optimal_homecare

Distance Won't Dull the Holiday Spirit

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 17:44:42 GMT

5 Ways to Support Your Elderly Family Members You Can't Be With

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration. For many elderly family members living at home or in senior living communities, it can also be a challenging and lonely period, especially if they are separated from their loved ones. During these times, it's vital for family and friends to go the extra mile to ensure their elderly relatives feel loved and connected. In this article, we'll explore five heartwarming ways to engage and support our elderly family members whom we can't be with during the holidays, helping them combat seasonal depression and brighten their spirits.

1. Virtual Celebrations:

Distance doesn't have to mean disconnection. Arrange virtual holiday gatherings through video calls using platforms like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime. Plan ahead to ensure that everyone in the family can join the virtual celebration. Share stories, exchange memories, and participate in traditions virtually, so your elderly family member feels like a part of the festivities, even from afar.

2. Personalized Care Packages:

Sending a carefully curated care package filled with the season's warmth can be a touching gesture. Include favorite treats, cozy blankets, cherished books, or a framed family photo. Consider adding a handwritten letter or a family video message to make it extra special. These thoughtful packages will let your loved one know they are in your thoughts.

3. Collaborative Holiday Projects:

Engage in creative projects that can be shared and enjoyed together. You can knit matching scarves, create a family recipe book, or even work on a holiday-themed puzzle. Collaborative projects provide a sense of purpose and connection, even when you're physically apart.New Paragraph

4. Connect with the Caregivers:

Build a strong relationship with the caregivers in the senior living community. They are a valuable resource to ensure your loved one's emotional and physical well-being. Request updates, discuss any special needs or concerns, and inquire about their holiday plans for the residents. Collaborating with the staff can lead to a more enriching and supported experience for your elderly family member.

5. Arrange Entertainment and Activities:

Coordinate with the senior living community's activity coordinator to schedule engaging events and activities during the holiday season. From festive music performances to arts and crafts sessions, these events can boost your elderly family member's mood and provide opportunities to socialize with fellow residents. Encourage participation, as it can help combat loneliness and seasonal depression.

Being separated from elderly family members during the holidays can be tough. However, with your love, support, and creativity, you can make a significant difference in their emotional well-being. The holiday season is a time for sharing and caring, and by following these five heartwarming ways to connect with your elderly loved ones, you can ensure that they feel cherished, engaged, and included during this special time of year. Your thoughtfulness will undoubtedly make the holiday season brighter for your elderly family member, and you'll create lasting, heartwarming memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Senior Wisdom

Wed, 10 May 2023 17:04:41 GMT

5 Things Seniors Want to Pass On to the Younger Generation

Seniors have lived long, rich lives full of diverse experiences and valuable lessons. As they enter their golden years, many feel a strong desire to share their wisdom with younger generations. However, it's up to us to give them the opportunities to do so. Through conversation and active listening, we can learn from our elders and gain insights that we might not otherwise have access to.

In this blog post, we'll be sharing 5 things seniors want to pass on to the younger generation, as well as providing you with questions you can ask to start these important conversations. From financial responsibility and career advice to the importance of family and embracing change, there's much we can learn from our elders. By giving them the space to share their stories and insights, we can honor their experiences and gain valuable insights into how we can lead fulfilling lives of our own. So without further ado, let's dive in!

Financial Responsibility:

What was the most important financial lesson you learned in your life, and how did you learn it?
How did you manage to save money throughout your life, and what tips do you have for someone who is just starting to save?
Have you ever been in debt, and how did you manage to get out of it? What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with debt?
What is your approach to budgeting, and how has it helped you in your life? Do you have any tips for someone who is struggling to make ends meet?
Looking back on your life, what financial decisions do you wish you had made differently? What things did you do right that I can imitate?

These questions are designed to be open-ended and encourage the senior to share their personal experiences and lessons learned. By engaging in these conversations, younger generations can learn from the wisdom of their elders and develop a better understanding of how to be financially responsible.

Education:

What was your educational experience like, and how did it shape your life?
Were there any challenges or obstacles that you had to overcome in your education, and how did you do it?
Did you ever learn a trade or skill outside of traditional school, and how has it helped you in your career and life?
Have you ever had to go back to school or learn new skills later in life? How did you approach this, and what did you learn from the experience?
Looking back on your life, what role do you think education played in your overall success and happiness?

These questions can help open up a conversation about the importance of education, as well as give the senior an opportunity to share their own personal experiences and lessons learned. By learning from their elders, younger generations can gain a better understanding of the value of education in all forms and how to pursue it in their own lives.

Building and Maintaining Relationships:

What are some of the most important lessons you have learned about building and maintaining friendships over the years?
How have your experiences with relationships changed over time, and what have you learned from those changes?
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to forgive a friend, or family member, and how can forgiveness help mend a broken relationship?
Have you ever had to repair a damaged relationship, and what steps did you take to do so?
Looking back on your life, what relationships do you feel were the most important or meaningful to you, and why?

