As we age, many of us want to be able to stay in our own home, maintain our independence, make our own choices, and conserve our savings. Around the Clock Home Care has the experience helping people age safely at home with the right combination of individualized care to meet the unique needs of you or your loved one.
Assistive Devices
Low-tech items that make living at home safer and easier
Walkers, wheelchairs, ramps, power scooter
Raised toilet seats, lift chairs
Bed rails, tub chairs, hand held shower
Hand grabber
Amplified telephone, flashing lights for doorbell, smoke alarm
Large print phones, remote controls, clocks
Grab bars and railings
Personal Emergency Response System
Pendant, bracelet
System can call family, care agency, and 911
Brings peace of mind
Home Modifications
Ideas and changes that can make your living space safer and more accessible
A low or no-threshold entrance to the home with an overhang
A master bedroom and bath on the first floor
Lever-style door handles
Bright lighting in all areas
Non-slip flooring, no throw rugs
Widen door ways
Install walk in shower
Rearrange kitchen and bathroom storage areas
There are many ways of upgrading a home to successfuly age there, one way is having a home safety assessment from Around the Clock Home Care. One of the goals with our home safety assessment is to identify and mitigate risks around the home. We can provide recommendations after assessing your home environment along with your ideas and goals to remain in your home.
If you are interested in a home safety assessment, please contact us. We want to see you safely age at home!
While many older adults adapt quickly when a new caregiver comes into the home, and begin to thrive and enjoy a higher quality of life, there are some seniors who may still feel threatened. At Around the Clock Home Care, we’re sensitive to honoring senior independence and are experienced in helping to ease concerns and restore peace.
Someone who feels the need to convince their family that a caregiver is simply not needed may implement one of these common tactics:
Concealing activities. If an agreement has been made for the senior to stop driving, for instance, they may continue to drive when no one is around. Another example is refusing to adhere to a diabetic diet, eating unhealthily in private.
Arguing. Frustrations at being perceived as incapable of self-care may present as an increase in arguments, even over relatively minor matters. It’s important to recognize the underlying sense that the individual needs to prove their ability to stay in control and in charge.
Distancing from family and friends. The individual may display irritation through acting standoffish and declining necessary support from family members. For instance, an adult child who typically accompanies the person to medical appointments may now be prohibited by the person from going into the exam room.
Making dangerous choices. A person who is encouraged to rest and allow someone else to take care of a task that may now be unsafe, such as climbing a ladder to replace a lightbulb, may do just the opposite. Trying to show that they are still capable of activities such as this could cause a fall and serious injury.
The fact is, no one wants to feel as though they’re unable to meet their own day-to-day needs, or that they are in a state of decline. It’s critical to validate the important role the senior continues to play in our lives, and let them know often that they are needed and valued. Several ways to achieve this include:
Spend plenty of time listening to and engaging in conversations with the senior.
Enlist the senior’s help in meaningful tasks.
Ask the person for advice.
Reminisce regarding ways the senior has affected your life.
A professional caregiver fromAround the Clock Home Care understands the many emotions seniors experience and the ways in which those emotions may present. All of our care providers are trained and experienced in helping restore a sense of self-worth and fulfillment in life.
Contact us for additional news and resources to pave the way to a smoother journey through aging! We provide a complimentary in-home consultation to answer any questions you have about our home care services and to develop a plan of care to address the particular needs of a senior you love. Our top-rated home care services are available in Oklahoma and Arkansas.
Dementia, especially in the late stages, is a major cause of disability. Veterans who are diagnosed with dementia will eventually require assistance with personal care activities. Dementia care provides veterans, spouses, and family members with invaluable support as they pass through the stages of dementia.
As a progressive brain condition, dementia causes a decline in memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform the activities of daily living. Alzheimer’s disease is considered to be the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease contributes to about 60 to 70 percent of dementia cases.
Dementia care can become increasingly necessary after the diagnosis is made. An early diagnosis allows for optimal management of the condition. Dementia care promotes physical and cognitive well-being; behavioral and psychological problems are detected and treated; and caregivers receive long-term support.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) supports veterans who are diagnosed with dementia. The VA offers a range of care options, many of which veterans and their families are unaware. Veterans must meet specified criteria in order to be eligible to receive benefits.
1.VA Health Care
VA Health Care supports veterans from the initial dementia diagnosis through its terminal stage. While medications will not cure dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, the veteran’s physician may prescribe medicines to alleviate symptoms of the condition. VA Health Care covers the cost of these drugs.
Veterans who live at home will require supervision, especially as dementia symptoms progress. For instance, a dementia patient may wander, suffer hallucinations, become uncharacteristically aggressive, shuffle and fall, have issues with balance or forget to take medications—all of which reduce well-being. VA Health Care professionals provide essential care.
VA Health Care may be provided by a range of professionals, such as home health aides, skilled home health care providers, respite caregivers and homemakers. Family caregivers who also work may turn to VA Health Care for assistance at home.
2.Veteran Directed Care Program
Veterans are allotted a budget through the Veteran DirectedCare Program(VDC) and may utilize funds to pay for care services. Veterans may elect to pay for adult day care, respite care or home care as they deem fit.
The VDC helps veterans with dementia to continue living in the community. Veterans may use VDC funds to purchase a wheelchair or wander prevention systems. Home modifications, such as installing grab bars or wheelchair ramps, may be made using VDC funds. All veterans enrolled in VA Health Care qualify.
3.HISA Grants
Financial assistance to make home modifications is provided through theVAs HomeImprovements and Structural Alterations(HISA) Grants. Disabled veterans who demonstrate medical need (such as those with mobility issues) qualify, which makes veterans with mid- to late-stage dementia eligible to receive the grant.
4.State Veterans Homes
Veterans may elect to enter aStateVeterans Home for care. These facilities provide care, such as nursing home care, assisted living (ideal for independent veterans in the early stage of dementia) and memory care (suitable for veterans with mid- or late-stage dementia).
All states in the US have at least one State Veterans Home. Some State Veterans Homes also admit the spouses of veterans. A veteran who requires long-term care in a State Veterans Home must demonstrate a clinical need for the service. Adult day care is also available in some facilities.
5.Aid & Attendance Pension
Long-term care is necessary as dementia progresses. TheVAs Aid &Attendance Pension can offset the costs of long-term care for veterans and their spouses who have high care needs. Veterans and their spouses qualify once they require assistance with the activities of daily living.
Veterans and their spouses with mid- to late-stage dementia is eligible for the monthly payments through the Aid & Attendance Pension. However, veterans in the early stages of dementia may not qualify for the pension since their symptoms are not severe enough to warrant dependency.
The income provided in the pension may be used for a range of care. Veterans and spouses may utilize the funds for respite care or adult day care, for instance. Memory care units, skilled nursing care and nursing home stays may also be funded through pension payments.
Dementia care is essential for veterans and their spouses who receive a dementia diagnosis. Fortunately, the VA offers the above-mentioned forms of assistance to support veterans at all stages of the condition. Family caregivers of veterans benefit from the support, too, as caring for a dementia loved one can become overwhelming.
Veterans with dementia care needs may rely on the compassionate support from professional caregivers at Around the Clock Home Care. We are anVAAuthorized Community Care Provider through the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs. We offer quality, veteran home care to ensure veterans and their spouses at any stage of dementia continue to live dignified lives.
Find out more about dementia care and home care services for Veterans provided by Around the Clock Home Care.
Sources: VA Geriatrics and Extended Care-va.gov/GERIATRICS/index.asp VA Dementia Care & Alzheimer’s-va.gov/GERIATRICS/pages/Alzheimers_and_Dementia_Care.asp
People often think home health and home care are the same thing. Many agencies use the terms interchangeably, depending on the state you’re in. The terms sound similar and both types of care are delivered in the home. But there are important differences between home care and home health care. Knowing the differences can help you decide which type of care is right for your needs and budget.
When comparing home health vs. home care, it’s useful to know the definitions of each as a starting point.
Home Care Definition
The definition of home care is help with daily activities to allow people to stay safe at home. It is often used by older adults with chronic illness, those with disabilities and people recovering from surgery. Home care is also sometimes called personal care, companion care, custodial care or homemaker services.
Here are some important facts about the home care definition:
The home health care definition is medical services provided at home to treat a chronic health condition or help you recover from illness, injury or surgery. Some people start home health care after a health decline or getting diagnosed with a serious medical condition. Many people transition to home health care after a stay in a hospital, rehab center or skilled nursing facility. The primary goals are to help people recover and stay as independent as possible.
Here are some important facts about the home health definition:
Home health care services address intermittent, or periodic, needs and may include:
Nursing
Physical Therapy
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Medical Social Work
Wound Care
Patient and Caregiver Education
Help with daily tasks like bathing and dressing from a home health aide
When ordered by a doctor, Medicare, Medicaid and some private insurance plans cover the cost of home health services for eligible patients.
Similarities Between Home Care and Home Health Care
To understand the difference between home care and home health care, it helps to know the similarities. Both offer:
Care in the comfort and safety of your home
Help for older adults to feel better and stay as independent as possible
Assistance with daily tasks like bathing, dressing and grooming
Less expensive care than hospital or facility care
Some of the key differences between home care vs. home health are:
TYPE OF CARE
Home health care provides “clinical” or “skilled” care by licensed nurses and therapists.
