Monthly Archives: May 2017

Paying for In-Home Care: Veteran's Aid and Attendance Program

All Posts, Long Term Care Options

Written by Olivia Cohen

According to the 2012 U.S. Census, there are over 12.4 million veterans aged 65 or older living in the country today who served in conflicts around the world, from World War II through the Persian Gulf War. Even heroes age though, and even the strongest need a helping hand. In honor of their brave service, many veterans are eligible for monetary assistance for in-home care as they age, lightening the financial hardship of aging in place.

The Aid and Attendance program is an additional monetary payment available to veterans who are eligible for or who are already receiving a VA Pension benefit. In addition to pension eligibility, veterans must meet one of the following conditions to qualify:

  • They require help performing daily functions like bathing, eating, or dressing
  • They are bedridden
  • They are a patient in a nursing home
  • Their eyesight is limited to a corrected 5/200 visual acuity or less in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less

These benefits are available to service members, their spouses, or a surviving spouse, and can pay up to $2,127 a month for a couple, $1,794 for a single veteran, and $1,153 for a single surviving spouse.

Through American In-Home Care, you or your the veteran you love can apply an Aid and Attendance benefit toward any regular services: companion care, personal care, live-in care, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, or skilled nurse care, each of which contributes toward keeping your loved one living comfortably in their home.

Companion Care

Companion care is geared for seniors with light care taking needs — just someone to provide companionship and help with daily tasks like meal preparation, errands, and transportation.

Personal Care

Personal care provides hands-on assistance with tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating.

Live-In Care

Live-In Care providers perform a full array of at-home services, including assistance getting in and out of bed, catheter care, and personal hygiene assistance.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

Because Alzheimer’s and Dementia affect every individual differently, American-In Home Care can work with you to find an agent best suited to your loved one’s needs, from regular assistance to respite care, which provides a break for family members acting as care takers.

Skilled Nursing

More serious health evaluations and ongoing care needs can be addressed by Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), who can perform any reguarlyly offered service in addition to roles that necessitate more training, like regularly monitoring health conditions and helping with Infusion Therapy (IVs).

If you are or know of a veteran who could find it easier to live comfortably in their own home through any of these services, contact American In-Home Care to speak with an agent who is knowledge about the Aid and Attendance Program. An agent can help you determine if you qualify for the benefit, work with Veteran-Care to assist you throughout the entire application process, and refer a qualified home care agent best suited to your needs. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers that are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

4 Common Causes of Age-Related Vision Loss

All Posts, Chronic Disease Care, Health and Wellness
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Written by Olivia Cohen

By the age of 65, nearly one in three people has some sort of age-related vision loss, making it one of the most common conditions facing our maturing population. Although vision loss creates obstacles to daily functioning, it is easy to prevent through regular screenings and early treatment. Read on to learn about the four most common types of vision loss in mature Americans.

Age-Related Macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss among people aged 65 or older. The condition affects the macula, which is located at the center of your retina and helps you see close up for activities such as reading, sewing, and writing. Although the exact cause of macular degeneration is unclear, it is sharply correlated with age, with most cases developing after age 50. Family history, smoking, high alcohol use, sunlight, obesity, and high blood pressure and heart disease are also possible risk factors, although studies are limited.

Signs of macular degeneration include seeing shadowy areas in the center of your vision, not seeing what’s right in front of you, or otherwise fuzzy or distorted vision. The process is slow and pain-free, and although there is no known cure, treatments such as laser work, injections, and dietary changes can delay progression and improve vision.

 Glaucoma

Glaucoma is another leading cause of vision loss among Americans, accounting for one in every seven or eight cases of blindness. Glaucoma results from fluids building up inside the forward part of the eye, creating excess pressure that damages the optic nerve. This results in blurred vision, a narrowed field of sight, and eventually total blindness.