These will help open up a conversation about the importance of building and maintaining healthy relationships, as well as give the senior an opportunity to share their own personal experiences and lessons learned. By learning from their elders, younger generations can gain a better understanding of how to navigate relationships in their own lives.

Pursuing Passions and Hobbies:

What passions or hobbies have you pursued throughout your life, and how have they enriched your life?
What advice would you give to someone who is struggling to find a passion or hobby that they enjoy?
Have you ever faced obstacles or challenges in pursuing a passion or hobby, and how did you overcome them?
How has pursuing your passions and hobbies helped you stay mentally and physically active as you have aged?
Looking back on your life, what passions or hobbies do you wish you had pursued more or less, and why?

These questions can help start a conversation about the importance of pursuing passions and hobbies, as well as give the senior an opportunity to share their own personal experiences and lessons learned. By learning from their elders, younger generations can gain a better understanding of how to find and pursue their own passions and hobbies throughout their lives.

Embracing Change:

What did you do for fun when you were my age? Did you have any hobbies or interests that you still enjoy today?
What were some of the biggest changes you've seen in the world over the course of your life? How did those changes affect you and the people around you?
Have you ever taken a big risk, like starting a new business or moving to a new place? How did it turn out? What did you learn from the experience?
Can you tell me about a time when you faced a difficult challenge or setback? How did you overcome it, and what did you learn from the experience?
What advice do you have for someone like me, who's just starting to figure out their place in the world? Is there anything you wish you'd known at my age that you could pass on to me now?

These will help start a conversation about the importance of embracing change and adapting to new circumstances, as well as give the senior an opportunity to share their own personal experiences and lessons learned. By learning from their elders, younger generations can gain a better understanding of how to navigate change and uncertainty in their own lives.

As we conclude, we are reminded of the invaluable experience and wisdom our elders possess. Their stories and lessons learned have the potential to shape our own lives in profound ways. It is up to us to give them the opportunities to share their knowledge and help us navigate the complexities of life.

These 5 things seniors want to pass on to the younger generation are not only important life skills, but also personal insights that can only be gained through a lifetime of experience. By engaging in conversations and asking thoughtful questions, we not only gain wisdom but also deepen our relationships with our loved ones.

We are privileged to be the recipients of their knowledge and to carry it forward into future generations. Let us honor our elders by taking the time to listen and learn from their experiences and by passing on their legacy to those yet to come.

In the end, we can all benefit from the lessons and experiences of those who came before us. Let us cherish and honor their wisdom as we journey through life together.New Paragraph

Staying Independent and Safe

Tue, 02 May 2023 19:14:41 GMT

How Optimal Home Care Can Help

Home health care is an excellent option for older adults who are recovering from injuries or managing acute or chronic health conditions, as it allows them to remain in their own homes while receiving care. The benefits of home health care extend beyond just convenience and comfort, making it an important choice for patients and families alike. Here are some of the top advantages of home health care:

Greater Independence

Home health care plays a crucial role in promoting greater independence for older adults. With the support of a skilled home health care team, seniors can continue to perform their daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and preparing meals. This allows them to maintain their sense of autonomy and independence while living in their own homes. The team can also provide assistance with mobility and help create a safe environment to reduce the risk of falls, giving older adults the confidence to move around their home with ease. By providing these services, home health care enables older adults to maintain their independence and remain in their homes for as long as possible.

Safety, Comfort, and Convenience

Research has shown that elderly adults tend to recover faster and experience fewer complications when receiving care at home rather than in a hospital. Home health care offers a range of benefits for elderly patients, including safety, comfort, and convenience. By receiving care in the comfort of their own homes, seniors can remain in familiar surroundings and maintain a sense of normalcy in their lives. Home health care professionals can also help patients create a safe environment that reduces the risk of falls, which is a common concern for many elderly individuals. By promoting safety, comfort, and convenience, home health care enables elderly patients to receive the care they need while staying in the place they call home.

Relief for Family Caregivers

Family caregivers often bear a heavy burden of responsibility, so home health care can provide much-needed relief. Home health aides can assist with tasks such as bathing and dressing alleviating some of the burden on family caregivers. This can help prevent caregiver burnout and reduce stress levels, allowing family members to focus on spending quality time with their loved one. The home health care team can also educate family members on how to provide follow-up care, connect them with helpful resources, and provide peace of mind knowing that their loved one is receiving high-quality care. By offering this support and assistance, home health care can help ease the responsibilities of family caregivers and improve the overall well-being of both the caregiver and the elderly patient.

Prevents Avoidable Trips to the Hospital

Home health care plays a crucial role in helping the elderly manage their health conditions and avoid avoidable trips to the hospital. With regular monitoring and education, patients can stay on top of their health and recognize warning signs early on. Additionally, home health care providers offer guidance and support when patients are experiencing troublesome symptoms. By providing this kind of care and attention, home health care helps elderly patients avoid unnecessary hospital visits and emergency room trips, which can be both costly and disruptive to their lives. By managing their health conditions in the comfort of their own homes, patients can maintain their independence and quality of life while receiving the care they need.

