Companion Care for Alzheimer's Patients

A Guide on How to Relocate After Retirement

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 19:17:40 GMT

Relocating after retirement can be both daunting and exciting. With so many relocation options, finding the perfect place to settle down and enjoy your retirement can seem overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together some valuable insights and practical tips to help seniors with their retirement relocation process.

Why Relocate After Retirement?

Various factors can drive the decision to relocate after retirement. Whether you wish to be closer to family, want a change of scenery, or move to a senior living haven like Texas , you need to consider critical factors like:

Lifestyle Factors

You should base your retirement choice on your preferred lifestyle, whether it’s urban, rural, active, or relaxed. You can choose the perfect spot by considering the activities, hobbies, and interests you want to pursue in retirement. For example, seniors with mobility issues could need assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) .

Climate and Environment

Your preferred weather conditions, seasonal changes, and year-round warmth are critical factors. Besides the climate, you can check whether the area offers activities and facilities that promote a fulfilling retirement lifestyle. You can look for golf courses, fitness centers, walking trails, parks, theaters, or other cultural attractions based on your preference.

Healthcare Facilities

You must have easy access to quality healthcare services and facilities to ensure peace of mind. You could start by researching the availability of hospitals, clinics, and medical specialists in the area. It’s also better to consider the reputation and proximity of healthcare providers, especially if you have specific medical needs or ongoing treatments.

Social Support and Community Engagement

To enjoy your retired life to the fullest, consider looking for a place with a vibrant senior community and engaging activities. While you can find local organizations, clubs, and social groups that cater to retirees, there’s a need to research recreational programs, cultural events, and volunteer opportunities to foster social connections and a sense of belonging.

Cost of Living

Since your budget plays a vital role in determining the feasibility of a move, it’s also critical to assess housing costs, transportation, and health expenses. You can only ensure financial stability during retirement by adequately evaluating your living expenses.

Transportation Infrastructure

Another factor is the proximity of airports, train stations, and major highways for easy travel and visiting family and friends. You can also check with locals to identify the reliability and accessibility of public transportation.

How to Find the Right Place to Relocate to?

Finding the perfect place to relocate to involves research, personal connections, and on-site visits. There are several options for seniors, including retirement communities , residential homes, and assisted living communities.

Before you make a choice, it’s critical to seek recommendations from friends and family who may have insights into retirement-friendly locations. Using online resources and retirement community websites to gather information on the significant factors can also be a great choice to narrow down your choices. Once you have a shortlist, you can plan visits to those communities, engage with residents, explore the locality, and experience the overall atmosphere to make an informed decision.

How to Make the Move?

Once you’ve identified the right option, you must plan efficiently for a successful move. The following steps can help you navigate the process smoothly and transition into your new place easily:

Downsizing and Sorting Through Belongings

Depending on your choice, you may have to organize your belongings by decluttering and making choices based on necessity and sentimentality. You can identify essential items and donate/sell items you no longer need or use.

Creating a Moving Timeline

It’s better to start planning well in advance to allow ample time for sorting, packing, and organizing. You can break down moving tasks into manageable steps and assign tasks to family, friends, and professional movers to reduce stress.

Hiring Reliable Moving Services

To help reduce your stress, you must research and select reputed moving companies. You can obtain multiple quotes, check online reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends or family. Please note that movers with experience handling senior relocations will be able to handle any special requirements.

Identifying Care Managers

While this might feel unnecessary, identifying good care management professionals near your new area could be invaluable during relocation. Care managers can coordinate healthcare services, offer in-home physical therapy , navigate senior living options, and advocate for your well-being. With the help of good care managers, you can get excellent in-home care without sacrificing your independence.

Notifying Important Parties

Seniors must update banks, insurance providers, doctors, government agencies, and personal contacts about the new address. Having the updated address helps ensure timely communications and assistance. Notifying your healthcare partner is vital as they are crucial to your well-being and continued care.

