis and timely treatment, constant care, family support, and some lifestyle changes can contribute to healing from dementia. Here are some foods that can help individuals prevent and manage dementia symptoms: Spinach Spinach contains high levels of lutein, an antioxidant that helps prevent loss of cognitive functions. Moreover, several studies have drawn associations between the intake of spinach and other leafy greens and the prevention of cognitive decline. Spinach can be added to stir-fries, gravies, soups, smoothies, etc. Fatty fish Fatty fish varieties like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are packed with Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Studies have demonstrated a decline in DHA levels among individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, a leading cause of dementia. Thus, a meal plan rich in DHA can help reduce one’s susceptibility to these psychological conditions. A daily intake of 200 mg of DHA is recommended for brain health. Broccoli Being a cruciferous vegetable, broccoli is rich in carotenoids and vitamin B. These components can reduce the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid known to contribute to cognitive decline and related psychological conditions in the body. It also contains compounds called glucosinolates, which are broken down into compounds called isothiocyanates. These compounds are proven to reduce one’s risk for neurodegenerative diseases. Eggs Eggs are rich in choline, found to enhance cognitive function. Furthermore, one egg yolk contains approximately 200 mcg of lutein, another essential component for preventing cognitive decline. Thus, a meal plan rich in protein sources like eggs can protect cognitive health. Avocados Avocados are packed with vitamin B and can help with the reduction of homocysteine, a risk factor for psychological disorders.

Pain is a natural response of the body that alerts one of potential harm or injury. While some types of pain are normal and can be easily treated with natural or holistic home remedies, there are certain types of pain that may be severe or persistent. These pains may be signs or causes of underlying health conditions that require immediate medical attention. Certain types of pain that one should never ignore are listed below. Chest pain Chest pain can indicate a heart attack or angina- a form of chest pain triggered by reduced blood flow to the heart. Chest pain can also indicate other severe conditions, such as a pulmonary embolism or aortic dissection. Severe headache    Common causes of headaches include dehydration, lack of sleep, eye strain, or sinus infection. But when one experiences a severe or sudden headache or headaches accompanied by other symptoms like a stiff neck, vision changes, dizziness, or tingling on one side of the body, it may be a warning sign of underlying health concerns. Usually, severe headaches may result from a head injury, the onset of stroke, meningitis, low blood sugar, or more. Abdominal pain    Abdominal pain can indicate various health conditions like appendicitis, ulcerative colitis, or a kidney stone. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional is advised if one experiences severe or persistent abdominal pain. Back pain   Severe or persistent lower back pain can indicate an underlying disease such as kidney stones or kidney infection. The pain can either be dull or sharp and can be accompanied by other symptoms like nausea and painful urination. Unusually painful periods   Women who experience severe or abnormally painful periods may feel cramping, sharp pain, or a constant ache in their lower abdomen or back. The pain may accompany heavy bleeding or irregular periods and interfere with daily activities.

People often purchase humidifiers, carpets, and other products to keep their homes clean and fresh. However, not all of these are as harmless as they seem. Some household products can lead to lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) when not handled or used correctly. Therefore, one must take every precaution to protect one’s respiratory well-being. Here are a few household products that can harm the lungs and increase the risk of COPD. Humidifiers Humidifiers help moisten dry indoor air and relieve respiratory symptoms and dry skin. However, they can become breeding grounds for harmful bacteria and mold if not cleaned regularly. When turned on, the machine can release these pathogens into the air, which one may inhale. Studies suggest inhaling mold may worsen breathlessness and related COPD symptoms. Therefore, those diagnosed with or at risk of this condition should clean the humidifier regularly by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Experts also suggest using distilled water to minimize the risk of contamination. Flour While flour is a staple in many kitchens, it can affect lung health when mishandled. When flour is poured or mixed vigorously, fine particles become airborne and can be inhaled. For individuals with sensitivity or allergies, this can lead to respiratory irritation. Furthermore, studies say that flour dust plays a role in the development of COPD. Hence, one should use precautions like wearing a mask and working in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk. Candles Scented candles are great for creating a cozy atmosphere at home. However, when burned, they can release harmful chemicals into the air. Some candles, mainly those made from paraffin wax, may emit toxins that can irritate the respiratory tract. Moreover, they can worsen breathlessness in those with COPD, causing them to breathe harder. Using candles made from natural materials like soy or beeswax and ensuring proper ventilation can minimize the adverse effects on COPD patients.