Saves Money

Home health care can be a cost-effective option for elderly patients and their families. By avoiding unnecessary trips to the hospital and preventing the need for more intensive types of care, home health care can help families save money in the long run. Additionally, home health care is covered by Medicare and other insurance providers for eligible patients, which can further reduce out-of-pocket expenses. By providing comprehensive clinical care, from skilled nursing and therapy to wound care, home health care offers a wide range of services that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. By providing high-quality, personalized care in the comfort of the patient's own home, home health care can help families save money while ensuring that their loved ones receive the care they need to stay healthy and independent.

Exceptional Care

Home health care is a form of healthcare grounded in evidence-based practices and standards of care to ensure that patients receive the right care at the right time in their home. Studies have shown that elderly patients recover faster and with fewer complications at home than in a hospital setting, making home health care a high-quality alternative. Home health care professionals, including nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, social workers, and aides, work together as a team to provide comprehensive clinical care that is tailored to the specific needs of each patient. These professionals are carefully screened, trained, and supervised to provide safe and effective care. By adhering to established standards of care and employing the latest technologies and best practices, home health care providers offer patients high-quality care that is on par with that provided in traditional healthcare settings.

Personalized Care

One of the primary benefits of home health care is that it delivers personalized care. Each patient receives one-on-one attention from a team of healthcare professionals, who develop a care plan tailored to the patient's unique needs. This personalized approach to care means that patients receive treatment that is specific to their condition, preferences, and goals. By working closely with their healthcare team, patients have a say in their care and can be actively involved in their recovery process. This collaborative approach to care builds trust among the patient, caregiver, and healthcare team, leading to better health outcomes and higher patient satisfaction.

Team of Professionals

Home health care is delivered by a team of highly trained professionals that includes nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, social workers, and certified nursing assistants (CNA's). Each team member brings unique skills and expertise to the patient's care plan. For example, physical therapists help patients improve their strength, mobility, and balance, while occupational therapists focus on helping patients perform daily activities safely and independently. Speech therapists work to improve speech and language function, while nurses provide skilled medical care and coordinate with other members of the healthcare team. CNA's assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing. By working together, this multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of the patient's health and well-being. patients can see these professionals without leaving their homes.

Combats Isolation and Loneliness

Home health care can help combat loneliness and encourage socialization, which is especially important for older adults who may be at risk of social isolation. By receiving care in the comfort of their own home, patients are able to maintain their daily routines and continue engaging in social activities. The home health care team can also provide companionship and engage patients in conversation, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Family members and friends are also more likely to visit an elderly loved one in their home, as there are no set visiting hours or restrictions. This increased social interaction can have a positive impact on the patient's overall well-being and quality of life.

In conclusion, home health care offers a wide range of benefits to older adults and their families. By receiving care in the comfort of their own home, patients can maintain their independence and continue to live their lives on their own terms. Home health care also provides a safe, comfortable, and convenient environment.

Call us today to learn more about how Optimal Home Care can help. 303-488-9999

4 Ways That Poor Quality Lighting Can Impact Senior's Health

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 18:52:55 GMT

As we age, we become less active, and we begin to spend more and more time indoors. This is a sad truth, but it's one that should be taken into consideration for seniors, especially those who reside in assisted living facilities. While things like exercise and socialization are always taken care of by the caregivers, have you ever stopped to consider whether poor lighting is negatively impacting your patient's health?

Light plays an integral part in our biology, and an absence of quality light can have invisible, yet devastating effects on us psychologically and even physically. This article will go over four ways that poor lighting could be negatively impacting the health of seniors in care facilities or even in their homes. Switching up the lighting in your facility is a relatively inexpensive way to give a massive quality of life boost to patients.

#1 Depression

Poor quality lighting can have a dramatic impact on mental health. The relationship between lack of lighting and depression has been well documented, and there is strong evidence that it has a serious psychological impact. Study participants who lived with poor lighting conditions were 1.4 times as likely to report cases of depression as their counterparts. Natural spectrum lighting can help to fight off SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) in patients who spend much of their time indoors due to being bedridden or having mobility issues. People who work or live in buildings with circadian lighting find themselves to be in better moods and are more productive in general than under lower quality lighting conditions.

#2 Vision

It's no secret that elderly residents already have failing vision, and low lighting conditions can amply this for them. Did you know that as you age your pupils actually get smaller? When this begins to happen the eyes will begin to have a slower reaction to light. Thus, Seniors will need more light to perform everyday tasks than younger people will. Having to try to read under inadequate lighting conditions can also create eye strain for those who already struggle with their vision. While lighting may seem like a small thing to worry about, it can actually provide a large improvement in the day to day quality of life for many seniors.

#3 Fall Injuries

Not only did researchers find that their study participants were more likely to be depressed in poor lighting environments, but they were also more likely to suffer injuries from falls! Surprisingly, the percentage of recorded falls seemed to be similar in both older and younger study participants. However, older patients have a lot more to lose from a fall, and while a younger person may quickly recover from a tumble, it could put a senior in the hospital. Participants in the study who reported inadequate lighting were 1.5 times more likely to have reported some type of fall-related accident in their homes.