Relocating after retirement can be transformative, but the key to success is making the right decision based on your financial planning, lifestyle, and healthcare needs. If you or your loved ones are moving to Texas, you can get complete care management support from Premier Home Care . Our team excels in providing in-home assisted living and care coordination support. Call us at 903.753.2273 for more details!

Skilled Nursing: What Is It?

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 19:31:32 GMT

Skilled Nursing: What Is It?

Skilled nursing care is an essential aspect of healthcare, especially for elderly individuals and those with chronic conditions. In this blog, we will explore what skilled nursing care is, the different types of skilled nursing services, and the benefits it can offer.

What Is Skilled Nursing?

Skilled nursing is a type of medical care that is provided by licensed healthcare professionals who have undergone extensive training in medical care. Skilled nursing services can be provided in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and even in a patient's own home.

Skilled nursing professionals are responsible for providing a range of medical services, including wound care, medication management, patient assessments, and monitoring vital signs. They work closely with doctors, therapists, and other healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to the patient's unique needs.

Types of Skilled Nursing Services

There are several different types of skilled nursing services available to patients. Here are some of the most common:

Rehabilitation Services: Skilled nursing services may include rehabilitation services for patients recovering from surgery or an illness. These services may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.

When Do You Need Skilled Nursing?

Here are several reasons you might need skilled nursing:

Recovery from Surgery

After surgery, skilled nursing care is essential to help you recover. Skilled nurses can help monitor your vital signs, provide wound care, manage pain, administer medications, and offer physical therapy. With their expertise, they can help you recover from surgery faster and minimize the risk of complications.

Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) often require ongoing medical attention. Skilled nursing care can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and provide patients with the support they need to maintain their health. Skilled nurses can help with medication management, nutrition, monitoring vital signs, and disease education.

Rehabilitation after an Injury

Injuries like a broken hip, stroke or traumatic brain injury often require rehabilitation to help patients recover. Skilled nursing can help patients recover their strength, mobility, and independence through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. Skilled nurses can also help with medication management, wound care, and other medical needs during the recovery period.

Palliative Care

Palliative care is a type of care that is focused on relieving pain and other symptoms in patients with serious illnesses. Skilled nursing is often a crucial component of palliative care, as skilled nurses can help manage symptoms, provide emotional support, and assist patients with the challenges of their illness. Skilled nurses can also coordinate care with other healthcare providers to ensure that patients receive comprehensive care.

Benefits of Skilled Nursing Care

There are many benefits to skilled nursing care. Here are some of the most important:

Expert Care: Skilled nursing care is provided by licensed healthcare professionals who are trained to provide a high level of medical care. This means that patients can receive expert care from professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced.
Personalized Care: Skilled nursing professionals can provide personalized care that is tailored to a patient's unique needs. They can develop a treatment plan that addresses a patient's specific medical needs and preferences.
Convenience: Skilled nursing services can be provided in a variety of settings, including nursing homes, hospitals, and even in a patient's own home. This means that patients can receive the care they need in a setting that is comfortable and convenient for them.
Improved Quality of Life: Skilled nursing services can help improve a patient's overall quality of life. They can provide relief from symptoms, help manage chronic conditions, and offer emotional support to patients and their families.

In Conclusion

Skilled nursing care is an important aspect of healthcare that provides expert care and personalized treatment to patients. It is a highly specialized field that involves providing a high level of medical attention to patients who require it.

Rehabilitation at Home: Do’s and Don’ts

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 18:00:26 GMT

Did your physical therapist give you home exercises? Or, perhaps, you are unable to visit your rehabilitation center and need to do your exercises at home. Rehabilitation is an important recovery process aimed at coping with the consequences of your injury, and while rehabilitation can be performed at home, it is essential to do it right.

In this blog, we will go over some essential tips on what to do and avoid doing when going through rehabilitation at home.

Things To Avoid

Rehabilitation at home is important to maintaining your progress throughout the recovery journey. Yet, there are several things to keep in mind when exercising on your own:

Avoid Pushing Yourself Too Hard

Your physical therapist will make at-home workout recommendations based on the strain level that is healthy for your body. Make sure you're not exercising too much. Instead of recovery, you could run a risk of causing further damage to your muscles and joints if you demand too much from yourself.

