Start 2016 with a new, healthier you from locals who know the field

As we say goodbye to 2015, many are already thinking of ways to find peace of mind and thrive in the New Year. To that end, Chattanooga is home to many local experts who offer much to help you and yours keep those resolutions and start 2016 with a bang.

When it comes to caring for your aging loved ones, 5 Star Home Care offers services and care that fit every need, especially for those suffering with alzheimer's or dementia.

Kenny Higdon, owner of 5 Star Home Care, suggests art therapy as one method of engaging these loved ones and keeping their minds sharp. His company employs caregivers who help seniors and those living with a disability or recovering from an injury or illness to perform day-today activities.

"My heart goes out to anyone with Alzheimer's and their family," Higdon said. "We take care of the bathing, dressing, doing laundry, light housekeeping, meal preparation and transportation so they can concentrate their energy on reaching out and staying connected to their loved one."

The business carefully connects caretakers with clients across Tennessee. For families who are concerned about the health and safety of a loved one, reach out to 5 Star Home Care at 423-893-8181.

Choosing the right treatment or technology for cosmetic improvement can be downright vexing. Dr. Chad Deal and the team at Southern Surgical Arts have the tools and the time to help clients find the best solution for them.

"In the world of cosmetic surgery and enhancements, energy based technologies have transformed our practices, and overhauled the industry dramatically," Dr. Deal said. "They have given us more non-invasive treatment options than ever before. And the advancements are ongoing."

Southern Surgical Arts offers a full array of the most effective and broad energy-based technologies. When visiting a practice, take the initiative to ask questions and get the information you need in order to make informed decisions. For more information on energy-based cosmetic technologies and to view the Before and After Gallery, visit southernsurgicalarts.com.

Selecting a hearing aid and hearing instrument provider can be a challenging feat. Public advertising is often confusing and contradictory for consumers. Being educated about modern hearing healthcare and hearing instruments allows you to make a more informed decision that will likely result in better outcomes.

The true difference between an audiologist and a dispenser is education. When assessing, diagnosing, intervening, and treating hearing dysfunction and tinnitus, an audiologist has more training and expertise in this field of healthcare. When wanting the best services and treatment available to ensure the best quality of life, an audiologist has the more extensive training, knowledge, understanding, and experience, and those at Johnson Audiology have a great team ready to help.

To learn more about the services offered at Johnson Audiology, visit johnsonaudiology.com. To set up an appointment, use the contact form on the website or call the office's 1618 Gunbarrel Road location at 423-933-3623 or its 105 W. Main St., Cartersville, Ga. location at 770-334-3062.

Complete Eye Care is committed to providing the latest technological advances and current eye wear to its patients. The Optical Shop at Complete Eye Care has yet another great brand under its belt as the new line of Adidas prescription sunglasses hits the shelves.

"These sunglasses are built for performance, and we can do them with any prescription," assured Rachel Ridge, LDO with Complete Eye Care. "Customers using them have noticed they perform better in their sports and have reduced eye fatigue thanks to the protection from glare and bright sunlight."

The Adidas sunglasses offer three different features or styles including direct glazing, which offers the largest field of vision from every angle, the adapter, which gives a wide range of vision and prescription options, and the clip-in, which is a very versatile prescription allowing customers to quickly change lenses.

For more information about Complete Eye Care's services and selection or to schedule an appointment, call 423-332-8222 or visit completeeyecare.org.

If you're wondering whether or not your smile can be camera-ready in time for all those New Year's Eve photos, don't fret, Soddy Daisy Smiles has the answers.

"There are multiple cosmetic treatments and some of them can be done in just a couple short visits," said Dr. Robert Shearer. "There are a number of treatments that can help erase imperfections and improve the appearance of your pearly whites so you can move forward with more confidence, prepared to celebrate in style."

He added that while most people have heard of whitening and veneers, as forms of cosmetic dentistry, they are not the only ways to enhance a smile. Bonding and contouring are other ways a dentist can help improve it.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Soddy Daisy Smiles at 423-332-5275 or visit soddydaisysmiles.com.

Parties, family gatherings and other social scenes are great ways to make wonderful memories, but for those who battle food allergies, it can be a very stressful time of year.

Dr. Jennifer Patel with Chattanooga Allergy Clinic is sharing some valuable insights to help those navigate through the problems to help keep the joy in the celebrations. When it comes to the most common/typical food allergies that people have to be careful of during the holidays, Dr. Patel says that about 95 percent of food allergies are due to six common foods which can all be a concern when navigating eating during the holidays: milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanuts/tree nuts, and fish/shellfish.

Fish and shellfish may be less of a problem, but each of the other foods can "hide" in common dishes served during the holidays. It is important to be aware of the ingredients in the foods you are eating and avoid foods if you are unable to confirm the ingredients. If you have food allergies it is important to keep 2 EpiPens or Auvi-Q with you at all times in case of a reaction.

Chattanooga Allergy Clinic treats all types of allergic disorders and problems. It has eight locations and 11 providers. For more information about summer allergies or to find an office near you, visit chattanoogaallergyclinic.com or call 423-899-0431.

Finally, if you're looking to set your sights on learning the art of yoga and all its benefits to gain peace and health this year, Isha Institute of Inner-sciences offers a variety of programs that provide methods for anyone to attain physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. As seen on ishafoundation.org, the organization "seeks to raise human consciousness and foster global harmony through individual transformation."

As a commitment to bringing well-being to the surrounding communities, Isha Instituteis offering free yoga classes and lessons on vegetarian cooking monthly.

"Studies have been done that show great benefits to yoga," said Isha volunteer and Meditator Dr. Jayant Eldurkar. "In my own personal experience, I've benefitted from lowering my blood pressure to the point of not having to go on medication."

Isha Institute is nestled 1400 acres of the beautiful Cumberland Plateau and offers great outdoor activities like guided hikes to a breathtaking bluff view, free access to more than 10 miles of forested hiking and mountain biking trails, vegetarian cooking classes, live music, food, and fun for everyone in the family. For more information, visit ishafoundation.org.

Noteworthy:

Chattanooga is home to many local experts who offer much to help you and yours keep those New Year's resolutions and start 2016 with a bang. From caring for aging family members to discovering the benefits of yoga, there's someone in our area who is ready to help.

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