#4 Headaches

Seniors often already have a medley of aches and pains, because that's just how aging is, unfortunately. However, did you realize that your lighting could be adding another inconvenience to their list of woes? Poor quality lighting, especially cheap, industrial office style lighting has been known to cause headaches in those who spend a great deal of time under it. Some people can actually be very sensitive to the flicker of fluorescent tubes, and it triggers painful migraines for them. By switching to a higher-quality and more beneficial type of lighting, you could be improving the health of not only your patients but also your employees who work under these lights as well.

4 Habits That Lead to Bad and Achy Bones

chadfincher@optimalhomecare.com (Chad Fincher) — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 18:22:57 GMT

Aches and pains are a fact of life, particularly as you age. And many of them can seem like they spring out of nowhere. This is particularly true of pain in your bones. They’re not exposed to the elements at all—so why are they so achey all of a sudden? It could be that you’re engaging in behaviors or habits that are bad for the health of your bones and your joints. Here are some of the worst offenders.

1. Eating Poorly:

Most people are only aware of a problem with their diet when they see external evidence that it’s hurting them—typically in the form of excess fat. But eating unhealthy foods, and not ingesting enough essential nutrients and minerals, can cause issues that go below the surface level. If you’re deficient in iron, Vitamin D, or any number of other nutrients, your bones will be much more likely to deteriorate. Avoid processed foods and refined sugars, as well as foods with high levels of sodium. Instead, go for dark leafy greens, like kale, which are loaded with iron. Eat plenty of nuts as well. And don’t forget about calcium! No other nutrient is as healthy for your bones, so ingest plenty of milk and other calcium-rich foods and beverages.

2. Sleep Deprivation

Sleep does wonders for the mind and body, and not getting enough of it can be damaging to your skeletal system. Studies have shown decreasing bone density in animals that are deprived of sleep, and researchers believe the same is true for humans. If you want strong bones, hit the hay early enough to get at least eight hours of sleep.

3. Using Tobacco:

Smoking cigarettes or using tobacco in other forms (like chew or snus) has been linked with lower bone density. Scientist believe this is because using tobacco increases the body’s levels of free radicals, harmful, highly reactive molecules with unpaired valence electrons that wreak havoc throughout the body. Increased levels of free radicals lead to decreased bone density. Tobacco use also increases your level of cortisol, a stress hormone that can weaken bones. This is just one of the hundreds of reasons not to use tobacco, which is linked to cancer, stroke, and numerous other maladies as well. And quitting smoking will improve your cardiovascular endurance, which ties nicely into the next bad habit…

4. Lack of Exercise:

The old wisdom goes that if you don’t use it, you lose it. This is evident in the case of muscles, which we can clearly observe decreasing in size and strength after inactivity. But did you know a lack of exercise can compromise your bone health as well? A sedentary lifestyle is unnatural and unhealthy, despite the fact that it’s become the norm in our culture. The more you get moving, the stronger your bones will stay in the long run.

If you’re suffering from aching bones (or if you feel fine and you’d like to keep it that way), the habits above could be responsible. Make some changes to your lifestyle and you might notice your bones feeling better.

Sleep Apnea May Increase Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

chadfincher@optimalhomecare.com (Chad Fincher) — Fri, 15 Feb 2019 23:14:19 GMT

Researchers may have discovered another piece of the Alzheimer's puzzle. Studies revealed at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference held in London show additional evidence that patients with sleep apnea have an increased chance of developing dementia. Some forms of dementia can progress to Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most prevalent forms of dementia. A person can have Alzheimer's for years before developing recognizable symptoms. While the causes of Alzheimer’s and dementia are not entirely clear, they are thought to be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors.

The Sleep Apnea Connection

Beta-Amyloids that build in the brain are a key marker for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease. Sleep apnea and disordered breathing cause amyloids to build in the brain. Neural imaging has clarified the connection between sleep apnea and dementia.

This connection between sleep disorders and dementia had been made previously, but it was originally determined that people who were at risk of Alzheimer's were also at risk for sleep-disordered breathing. Early research did not show the whole picture.

Sleep Disordered Breathing Creates Beta-Amyloids

With the use of a PET scan, it was determined that breathing disturbances during sleep caused the beta-amyloid plaque to build up in the brain before the subject showed any indication of mental decline. Researchers tested subjects with and without symptoms of cognitive decline and saw the same results with both sets of test subjects. Sleep apnea accelerated cognitive decline in patients who showed no impairment just a few years prior.

Oxygen Deprivation Accelerates the Process

It is now believed that either oxygen deprivation accelerates the production of beta-amyloid or that the lack of REM sleep caused by the apnea disrupts the brains glymphatic system. The glymphatic system, the process of waste removal, may require REM sleep to clear away the proteins that turn into plaque. It is the plaque in the brain that causes the cognitive decline. Treating sleep apnea and improving REM sleep allows for improved protein removal, reducing beta-amyloid plaque formation.

Apnea Treatment May Slow the Cognitive Decline of Alzheimer’s

Experts in Alzheimer’s research believe that treating sleep apnea can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. CPAP, dental appliances and positional therapy for sleep apnea may be beneficial for those in the early stages of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Treatment may slow the progression.