Everyone’s threshold for pain is different. If you are exercising and your body starts hurting excessively, you should stop immediately. Pushing through the discomfort is not advised since you might end up doing more harm than good.

Avoid Trying Complex Postures or Overdoing Stretching

Stretching helps you recover control over your coordination. Although you may certainly perform some gentle stretches, try not to overdo them. Only trained specialists are adept at some stretching techniques. Even though there are instructions available for obtaining those complex positions, one mistake could result in a disaster. Staying safe and being patient with oneself are essential components of a successful recovery.

Avoid Neglecting Medical Equipment and Supplies

If you require specialized medical equipment and supplies, ensure that these items are properly maintained and available at all times. This includes items such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, braces, and wound care supplies. Neglecting to maintain and have access to these items can lead to delays in recovery and potential injury.

Things To Aim For

Now that you know what to avoid during your at-home rehabilitation, let’s take a look at some tips on how you can make the most of your homework:

Clarify All Your Doubts

You should be fully aware of your body's condition, the consequences of your injury, and the mode of rehabilitation. You should also make sure you are fully acquainted with your routine and understand the purposes of every set of exercises. You should ask your physiotherapist questions and clarify all your doubts before starting rehabilitation at home. You should also be honest with your physician about any difficulties you may face. There is nothing wrong with seeking further guidance and making sure you are well-prepared for your at-home exercises. Physiotherapists are trained to pick exercises that can help you without putting any additional strain on your body and also incorporate any issues you may have with certain movements or exercises so you can still gain your wanted results.

Commit to Your Routine

To succeed in recovery, you should commit to your rehabilitation routine and follow the instructions of your physician. Also, it is highly recommended that you actively participate in the process. You should take notes about how you feel throughout your home exercises and let your therapist know if anything causes you pain during your routines. This feedback will help them readjust the rehabilitation routine to fit your needs.

Set up a Comfortable and Safe Environment

When setting up for rehabilitation at home, create a comfortable and safe environment. You should have easy access to the bathroom, a comfortable bed, and any necessary medical equipment. It is also important to remove any potential hazards, such as loose rugs, slippery surfaces, and clutter. You should also ensure adequate lighting and temperature control for a comfortable environment.

Follow a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet can help with recovery and overall well-being. You should follow a diet recommended by your healthcare provider, which may include specific nutrient requirements or restrictions. Proper hydration is also important for recovery, particularly if you have mobility limitations.

Involve Family and Friends for Support

Rehabilitation can be a challenging and isolating experience, but involving family and friends can provide essential support and encouragement. Loved ones can assist you with daily tasks, provide emotional support, and offer motivation.

At Premier Home Care , we aim to help you or your loved one to recover from a past injury through therapy services such as physical, speech, and occupational therapy. We also strive to promote overall health and wellness. Contact us if you would like to get started on your rehabilitation journey and see yourself in a brighter, healthier lifestyle today!

Tips on How to Take Care of Your Mental Health

bberendsen@ideazonemarketing.com (Bob Berendsen) — Wed, 10 May 2023 19:25:55 GMT

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health issues. It's an opportunity to start conversations, break down stigmas, and encourage individuals to seek support for their mental well-being.

What is the Purpose of Mental Health Awareness Month

The goal is to encourage people to seek help, educate communities about mental health, and advocate for policies that improve access to mental health care. By increasing awareness and understanding, Mental Health Awareness Month aims to promote a message of hope and recovery for those affected by mental illness.

As we age, there are many factors that can affect our mental health including isolation, sickness or job loss. It is important that you remember that you are never alone and that it’s okay to not be okay and to reach out for help.

Top Tips for Optimum Mental Health

It's important to remember that taking care of your mental health is a journey. It's never too late to start prioritizing your mental health, and making small changes to your daily routine can have a big impact on your overall well-being. Remember to be patient with yourself and take things one step at a time.