Home care provides “non-clinical” or “non-skilled” care by professional caregivers.
SERVICES
Home health care services are more medical in nature. Home health aides are available to help with things like bathing, grooming and dressing until you are safely able to do them again or have a caregiver who can safely assist you. But the focus of care is skilled nursing and therapy.
Home care helps with everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, grooming, cooking, cleaning, and transportation. It does not include medical care like nursing or therapy.
LENGTH OF CARE
Home health care continues as long as your doctor certifies, and you continue to meet eligibility requirements.
Home care continues as long as you want, based on your budget and needs.
FREQUENCY
Home health care visits are typically a few hours per week, depending on the patient’s needs and doctor’s orders.
Home care can help clients 24/7, depending on the client’s budget and needs.
When you’re comparing home carevs home health care you should know that you can receive both at the same time. Home health provides clinical care to help the patient recover, and home care helps with day-to-day caregiving and tasks. Although there are many differences between home care and home health care, both types of care can help older adults stay safe and independent in their homes. If you’re struggling with daily tasks or recovering from an illness, injury or surgery, ask your health care provider if home care is for you.
To learn more, call Around the Clock Home Care at an office near you.
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries for older Americans. Falls threaten seniors’ safety and independence, and generate enormous economic and personal costs. However, falling is not an inevitable result of aging. Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based falls prevention programs, and clinical-community partnerships, the number of falls among seniors can be substantially reduced.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other falls research:
Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.
The cost of treating injuries caused by falls is projected to increase to over $101 billion by 2030.
Falls result in more than 3 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 800,000 hospitalizations.
In 2015, the total cost of non-fatal fall injuries was $50 billion.
Each year about $754 million is spent on medical costs related to fatal falls.
For older adults in the U.S., fall death rates went up by 30% from 2007-2016, and researchers predict there will be 7 deadly falls every hour by 2030.
People with mild hearing loss are nearly three times as likely to fall, with each 10 decibels of hearing loss increasing fall risk.
The majority (60%) of falls happen in the home, 30% in a public setting, and 10% in a health care center.
Do you know your falls risk? Answer 12 easy questions using NCOA’s Falls Free Checkup to see how you can maintain your independence and stay falls free. https://bit.ly/Falls-CheckUp
These national trip and fall statistics are startling. And what is even more jarring is that most of these are preventable! There are many ways of reducing the risk of falls in a home and having a home care assessment from Around the Clock Home Care is one of them. One of the goals with our home care assessment is to identify and mitigate fall risks around your home. We can provide recommendations after viewing your home environment along with yours answers with our assessment regarding health, lifestyle and abilities.
If you are interested in a home care assessment, please contact us. It will be well worth your time.
According to a new “Importance of Home” survey released by American Advisors Group (AAG), the leading reverse mortgage lender in the United States based on industry endorsement data. In addition to the desire to remain in their homes as they age, 73% of respondents also answered that they see their homes as “their most valuable asset,” while 82% of respondents answered affirmatively when asked if they would prefer to live in their home for the rest of their lives if such an option was on the table.
Part of what drives the overwhelming desire for seniors to remain in their homes is the idea of safety. 83% of surveyed seniors answered that they generally feel safer when in their own homes, compared to living situations that do not involve their houses. Feeding into that idea of safety directly is the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, as 50% of respondent seniors said that the pandemic has contributed to their desire to remain at home.
AAG’s Importance of Home Survey was conducted on June 2, 2021, and included 1,552 participants,” the results of the survey read regarding the methodology. “Responses include numerous formats, including yes-and-no answers, ranking preferences, and multiple-choice replies. The survey was conducted on a digital platform so that participants from all regions of the United States could answer from the safety of their homes. All participants were selected randomly with age and homeownership being the only qualifying factors.”
Caregivers’ needs
AARP ”Home and Community Preferences Survey” from November 2021 shows that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term — a number that has been consistent for more than a decade. The survey revealed that 1 in 5 Americans is a family caregiver and 52 percent of all adults live in a multigenerational household.
Among those polled, 40 percent said they care for someone living in their home and 38 percent look after someone living on their own. Of those, nearly half worried about the ability of the person they care for to continue living independently.
These caregivers also place a high priority on housing that fits people’s needs as they age, with 59 percent ranking that as important. More than half said they value homes that are more accessible, with features like wide doorways, no-step entries, and first-floor bedrooms and bathrooms.
This group also places a high importance on finding capable home-repair contractors for low-income and older adults: 77 percent said they value having affordable, trustworthy workers who can do home modifications.
Contact Us at Around the Clock Home Care for more in-home care information. Schedule a complimentary in-home care assessment to go over your needs and home safety.
Merriam-Webster defines a hero as “a person who is admired for great or brave acts or fine qualities”. We generally associate a hero with distinguished courage or ability, admired for brave deeds and noble qualities.
At Around the Clock Home Care, we believe a Caregivers work is NOBLE. What could be more noble than supporting and caring for people who need assistance with their daily living needs? Caregivers helping those who need it most!
Caregivers must bring the qualities of patience, strength, and creativity to their tasks. When they walk into their client’s home each day, they never know what that day will bring. Caregivers may need to be reassuring or calming. A client might be having a bad day physically or not be able to express that they’re feeling pain. Caregivers have to know how to be empathetic in these circumstances, while also cleverly finding proactive ways to turn the situation around.
Being a Caregiver requires a lot of ingenuity. If you have spent a little time with a person with Alzheimer’s disease, for example, you can imagine just how creative caregivers have to get some days. They have to figure out ways to get things accomplished and keep the client safe and healthy. And they also manage to bring joy and a smile to their clients through all this.
Caregivers, Our Essential Heroes The term “essential worker” has become commonplace over the last couple of years due to the pandemic. Caregivers, naturally, have been among this group. Caregivers have always been essential to those they help, their families, and society in general.
Caregiving can be 24/7, weekends, holidays or for challenges life brings us. Caregivers are more essential than ever at these times, actually. How many of us count on caregivers to take care of our older loved ones, even in the worst of societal and personal turmoil? Many families have felt this especially during the last few years, when unable to visit or travel to see loved ones. We’ve all come to realize more starkly just how much we rely on these essential heroes.
This is one reason why a home care agency and the caregiving team are so important. Caregivers need to be prepared and supported for the essential work they do.
All of the decisions we make at Around the Clock Home Care are based on our mission of setting our care team members up for success so they can shine as the heroes they are.
Become A Caregiver
To be a great caregiver you need to be supported by a great team. That is exactly what
you’ll get by choosing Around the ClockHome Care. Our mission is to set every caregiver up for success, empowering them to provide the best home care in our local communities.
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Signs To Look For During Holiday Visits With Aging Loved Ones
Posted on:November 19 2021
Will your loved one need Home Care after your holiday visit?
As you visit family and friends over the upcoming holidays, this can be an opportunity to see any changes that need to be addressed in person. While video calls and regular check-ins can help, spending time together in person and seeing the home environment of the loved one can provide important insights.
For those who are visiting over Thanksgiving or the December holidays we have shared four indicators to look for on your visit.
While the home may seem tidy, is it clear the heat or air conditioning isn’t being used as usual? What may seem like an overly frugal choice could be a sign of forgetfulness.
While food may be purchased and prepared, weight loss could be a sign of a medical condition that needs to be addressed. Signs of dehydration can be more subtle, but important indicators of other issues as well.
While the home office may seem to still be in order without telltale signs of unopened mail or past due bills, there may be a paper trail of issues unfolding. Not only are unpaid bills a concern, but bookkeeping errors, such as paying the same bill twice, can be signals to watch out for. Unusual purchases or changes in spending habits can also be a warning sign.
Not keeping up with medical supplies, filling prescriptions, keeping house stocked with groceries, and toiletries can be a clear sign that something is not right. A lot of new purchases can be another sign. A thrifty person who is suddenly buying products from telemarketers, home shopping networks or even in-store items that they wouldn’t need or use could be an indicator that they’re not making purchase decisions through the same discerning lens they once used.
As conditions change, sadly, some family member become susceptible to those who would take advantage. Be on the lookout for service bills that haven’t been rendered, products you don’t see in the home, services and supplies not issued by the patient’s doctor. Examine insurance claims and financial documents. Be prepared for the beginning of an open and respectful (but honest) conversation.
If you identify issues and believe it is time to enlist more help, be sure to work with others that have experience in senior care and research all care options that your loved one may need. Learn more about the different care services that Around the Clock Home Care can provide for your family member and your peace of mind.
Extraordinary Circumstances, Extraordinary Individuals: Home Care Heroes
November is National Home Care & Hospice Month. Around the Clock Home Care recognizes our “Home Care Heroes” and all home care workers that care for seniors in the home care setting.
Around the Clock Home Care is a contracted VA Provider within the VA Community Care Network. Home Care Aide Services is for Veterans who need personal care services and help with activities of daily living. This program is also for Veterans who are isolated, or their caregiver is experiencing burden. Home Care Aide services can be used in combination with other Home and Community Based Services. Services may vary by location.