Sleep apnea is already known to cause sleepiness, metabolic and cardiovascular dysfunction. The risks of sleep apnea causing cognitive decline and dementia increase as a person ages. This indicates to Alzheimer researchers that developing better screening tools would benefit the elderly who may have sleep apnea but are still free of cognitive symptoms. Proper treatment of breathing disorders could slow the progression of cognitive decline.

Sources:

https://www.alz.org/braintour/plaques.asp

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320024.php

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25947369

https://www.aarp.org/health/brain-health/info-2017/sleep-apnea-dementia-risk-fd.html

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_causes_risk_factors.asp#familyhistory

Everyday Life with a Live-in Caregiver

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 22:10:28 GMT

Aging is a natural and beautiful process, and slowing down is quite alright. The tasks which were once a walk in the park for us may now require a little more time than before. As long as aging doesn’t hinder our everyday standard of life or harm our health and safety, we can easily age independently and continue to live our lives.

When Should We Consider Home Healthcare?

It is perfectly reasonable to have someone to help us out with personal care, daily chores, or activities that have now become quite difficult to manage. We really value our well-being at this point of life and if such activities compromise our well-being, then taking help from a dedicated caregiver becomes crucial. At Optimal Healthcare , we know exactly what you’re going through, which is where we would like to offer you our help.

The Benefits of Home Healthcare

The benefits of home healthcare can vary depending on the extent of your needs. It can involve live-in health aid, medical social work, behavioral health nurses, and speech/occupational/physical therapy. Other than these, our services promise our clients the utmost comfort, customized care, and complete independence. All-in-all, you can continue with your daily affairs with dignity while we lend you a helping hand.

We Offer Various Levels of Help

With our live-in caregivers, your everyday life would move on very smoothly and your activities will remain undisturbed. If you believe you need minimal assistance, then our professionals will only visit you occasionally. With our services, you will receive customized care. Ultimately, whatever provides you and your family with a peace of mind is going to be what we will strive for.

If you require more time from our caregivers, then we can also plan frequent visits. These visits will include some advanced evaluations which will ensure optimal care. Even if you require intensive care, we will be able to install alert systems that can provide easy communication between you and professional caregivers.

Essentially, all our caregiver services will be tailored to the specific needs of our respective clients while we ensure that they complement your established routines.

Resources We Provide for Better Independence

Once you or your loved ones are being taken care of, we also provide a plethora of therapy sessions which ensure your quality of life is preserved and elongated. An example of these includes physical therapy services that are aimed at enhancing mobility in the elderly.

Speech therapy is another example of our services which work in a manner of monitoring and improving our clients’ cognitive abilities. This is especially in the case of clients who suffer from apraxia, dysphagia, dementia, or other similar diseases.

If you want to learn about how you can schedule our services or fit them into your loved one’s schedule, then get in touch with us by visiting our website . By working together, we can come up with a blend of services that will promise optimal home healthcare for your senior loved one.

The Bright Future of Home Health and Hospice

chadfincher@optimalhomecare.com (Chad Fincher) — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 00:29:26 GMT

The senior population will only continue to grow

Tucked inside the new medicinal services change bill is a jackpot of assets and dynamic open doors for the home social insurance industry. In my job as a specialist, I have spent the previous couple of months examining the bill, dealing with its qualities and, all the more essential, finding how the new enactment will enable my customers to develop their organizations.

Americans, as they age, need to stay in their homes at whatever point conceivable. Congress heard this message and, accordingly, there are numerous substantial orders inside the enactment that make it workable for home social insurance and network-based administrations to be the influx of things to come. While emergency clinics, specialists, nursing homes, and helped living offices will be a piece of the new human services conveyance framework, the new bill clarifies that home wellbeing, hospice, and private obligation home consideration, like never before, will become the overwhelming focus.

As the Centers for Medicare and Medicare Series (CMS) decides how to think about the large number of Americans who require human services, throughout the following couple of years the new enactment will bolster numerous exhibit gifts. Moreover, a few billions of dollars have been put aside for these undertakings. As the Medical Homes, Hospital at Home, Independence at Home, and Chronic Care Model exhibition ventures come into center, home wellbeing, hospice, and private obligation home consideration will be looked to as the accomplices of decision.

Inside the setting of the enactment, there will be noteworthy chances to band together with medical clinics and doctors to find approaches to diminish hospitalization and crisis room visits. Another influx of things to come is the expansive number of doctors who are propelling their own restorative homes, contracting medical attendants, and endeavoring to create network-based administrations. Existing organizations are the ideal accomplice to venture in and assume control over these jobs.

Offices need to start setting up their association and staff for the forthcoming chances. Make your office known to your commercial center and join forces with however many different suppliers as could reasonably be expected. Numerous key suppliers still don't comprehend the estimation of home wellbeing, hospice, and private obligation home consideration. With the quality of the new enactment behind you, this is the ideal opportunity to tell these substances how your association can add to the nature of their business and the soundness of their primary concern.