Remember that mental health issues are not a sign of weakness or a personal failing. Mental health conditions are common and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Seeking help for mental health concerns is a brave and necessary step towards improving your well-being.

Stay Active and Engaged

Staying active and engaged is crucial for seniors to maintain good mental health. Engaging in regular exercise not only benefits physical health but also has a positive impact on mental health. Exercise helps to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression and can improve mood and self-esteem.

Seniors can try finding an enjoyable activity, such as walking or swimming, to develop healthy habits that will become a regular part of their daily routine.

Socializing with friends and family is also vital for maintaining good mental health, particularly for seniors who may feel isolated. Joining groups like walking clubs could be a great way to meet other seniors with common interests.

Work on Cognitive Health

Did you know that your cognitive skills, including language, memory, and focus, can have a significant impact on your mental health? When you struggle to connect with the world around you, it can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, or confusion. That's why it's important to maintain your cognitive health, particularly as you get older, to protect your mental well-being.

Whether you enjoy jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, or adult coloring books, working on them alone can help give your brain a boost. And, if you want to have some fun with your friends or family, playing card games or board games is another great way to keep your mind sharp while spending quality time together.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important for both your physical and mental health. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to improve your mood. You should definitely avoid using alcohol as a way to cope with negative feelings. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water!

A healthy diet can also help reduce the risk of chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

Volunteer

For many seniors, volunteering is a rewarding way to find fulfillment and purpose in life. There are countless organizations and causes out there that are in need of support, and many opportunities are available for older adults who want to get involved and feel valued.

The benefits of volunteering go beyond just helping a good cause. It can also have a positive impact on seniors' physical, emotional, and mental health. Volunteering allows seniors to share their skills and expertise with others, whether it's reading to children or lending a hand at a local hospital, food bank, or soup kitchen. This not only helps them stay active and engaged but also helps them make new friends and become part of a vibrant and diverse community. So, if you're looking for a way to give back and enrich your own life, volunteering could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Seek Help When You Need It

When a senior is struggling with their mental health, it's important to remember that there is no shame in asking for help. Seeking support from a doctor, counselor, or support group can provide valuable resources and assistance to help seniors manage their mental health and improve their overall well-being.

At Premier Home Care, we offer many services that include in-home mental health assessments and mental health counseling. Remember that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Reach out to us today.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 14:17:50 GMT

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month

Parkinson’s disease affects many individuals in the United states, chances are you know someone who has been diagnosed with this disease. In this month’s blog, we are exploring the complexities of the disease and some steps you can take in order to watch for signs in your loved ones.

Parkinson’s Disease: Symptoms to Look for

Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological condition that affects most muscles and nerves in the body. Since the disease affects your nerves over time, the signs of Parkinson’s Disease can be subtle at first. This disease is lifelong and can affect people from middle to old age.

Onset symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease:

Decrease in facial expressions

Decrease in casual movement including swinging arms while walking

Poor posture

Issues with balance

Slowed speech

Advanced Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

Advanced Parkinson’s Disease has more evident symptoms. These symptoms are usually associated with the disease such as tremors. The tremors can make daily life very difficult. Typically walking, talking, and eating will be affected by Parkinson’s Disease. Since Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological condition, most of the body’s functions will be affected.

In advanced stages these advanced symptoms may be present:

Little or no facial expressions

GI issues including incontinence

Inability to walk or talk

Mental decline

At Premier Home Care, we are dedicated to providing care for those who have been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in any stage. Our homecare professionals are trained in Chronic Care Management in order to care for patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease:

Chronic Care Management: Skilled nursing services can also help manage chronic conditions like Parkinson’s Disease. Skilled nursing professionals can help patients manage their symptoms.

If you are in need of skilled nursing services in Longview, Texas, Premier Home Care is a leading provider of Parkinson’s Disease care services. Our team of skilled nursing professionals is dedicated to providing the highest quality care to our patients. Contact us today to learn more about our services .