Open-angle glaucoma typically doesn’t have any early warning signs, and is best caught through regular eye exams. Acute angle-closure glaucoma has noticeable symptoms like hazy vision, rainbow-colored circles around bright lights, and severe eye pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek prompt medical care.

If caught early, glaucoma can be managed with medication; occasionally surgery is necessary.

 Cataracts

Cataracts are a common form of vision loss and the leading cause of blindness worldwide, although they are easily treated in the United States and other developed countries. Cataracts present as as opacities that interfere with vision, often progressing slowly and painlessly. Symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision or glare, and are strongly correlated with age, with roughly 50% of people over the age of 75 experiencing cataracts.

Cataract surgery is a common surgical procedure that is effective in treating cataracts, and it is covered by Medicare.

 Diabetic Retinopathy

Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among middle aged Americans, and is also coming among more senior populations. The likelihood of developing diabetic retinopathy rises with the duration of diabetes. There is a milder form of retinopathy that usually does not cause serious vision loss, but may cause blurry vision.

Those with diabetes should get their eyes checked regularly, as early identification and treatment can prevent more serious vision loss.

 If your loved one needs help performing daily tasks as a result of vision loss, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers that are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

Get Moving for Women’s Health Week

All Posts, Health and Wellness
home care assistance jacksonville

Written by Olivia Cohen

Beginning this Mother’s Day, rally your sisters, mothers, friends, and wives to partake in National Women’s Health Week from May 14 to May 20. According to the Office on Women’s Health, the goal of Women’s Health Week is “to empower women to make health a priority” and to serve “as a time to encourage women to take steps to improve their health.”

Celebrate the 18th annual Women’s Health Week by putting your physical and mental health first. Get together with a group of fellow females to support each other in reaching your goals for the week — goals you can extend beyond May 20 and incorporate into your lifestyle.

The Center for Disease Control breaks down health goals into five categories: get screened, get moving, enjoy healthy foods, prioritize mental health, and practice healthy behaviors.

Get Screened

As we age, it’s important to keep on top of recommended tests and screenings — preventative measures that are more effective than trying to treat an established condition. Women over 60 may consider annual tests for blood pressure, cholesterol, Hepatitis B and C, osteoporosis, sexually transmitted infections, colorectal cancer, and diabetes; talk to your doctor to determine what’s right for you, and check which tests are appropriate as we age. Regardless of age, a yearly wellness visit to check in with your doctor is highly recommended and is covered under Medicare. In addition, an annual breast exam or mammogram can help catch signs of breast cancer.

Get Moving

Exercise is one of the most important things we can do to keep our hearts healthy at every age. The CDC recommends that adults get 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise every week, spread out for at least 10 minutes at a time. If the thought of building an exercise routine makes your palms sweat, relax. Try taking a walk around your neighborhood to enjoy the spring weather, or going for a leisurely weekend bike ride in a park; no running or gym equipment required.

In addition to aerobics, it’s especially important for women to practice strength and balance as they mature. This will help maintain bone density, prevent falls, and support daily functioning for healthy aging. Engage your major muscle groups in at least two days per week of strength training, like yoga or water sports.

Enjoy Healthy Foods

Women and men alike need to eat a healthy diet to remain in good health. Not only does a healthy diet boost the immune system and contribute to resistance against chronic disease, including heart disease and diabetes, but it also affects emotional health and daily energy levels, and has been shown to improve mental function and even prevent the development of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

As we age, it’s vital that we keep 50% of our plates at each meal full of fruits and vegetables, replace refined grains with whole grains, stick to lean meats, and limit sugar and alcohol intake. Some mature bodies will find that they need more fiber or water than they used to in order to digest more easily; try a natural supplement like psyllium husk to keep you moving.

Women in particular need about 400 micrograms of folic acid every day, which helps your body produce and maintain new cells. It can be found in most multivitamins as well as in fortified breakfast cereals.

Prioritize Mental Health

Researchers are increasingly finding a link between mental and physical health. And because women are more prone to anxiety and depression than men, it’s vital to be aware of how your daily habits affect your mental and emotional well being.

