Practicing good hand hygiene is a simple yet effective way to prevent infections. Germs can get onto hands if people touch any object that has germs on it. It may be because someone coughed or sneezed on it or it was touched by some other contaminated object. When these germs get onto hands and are not washed off, they can be passed from person to person and make people sick. The best way to stay germ-free is to wash your hands often during the day with hot water and lather your hands for 20 seconds.

According to the World Health Organization’s World Report on Disability, 15 percent of the world’s population, or more than 1 billion people, are living with a disability. Of the over 1 billion, it’s estimated 450 million people are living with a mental or neurological condition— and two-thirds of these people will not seek professional medical help, largely due to stigma, discrimination, and neglect. International Day of Persons with Disabilities promotes the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development. It also focuses on spreading awareness and understanding of disabilities that are not immediately apparent, such as mental illness, chronic pain or fatigue, sight or hearing impairments, diabetes, brain injuries, neurological disorders, learning differences, and cognitive dysfunctions, among others.

Alzheimer’s is a complex neurological disease that is the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. More than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s and more than 10 million are caring for a loved one with the disease. Detecting the disease early can significantly improve you or your loved ones’ quality of life and prolong lives. That’s why it’s important to get regular check-ups from your mental healthcare provider.

November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. Hospices across the country are informing others about the highest quality care they provide that enables patients and families to focus on living as fully as possible despite a life-limiting illness. Palliative care brings holistic care to people earlier in the course of a serious illness. Between Nurses, Chaplains, and Social Workers, these highly trained professionals ensure that patients and families find dignity, respect, and love during a most difficult journey.

Stress is a response to demands on the body and life, a response to crisis and fears. National Stress Awareness Day is dedicated to identify and reduce stress factors that have contributed to your life. Failure to handle stress in your life effectively can lead to serious health problems, including increased blood pressure, susceptibility to heart disease, and a decline in your immune system. Don’t let stress take over, act now.

Respiratory Care Week appreciates and acknowledges the hard-working Respiratory Therapists around the world. It also highlights the information we need to keep us breathing well so we can enjoy a great quality of life.