Touch Deprivation in Seniors

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 14:48:37 GMT

Touch Deprivation in Seniors

Touch deprivation is a serious problem that is found in seniors. It can impact their health in many different ways, both physically and emotionally. This problem can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation and trigger anxiety and depression in seniors.

Today we will learn everything about touch deprivation in seniors, its impact, and some tips for managing it in seniors effectively.

What Is Touch Deprivation in Seniors?

Many seniors suffer from touch deprivation. Touch deprivation is when a person does not receive enough physical touch. This can have a negative impact on a senior's physical, mental, and emotional health.

Some seniors may feel isolated and lonely in the absence of physical touch. They may crave human interaction and feel more depressed and anxious without it. Other seniors may not mind being without physical touch and, in some cases, might even prefer it.

Seniors may experience different effects from touch deprivation, so it's important to take into account and respect each person's unique needs and preferences.

What Causes Touch Deprivation in Seniors?

When we think of touch, we often think of it as a sense we use to interact with the world around us. However, touch is also an important part of our emotional well-being.

Because they frequently live alone and have fewer opportunities for physical contact, seniors are especially at risk for touch deprivation. There are many reasons why seniors may experience touch deprivation. Here are five of the most common:

1. Limited mobility: As we age, we often lose the ability to move around freely. This can make it difficult to get the physical touch we need.

2. Isolation: Seniors often feel isolated from the rest of the world. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair, which can, in turn, make it harder to reach out and seek touch.

3. Fear: As we age, we may become more fearful of physical and emotional intimacy. This can make it challenging to seek out or accept touch.

4. Poor health: Poor health can make touching difficult or even painful. This can lead to further isolation and feelings of hopelessness.

5. Death of a spouse or partner: The death of a spouse or partner can leave a senior feeling touch-deprived. This can be a very difficult time, both emotionally and physically.

How Does Touch Deprivation Impact Seniors?

According to research conducted in 2021, it was observed that there were several implications of physical touch on physical health. This research emphasizes the importance of physical touch, which triggers several different responses.

Now, there are many ways that touch deprivation can impact seniors. One way is that it can increase anxiety and depression. This is because touch is a form of communication; seniors can feel isolated and lonely when they do not receive enough. Touch deprivation can also trigger several psychological issues in seniors.

Another way that touch deprivation can impact seniors is that it can lead to a decline in physical health. This is due to the fact that touch can encourage the release of healthy hormones like oxytocin. When seniors do not receive enough touch, their physical health, along with their mental health, can suffer.

How to Manage Touch Deprivation in Seniors?

Many of us have been forced to reconsider how we relate to others as a result of the pandemic. The lack of physical contact can be especially hard for seniors, who are often already isolated. Here are six ways to help manage touch deprivation in seniors:

Increase social interaction: Make sure seniors have opportunities to socialize with their family members and friends, even if it's just via video call or phone.
Offer gentle touch: If seniors are comfortable with it, offer gentle touches like a pat on the back, holding hands, or even sitting close to them.
Encourage physical activity: Exercise releases endorphins that can help boost mood. Practicing meditation can also help them cope effectively with the anxiety of touch deprivation.
Connect with nature: Spend time outside in nature, and encourage seniors to do the same. Research conducted on ecotherapy states its benefits for good mental well-being.
Promote creativity: Engage in creative activities like art, music, or writing.
Seek professional help: If seniors are struggling to cope, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Conclusion

Touch is an important part of our lives, and it is important to ensure that seniors get enough touch. Touch deprivation can have a negative impact on seniors in many ways, but there are things that we can do to help them. If you are a senior or know someone who is touch deprived, there are many ways to get help.

Talk to a doctor or mental health professional about ways to combat the problem. Many support groups and organizations can help. The biggest community-based provider of homecare in the area is Premier Home Care, which has its headquarters in East Texas.

We are dedicated to offering high-quality, compassionate care that is specifically suited to the requirements of each patient. In collaboration with our healthcare community, we offer clinical services, supportive care, and care management at home. Learn more about us here .