Home Care Aides work for a Home Care Agency that has a contract with VA. Home Care Aide services can be used as a part of an alternative to nursing home care, and to get Respite Care at home for Veterans and their family caregiver. The services of a Home Care Aide can help Veterans remain living in their own home and can serve Veterans of any age. Home Care Aide Services falls under the VA Geriatrics and Extended Care Services. A VA provider assesses the need for care and places an order. Next, a VA coordinator contacts the veteran to discuss his or her needs, determines amount of care to be provided based on clinical need, and makes a referral to a VA Community Home Care Provider The VA reassesses the veteran’s need for care at least annually and assesses the agency’s quality annually.
Before, Around the Clock Home Care starts any home care services with a new client, a care assessment is scheduled and done. The care assessment is done to get a view of your current and future care needs.
During our care assessment, examples we document are health history, medical conditions,(ex; COPD, Stroke, Dementia) medications, home safety, diet, transportation for appointments, and current medical professionals you see. These examples are just a small part of the in-depth care assessment we perform. The care assessment is done with you and/or your family jointly to determine the scope of care services. During and after our care assessment, we explain fully the services available, answer any additional questions, and help with the important care decisions.
Regular Home Care Service Topics covered include the following:
Matching the appropriate caregiver
Daily routines/Scheduling
Health and medication issues
Emergency response
Nutritional issues
Home cleaning issues
Transportation needs
Costs of services
After our care assessment, a customized and comprehensive care plan is developed to meet the physical, psychological and social needs of you or a loved one.
We take a holistic approach to matching the best caregiver with your loved one, taking into account such important elements as your care needs and personality. Ongoing follow-up supervision ensures that the care plan is well-implemented and that your changing needs are met with diligence.
Take advantage of this no-obligation opportunity to assess your care needs and discover how we can significantly improve and maintain your independence.
To request a FREE Home Care Assessment, call an office near you or fill out our Contact Us Form.
Chickasha Community Blood Drive with Oklahoma Blood Institute & hosted by Around the Clock Home Care
Posted on:July 23 2021
Chickasha Community Blood Drive with the Oklahoma Blood Institute &
hosted by Around the Clock Home Care in Chickasha, OK.
Picture yourself as a lifesaving donor! Donate blood in Chickasha at Around the Clock Home Care’s upcoming blood drive, Wednesday, July 28 from 11:00am to 3:00pm in the front lobby.
Donors receive a summer story t-shirt and their choice of one free admission to Science Museum Oklahoma, one free admission to Frontier City Theme Park, or two free admissions to Safari Joe’s H2O / Water Park.
To Schedule call Around the Clock Home Care at 405-222-6478 or click here https://bit.ly/2U4ueaW to make your lifesaving appointment.
Senior Home Safety is a key factor in seniors maintaining an independent lifestyle. If you or a loved one is living at home, especially alone, it is important to make safety a priority.
It is important to recognize that one of the most common dangers seniors face is falling. Research indicates that injuries and subsequent complications due to falls are the leading causes of death in seniors aged 65 and older. One out of three seniors in this age group falls each year. Even though every fall does not result in an injury, these statistics should encourage us to make every effort to prevent falls occurring in the senior’s home. By taking certain safety measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones by decreasing dangers inside and outside the home.
When you look around your house or the home of your loved one, you may not notice simple things you can do to make everyday living safer. Take a second to look around and see if you notice any of the things on the safety checklist below.
Loose Railings. Whether or not someone is prone to falls or not, a loose railing can result in serious injury. Be sure all hardware is fastened tightly so that when someone leans on the railing, it is sturdy and does not fail.
De-clutter. Clutter can cause trips and falls. Clear floors and stairs of any objects that can easily be tripped over.
Secure rugs. If there are area rugs in the home be sure they are secured so that no one will slide or trip. There are rug fasteners you can buy at any hardware store to keep rugs in place. It’s a simple measure that can go a long way when it comes to safety.
Do not wear loose sleeves while cooking. If you or a loved one is still able to stand at the stove and cook, avoid wearing loose-fitting sleeves as they can catch on fire.
Be mindful of candles. Do not leave candles lit at bedtime or if you are leaving the home. Also be sure to never smoke in bed as that it is the cause of many house fires across the country.
Check bathroom safety. Many slips and falls can occur in the bathroom. You can prevent these by installing grab bars near the toilet and in the shower as well as bathmats on the shower floor.
Get a medical alert system. If you are living alone, it may be worth investing in a medical alert system. There are many different types of systems to choose from, but the idea is the same in pretty much all models. If you fall or are in need of emergency attention, simply press the button on your medical alert system (which you should have on you at all times). This will signal a call to 911 and can alert any family members you have designated as emergency contacts.
Be sure smoke detectors work. Just because there is smoke detector visible in your home or apartment complex, does not mean it is working. Have smoke detectors tested and be sure to change the batteries twice a year.
Buy a grabber. If you are living alone and need to grab something out of reach, do not try to stand on a chair or ladder. Rather buy one that you can use to grab items. Better yet, try to keep everything you need on a daily basis in arm’s length. This will prevent any accidents as you try to get something that is not close by.
Around the Clock Home Care will provide a home care and safety assessment for you or your loved one’s home. Our assessment can help reduce the risk of an accident without interfering with your quality of life. Reducing risks helps seniors remain independent and healthy in the long run.
In contrast to other types of long-term care, home care is more affordable, flexible, and can be customized to suit your senior loved one’s needs. Home care can empower older adults to age in place in the comfort and safety of home, rather than uprooting their lives in order to move into a nursing home or an assisted living facility. It is also fairly simple to get help. AtAround the Clock Home Care, we can provide a free in-home assessment of your loved one’s current situation, and in most cases, we can come up with a personalized care plan in just a few days. We are a fully licensed and insured company. We make sure that each one of our caregivers goes through a background check before ever stepping foot into a client’s home.
Many studies have shown that most older adults would prefer to age in place and stay at home for as long as possible. Our Home Care Services are a great way to help your loved ones fulfill their wishes, in addition to still getting the practical support they need to be Healthy, Happy, and Safe!
Home Care is Convenient
Living at home unquestionably gives older adults the freedom to live on their own terms, rather than having to conform to a rigid institutional diet or schedule which includes wake-up times, meal times, and even bathing times. As a result, non-medical home care has been shown to promote a healthier and more independent lifestyle and even increase longevity. Home Care can also enable seniors to stay socially connected to friends and family, which can help reduce depression and anxiety, boost overall health, and truly improve the overall quality of life for the elderly.
Non-medical home care comes with many advantages for family caregivers, as well. In fact, non-medical home care is sometimes called respite care because it gives family members the chance to enjoy some much-needed rest, on a schedule that works for them. Home Care allows for easier communication and scheduling and can allow caregivers to reclaim their lives. Whether it is full-time care or only for a few care visits a week, Around the Clock Home Care can give family caregivers the chance to recharge their batteries and increase the quality of time that is spent with their loved ones.
72% of all Americans will need home care as they age.
As older adults begin to experience declines in physical, sensory, and memory capabilities, they will need products and services that help them maintain their lifestyles and activities. Home Care can provide flexible scheduling, to allow seniors to maintain an independent lifestyle or provide help recovering from a hospital stay or illness.
NON-MEDICAL HOME CARE
Non-Medical Home Care is assistance with activities of daily living. This avenue of care enables a person to receive services in the privacy of their home. A care coordinator conducts comprehensive in-home assessments to identify the client’s needs and to develop a plan of care.
FINDING THE RIGHT PEOPLE
Finding the right people to care for your loved ones in the home can be made with more
assurance using a home care agency. Non-Medical home care providers work in conjunction with Physicians, Nurse Case Managers, Home Health Agencies, Hospice Agencies, Skilled Care, and many other medical related providers offering the non-medical care that is not provided by them.
SERVICES
Services are normally charged by the hour. The in-home caregivers are employed by the Agency. As a result, the agency is 100% responsible for all costs related to the employee and protects the client against workers compensation claims among other risks. An agency also provides back-up coverage if a caregiver calls-off a shift.
Family Caregiving in the U.S. Statistics
65.7% of family members have served as unpaid caregivers.
66% are female family caregivers.
69% of the recipients have long-term physical conditions.
20.4 hours is the average time spent by family members weekly providing care.
17% of family feel their health has worsened due to strain of caregiving.
53% feel caregiving has taken away from family and friends.
Populations Statistics
Demand for caregiving has increased from 67% to 77% since 2009. (An increase to 86% since April 2020-Covid 19) National Association of Home Care-Hospice 2021
Predominate age of care recipient is over 50.
51% of family caregivers are also caring for their own children.
Average duration of care is 4.6 years for family members
66% of family caregivers have gone in late, left early or missed time from work to deal with caregiving of a family member.
Medications
FACTS ABOUT SENIORS & PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION
·
The elderly account for 12.7% of the U.S. population, but consume approximately 34% of total prescriptions.
Adverse drug reactions are among the top five greatest threats to the health of seniors.
28%of hospitalizations among seniors are due to adverse drug reaction.
32,000 seniors suffer hip fractures each year due to falls caused by medication-related problems.
On average, individuals 65 to 69 years old take nearly 14 prescriptions per year, individuals 80 to 84 take an average of 18 prescriptions per year.