Medicinal services change is a suggestion to take action for our industry. Forget about your old mindsets and begin growing new associations that will bolster your organization as it pushes ahead to an increasingly productive and stable future.

HOME HEALTH CARE VS HOME CARE SERVICES

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

By educating yourself on the care available and what might fit best for you and your family, you can make these important decisions with peace of mind. Many people aren’t sure of the difference between home health care and home care services, so when it’s time to decide between the two, it can be daunting. We’re here this week to help guide you through this decision making process so that you can feel confident in your care decisions.

HOME HEALTH CARE

Home health care is clinical medical care provided by a registered nurse, occupational therapist, physical therapist, or other skilled medical professions. Most of the time, this type of care is best used directly following an inpatient stay at a hospital or clinic. For those who are experiencing a change in medication, an overall shift in general health, and/or who require occupational therapy, home health care would be the best choice.

The typical services provided with home health care include:

Speech, physical, and other type of occupational therapy.
Skilled nursing services.
Administration of proper medications.
Monitoring health status with medical tests.
Wound care

If you or your loved one can answer “yes” to any of the following questions, home health care might be the best option:

Have you recently been a patient in a hospital, rehabilitation center, or other medical facility? If yes, will you need help transitioning back into independence?
Have you had a recent medication change and need help monitoring the progress and/or side affects of the medicine?
Have you noticed newfound difficulty in your everyday life and want help regaining independence through therapy or other restorative help from a trained professional?

HOME CARE

Home care is provided by care aides, or caregivers, who are specially trained on senior care. Caregivers do not provide medical assistance and are considered “unskilled” or “un-clinical.” They are invited into the seniors home to provide assistance with everyday activities such as cleaning or cooking, and provide a companionship to the senior in care.

The typical services provided with home care include:

Prepare a care plan.
Monitor (not administer) medication.
Assist with basic needs.
Meal preparation and housekeeping.
Companionship.

If you or your loved one can answer “yes” to any of the following questions, home care might be the best option:

Do you need help with daily activities such as grooming to meal preparation?
Do you need help with transportation?
Do you live alone and spend much of your time alone? Do you feel like companionship is a crucial part of your necessary care?

If you still have questions about the best type of care for your family, contact us to chat about your care options. We’re here to help guide you and your loved ones through this journey, and won’t settle for anything less than optimal for your care.

YOUNGER AND WISER: 5 THINGS THE OLDER GENERATION CAN LEARN FROM THE YOUTH

Wed, 20 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

This time last year, we shared some of our favorite things that younger generations learn from their elders. Seniors have a wealth of knowledge to share, whether through miscellaneous daily activities like delicious cooking or vivid storytelling, or through larger life lessons such as dealing with loss or avoiding regrets. However, relationships between people of different generations can mean that information is shared both ways. When spending time with the younger generation, many seniors learn something new themselves. Here are the top five things the older generation can learn from today’s youth:

USING TECHNOLOGY TO CONNECT

It’s no secret that many seniors struggle to keep up-to-date with modern technology. With confusing social media websites and endless mobile device capabilities, it seems as though everything is turning electronic. One of the lessons seniors can learn from the youth surrounding them is how to use technology to better connect with friends and family. Kids and grandkids can teach their loved ones how to use video chat applications and easily text in order to keep communication flowing.

HOW TO PLAY

As kids, we jumped at any opportunity to have fun and be silly. With time, we’re taught to sit still, mind our manners, and eventually, many people find themselves losing their silliness. By spending time with the younger generation, seniors can re-learn how to enjoy themselves and make the most of every moment. There’s no need to take everything so seriously, and it’s okay to relax and play every now and then.

OPEN-MINDEDNESS

Kids are tolerant and open-minded people. This not only applies to how they choose friends, but also how they learn. Young kids don’t choose friends based on background, political views, career choices, or education. Also, younger generations are eager to learn and absorb knowledge no matter how daunting it might seem. Unfortunately, as we get older we tend to becomes more set in both our ways and our ideas. While these new things might seem scary or difficult, kids teach us to keep an open mind and get excited to develop new skills or learn something new.

APPRECIATING (NOT SO) IMPORTANT MOMENTS

Younger generations get a bad rap for being attached to all sorts of recording and storage technology. With phones, social media, cameras, and countless other tools, kids and young adults are able to record every single moment of their day if they choose and share or store that recording in various different places. This readily available technology encourages the younger generation to share photos of meals, post daily updates on their mundane activities, and respond to other important moments shared by others. Seniors can learn from the younger generation to better appreciate the banal moments of the day and be more open to sharing moments, thoughts, or ideas with friends and family, no matter how trivial it might seem.

BEING ACTIVE

As children, we climb, swing, jump, and play in the yard. Young adults like to climb mountains, ski, and spend time in the garden. Adults chase around their little ones and make efforts to stay in shape. Unfortunately, many seniors lose this desire for movement as it starts to become difficult. Seniors can feel tired, sore, or unmotivated quickly, making them less likely to be active every day. It’s crucial to learn from younger generations that movement doesn’t need to mean boring gyms or tedious at-home stretches. There are fun ways to stay active, and it’s especially important for the elderly to maintain the activity level they did when they were young.