Know Everything about Physical Therapy In-Home Care

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:15:16 GMT

Know Everything about Physical Therapy In-Home Care

Old age, diseases, injuries, and surgeries can restrict the functional mobility of individuals. However, with physical therapy, these symptoms can be managed. Physical therapists and assistants evaluate the rate of physical pain and loss of functionality of limbs to ascertain the exercises and stretching required to improve patients' health and well-being.

Hospitalized patients have access to physical therapists from the hospital, and outpatient physical therapy is available for patients who live at home. Physical therapy is provided at home for patients who cannot travel to hospitals for rehab.

What is Physical Therapy in-Home Care?

An individual suffering from pain or immobility can immensely benefit from physical therapy. But what if the patient is unfit to travel long distances to get physical therapy? For example, a patient who has undergone hip or knee replacement surgery can barely move out of bed without assistance, let alone travel to outpatient therapy centers.

It is where physical therapy at home comes into the picture. A physical therapist goes to the patient's house and offers rehabilitation services so that these people can get back to their normal activities. Many patients find it difficult to leave the safety and comfort of their houses to avail themselves of physical therapy. Physical therapy at home allows such patients to enjoy the benefits of physical therapy, such as increased mobility and overall improvement in health.

Benefits of Physical Therapy in-Home Care

Physical therapy at homecare has myriad benefits.

Physical therapy through exercises and stretching helps patients regain their strength, mobility, and overall functionality.
Physical therapy at home care allows therapists to pay one-on-one attention to patients. It allows for more effective healing and recovery in the long run.
Many patients use physical therapy for pain. A broken arm might heal with medication and a splint, but the pain might persist long after the bone heals. Physical therapy through supervised movements and controlled exercises helps with pain management.
Since physical therapists and their assistants work with patients in their homes, they become aware of the immediate surroundings of such patients. Through thorough observations, these medical professionals become aware of the difficulties these people face in the safety of their own homes. Based on their understanding, they can suggest removing a chair from the way or introducing railings along the corridor for extra support.
Physical therapists in a home setup also get the opportunity to educate and guide family members and caregivers of the patients so that they are better equipped to handle the needs of the patients.

Who is Eligible for PT in-Home Care?

Physical therapy at home is covered under medical insurance as long as healthcare professionals guarantee that physical therapy at home is non-negotiable for those patients. Insurance covers at-home therapy charges in the following cases:

Patients who are severely sick and for whom traveling could be fatal.
People who have limited mobility cannot travel.
People who do not have access to travel to hospitals, like aged people living alone.

Patients who can travel to hospitals for therapy, yet opt for therapy at home for comfort, will have to bear the charges on their own.

How Effective is PT in-Home Care?

It is a misconception that physical therapy at home is less effective than therapy at hospitals or local therapy centers. This misinformation is based on the fact that we need access to cutting-edge equipment and tools at home. We believe exercising with heavy and expensive instruments is the only way to heal and train our muscles. But we can regain our strength with the right exercises and proper techniques.

Moreover, physical therapists carry light instruments to train patients at home. They are also educated to use available resources for the most effective treatments. Therapists can use the stairs, heavy jars, tables, stools, and other items at home while training patients.

The goal of physical therapy at homecare differs from patient to patient depending on their physical strength, ailments, external support, age, etc. A patient recovering from orthopedic surgery might need special attention from a private physical therapist until they gain strength and mobility to travel.

On the other hand, geriatric patients might need physical therapy at home for as long as they live. For them, the goal will not be to increase mobility over a few weeks but to lead a comfortable and more functional life. Old age cripples’ healthy individuals and makes getting out of bed a daily struggle. Physical therapy improves their quality of life so that they can be independent.

Final Words

While physical therapy is a necessity for many, being able to travel daily for therapy is a privilege. Many circumstances make it difficult to attend therapy at a local center. Home physical therapy, in such cases, can allow a patient to regain full functionality. These improvements in physical health boost morale and confidence and make individuals happy.

Premier Homecare is a Texas-based home healthcare service provider. They work tirelessly through skilled healthcare providers to heal people with care, compassion, and best-in-class care management services. Contact them for more information.