Home Care
A SAFE COST-EFFECTIVE APPROACH
Home Care agency services along with billing rates are provided and charged by the hour. Hourly scheduled care services will typically start at 4-6 hours a day, 2-3
visits a week, and with options to increase hours as needed. Included in these rates are caregiver employees pay, all state and federal taxes, bonding, and insurance. Agencies are the employer of the caregiver and are 100% responsible for all costs related to the employee. The Agency is licensed under the State Department of Health and follows State rules/regulations.
Hiring an Individual and not using a Home Care Agency: Questions and Risks
·Is the Individual Bonded?
Does the individual have Workers Comp and liability insurance?
Has the individual had a State & Federal background check?
Drug Tested?
Does the caregiver have the necessary skills and training to perform the care?
Is the caregiver paying their taxes on your financial payments to them?
Terms and Statements to Research-Remember on Individuals
Oversight
Accountability
No RN or Administrator
Staying within the scope of Non-Medical Care
Medication - Safety & Theft
Backup Plans for Coverage
Schedule Flexibility
Documentation
Liability for Accidents-Emergencies in the home
Plans of Care for Specialized Conditions - Dementia, CHF, COPD, Fall Risks
Reliable Transportation & Auto Insurance Coverage
Around the Clock Home Care - Our Mission
We are committed to providing high quality, client-centered, and affordable Home Care services to our clients to assist them to lead dignified and independent lives
in the comfort of their own homes. Their individual needs are carefully assessed, understood, and met through the selective assignment of qualified, trustworthy, and compassionate Caregivers.
Notes
1. National Home Care & Hospice Association, 2-2021
2. U.S. Census Bureau, 2020
3. Alzheimer’s Association Data, 2019
4. Ward, Brian W., Jeannine S. Schiller, and Richard A. Goodman. 2014. “Multiple Chronic
Conditions Among US Adults: A 2012 Update.” Preventing Chronic Disease 11. doi:10.5888/pcd11.130389.
5. Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. 2018. “Unpaid Family Caregiver Supports and Services to Delay or Divert at Risk Individuals from Intensive
LTSS.” Presentation at the National Home and Community-Based Services Conference, Baltimore, MD, August 28, 2018.
6. AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving. Caregiving in the United States 2020. Washington, DC: AARP. May 2020
More than one third of Americans over 65 are either wartime veterans or the spouse of a wartime veteran.
A veteran or the spouse may qualify for a pension program through the Department of Veteran Affairs* (VA), commonly referred to as “Aid & Attendance”. Yet, only a small fraction of those who are eligible actually know about this benefit. Thousands of families already benefit immensely from the pension program, to help pay for quality care they could not have afforded otherwise. Any veteran or spouse of a veteran who is exploring HOME CARE, or any family member searching on their behalf, should inquire about Aid & Attendance.
WHAT IS AID & ATTENDANCE?
Veterans and survivors who are eligible for a VA pension and who require the aid and attendance of another person (or are housebound) may be eligible for additional monthly payments above the normal pension amount. When applying for Aid & Attendance, if you are not already receiving a pension, you must also submit a basic pension application in order to qualify. Financial qualifications for Aid & Attendance are different than financial qualifications for the basic pension alone. Therefore, some people qualify for Aid & Attendance even though they would not have qualified solely for the basic pension. The benefit can provide up to $2,200 per month to Veterans and their spouses for Home CareServices to help them with personal care needs in their home or chosen place of residence. There are currently over 15 million Veterans who are believed could qualify for this benefit and only 3% of them are currently taking advantage of it.
Using AID & ATTENDANCE for Home Care
Most Veterans-Spouses want to stay in their homes and by putting their Aid & Attendance benefits toward home care services it allows them to do so. With home care services, professional caregivers visit your home. Caregivers perform tasks such as bathing, grooming, meal preparation, laundry, and light housekeeping. These tasks help you maintain a good quality of life while staying in the comfort of your own home.
Let Us Help
Our mission is to assist veterans-spouses who protected our freedom to stay in their homes and live life on their own terms. We treat our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve, working tirelessly to help them get the benefits they’ve earned and the compassionate care they need. We provide VA Aid and Attendance Application Support services to our clients. After a client has been approved for the AID & ATTENDANCE benefit, we keep working to help maintain your valuable benefit. We continue to answer questions, assist with additional paperwork and set up home care.
Click on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs logo below for more information on benefits and eligibility on the AID & ATTENDANCE program for veterans-spouses.
We communicate in some way with everyone around us all day. It is easy to think of communication as spoken words, but we also communicate with writing, signs, gestures, expressions, intonation, volume, colors, sounds, and even our clothing. Impaired or diminished memory, attention and concentration, perception and visuospatial functions, hearing, and visual acuity all make it difficult for people with dementia to communicate effectively.
When communicating with a person with dementia, keep these tips in mind:
Ask the person, “What would you like me to call you?”
Always speak respectfully and use age-appropriate language when communicating with older adults with dementia. Using childlike speech or words, such as “sweetie” or “honey,” is viewed negatively by most older adults. It is important to make sure that others address someone with dementia in a way the person recognizes and prefers.
Speak in a warm, easy-going manner using the tone of voice that you would like people to use when they speak with you.
Sometimes when people with dementia do not immediately understand what is being said to them, there is a tendency for the speaker to shout. This can distort speech, which can upset someone with dementia and will make communication even more difficult.
Be aware of how you are holding your body and the gestures and facial expressions you are using.
People with dementia are aware of nonverbal communication and will pay attention to it. Effectively using nonverbal forms of communication as additional cues may also help people with vision or hearing loss process information more accurately.
In conversation, don’t worry if the answers or comments are right or wrong or even if the comments make sense. Enjoy the fact that the person is engaging with you.
When you have a conversation with someone with dementia, it is your responsibility to keep that conversation going. The person may have lost that ability. Introduce topics that the person enjoys and can also understand.
Provide choice questions.
A choice question is phrased in a way that the listener must choose between two things. When you use a choice question, you are providing the information that the person can use in the answer.
“Would you like to work with clay or draw?” is much easier for a person with dementia to answer than an open-ended question, such as “What would you like to do today?”
Write choices on an index card.
Show them to the person when you ask which choice is preferred. When unable to respond verbally, the person can point to the card to answer.
Pay attention to where the person is communicating.
For example, if a person is in the kitchen or dining room, this may be an indication of hunger and preparing a snack could be a task you could do together.
Arguing, quizzing, or confronting someone with dementia will not help you communicate.
It will very likely make the person angry or more confused. Try using validating statements and adding to what the person has to say. Accept the values, beliefs, and reality of the person with dementia by agreeing with him or her, and then using the conversation to redirect the person.
If an 82-year-old man says that he needs to leave the room and go home to take care of his 10-year old son, say, “I have a son, too. He loves to build models. Would you like to help me build a model of a car?” This will help distract the person in a non-confrontational way and give him something meaningful to do.
A prompt is an easy way to gain someone’s attention.
Begin by making eye contact and saying the person’s name or placing your hand on the person’s shoulder. If you are giving an instruction, you should demonstrate first exactly what you would like the person to do.
Art is an excellent communication tool.
Art is one way that care partners can help people with dementia maintain their communication skills for as long as possible. Even if someone can no longer speak, creative expression gives people opportunities to make their needs known and to connect with others through gestures, movement, touch, and imaginative expression.
Changes in the ability to communicate can vary, and are based on the person and where he or she is in the process of dementia. Link Provided contains Alzheimer’s Association publications organized by topic. The information is developed in collaboration with Association subject matter experts, outside consultants and other authoritative sources. Alzheimer’s Association Publications
All of us get cold in the winter, but seniors are even more prone to being unable to warm up easily during those cold months. Seniors really can get dangerously sick just from being cold. Why is that? Read on…
Seniors lose body heat very quickly. Even faster than children do! As we age, it can sometimes be difficult to gauge how cold we are, which can make hypothermia a very real threat to seniors.
What Is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia happens when your core body temp drops too low. Normal body temperature is 98.6, although it’s perfectly normal for that to fluctuate depending on the person. For seniors, they can easily become chilled and if their temperature drops below 95 degrees, they are at risk for heart attacks, hypothermia or liver, and kidney function problems. If you are a family member or even around a senior loved one often, make sure they stay warm by having a lap blanket or sweater on as often as needed. They may not feel how cold they are, so be aware and keep them in layers when possible. Just doing these simple things go a long way in preventing a serious case of hypothermia.
Keep the House Warm
Whether your older adult lives alone or with a family member, take steps to keep their living space warm. You certainly don’t need to crank the heat up to uncomfortable levels, but during the winter, stay alert and aware of how cold the house is and making sure seniors are dressed appropriately. Keeping the temperature inside the home at least 68 degrees should be the goal. Also, if your senior loved one is already sickly, being cold can be all the more dangerous.
Here are some tips to keep the senior in your life warm enough:
Keep the house at least 68 degrees.
Close off rooms that are not used to save money on heating bills. You can also place rolled up towels at the base of the door to prevent cold drafts from coming in. Make sure basements are kept closed tightly.
Check the windows of your home to prevent any cold air coming in. If you can put your hand near the window and feel any draft at all, you will need to have the windows sealed or replaced.
