Popular Covid-19 At-Home Tests and How to Use Them (Part II)

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Part II of our article series reviews popular COVID-19 At-Home tests and how they are used.

BinaxNOW (BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test)

Approved in December 2020, BinaxNow  2020  is a prescription-based at-home test for patients 15 years old and older. According to the label, BinanaxNow can also be used for children from four years old once a child shows symptoms of the disease. You should take two tests 36 hours apart to get an accurate result as per directions.

BinaxNOW can detect traces of the new variants of COVID-19, including Delta and Omicron. With a price tag currently at around $15, it is one of the most affordable COVID-19 at-home tests. However, as of this writing, the over-the-counter version of BinaxNOW has not been approved by CDC for travel authorization.

QuickVue (Quidel QuickVue At-Home COVID-19 Test)

Approved by the FDA in March 2021, QuickVue is the fastest COVID self-test that provides a result within ten minutes. However, performing at least two tests 35 hours apart is also recommended for the most accurate results.

QuickVue test is authorized for prescription home use for individuals over 14 years of age within the first six days of COVID-19 symptoms onset.

Lucira (Lucira COVID-19 All-In-One Test Kit)

FDA approved this test in November 2020, which makes it the first officially recognized COVID self-testing kit. 

Lucra is the only at-home test that uses molecular technology. It means that the test can actually recognize some of the virus`s genetic material. However, it still belongs to the group of Antigen COVID Testing.

For now, the Lucra home testing kit is authorized for prescription use for patients over 14 years of age who demonstrated symptoms of COVID-19. According to the Community Testing Study, the Lucra Testing Kit provides up to 94% accurate results. 

Using COVID At-home testing kits

Covid At-home tests are simple to use. But while it is a simple process, it is essential that you follow the official guidelines and manufacturers` instructions to ensure that the results you receive from a COVID self-testing kit are credible. The guide below is to give you an idea of what to expect. Again, follow the manufacturer’s directions:

Preparation

Wash your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds.

Open the box and read the instructions carefully.

Collect the nasal swab or saliva sample carefully and according to the guidelines to guarantee an indicative result.

Testing

Once you collect the sample, perform the test according to the manufacturer`s instructions.

Result

  A Positive Result

Isolate for 10 days and wear a mask if you have to be in physical contact with other people.

Inform your healthcare provider about a positive result and follow the official guidelines.

Inform people who have been in close contact with you within the past 48 hours that they might have been exposedto the virus.

  A Negative Result

If you have no symptoms, most manufacturers recommend performing another test after 36 hours to confirm the result.

If you have symptoms, contact your healthcare provider, because the result may be false, or you may have another disease with symptoms similar to those caused by COVID-19.

  An Invalid Result 

Such cases are rare and may be caused by a manufacturer`s defect or incorrect testing. If the test appears invalid, make sure to perform another testing according to the manufacturer’s instructions right away. 

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NOT Your Typical Coronavirus: The Difference Between a Cold, the Flu, and COVID-19

NOT Your Typical Coronavirus: The Difference Between a Cold, the Flu, and COVID-19

The Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is a new strain of coronavirus and is spreading quickly worldwide. China was the first to report the viral strain. We first heard of the outbreak in December 2019.

COVID-19 is the most serious and deadliest strain of coronavirus that scientists have identified to date. Yes, there are other strains in existence. The most common, a milder form of coronavirus, is one we are all familiar with: the common cold.

COVID-19, however, can cause severe illness and even death. The elderly and people with compromised health and immune systems, like heart and lung disease, hypertension, and diabetes, are at serious risk. Children and younger adults appear to be less affected by the virus. Many young adults exhibit mild symptoms, and some report having no symptoms despite being tested positive for the virus. But be aware– they can pass the virus on to others. Scientists don’t know why children and young adults are not as strongly affected. However, those with pre-existing health conditions may be have different risk factors.

So how can you determine if your symptoms are related to the common cold, the flu, or is COVID-19? If you have traveled out of the country where COVID-19 is quickly spreading, and it’s been within the past 14 days or less, you should seek medical treatment. 

However, do not go directly to the hospital without contacting either your physician or the hospital first. If you have COVID-19, there’s a good chance you will infect others. Healthcare professionals will ensure you get the appropriate testing and treatment, and protect other staff and patients.

Here is a symptom chart to help you determine the difference between a cold, the flu and COVID-19. It was developed by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Let’s Start a Conversation About Aging

Aging affects us all because as you live, you age. Yet aging is a topic that many of us would rather avoid. It is often surrounded by denial, fear, and stereotypes. But the truth is, aging is not something to be feared—it’s to be embraced. As tough as that can be for many, starting a conversation about aging can open the door to understanding, preparation, and empowerment. So, don’t run away–let’s talk about it!

Why We Avoid Talking About Aging

Aging is associated with the loss of youth, declining health, independence, and abilities. These perceptions fuel societal stigma, making people hesitant to confront the realities of growing older. Many people see aging as something to resist rather than a natural, inevitable process. Think about it: People spend billions of dollars a year trying to maintain the fountain of youth. But avoiding the subject does a disservice to us all.

When we avoid conversations about aging, we miss out on opportunities to plan, reflect on our aging journey, and prepare for the needs of our loved ones. Avoidance can lead to fear, uncertainty, and crisis-driven decisions when aging-related issues suddenly arise.