Keep your mind healthy by getting at least 7 hours of sleep every night, exercising regularly, and finding healthy ways to deal with stress. Make mental health a habit by finding time to do something that brings you joy every day,  whether it’s reading a book before bed or taking 10 minutes to meditate during your lunch break. In addition, staying socially engaged and pursuing your interests, from learning a new skill to mentoring a child, will help your brain stay healthy and sharp.

If you’re having trouble figuring out what you like to do or need support in reaching your optimal state of mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out. Talking to a counselor, friend, or family member about your concerns is a good first step toward a healthy mind. Your mind and body will thank you!

Practice Healthy Behaviors

Practicing health is a habit. The more we engage in healthy behaviors on a daily basis, the easier it is to remain healthy as we age. Although it may seem overwhelming, practicing self-care through small daily rituals can make a large impact on overall health. Habits like flossing your teeth every night before bed, protecting yourself from the sun by wearing SPF lotion and sunglasses every day, and staying smoke free all contribute to a larger picture of a healthy lifestyle.

Not sure where to begin? Try setting SMART goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Talk to your doctor to decide what goals are appropriate for you and create a plan to help you make them a reality.

For more ideas about how to celebrate National Women’s Health Month, check out ideas from the Office on Women’s Health or search for the hashtag #NWHW to see how other women are celebrating.

If your loved one needs help maintaining daily healthy habits, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers that are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

Tips for Traveling with the Elderly

All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips
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Travel enriches our understanding of the world and bring us together with the people we love — regardless of age. Although traveling with the elderly could be more challenging, it is far from impossible. All that’s required is a little extra preparation. If you or a loved one is considering traveling in the near future, take a look over the following considerations that can help save you time (and save your sanity) while on the road.

1. Plan, plan, plan

Book all flights, lodging, and transportation well in advance. Search for travel that is the most short and direct, as longer flights or quick connections can be extra uncomfortable for older bodies. If possible, plan to travel in the off-season to avoid crowds.

2. Call your airline and hotel

A short phone call can go a long way in making sure that you or your loved one can travel with ease. Check if your airline offers any senior discounts or pre-boarding, and ask to be seated in rows designated for disabled travelers for more attentive service. If walking poses a challenge, ask to have a wheelchair arranged; wheelchair assistance is free if staffed by an airport employee.

Call your hotel to make sure that the hotel has elevators, safety rails in the bathrooms, and easy access to main attractions. The hotel can also provide valuable information about the local public transportation system, which can help you plan how you’ll get around in your destination. If public transportation is unavailable or not suited to your needs and you don’t plan to rent a car, ask the hotel to recommend a private driver; often you can make a deal that will save  money as compared to taxis or other private transportation.

3. Pack smart

Honestly assess your needs during your trip and pack just the essentials. A light bag will make getting around much easier. Also, pack all of your medication and other emergency needs, such as a medical card or a doctor’s phone number, in an easy-to-access area in your carry-on bag. Never put your medicine in a checked bag in case it gets lost.

4. Consult your doctor about medical needs

Check with your doctor to make sure that you are cleared for a healthy trip. Make sure that your destination can accommodate any limitations, and that your vaccinations are all up to date. Have your doctor write down the generic name of your medications in case you need more while you’re traveling. Sometimes, it’s easier to refill a generic name if different brand names exist, or if you’re traveling abroad.

5. Prepare documentation

Be sure that you have an up-to-date passport (if traveling abroad) or government-issued photo identity card for domestic travel. Print out extra copies of all tickets and itineraries ahead of time, and keep them in separate bags, like a carry on and a checked bag. Put a copy of your photo ID in your carry on bag, as well. Be sure to bring any medical documents, like proof of insurance and medical statements, and consider providing wearing identification for loved ones with dementia.