Keep soft, thick socks on at all times and use slippers if it’s safe. Keep in mind, slippers can be a trip hazard if the senior has balance issues, so thick socks are a better choice.
Use thermal underwear as an extra layer when sleeping.
Electric blankets are helpful but it’s best to keep them on a low setting or buy one that has an automatic shut-off after a certain amount of time.
Eat well! Good food produces good fat which helps to keep us warm.
Limit alcohol. Drinking alcoholic beverages can cause you to lose body heat, despite what most people think.
Always have a plan in place in case of a power outage. Keep seniors safe by checking on them often and arranging for them to stay with a friend or relative should loss of power occur.
If your senior loved one uses a space heater, make sure it is one that is rated for safety. These heaters can be a fire hazard or even cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Before buying a space heater, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission to find out which heaters are the safest.
Finally, be aware of the signs of hypothermia. It can be tough to tell if someone is in hypothermia, but some signs include confusion, difficulty speaking clearly or lethargy.
For more information on keeping yourself or senior loved one safe at home, contact us at Around the Clock Home Care.
February is American Heart Month, offering everyone an opportunity to think about their heart health. How’s your heart?
Heart disease is a leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States, but it’s also largely preventable. If you’re like most Americans, though, your heart health might not be something you think about often. But there’s no better time than now to learn! Let’s take a look at four facts you should know about heart health for seniors.
You’ve probably heard of “heart disease,” but do you really know what it is?
Heart disease is what’s known as an “umbrella” phrase, meaning it’s used to describe a wide variety of diseases that affect the heart and its blood vessels. All sorts of conditions fall under that umbrella, including arrhythmias (heart rhythm issues), coronary artery disease, and atherosclerosis.
Most conditions encompassed by heart disease can increase a person’s risk of heart attack, chest pain, or even stroke. That’s why it is important to have regular check-up that help gauge a member’s overall health, including the fitness of his or her heart.
Would you know the signs of a heart attack if you or a loved one were experiencing them?
It’s important that everyone know the symptoms of a heart attack, because when one occurs, immediate emergency care is necessary. The longer a person goes without treatment, the more damage the heart incurs.
The American Heart Association identifies the following symptoms: Women often experience heart attacks differently than men do, so it’s important to also recognize common symptoms specific to women. While men typically experience chest pain, women may not and they often experience the lesser-known symptoms, like pain radiating down the arms or extreme fatigue. When it comes to heart health for seniors, living a healthy lifestyle is important. But what does that entail?
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Extreme fatigue
Pain in the back, neck, abdomen, or even the jaw Gas-like pain or pressure
Lightheadedness
Nausea
There are a few basics—get regular physical activity, don’t smoke, limit alcohol consumption, and get plenty of quality sleep. Sleep-wise, the National Sleep Foundation recommends older adults get between seven and eight hours of sleep each night.
A balanced diet is also important. Aim to fill your plate with plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins (like turkey or chicken), whole grains, and a small amount of healthy fats. It can be more difficult to get the nutrients you need as you age.
Regular check-ups and age-appropriate screenings also play an important role in a heart-healthy lifestyle.
As part of those check-ups, doctors often order blood work to make sure your heart is in good shape. Do you know what numbers they’re looking at?
To get a good gauge on heart health, you’ll want to know your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
Here’s what recommended:
Blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg or lower
Fasting blood glucose (blood sugar) of 100 mg/dL or lower
Total cholesterol of 200 mg/dL or lower
LDL (bad) cholesterol of 100 mg/dL or lower
HDL (good) cholesterol of 40 mg/dL or higher for men, 50 mg/dL or higher for women
Triglycerides of 150 mg/dL or lower
While these are the general guidelines, talk with your doctor about what numbers are right for you or your loved one based on your individual and family health history.
We care for your heart—and all the rest of you! Contact Us for information on our home care services and what we can do to help you stay safe, well, and independent!
Ways to Prevent a Hospitalization for Your Senior Loved One
Posted on:December 09 2020
Ways to Prevent a Hospitalization for Your Senior Loved One
For the average American, a hospital admission can be a stressful time for both the patient and caretaker, whether due to coronavirus (COVID-19) or something else. But recent studies indicate that for seniors, the real danger of the visit is in the 30-day window that follows a hospital discharge, and these studies don’t include the risks of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) at the hospital, which is essential to consider.
Thousands of older adults end up in the hospital because of accidents at home, medication mismanagement, frailty, or mental health issues. Study these “what to watch for” tips. They just might help your loved one avoid an unnecessary visit to the emergency room and save you from the stress of managing a health crisis.
Here are 5 ways to help prevent a hospitalization…
1. Follow doctor’s orders
Signs that a senior might not be on track include:
• missed doctors’
appointments for follow-ups or health checks
• unfilled prescriptions or unused pills, and confusion around the medication
regime
• the presence of dementia, which can make following doctor’s orders difficult
• lack of good sleep
• forgetting instructions
2. Do not ignore symptoms
Signs that a senior’s aches and pains—or health conditions—could
be putting them at risk include:
• ignoring symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or abdominal pain
• recent hospitalization
• living alone or not having someone check in daily
• discounting subtle changes, such as speed of walking,
weight fluctuations and unsteadiness
• poor personal hygiene
• consumption
3. Reduce the risk of falls and accidents
Signs that senior might be at risk of a fall include:
• inactivity—too
much sitting and no exercise
• frailty and poor balance
• lack of grab bars and proper lighting
• presence of throw rugs and other tripping clutter or hazards
4. Help your loved one stay active, physically, and mentally
Signs that a senior’s inactivity might be making him or her
vulnerable to hospitalization include:
• reduced muscle strength
• lack of friends and social connections
• chronic illness and restrictive pain
• inability to drive and lack of alternative transportation
5. Watch out for a healthy diet
Signs that a senior could be at risk of poor nutrition include:
• no help in preparing meals, or snacking rather than eating properly
• loneliness that negatively impacts a person’s appetite or interest in eating
In-Home Care Eases The Hospital-to-Home Transitions for Seniors
Posted on:November 18 2020
In-Home Care Eases The Hospital-to-Home Transitions for Seniors
Hospital stays, whether short term or long term, can cause stress and anxiety for seniors and family caregivers alike. While the entire family is eager for a loved one to return home, recover and resume their normal routines, many do not anticipate the difficulties that can come with transitions between care settings.
Navigating Hospital Discharges and Preventing Hospital Readmissions
The complications that can arise from care transitions are multifaceted and contribute to what has come to be known as the “revolving door” of hospital readmissions. According to research conducted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), nearly one in five Medicare patients discharged from a hospital—approximately 2.6 million seniors—is readmitted within 30 days, at a cost of more than $26 billion every year. Looking past the financial impact, hospitalization often takes a serious physical and mental toll on elderly patients even though they are admitted to improve their health.
Many readmissions are preventable and can be avoided with the addition of increased patient and family caregiver education, improved communication, better discharge planning, and proper post-hospitalization care. Hospitals, CMS and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) are working diligently to reduce rehospitalization rates, but seniors and their caregivers can take steps on their own to reduce the risks of readmission as well. Professional in-home care can play an important supporting role in transitions between care settings.
The Benefits of Hiring Post-Hospital In-Home Care
Each patient has specific needs following a surgery or hospital stay, but in-home care offers several core services that can facilitate the recovery process, improve quality of life and ensure compliance with discharge instructions. This added support also alleviates pressure on family caregivers.
Better Communication and Care Coordination
Clear communication is crucial for coordinating care among multiple health care providers and across different settings. Without regular communication, there is no way of ensuring that a senior gets the care they need both in the hospital and after they have been discharged.
It is very important for patients and family caregivers to ask specific questions and request explanations of terms and concepts they are unfamiliar with to fully understand all conditions, treatments and post-discharge instructions. Hiring a professional caregiver early on before a senior has even been discharged provides an added layer of knowledge and experience that can facilitate the discharge planning process. Professional caregivers can be invaluable when it comes to learning about a client’s health issues, ensuring that the prescribed course of treatment is followed, and determining what services and assistance will be necessary to help them resume their normal routines.
Keep in mind the importance of discharge planning. While many patients are understandably eager to leave the hospital and return home, rushing through this process can increase the risk of missing important points and result in fragmented instructions for post-acute care.
Improved Adherence to Discharge Instructions
Medications are often changed or added to a senior’s regimen following a hospital stay, and a home health aide can make sure these modifications are adhered to once they return home. In-home caregivers can pick up a senior’s prescriptions from the pharmacy, provide medication reminders and keep an eye out for new and worsening side effects. The same goes for discharge orders for bedrest, getting up to walk around periodically, or performing therapeutic exercises and stretches.
Follow-up appointments with an elder’s primary care physician and even specialists are another key part of post-hospital care. A professional care aide can help schedule these appointments, provide transportation to and from visits, and take notes. In-home care providers will incorporate all of these directives into a personalized care plan to be followed by the patient, their professional caregiver(s) and their family members.