If you’ve learned a lesson from a young person in your life, leave us a comment down below. We’d love to hear your feedback and chat about how you’ve seen the youth inspire the older generation! To learn how home health care can keep the older people in your life as young as they feel, contact Optimal Home Care today!

EVERYDAY LIFE WITH HOME HEALTH CARE

Wed, 06 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Making the transition to home care can be a daunting decision, and many people aren’t sure what everyday life will be for themselves or their loved ones once home care is in place. At Optimal Home Care, we understand what you’re going through and are here to help. This week we’re walking you through what average everyday life looks like with home care and will, hopefully, answer any questions you may have been facing while making this decision. While many home care experiences are similar, it’s important to understand that every individual’s experience is special to them and catered to their needs.

VARIOUS LEVELS OF HELP

Depending on the level of need, home care can involve nurses, behavior health nurses, physical/occupational/speech therapy, medical social work, and home health aide services. Some of the benefits of home health care are the promises of comfortability, independence, and customization of care. Essentially, home health care allows individuals to maintain dignity and quality of life while still receiving the care they need, right from their own homes.

With home health care, every day life is relatively undisturbed. If the assistance needed is minimal, a healthcare professional will visit the individual occasionally, anywhere from daily to weekly. This provides peace of mind for families who aren’t able to visit their loved one as frequently due to location or time constraints. Another individual who might require more care will enjoy multiple visits a day with more advanced evaluations to ensure optimal care.

For any individual with varying degrees of need, alert systems can be installed in homes to provide easy communication between caregivers and the individual. That way, even if a staff member isn’t currently at the residence, they can be alerted of a need in a timely manner. Essentially, all care will be tailored to the specific needs of the senior, while still maintaining their previously established routine.

RESOURCES PROVIDED FOR BETTER INDEPENDENCE

As you or your loved one is cared for, various therapy can be set in place to ensure elongated and improved quality of life. For example, physical therapy services will provide in-home physical therapy care can help by including balance training, bed mobility skills, assertive device practice, and many other services that will help better the everyday life of the individual.

Speech therapy can help not only improve but also monitor the cognitive abilities of the individual, especially if he or she is suffering from dementia, dysphagia, apraxia, or other diseases. By spending time with an in-home speech pathologist, seniors can lessen the effects of these chronic diseases and improve their everyday life by maintaining important cognitive abilities.

WHAT THE SCHEDULE ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE

Many seniors ask “what will my day to day schedule look like?” The truth is that whatever is most appropriate and desired by the individual using the home care service will dictate their schedule. Ultimately, as we mentioned above, home care tries not to feel intrusive, controlling, or life-changing. The objective when choosing home care is to marry the independent lifestyle of an individual with their necessary care without drastically altering an already established routine.

To learn more about how home health care will fit with your or your loved one’s lifestyle, call us today to chat about the varying options you have. Let’s work together to create the perfect blend of services to provide you with optimal home care.

HOW TO PREVENT THESE TOP TEN ILLNESSES — PART TWO

Wed, 30 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Last week we discussed five of the top ten illnesses seen most commonly in individuals over the age of 50 years old. Optimal Home Care works tirelessly to help guide families and loved ones through the senior years of life in order to educate on the importance of health and proper care. Now, let’s continue our discussion of the top ten illnesses seen in seniors, and the best ways to take preventative action against them.

DEPRESSION

Depression in seniors doesn’t always appear in the form of sadness or other common signs. There are many different indicators of depression, such as restlessness, irritability, body aches, headaches, digestive problems , and many other physical pains. If you or your loved one is exhibiting any unusual behavior or experiencing any undiagnosed pains such as the ones listed above, consult your doctor or caregiver for more information on depression in seniors. Females are at higher risk for depression, as well as people with chronic medical illness, disabilities, insomnia, or who misuse alcohol or drugs. Depression isn’t something a person can simply “snap out of.” It requires professional care and occasionally medicinal aid. By maintaining contact with loved ones, enjoying hobbies, and partaking in minimal, preferably zero, usage of alcohol and drugs, seniors can help prevent depression in their own lives and those around them.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

High blood pressure, or hypertension , in seniors is just as dangerous as when seen in younger people, if not more. As our circulatory system ages, we become slightly more prone to high blood pressure because blood doesn’t circulate through the veins as easily as it once did. Essentially, with time, there is an increase in damage to our blood vessels and we become susceptible to not only hypertension, but heart disease and diabetes as well. If you or your loved one has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, that doesn’t mean that a healthy lifestyle is out of the question. In order to prevent or help lessen the effects of high blood pressure, seniors should practice frequent exercise and implement a low-salt diet.