The Reassurance of Early Conversations About Aging

  1. Proactive Planning: Talking about aging allows individuals and families to plan ahead. From financial planning to healthcare decisions and housing options, early discussions can reduce stress and prevent forced or rushed choices due to a crisis later on.
  2. Improved Mental Health: Open conversations about aging can help reduce anxiety and fear. When we confront our fears, they lose their power. Talking openly can also reduce isolation, especially for older adults who may feel invisible or overlooked.
  3. Better Family Relationships: Aging-related issues like caregiving, inheritance, and housing changes can cause conflict among family members. Early, open discussions help clarify expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and foster stronger family bonds.  
  4. Empowerment and Autonomy: When older adults are included in conversations about their future, they feel respected and valued. They have the opportunity to express their wishes and preferences, which can guide family members and caregivers when essential decisions arise.

What Conversations Should We Be Having?

When it comes to aging, several key topics deserve our attention:

  1. Health and Well-being: How can we maintain physical, emotional, and cognitive health as we age? Discussing preventive care, exercise, and mental health support can ensure a higher quality of life.
  2. Housing and Living Arrangements: Where do we want to live as we age? Do we want to stay in our current home, downsize, or explore senior living options? Talking about these possibilities now allows for informed choices later.
  3. Financial Planning: Aging comes with new financial demands, from healthcare costs to home modifications. Early financial planning—including long-term care insurance and estate planning—can prevent future financial strain.
  4. End-of-Life Planning: While it’s difficult, discussing end-of-life preferences is essential. Do you have a living will? Have you designated a healthcare proxy? These decisions ensure your wishes are honored.
  5. Caregiving and Support Systems: Families should discuss caregiving roles before a crisis occurs. Who will step in if an older adult needs assistance with daily tasks? Knowing who’s willing and able to provide support can reduce the stress on everyone involved.

How to Start the Conversation

If you’re unsure how to approach the topic of aging—whether it’s for yourself, a parent, or a loved one—here are some strategies to make it easier:

  1. Start Small: You don’t have to cover every topic at once. Begin with a simple question like, “Have you thought about what kind of support you’d like as you age?”
  2. Choose the Right Setting: Conversations about aging are best held in a calm, private environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts.
  3. Use Personal Stories: Share your own reflections about aging. For example, you might say, “I’ve been thinking about where I’d like to live as I get older. Have you thought about that for yourself?”
  4. Be Patient and Compassionate: Not everyone is ready to discuss aging. If resistance arises, back off and revisit the conversation later.
  5. Involve a Neutral Party: Sometimes, having a professional facilitator—like a social worker, psychologist, therapist, or eldercare consultant—can ease the process.

Reframing Aging as a Positive Experience

Aging is not simply about loss. It’s a time of growth, wisdom, and self-discovery. With age comes the opportunity to:

  • Redefine Purpose: Retirement and life transitions allow older adults to explore new hobbies, volunteer, or pursue lifelong dreams.
  • Share Legacy: Older adults can reflect on their life’s work, share their stories, and pass down knowledge to younger generations.
  • Focus on Quality of Life: Many people in their later years find joy in relationships, nature, and pleasures they may have overlooked.

Final Thoughts – The Power of Starting the Conversation About Aging

Talk about aging before a crisis begins. Let’s shift the narrative from fear and avoidance to acceptance and empowerment. Whether planning for yourself or supporting a loved one, these conversations can lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.

It’s time to break the silence. In this blog, we will feature helpful and insightful topics: Let’s Talk About Aging.” Stay tuned as we learn and grow on this journey–together.

Why Some People Are Better at Controlling Their Emotions

The causes of stress, our reactions to them, and even our susceptibility to stress are unique to each of us.   Our ability to react to such stressors is what is often termed as emotional strength.

According to the Director of Yale Stress Center, Rata Sinha, who is also lead author in a study published in the Proceedings of National Academy of Science Journal, we all have different responses to stress, with some people appearing to be more persevering than others.

There have been debates on whether the emotional sensitivity is pre-determined, conditioned over time, based on one’s personality, or the situation in which they live and work. While we tend to associate emotional strength with someone who is also cold, stoic and unemotional,  there is evidence  that emotionally stability or strength actually may be in the genes.

There are three main parts of the brain– the upper, middle and lower brain, each with its own specific functions. The middle brain or mesencephalon has been associated with the ability to reason properly and rationally and associated with emotional strength.

Further research into gene-environment interactions has shed light on the possibility of genes being responsible the highly sensitive nature of certain individuals. According to an article in Psychology Today, neuroscientist researchers from the University of British Columbia and Cornell  University successfully associated the gene variation responsible for the generation of the neurotransmitter Norepinephrine, ‘ADRA2b’ as being responsible for people with more heightened sensitivity to their environment. This gene variation causes heightened activity in certain regions of the brain, which leads to highly intense emotional responses when viewing either very positive or highly negative images.

In a related study by Rachel Grazioplene and her colleagues,  the cholinergic system was determined to predictably track learning in certain environments. This study led to a conclusion that children of same socioeconomic backgrounds, in the same location, regardless of gender or age, reacted to certain situations based on their history of abuse. The children who had suffered abuse while growing up inadvertently learned to react with anxious and fearful responses as opposed to calmer, more open reactions by the non-abused companions.

Thus, while some people have better emotional control than others because of genetics, the impact of environmental factors cannot be overlooked.

Happy New Year!

With every new year comes greater challenges and obstacles in life.

I wish you courage, hope, and faith to overcome all the hurdles that may come your way.

Have a great year and a wonderful time ahead.