Help With Personal Care and Household Tasks
Research has shown that hospitalization is associated with declines in functional abilities, and seniors often return to their homes with unmet needs for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). One study found that unmet ADL need increases the risk for hospital readmission. A senior’s new or worse functional disabilities and supportive resources (or lack thereof) may not be adequately addressed during the hospital discharge planning process. Fortunately, in-home care provides valuable support with ADLs and IADLs. Services can include light housekeeping to ensure a loved one is recovering in a clean and comfortable environment, meal preparation services to help them get the nutrition they need to heal quickly, and assistance with bathing, dressing, walking and transfers.
Supervision and Companionship
A smooth hospital-to-home transition requires multiple precautions and steps. Hiring an experienced aide will provide added supervision and monitoring that can prevent complications, detect changes in physical and mental health, and decrease the risk of rehospitalization. This added peace of mind is an undeniable perk for families, especially long-distance caregivers.
Additionally, in-home aides cultivate meaningful relationships with their clients. Loneliness and a lack of engagement are detrimental to a senior’s physical and mental health, especially in the wake of a medical setback. Patients may not be able to return to their normal routines immediately following a hospital stay, but professional caregivers provide valuable social interaction and are skilled at devising activities that meet a senior’s abilities and preferences. Even if home care services are only hired for a short time after a hospital stay, this experience can come in handy down the road, should a senior’s care needs increase, necessitating long-term home care.
Hiring Post-Hospital Home Care
Home care can help fill the gaps between hospital-to-home care transitions for either short- or long-term periods, depending on a family’s specific needs. There may be some initial anxiety about hiring someone to help care for a loved one after a hospital stay, but an extra set of hands and eyes can lessen the risk of a return visit. Delays in post-hospital care can increase the likelihood of readmission, so it is important to start your search in a timely fashion. All these measures will help to ensure your loved one’s safety and well-being and minimize the pressure on you, their family caregiver.
Around the Clock Home Care provides fully customized
care plans for you and your family.
With our services, we will coordinate care with your case manager, physician, and home health team to develop an individualized care plan with visits that range from a few hours a day to 24 hour around-the-clock care. Our goal is to keep your care in your home and prevent a readmission back to the hospital. All care plans are customized specifically for your loved ones needs and visits can be planned for any time of the day or night.
Contact us to assist you or a loved one stay well and safe at home.
Home care services provide high quality and compassionate care services to more than five million Americans annually, especially in times of community or personal health care crisis; and through current Covid-19 pandemic. 90 percent of Americans want to age in place, and home care is the preferred method of care delivery among the disabled, elderly, and chronically ill individuals eager to live independently in their own homes as long as they possibly can. Home care services allow families to stay together, and provide for greater health, dignity, and comfort in our communities. Home care in the U.S. is a growing alternative to hospitalization or other institution-based forms of care for acute and chronic illnesses, providing care to millions of Americans each year. Two million everyday heroes – including caregivers, home care aides, companion caregivers, nurse aides, and nurses –will travel almost a billion miles to deliver care and worked tirelessly to provide professional support to millions of Americans in need of quality care services. These dedicated home care professionals form a support network that continues to play a vital role in home care delivery for our nation’s disabled and aging population.
Around the Clock Home Care honors our caregivers for their courage, compassion, empathy, and tireless
work. They play an invaluable role for their clients as caregivers, companions, and friend.
Diabetes Care Within The Security And Comforts Of Home
A life-threatening disease like diabetes needs continual management to avoid diminishing an older adult’s quality of life. Diabetes complications can make it difficult for older adults to care for themselves and do daily household tasks. At Around the Clock Home Care, we provide in-home care and support to older adults who face health challenges from diabetes and other chronic illnesses. Our dedicated caregivers have provided quality, personalized care services with respect to seniors who want to live independently in their home.
Assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, feeding
Assistance with toileting, incontinence care and safe trips to the bathroom at night
Assistance with mobility (walking, transfer from bed to chair or wheelchair)
Assistance with medication reminders
Meal Planning and Preparation -
Medication is far from the only tool for managing diabetes.
Eating properly makes all the difference, and your loved one’s doctor or
dietitian will have recommended a healthy eating plan. Yet many seniors are
used to subsisting on processed, packaged foods that are high in all the wrong
ingredients — saturated fats, trans fats, sugar, and salt. Our caregivers can
take your loved one to the grocery store and prepare appetizing meals and snacks
with lots of fiber, whole grains, fruits, and healthy proteins.
Light Housekeeping Services
Changing and making beds
Light dusting, vacuuming, sweeping
Cleaning kitchen and bathrooms
Preparing nutritious meals
Laundry
Shopping, running errands
Providing transportation
Companion Services
Providing companionship to clients
Accompanying client to medical appointments
Accompanying client to social and recreational activities
Engaging client in meaningful conversation
Home Care A Viable Option for Older Adults with Diabetes
If you are caring for a loved one with diabetes, then you understand the daily needs of a senior managing the disease. Caregiving for a loved one with physical limitations and chronic illnesses can become overwhelming for family members. So, families may believe that their loved one would be better off in an assisted living facility or a nursing home where residents receive around-the-clock care by residential staff. Moving your loved one from the comfort of home to live with strangers at a long-term care facility may not be the best care option. For one, residents in understaffed nursing homes do not receive adequate attention. Beyond that, the costs of residential living add up over a period of time.
A less expensive and more viable option is home care. This is where Around the Clock Home Care excels. Our in-home caregivers provide the daily support that your loved one needs to remain at home. And we provide peace of mind to family members who want the best care for their loved one.
For more information about our home care services call (405) 222-6478
– Oklahoma or (479) 242-2273 – Arkansas. You can also fill out our Contact Us form.
We will follow-up with any inquiries about our home care services.
Falls Prevention Awareness Week, September 21-25, 2020Did you know that 1 in 4 Americans aged 65+ falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries for older Americans. Falls are costly—in dollars and in quality of life. However, falling is not an inevitable part of aging. Through practical lifestyle adjustments, evidence-based programs, and community partnerships, the number of falls among seniors can be reduced substantially.
The fear of falling should never prevent a senior from living an independent and full life at home. Around the Clock Home Care can provide a thorough home care and fall risk assessment for you or a loved one. We can address any personal care needs and potential fall hazards in the home. Contact us to learn more about our care services and fall risks.
Safely managing medications is essential for senior health
Home Care Medication Management
Most seniors take multiple medications throughout the day and it can be easy for a mix-up to happen.
Studies show that 87% of seniors take one prescription drug, 36% take 5 or more, and 38% use over-the-counter medications.
And taking medicine correctly is essential for treating your older adult’s health conditions and managing symptoms.
That’s why medication management for seniors is so important.
Putting a simple system in place and taking care of the basics helps seniors avoid common medication mistakes like taking the wrong drug, missing doses, or taking more than prescribed.
We share 10 important tips for helping your older adult safely manage their medications and also share some helpful tools.
10 tips for home medication management for seniors
1. Gather all medications, vitamins, OTC meds, and supplements into one location
If they’re all stored in different locations, it’s easy to lose track of the prescribed medication, vitamins, over-the-counter medication, or supplements that are being taken.
For example, some older adults might keep certain pills in the kitchen, some on their bedside table, and others in the bathroom medicine cabinet.
It’s especially important to include over-the-counter medications because they could still cause negative drug reactions when combined with prescription medications.
A good habit is to gather everything into one place.
That way, you can see exactly what is being taken, make sure similar prescriptions aren’t being prescribed for the same health condition, and know when to dispose of expired medications.
To stay organized and increase medication safety, keep all their current pill bottles and packages in a clear plastic storage bin (like this). That ensures everything stays together.
Use a separate bin for their backup medication supply or medicines that are only used occasionally.
2. Make sure medication is stored properly
In general, medication should be kept in a cool and dry place.
That means the bathroom cabinet isn’t a good place to keep meds – moisture and heat can affect drugs.
Medications should also be kept safely away from children or pets.
Important: For medication that requires specific storage, like refrigeration, follow the doctor or pharmacist’s instructions.
3. Create and maintain an up-to-date medication list
To prevent negative drug interactions, It’s essential to know exactly what medications your older adult is taking.
That’s why it’s so important to always have an up-to-date list of their medications, vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications.
Be sure to record:
Names of each prescription medication, over-the-counter medication, vitamins, and supplements
How often each item is taken
What dosage of each item is used
The healthcare provider who prescribed each prescription medication
The purpose of each item and/or symptoms it’s supposed to treat
Whether each item is for short-term or long-term use
4. Pre-sort medications for the week
Staying organized is essential to good medication management for seniors. Using a pill organizer allows you to help your older adult pre-sort their medications for the week.
The best type of pill organizer for your older adult is one with enough compartments for every dose they’ll need throughout the day.
For example, this one has 28 total compartments – 4 doses each day for 7 days.
If any pills need to be split, it may be best to do this ahead of time and include those halves in the pill organizer compartments.
That way, your older adult won’t need to fumble with a pill cutter or remember to split pills before taking them.
5. Double check for negative drug interactions
Many older adults are taking multiple medications, vitamins, over-the-counter medications, or supplements.
That’s why it’s important to double-check to make sure none of them will cause negative drug interactions.
To make sure there aren’t any interactions that the doctor or pharmacist could have missed, use an online drug interaction checker.