Investing in precious metals is a smart addition to diversifying an investment portfolio. Precious metals are a popular commodity and a less volatile market when compared to stocks. With multiple regulatory authorities and trading platforms, investing in precious metals hassle-free has also become easy today. But there are many points one must consider and be well-informed before investing. Here are some key things to know before investing in precious metals. Understand the types of precious metals Gold, silver, platinum, and palladium are popular precious metals with unique characteristics, market demand, and investing dynamics. Invest only after a thorough comparison. Diversification Precious metals can be an effective way to diversify any investment portfolio. They often have a low association with other assets like bonds and stocks, which can help reduce overall portfolio risk. Storage and security Physical ownership of precious metals necessitates the need to invest in home security. Options include home safes, bank safety deposit boxes, or third-party storage facilities. Be sure to consider the associated costs and security measures before buying assets. Physical vs. paper investments There are two ways to invest in precious metals: purchase physical bullion (coins or bars) or invest through paper investments like exchange-traded funds (ETFs), online futures contracts, or online mining stocks. Market volatility Market risk is inherent, and external considerations impact the sale and purchase of precious metals. Prices can significantly fluctuate in response to economic and geopolitical events. Be prepared for this volatility and have a clear investment strategy in place. Long-term vs. short-term investment Determine investment goals before investing. Is it simply a short-term hedge against inflation and market instability, or is the investment long-term for growth in the portfolio? Investment goals will directly influence precious metals choices. Market research Stay informed about the factors that affect precious metal prices, such as inflation rates, central bank policies, geopolitical tensions, and currency movements.

Surface cleaners play a pivotal role in helping one maintain a clean and hygienic living environment. They help get rid of dirt, germs, and stains, leaving the home’s surfaces sparkling and safe. But, choosing the right product is not always a straightforward process. Individuals must note several factors when considering surface cleaners to ensure effectiveness and safety. Here are some of these critical aspects to help consumers make informed choices. 8 things to avoid while considering surface cleaners Harsh chemicals Avoid cleaners that contain harsh chemicals in their ingredients list, especially for everyday use. These include chemicals like bleach, ammonia, sodium hydroxide, emulsifiers like MEA, DEA, and TEA, SLS and SLES, sodium dichloroisocyanurate dihydrate, and petroleum solvents. These chemicals can harm one’s health, irritate the skin and eyes, and emit harmful fumes. One can either go for eco-friendly alternatives in the market, like white vinegar or essential oils, or make natural cleaners at home. Unlabeled surface cleaners Choose products with clear, complete ingredient lists or labels. Avoid products that don’t disclose their ingredients, as it may be difficult to assess their safety and effectiveness. Lack of safety information Check for safety information on the label, such as whether the product is safe for use around pets or children. Avoid products that lack this important information. Environmentally toxic products Consider products that are environmentally friendly and biodegradable whenever possible. Avoid cleaners that contain pollutants or non-biodegradable ingredients that can harm ecosystems. One can also look for products that carry certifications for environmental and safety standards. This can provide assurance of a product’s quality and safety. Excessive fragrance Some surface cleaners contain strong fragrances that can trigger allergies or sensitivities. Look for products labeled as fragrance-free or with mild scents if one is sensitive to fragrances. Ignoring special needs If one has specific cleaning needs, such as allergies or asthma, one should consider cleaners designed for those conditions.

Waterproofing the basement helps prevent water damage, a common problem in homes. It can also lower the risk of other moisture-related issues, like mold and decay. However, certain lapses in the waterproofing process can make the basement vulnerable to leaks and water damage. So, it is important to get the waterproofing technique right. This ensures water cannot sneak into basement walls, helping enhance the durability and preserving the property’s overall value. 1. Ignoring signs of moisture Signs of moisture could be damp spots on walls, peeling paint, musty odor, or efflorescence—a white, powdery residue on surfaces brought on by water evaporation. Though seemingly minor, the signs are early indicators of underlying water issues that can become bigger problems uf left unchecked. If one notices these signs, they should get basement waterproofing done immediately. 2. Poor drainage system installation A critical aspect of basement waterproofing is proper drainage. Inadequate or improperly installed drainage systems make water pool around the foundation and eventually enter the basement walls. So, while waterproofing, one should ensure the drainage system can divert water from the home. 3. Choosing the wrong materials Choosing unsuitable or low-quality waterproofing materials can cause premature failure of the waterproofing system. So, choosing high-quality products recommended for a basement’s specific conditions is crucial. One should consult professionals to learn about the best options available. 4. DIY without experience While DIY projects can help one save money, attempting to waterproof the basement without the necessary expertise can be risky. Professional waterproofers have the skills, experience, and tools required to ensure that the job is done correctly the first time. 5. Incorrect sealant application Applying sealant is among the most common methods of waterproofing basements, but incorrect application can make it ineffective. Before applying sealant, one should ensure the surface is clean and dry.