The Benefits of In-Home Palliative Care

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 18:23:46 GMT

The Benefits of In-Home Palliative Care

Caring for a chronically ill loved one can be both physically and emotionally taxing, not only for the primary caregiver but also for the entire household. It can be rather distressing to witness someone you hold dear experience pain, discomfort, deteriorating health, disability, or fighting a losing battle against a terminal disease. What’s worse is that you have little to no control over it, except for extending support and comfort in such tough times.

However, as much as someone is struggling, all they crave is a life of dignity and respect. They want to be treated with love without all the pitiful glances or feeling like a liability. For this reason, palliative care has emerged as an up-and-coming segment of medical caregiving, either in a professional setting or even at home. Let’s take a look at the fundamentals of palliative care and how in-home palliative care can be beneficial.

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is a specialized area of medicine and healthcare that targets people with serious illnesses such as cancer, dementia, cardiovascular diseases, etc. It aims to offer holistic relief from the stress or symptoms of the illness, which may hamper the overall quality of life. Rather than focusing on the patient’s prognosis, palliative care accounts for their needs that may or may not be linked to their medical condition.

Such supplementary therapy is facilitated by a team of specially trained doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who offer an additional layer of comfort and support.

What Are the Benefits of In-Home Palliative Care?

Now that you have an idea of what palliative care is, let’s move on to the benefits of seeking such facilities at home. The following are some notable advantages of in-home palliative care:

Puts the Patient First

If you are living with a chronic illness, you will know that there comes a point in life when others perceive it to be a part of who you are—so much so that the lines start to blur. Being treated as such can be rather exasperating, especially when there is already so much going on around you. Fortunately, palliative care makes you feel seen (and heard). It accounts for what you want as an individual rather than as a patient. Having such an environment right at home can be a breath of fresh air.

Improves Quality of Life

The primary objective of palliative care is to improve your quality of life. With this in mind, what could be a better place to start implementing it than at home? If you can live a pain-free and stress-free life in your home, everything else simply works out as an extension of the same.

Further, while those dealing with the illness are the primary focus of palliative care, it also extends to their caregivers, family, and friends as well. By offering them a mechanism to cope, palliative care lays the groundwork for a positive household environment, which will further enhance your living conditions!

Makes Palliative Care Accessible

According to the WHO, only 14% of people who require palliative care currently receive it! Such dismal numbers can be due to various reasons, ranging from a lack of knowledge on this subject to the unavailability of resources. Either way, there are missing links in its supply chain.

In this backdrop, in-home palliative care makes it more accessible by offering last-mile delivery. When you have nurses and doctors coming to you, who wouldn’t want to get the treatment to make life easier?

Reduces Hospital Visits

Speaking of having nurses and doctors come to your home, the last few years have made it evident that visiting a hospital may not be as safe as it once was. It is particularly true in the case of those requiring palliative care, as you may already be immunocompromised.

Plus, having to travel to the hospital may not be as easy as it may sound. As such, it is best to avoid going to hospitals and get the care you need in the comfort of your home. Spare yourself the headache. The sheer difference between receiving treatment in a familiar and comfortable environment versus somewhere else can make you more responsive to it.

May Be Lifesaving

While chronic and terminal illnesses are overwhelming as they are, they are also accompanied by mental health conditions like depression. Given the interplay of mental health with mortality, in-home palliative care could be a push toward higher survival rate.

At the same time, it can offer a judgment-free safe space for your family and caregiver. Receiving such critical support at home could further enhance your quality of life and make palliative care worthwhile for you and those around you.

Palliative care requires specially trained multi-disciplinary health experts to offer comfort, support, and relief to those suffering. If you are looking for in-home palliative care services, contact Premier Home Services for any kind of service to restore and improve your overall health and function. Our award-winning, dedicated team of caregivers is a leading provider of care management, rehabilitation therapies, and supportive care at home. Contact 903-753-2273 or click here for more details.