6. Consider booking with a travel agent

The easiest way to make sure that all of your ducks are in a row for a smooth trip is to book with a travel agent. Ask for an agent who specializes in geriatric travel if you feel overwhelmed by the idea of doing it all yourself. Many agents have no up-front fees, making it an inexpensive investment in your trip.

If you or a loved one needs help traveling or carrying out other daily activities, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers that are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

 

Celebrating Nurses Week 2017

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Have you thanked a nurse lately? Nurses are essential to caregiving: they are the ones who act as liaison between patients and doctors, making every step of medical processes more personable, easy, and ultimately effective. They provide education about treating and preventing illness, assist in caregiving, and give emotional and physical support for their patients.

In fact, we love our nurses so much that, according to a Gallup poll, we rated them as the most honest and ethical professionals for 15 years in a row. They are with us from the moment we are born through our last days, cheering us through our joys and helping us through our sorrows.

Nurses Week 2017 Theme

We may not thank our nurses for all of their hard work as often as we should, but take advantage of the opportunity to show the special health care providers in your life that you care from May 6-12 week during National Nurses Week 2017. The theme for this year’s annual appreciation week is “Nursing: The Balance of Mind, Body, and Spirit,” in recognition of this year’s American Nursing Association theme of the “Year of the Healthy Nurse.”

These themes recognize a common irony among nurses: Although they spend most of their time caring for others, nurses often have a hard time caring for themselves. Studies have shown that nurses suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, are at a greater risk of acquiring tuberculosis and blood-borne pathogen infections, and have more occupational allergies than the general public. In addition, one study found that they have an 8% higher rate of depression than at the general population. In A Daybook for Nurses, author and doctor Sharon Hudacek sums up this irony, saying, “Bound by paperwork, short on hands, sleep and energy… nurses are rarely short on caring.”

 How can we help our nurses?

Luckily, many hospitals, doctors offices, and other healthcare outlets are starting to recognize the importance of providing stress-relief and holistic health practices for nurses at work, like Tai-Chi and yoga classes during lunch breaks, on-site farmers markets, and professional support groups. These benefits aim to not only improve the health and well-being of individual nurses, but the quality of care they are able to provide their patients.

National Nurses Week is one more way that nurses’ hard work is gaining recognition. If you have a special nurse or caregiver in your life, help them achieve balance of mind, body, and spirit by providing them some caregiving of their own. Pamper them with a gift card for a massage, offer to bring a home cooked meal or meal-prep (like a jar of various beans and spices for a healthy just-add-water soup), or sit down and have an open conversation with them about what their needs are and if there’s anything you can do to help meet them.

 It’s never too early or too late to tell your caregivers how much you appreciate them!

If your loved one needs a regular caregiver, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. Whitsyms In-Home Care an American In-Home Care company, always refers qualified, screened, care providers, included Registered Nurses, who are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-877-382-6089 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

Celebrating Nurses Week 2017

All Posts, Health and Wellness, Monthly Happenings, News & Events, News & Events

Have you thanked a nurse lately? Nurses are essential to caregiving: they are the ones who act as liaison between patients and doctors, making every step of medical processes more personable, easy, and ultimately effective. They provide education about treating and preventing illness, assist in caregiving, and give emotional and physical support for their patients.

In fact, we love our nurses so much that, according to a Gallup poll, we rated them as the most honest and ethical professionals for 15 years in a row. They are with us from the moment we are born through our last days, cheering us through our joys and helping us through our sorrows.

Nurses Week 2017 Theme

We may not thank our nurses for all of their hard work as often as we should, but take advantage of the opportunity to show the special health care providers in your life that you care from May 6-12 week during National Nurses Week 2017. The theme for this year’s annual appreciation week is “Nursing: The Balance of Mind, Body, and Spirit,” in recognition of this year’s American Nursing Association theme of the “Year of the Healthy Nurse.”