Due to physical limitations, health issues, or other circumstances, older adults may require additional support to manage their daily activities as they age. In such situations, the role of a caregiver becomes crucial. Caregivers can provide such seniors with personal care, medical assistance, and emotional support. The caregiver’s support depends on the recipient’s requirements. However, caregiving can be broadly classified into four types based on the nature of the support provided. Professional caregivers When seeking care services, it’s important to rely on trained and certified professionals for the best possible care. Fortunately, many options are available for healthcare professionals who specialize in various areas of caregiving. For instance, one can find registered and practical nurses trained to provide medical care and ensure well-being. Professional caregivers also include certified nursing assistants to assist with activities of daily living (ADLs). Nurses and nursing assistants are usually available for help at a senior living facility, hospice care center, or hospital. Home health aides can be hired to provide personal care and support for those looking for professional caregivers at home. In addition, physical, occupational, and speech therapists can also be hired if specialized care and rehabilitation services are needed. Family caregivers Sometimes, family members become caregivers. These include parents, spouses, children, and siblings of individuals who need care. This usually happens when the care needs are basic and do not require the caregiver to have professional training. Sometimes, a senior may have a family caregiver working alongside a professional caregiver. Informal caregivers Along with family members providing caregiving assistance, a senior may have few informal caregivers. These may include friends, neighbors, and acquaintances willing to support the person’s care needs. Volunteer caregivers These are individuals who work with community centers or nonprofit organizations. They provide unpaid support and caregiving services to those who need it.

Black Friday is the best day to buy new workout equipment. Many businesses offer deals, discounts, and price drops online that frequently last longer than just that a day. Gone are the days when you had to stand outside a store and race hundreds of frantic buyers to get the best items. Listed below are fitness equipment, right from essentials to expert-level equipment, that you might be able to get at great prices this year. Rowing machine The LCD monitor with the Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine Rower shows time, count, calories, total count, and scan. The easy scan mode shows your progress to help you keep track of all your fitness objectives. You may adjust the eight levels of magnetic resistance with a simple twist, keeping your workout tough and productive. Last year, it was available for a stunningly low price, so definitely keep your eyes on it. Treadmill On the ProForm Pro 5000 smart treadmill, engage in dynamic, high-intensity exercises with top personal trainers in the world. You can turn your treadmill into your personal home exercise center with the complimentary 30-day iFIT subscription. Your treadmill’s pace and slope will automatically adapt to conform to local terrains and trainer recommendations, thanks to Automatic Trainer Control. This holiday season, Best Buy might offer it at $200 off. Stationary bike The stationary VeloCore exercise bike, which leans left and right as you sprint toward the finish line, will awaken your body and mind. It’s a vigorous diversion that gives you the freedom to move at your own rhythm. You can explore 200+ breathtaking virtual courses at your own pace. At Bowflex.com’s Black Friday sale, you might be able to get it at a more reasonable price. Dumbbells Want to begin weight training but are unsure of where to start?