If any interactions are found, call the doctor or pharmacist for advice right away (don’t make any changes on your own).
6. Make sure medication instructions are clear
With medications, it’s absolutely essential to follow the doctor’s instructions.
That minimizes the risk of negative drug interactions, side effects, or reducing the drug’s effectiveness.
Make sure you and your older adult understand which medications are safe to take at the same time and which need to be spaced out to prevent negative side effects.
For example, some medications need to be taken on a full stomach while others need an empty stomach.
If there’s any uncertainty, don’t be afraid to ask the doctor for explanations and detailed instructions. It’s their job is to make sure the medications will improve health and the only way that can happen is if they’re taken correctly.
7. Set up a medication reminder and tracking system
With so many medications, it can be tough for seniors and caregivers to remember when to take each dose.
A medication reminder system and tracking log can help your older adult know that they’ve taken the correct meds at the right times.
A simple way of tracking when medications were taken is to take notes with paper and pen.
You could create a simple chart with the medication name and dose, day, and time of day. As your older adult takes each dose, record it with a check mark or X.
Filling out this chart helps both them and you know that doses weren’t missed. Nobody will need to wonder – hmmm, was that morning dose taken already?
To help remember when it’s time to take medicine, there are different ways to set reminders.
Some older adults might like to set a series of alarms on their mobile phone. Tech-savvy seniors might find a medication management app (like this one) useful.
If your older adult isn’t tech-savvy and only takes a couple of doses per day, a basic alarm clock could work well.
Some people make it a habit to take certain medications with certain meals. Keeping a routine helps them remember when to take which pills.
8. Understand the likely side effects of medications
It’s important to understand the potential side effects and drug interactions for each medication.
This helps you watch out for any health changes that could happen after your older adult starts a new medication, increases dose, or combines medications differently.
If you do notice changes or problems, contact their doctor right away.
9. Help seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia with their medication
If your older adult seems confused about their medicine or has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia, they will likely need help with their medication.
Their cognitive impairment means that a reminder system may not be helpful enough.
And taking medications incorrectly could cause serious harm to their health.
10. Plan ahead for medication refills
With long-term prescription medications, it’s essential to get refills on time so your older adult won’t run out and miss doses.
The most convenient solution is to ask the doctor to prescribe a 90 day supply through a mail-order pharmacy.
That way, the medication will be mailed and you’ll only need to remember to re-order every few months.
Many pharmacies also offer automatic refills and will notify you when the prescription is ready to be picked up.
Some pharmacies may also have prescription delivery services so you won’t have to pick them up.
New online pharmacy services like PillPack or Phil offer delivery and medication coordination services. Note: These companies cannot dispense Schedule II drugs which include narcotics like oxycodone, codeine, and opiates.
If none of these options work, be sure to mark the refill dates on your calendar so you’ll always remember to order a refill and pick it up before your older adult runs out.
Around the Clock Home Care can assist in your medication management and provide medication reminders as well with our Registered Nurse and home care aides.
Contact us for more information on medication management or other care needs. Contact Us
The topic of needing home care can be sensitive. It’s a tricky conversation to have with a loved one, but if they need care the conversation will be a big step towards reducing worry, preventing an accident and potentially saving a relationship. Before you engage in this conversation you should make sure you fully understand the need for care and don’t just assume. A great resource for families is through the Oklahoma State Department of Health’s, Health Aging Resource Site. It has guides on improving the quality of health and life for Oklahoma’s older adults who deserve to be living longer better.
Letting a loved one know you are genuinely concerned for their well-being might not be enough to convince them of their need for extra care.
Here are a few tips that might help ease the tension of this sensitive topic.
Include other relevant family members. Although you don’t want to appear to gang up on a loved one, you should include any family members that are a part of the current care team or are directly impacted by the needs your family is facing.
Frame the conversation around planning for the future. Talk about what you see going on and ask for your loved one’s input. Do they have concerns about their current situation? Do they have any suggestions? What are their concerns for the future?
Be prepared. If you are going to bring up the topic of planning for the future or necessary care you should come prepared with several options. Do not make demands about what needs to be done, but rather make suggestions.
Relate their situation to someone else they know. Have one of their friends had to make necessary changes in their life including extra care or a change in living environment? How does the friend feel about it? How does your loved one perceive that change?
Consider your relationship.What is your relationship with your loved one? Does it allow you to be direct? Are their underlying tensions that could be counter-productive? Point out to your loved one that receiving extra care will allow for you to rebuild your relationship as a child, spouse or friend instead of continuing to experience the strain care giving can have on both parties. Remember – be careful not to parent your parent. Treat them with dignity and respect by allowing them to weigh in on their own future.
Bring in some back-up. Having Around the Clock Home Care come to your home for an in-home assessment takes some of the pressure off of you when it comes to this touchy topic. Through our assessment we can ask the tough questions that might be uncomfortable for you to bring up. The in-home assessment can be a good conversation starter between family members when it comes to what care is needed and just how much care is necessary.
It can be a hard thing to tell someone you love they need additional care, but keep in mind the end goal is providing your loved one with the best possible care while allowing them to keep their independence and dignity. Take time to plan ahead and think about what the message you want to convey is and how you plan to deliver it. And remember, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources out there for caregivers. Call our office to set up a free in-home consultation.405-222-6478
Home Care Assistance After A Hospital or Rehab Stay
Posted on:June 25 2020
Recovering from a hospital stay takes time—and the older the patient is, the longer it can take them to get back to normal. It may be a relief to go home, but there’s no nurse available to help them at the push of a button.
During the recovery period, a relative or spouse might not be available to provide support. And if they are, they may not be able to offer the level of care to best help the senior.
“Without post-discharge home care, 20% of seniors end up back in hospital within 30 days.” (NCBI)
Some seniors still refuse post-hospital care, overestimating their strength and believing they’ll quickly regain independence. They’re actually putting themselves at risk of a “difficult, incomplete or slower-than-anticipated recovery”.
In fact, some people have more issues following hospitalization than they did before. Of those seniors who end up back in the hospital, the reason is often unrelated to the issue that admitted them in the first place. With a potentially compromised immune system, sleep deprivation, new medications, high stress and other complex developments, life immediately after discharge should be treated differently, even if it’s temporary. A home care professional can recognize warning signs or symptoms of other health issues that a family member may not.
“A home care professional can help with basic daily tasks during the healing process.”
Getting help at home shouldn’t be a squander to someone’s dignity. It’s not about creating a hospital environment; it’s simply basic daily support to make sure the person is safe and comfortable.
At Around the Clock Home Care, we can help seniors post-discharge with cleaning, cooking, bathing, administering medication, monitoring their health, and other tasks.
Post-hospital care can be a temporary or long-term solution for preventing falls, which are responsible for up to 15% of re-hospitalizations in the first month post-discharge. With Around the Clock Home Care we can greatly reduce risk for seniors–even if they don’t feel vulnerable.
To learn more about our home care services, call 405-222-6478.
Today, statistics demonstrate that the majority of the aged population in the United States plan to stay at home for as long as possible, despite changes in health, mobility, or cognition.
Home care providers have stepped up to the challenge, providing more opportunities for care and assistance at home than ever before; this includes services ranging from cooking or light housekeeping to meal preparation, transportation and personal care. In fact, the healthcare industry as a whole is also reflecting this change, implementing a fee for outcome rather than fee for service system. Financial incentives for less time spent in the hospital, rehab facilities and skilled nursing facilities are on the rise.
These services provide multiple benefits for our aging population. Here, we discuss when home care is a good fit and outline the benefits of home services
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Home Care is the most cost-effective health care delivery offered as there are no room and board costs compared to nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, and assisted living communities.
Home care promotes healing, as studies have shown that patients recover faster in the comfort of their home.
Home care offers individualized services that are tailored to the client’s health care needs and finances.
Home care reinforces and supplements care from the client’s family and friends.
Home care agencies have staff with expertise in assessing client needs and developing care plans, usually at no cost to the client. The professional staff at a home care agency can help clients navigate through the web of health care resources and effectively communicate your needs and goals to physicians, hospital staff, and nursing home staff. Home care agency staff can also assist clients and their family with any emotional barriers and concerns about accepting home care services
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Advantages of Working with a Home Care Agency
After deciding that home care is the right option, consumers weigh their options of hiring a home care agency or contract directly with a home health aide or nurse. However, consumers should be aware of the following benefits of working with a home care agency versus the risks of a direct hire:
Employer Obligations: By hiring a home health aide or nurse directly, the individual consumer and their family takes on the responsibilities as their employer. This includes paying for the employee’s payroll taxes, workers compensation, unemployment insurance, and liability. If the employee gets hurt during their time providing care or commuting to or from the individual’s home, it is the consumer that is legally and financially liable. Working with a home care agency alleviates the client of these responsibilities.
Peace of Mind: Unless the consumer does a criminal background check at their own expense, the consumer does not really know who is providing care in their home. Home care agencies are required to conduct thorough criminal background checks that provide more comprehensive data than available to the public prior to any home care agency employee stepping foot into a client’s home.
Security and Contingency: If a consumer’s direct hire harms or steals from the consumer, it is still the consumer that is liable. However, home care agencies are required to maintain various insurances to protect their clients and are required by law to promptly investigate all complaints of abuse or theft. Furthermore, home care agencies can provide a replacement without disruption of service if the home care agency employee gets sick, injured, or changes jobs.