OSTEOPOROSIS

When bones become fragile and brittle, they’re more likely to break and lead to falls or other accidents. Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals such as calcium faster than the body is able to produce them. With age, bones naturally become more fragile, but when diagnosed with osteoporosis it’s crucial that seniors take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents. First, consult any doctor about current medication that you or loved one currently takes. Medicines can impair motor function skills, increasing the risk of falling, or further hinder mineral production. Make sure to educate yourself on the risks of all medications and take any precautions to prevent further injuries. Older people with osteoporosis should also consume plenty calcium and other nutrients found in bones in order to help the body replenish these minerals, and practice balance. Yoga or Tai Chi are two great options to work toward better balance without overextending oneself.

FLU

People at the age of 65 years old or older run a higher risk of conducting the flu than younger individuals. With a mature immune system we’re more likely to get sick easier, stay sick longer , and contract more illnesses at once. Many seniors who live in close proximity to each other are more susceptible to conducting the flu due to the highly contagious nature of the disease. To help prevent the flu, seniors should always get their flu shot. Herd immunity, the idea behind vaccines, helps keep older people safe from flu or flu like symptoms. Maintaining general good health is crucial to staying healthy, as well as seeking medical advice as quickly as possible when you notice flu symptoms. It’s important to act quickly in order to properly medicate yourself or your loved one and help prevent further illnesses that can occur from the flu.

DIABETES

As people age, their risk for type 2 diabetes increases . According to the American Diabetes Association, one in four people over the age of 60 have diabetes. The National Institute on Aging provides a detailed page of information on diabetes, how to live a healthy life with diabetes, and ways to detect the early stages of type 2 diabetes. Make sure to get yearly exams on your kidneys, teeth and gums, eyes, blood pressure, and cholesterol. By making sure that all of these health factors remain in shape, you or your loved one can help increase overall health and still maintain a happy and healthy life with type 2 diabetes.

If you have any worries about your health or the health of your loved one, make sure to consult with doctors and caregivers immediately about your concerns. For more questions about how Optimal Home Care can help guide you and your loved ones through the mature stages of life, call us today and we’d be happy to start this journey with you.

HOW TO PREVENT THESE TOP TEN ILLNESSES — PART ONE

Wed, 23 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Optimal Home Care is devoted to helping our clients and their family members stay informed and up to date on aging and the illnesses and conditions that affect seniors most. This week we’re here to discuss the most common illnesses seen in individuals over the age of 50 years old, and the best ways to help prevent them.

ARTHRITIS

Unfortunately, arthritis can’t always be prevented. Depending on age, family history, and gender , arthritis can be inevitable. When developing arthritis, joints become achy and difficult to move. If arthritis is caught early, different actions can be taken to help relieve the and stymie the worsening of discomfort. The best way to prevent arthritis in seniors is to maintain an overall healthy lifestyle, ensuring proper nutrition and plenty of exercise. By eating healthy and working out, seniors can rest easy knowing they’re taking action against those achy joints.

BRONCHITIS AND PNEUMONIA

As we age, our respiratory systems become weak and susceptible to illnesses. In seniors, bronchitis and pneumonia are common; these diseases can be very dangerous depending on the severity and the health status of the individual they affect. Firstly, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. They’ll make a diagnosis so you’ll know whether or not the infection might be bronchitis, pneumonia, or a different respiratory infection , as many of the symptoms appear identical. Next, to prevent the infection, it’s crucial that seniors protect their bodies and their belongings from those who might be sick. Wash hands frequently, and refrain from sharing chapstick, grooming supplies, or any other item that may be carrying germs.

COGNITIVE HEALTH

According to the National Institute on Aging , cognitive health refers to the health of motor functions, emotional functions, and sensory functions in an individual. As we age, our general cognitive health begins to lose agility, and many mental functions become more strenuous. Like arthritis, some forms of cognitive disease are caused by heredity or other factors, but there are ways to stave off the mind’s decline. Keeping up with health screenings can help you or your loved one’s doctor keep an eye on cognitive functioning. It’s also important to avoid substances that alter cognitive function, such as alcohol, recreational drug use, or tobacco use. The best way to avoid decreased cognitive health is to continually work toward overall bodily health.

OBESITY OR MALNUTRITION

People of mature age need to spend extra time planning and tracking diet choices. Appetite changes over time and can either promote over-eating or under-eating. By encouraging yourself or your loved ones to not only eat in the proper moderation, but also to make healthy choices, preventing these common occurrences can be manageable. On top of choosing a healthy diet, an appropriate amount of exercise can be the perfect supplement in the lives of seniors.

ORAL HEALTH

Our bodies age, so why wouldn’t our mouth age right along with it? Our teeth become more susceptible to disease, and the tissue in our mouth becomes thin as it begins to stop replacing itself as we get older. On top of increasing fragility, many seniors experienced improper dental care in their youth, as science has taken leaps and bounds since then. For that reason, many seniors’ oral health starts from a worse place than younger generations who had access to fuller, more complete dental care. It’s important to prioritize dental health as you would any other part of the body, as keeping a healthy mouth will improve the quality of life for seniors. While it may feel time consuming, there’s no time like the present to adopt a better oral health care regime and work to prevent any oral diseases or infections.

If there have been issues regarding your health or the health of a loved one, we’re here to help. Call us today to learn more about how Optimal Home Care can fit into your life and provide extra care.