These themes recognize a common irony among nurses: Although they spend most of their time caring for others, nurses often have a hard time caring for themselves. Studies have shown that nurses suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, are at a greater risk of acquiring tuberculosis and blood-borne pathogen infections, and have more occupational allergies than the general public. In addition, one study found that they have an 8% higher rate of depression than at the general population. In A Daybook for Nurses, author and doctor Sharon Hudacek sums up this irony, saying, “Bound by paperwork, short on hands, sleep and energy… nurses are rarely short on caring.”

 How can we help our nurses?

Luckily, many hospitals, doctors offices, and other healthcare outlets are starting to recognize the importance of providing stress-relief and holistic health practices for nurses at work, like Tai-Chi and yoga classes during lunch breaks, on-site farmers markets, and professional support groups. These benefits aim to not only improve the health and well-being of individual nurses, but the quality of care they are able to provide their patients.

National Nurses Week is one more way that nurses’ hard work is gaining recognition. If you have a special nurse or caregiver in your life, help them achieve balance of mind, body, and spirit by providing them some caregiving of their own. Pamper them with a gift card for a massage, offer to bring a home cooked meal or meal-prep (like a jar of various beans and spices for a healthy just-add-water soup), or sit down and have an open conversation with them about what their needs are and if there’s anything you can do to help meet them.

 It’s never too early or too late to tell your caregivers how much you appreciate them!

If your loved one needs a regular caregiver, including live in care Orlando nursing services, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers, included Registered Nurses, who are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.

Copy of Celebrating Nurses Week 2017

Uncategorized

Have you thanked a nurse lately? Nurses are essential to caregiving: they are the ones who act as liaison between patients and doctors, making every step of medical processes more personable, easy, and ultimately effective. They provide education about treating and preventing illness, assist in caregiving, and give emotional and physical support for their patients.

In fact, we love our nurses so much that, according to a Gallup poll, we rated them as the most honest and ethical professionals for 15 years in a row. They are with us from the moment we are born through our last days, cheering us through our joys and helping us through our sorrows.

Nurses Week 2017 Theme

We may not thank our nurses for all of their hard work as often as we should, but take advantage of the opportunity to show the special health care providers in your life that you care from May 6-12 week during National Nurses Week 2017. The theme for this year’s annual appreciation week is “Nursing: The Balance of Mind, Body, and Spirit,” in recognition of this year’s American Nursing Association theme of the “Year of the Healthy Nurse.”

These themes recognize a common irony among nurses: Although they spend most of their time caring for others, nurses often have a hard time caring for themselves. Studies have shown that nurses suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, are at a greater risk of acquiring tuberculosis and blood-borne pathogen infections, and have more occupational allergies than the general public. In addition, one study found that they have an 8% higher rate of depression than at the general population. In A Daybook for Nurses, author and doctor Sharon Hudacek sums up this irony, saying, “Bound by paperwork, short on hands, sleep and energy… nurses are rarely short on caring.”

 How can we help our nurses?

Luckily, many hospitals, doctors offices, and other healthcare outlets are starting to recognize the importance of providing stress-relief and holistic health practices for nurses at work, like Tai-Chi and yoga classes during lunch breaks, on-site farmers markets, and professional support groups. These benefits aim to not only improve the health and well-being of individual nurses, but the quality of care they are able to provide their patients.

National Nurses Week is one more way that nurses’ hard work is gaining recognition. If you have a special nurse or caregiver in your life, help them achieve balance of mind, body, and spirit by providing them some caregiving of their own. Pamper them with a gift card for a massage, offer to bring a home cooked meal or meal-prep (like a jar of various beans and spices for a healthy just-add-water soup), or sit down and have an open conversation with them about what their needs are and if there’s anything you can do to help meet them.

 It’s never too early or too late to tell your caregivers how much you appreciate them!

If your loved one needs a regular caregiver, consider bringing a qualified care provider into your home. American In-Home Care always refers qualified, screened, care providers, included Registered Nurses, who are compassionate and ready to help. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss which care options are right for you and your family.