Ongoing Training and Supervision: If the consumer has a direct hire, the consumer is responsible for continuous training and supervision. In contrast, home care agencies have the experience, knowledge, training, resources, and licensure to ensure that their employees are thoroughly trained in all services performed, including safe infection control, falls prevention, emergency preparation, and personal care tasks.
Contact Around the Clock Home Care for more information and for a free home care assessment.
A loss of independence is a fear many seniors have. When this fear is realized, there are several ways caregivers need to help.
According to an AARP study conducted in 2012, 57% of seniors over age 70 do not find it easy to live alone and need help with daily tasks. This loss of independence can have a toll on senior’s psychological and physical well-being.
Most people begin to live and perform daily life tasks independently by the age of 20. About 50 years later, many find that independence is no longer safe or viable. The loss of independence seniors face can often result if grieving, frustration, and other emotional upset. Caregivers can help seniors by understanding the process.
Types of Independence Seniors May Lose
• Mobility
• Ability to live alone
• Memory
• Comprehension/decision-making skills
• Strength to perform daily tasks
• Energy to clean or cook
• Social life
• Sight
• Hearing
How to Help Seniors Cope with Increased Dependency
Relying on other people’s assistance for basic tasks like bathing or common activities like driving can be frightening and frustrating for seniors. With the loss of independence, seniors also tend to lose some control over their schedule, freedom, preferences, and more.
Caregivers can help make decreased independence more bearable using strategies like these:
Maintain a Standard of Dignity
Requiring assistance with activities like bathing or shopping does not mean that seniors need to give up their dignity. Caregivers should always guard seniors’ privacy. It is also wise to use the terms a senior does when referencing body parts, activities, or even hygiene products.
Give Options for Care Giving
Since dependence requires trust and can be very personal in nature, it is important for seniors to have choices. Learn if a senior prefers same-sex caregivers, certain routines, etc.
Stay Organized and Consistent
Dependence means a loss of control. Seniors have to wait on others for assistance, which can be stressful. Caregivers should remain consistent in their routine so that seniors don’t need to be anxious about when or how their care will be provided. Organize necessary materials so they are accessible to seniors who cannot mobilize independently as well
.Offer Reminders That You Can Be Counted On
Depending on other people for help, especially with essential tasks, requires trust. This can cause seniors anxiety and stress. Remind a nervous senior that he or she is in good hands and is being taken care of to assuage their fears
Ask Instead of Telling
Care giving for someone who has lost a type of independence is a supportive role, not a leading role. Caregivers should ask seniors about their preferences, needs, etc., instead of telling them. For example, if a senior cannot cook for themselves, a caregiver should ask for input for meal planning.
Contact us at Around the Clock Home Care for information and schedule a free home care assessment.
Many seniors are hesitant to ask for help even when they know they need it because they are afraid they will lose their independence. This is a huge mistake. Failing to ask for help when you know you need it can backfire and cause seniors to lose their independence all together. Here are 5 ways home care can help seniors maintain their independence while simultaneously improving their overall quality of life.
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Help With Transportation
Older adults can sometimes lose their ability to drive safely. In-home caregivers can assist by arranging/providing, safe transportation for seniors who are unable to drive.
Encourage Regular Exercise
Many seniors refrain from exercise because they think it will lead to an accident. But seniors need to exercise to maintain their bone density, circulation, and strength. Caregivers can help by encouraging seniors to exercise and ensuring their safety by guiding and assisting them when they need it.
Assist With Meal Preparation
Preparing nutritious meals can be a huge challenge for seniors, especially for those with limited mobility. As a result, many seniors resort to processed foods. Caregivers can help ensure seniors get adequate nutrition by helping them prepare fresh meals as little as a few times per week.
Improve Home Safety
Having a safe home is important for seniors who want to remain at home for the duration of their life. Caregivers can help regularly checking for hazards seniors may not even be aware of.
Assist with Medication Management
Seniors can sometimes have a hard time remembering to take their medications. As a result, their health becomes jeopardized. Caregivers can assist by reminding seniors to take their medications at the appropriate time.
Contact us for more information or schedule a free assessment for you or your loved one.
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Protect Senior Heart Health During American Heart Month
Posted on:February 12 2020
Since heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, especially among seniors, it is important for caregivers to know the facts.
17.3 million deaths each year are caused by heart disease. Seniors are especially prone to cardiovascular complications. Learn about heart health to protect against this threat. In 1964, more than half of American deaths were the result of cardiovascular disease. Although this percentage has decreased, heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States. Every February is designated as American Heart Month by the federal government to encourage individuals to learn about, prevent, and address heart problems. Since seniors are especially at risk, it is important that caregivers understand heart disease.
Types of Heart Health Problems
There are a wide variety of heart health problems. Cardiovascular disease is a term used to broadly describe the plethora of problems that can impair the cardiovascular system.
Specific cardiac issues include, but are not limited to: • Diabetes • Hypertension • High Cholesterol • Cardiomyopathy • Arrhythmia • Valve Problems • Pericarditis • Stroke
• Heart Attack • Heart Failure
While some of these conditions are manageable, others can be fatal if they are not handled properly. It is vital for seniors and caregivers to learn the signs of heart problems.
Signs of Cardiovascular Issues
Symptoms That Need Immediate Medical Attention Emergency treatment should be sought for signs of heart attack and/or stroke, such as: • Chest pain or tightness • Upper body pain in the jaw, neck, back or arms • Difficulty breathing • Sweating • Vomiting and/or nausea • Dizziness or lightheaded • Facial drooping • Slurred speech • Unconsciousness/fainting • Anxiety • Heart palpitations • Fatigue • Numbness • Impaired vision
Signs It Is Time to Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment
Many heart conditions can be managed with regular treatment or lifestyle changes. These conditions often present with mild symptoms. Seniors should schedule an appointment with their primary physician or cardiologist if they experience symptoms of heart disease like: • Fluttering in the chest • Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat • High or low blood pressure • Lightheaded • Ongoing fatigue • Dizziness, fainting, or near fainting • Difficulty breathing after exercise • Lower body swelling
Tips for Heart Healthy Care-giving
Treatment for heart disease varies according to the specific illness. Some treatments are as simple as dieting. Others may require medication. In general, caring for an individual with heart problems will require lifestyle changes. Caregivers can help seniors protect their hearts by: • Reducing sources of stress • Providing a heart-healthy diet • Encouraging rest and taking physical activity slowly • Creating low level exercise regimens • Offering medication reminders • Watching for signs of change in heart and health
Whether you or a loved one is transitioning directly home after a hospitalization or moving through the care continuum via a rehabilitation or medical care facility, one-on-one home care is crucial for a safe and successful recovery.
The first 72 hours following a procedure or hospital stay represent a critical and vulnerable time for the patient, often involving a new diagnosis and changes in daily habits, required medications, meal regimens, rehab exercises and more.
Around The Clock caregivers can transport you or a loved one home from the care facility or hospital, providing essential support during an often stressful time. Once home, caregivers provide monitoring, reminders and emotional support to help the individual recover successfully.
The patient and family must make lifestyle adjustments no matter how comprehensive the discharge plan may be.The patient often feels fatigued and family members can feel confused or helpless. The Around The Clock Home Care team is here to help manage the transition and help you on the path toward a successful recovery in the comfort of home.
How Home Care for Alzheimer’s or related Dementia Differs from Regular Home Care
Posted on:January 30 2020
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As individuals age, they often require in-home assistance to continue to live independently. This holds true for seniors who do not have health issues, as well as those who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or another related dementia. Fortunately, there is home care that is geared towards both individuals and situations. Home care for those with dementia is different than other types of home care in some important ways.
Regular Home Care Vs. Dementia Home Care
Regular In-Home Care
Regular home care, which is often referred to as in-home care, is non-medical in nature. Personal care aides provide companionship, supervision, and one-on-one assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as helping an individual bathe, get dressed, get to and from the bathroom, and eat. They also assist with light housecleaning and other household chores, such as shopping for groceries, running errands, and preparing meals, and also might provide medication management and transportation to appointments and social outings.
This type of care is a great option for individuals who are able to maintain some independence, but do require assistance with certain tasks. While regular home care might be appropriate for an individual in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, as the disease progresses, more advanced care is needed. This is where dementia home care becomes an important and appropriate option.
Dementia In-Home Care
Dementia home care is geared specifically towards those with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. While caregivers offer the same assistance as regular home care, dementia caregivers are familiar with the stages of the disease, how it manifests, common problematic behaviors, strategies to adequately deal with them, and safety issues related to dementia. Commonly, care plans are established to focus on the likes, dislikes, and personality of the individual with dementia, and activities are planned accordingly to stimulate one’s memory. This may include looking at photo albums, listening to music, doing art projects, or reading. Surprisingly, dementia home care typically costs the same as regular home care.
Contact us for more information on home care for yourself or a family member.
Absolutely amazing company that genuinely cares about their patients and patients families. If I had a loved one in need of care or companionship, I would have it be from Around the Clock Home Care. They have a lot they can do to assist someone in need.