The holiday season is getting closer, bringing in deal days like Cyber Monday. Furnishing a house or replacing old appliances can be expensive, and there is no better time to buy the things you need. Last year, there were deals and discounts on all refrigerators, be it a side-by-side refrigerator or a mini fridge. To get an idea of 2022’s offers, make sure to check the list below of last year’s Cyber Monday refrigerator deals. What to expect from 2022 Cyber Monday deals on refrigerators Samsung 28 cu ft 4-Door French Door Refrigerator with FlexZone Drawer Best Buy offered $700 off on this Samsung 28 cu ft 4- Door French Door refrigerator last year. The fridge features Wi-fi, voice control, and LED lighting, among other top features. You can expect a similar deal this year too. LG LMXS28596D InstaView Door-in-Door Refrigerator This 27.8 cu ft refrigerator has a glass door on one side, and the Instaview lets you see food through the window. Interior lighting, water dispenser, and door alarm are just some other features of this wonderful appliance. This LG refrigerator, retailing at $3699, was down to $2999 at Best Buy on Cyber Monday last year. Kenmore 50043 Side-by-Side Refrigerator With a 25-cu ft capacity, this side-by-side refrigerator is a great addition to any kitchen. You will benefit from the sufficient storage space it offers. The in-door ice and water dispenser is an added bonus. The fridge was available on sale at Sears for $1079.99 (original price $1749.99) giving you a massive savings of $650. You may get a similar deal this year too. Whirlpool 25 cu ft Side by Side Refrigerator This sleek refrigerator was offered at a discount of $160. It features fingerprint-resistant stainless steel and an ice and water dispenser on the exterior. The fridge was on sale for $1439 at Home Depot, and the store might offer similar discounts in 2022.

Our laptops, cell phones, and smartwatches help us with numerous everyday tasks like booking tickets, paying bills, setting reminders, and tracking our health. However, these gadgets are sometimes expensive, especially the models from premium brands with advanced features and capabilities. Luckily, Black Friday allows consumers to bag them at highly discounted prices and save money. Here are a few popular tech devices worth checking out once Black Friday 2023 begins. Smartphones Samsung Samsung’s latest Galaxy smartphones, including the Ultra, Z, Flip, and Fold models, were offered at discounts ranging from $400 to $1,000 last shopping season. These devices have several desirable features, such as long battery life, fast charging, elegant displays, expandable storage, and excellent camera quality. Apple Apple is known to have lucrative offers on its cell phones during Black Friday. Last year, specific iPhone 12, 13, and 14 variants sold for a discount of up to 75%. OnePlus OnePlus has emerged as a household name for superior-quality smartphones with features like fast charging, long battery lives, premium-quality cameras, and affordability. Some esteemed models, such as the OnePlus Nord, OnePlus 8T, and OnePlus Pro, were available at discounts ranging from $50 to a whopping $500 last sale season. Google Google’s Pixel series smartphones stand out for using Machine Learning technology to enable features like smart replies and live captions. They’re also known for their stunning camera quality and battery-saving features. Last year, some of the latest Pixel smartphones were available for up to $200 off at various e-commerce websites like Amazon, eBay, and Best Buy. Smartwatches Apple Apple’s smartwatches have valuable health-monitoring technologies, including irregular heartbeat sensors, oxygen-level monitors, ECG monitors, crash detection, temperature sensing, and a feature to ensure mindfulness. Users bagged some of Apple’s popular smartwatches for reasonable prices last Black Friday. For example, the new Apple Watch SE was offered at $299 off its original price.

Effective pest control is critical to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. Pests can cause a lot of damage to a home’s foundation, floors, and walls. It helps eliminate insects impacting the house’s integrity and its occupants’ health. Effective pest management is a multifaceted endeavor that requires diligence, preventative measures, and, at times, the expertise of professionals. By sidestepping these pitfalls, individuals can create a pest-free environment that promotes health, comfort, and peace of mind. Neglecting preventative measures One of the most common pitfalls in pest control is underestimating the power of prevention. Waiting until pests become a visible problem can lead to a more challenging and costly battle. Simple steps like sealing cracks, ensuring proper drainage, and maintaining a clean living space can go a long way in deterring pests from entering in the first place. Overlooking regular inspections Regular inspections are the cornerstone of effective pest control. Unfortunately, many homeowners skip this crucial step, only seeking professional help when the situation has escalated. Implementing routine checks, both indoors and outdoors, allows for early detection and intervention, minimizing the potential damage caused by pests. Improper identification of pests Misidentifying pests is a common oversight in pest control. Different pests require different approaches for effective elimination. Using the wrong treatment method for a particular pest can be not only ineffective but may also be detrimental to the environment or even harmful to humans and pets. Misusing chemicals and treatments Resorting harsh chemicals without adequately understanding their application can have unintended consequences. Overusing or misusing pesticides can pose health risks to residents and pets and lead to environmental harm. It’s crucial to follow label instructions meticulously and, if you need help, seek professional advice on proper application. Ignoring natural predators In nature, many pests have natural predators that help keep their populations in check.