Companion Care for Alzheimer's Patients

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 14:20:00 GMT

Companion Care for Alzheimer's Patients

As per the Alzheimer’s Association, a leading health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research in the United States of America, more than 6 million Americans of all ages will have Alzheimer’s by the end of 2022. It further claims that by 2050, approximately 12.7 million people aged 65 and older will have Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that affects a person’s brain cells, memory, thoughts, and behavior. As a progressive disease, people with Alzheimer’s need assistance and professional care round-the-clock. Alzheimer’s patients generally face a situation where they might experience difficulty eating and swallowing, need help to walk, or become susceptible to various infections, especially pneumonia. Read on to learn how to take better care of memory care patients.

Learn about the Disease to Understand a Patient Better

● First and foremost, learn about Alzheimer’s as much as possible. It will help you better understand the disease and the patient’s situation. Start by understanding the different stages of Alzheimer’s and the associated symptoms to plan your course of action well ahead. Usually, people with mild Alzheimer’s disease can function independently; however, they may experience difficulty concentrating or remembering recent events. Those with moderate Alzheimer’s disease suffer from memory loss, confusion, and physical symptoms.

● In contrast to both these stages, people in the final stage of Alzheimer’s disease need help with almost all their daily activities, including moving, walking, and eating. They may also lose awareness of their immediate environment and no longer recognize their family and friends. And this is when a person requires constant assistance. Remember, as Alzheimer’s symptoms worsen with time, the role of a caregiver becomes challenging and requires a multi-dimensional approach.

Last-Stage Care

In the last stage, a person needs extensive care that one cannot provide at home, even with additional assistance. So, you have to move them into a care facility to ensure they get the required service and help and live their lives with dignity.

Testimonies suggest that, initially, families struggle to decide on late-stage care. Then, after much brooding, it is best to move forward without hesitation and shift the person to a place with good care facilities.

Here is a laydown of some of the most critical daily caregiving tasks during late-stage Alzheimer’s disease.

Monitoring Food and Fluids

One essential daily caregiving task is monitoring the person’s need to eat. In the last stage of the disease, they may forget to eat or lose their appetite. Therefore, you must encourage them to eat. Caregivers can accomplish this by adding natural sugar to their food or providing their favorite foods to ensure they eat enough.

At the caregiving center, the resident doctor may suggest supplements to add calories to their diet if they witness weight loss. In addition, the person should also be encouraged to eat on their own. Sometimes, you may also need to tell the person to chew their food correctly.

Difficulty in Toileting

During the final stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the person may experience difficulties and require toileting. Therefore, it becomes essential for the care provider to monitor the person’s routine to plan their journey to the washroom.

Besides, limit the liquid before bedtime; however, ensure the person stays hydrated. You can also use adult diapers at night. It is also critical for the individual to excrete daily. Use natural laxatives such as leafy vegetables, prunes, and raisins, or ensure they consume fiber-rich foods in case of constipation.

Dealing with Bedsore

As the person’s ability to move decreases, they may develop skin breakdown and pressure sores. To ensure this does not happen, you can follow these steps:

Change the person’s position frequently to relieve pressure and allow proper blood circulation.
Ensure the person is comfortable and properly aligned.
Use soft cushions to support their body parts, such as the neck, arms, and legs.
Ask a nurse how to handle the person physically without inflicting any injury.

Further, keeping the person’s skin clean and healthy is equally essential. Also, it would help if you looked for rashes and sores regularly. You can also consult the doctor and plan a few exercises to ensure the person can perform some physical activity and keep their body active.

Infections

A person with Alzheimer’s disease is vulnerable to multiple infections. Therefore, help them maintain proper hygiene. Over and above that, ensure both the caregivers and the person with Alzheimer’s disease are fully vaccinated to tackle the risk of flu, influenza, and pneumococcal pneumonia.

Understanding the Patient’s Pain

During the final stage of Alzheimer’s disease, it becomes difficult for the patient to communicate the feeling of pain. So instead, look for physical signs and analyze their gestures to determine if they are feeling pain. Remember that anxiety, agitation, trouble sleeping, and shouting can also be signs of distress and pain.

Get in touch with the experts at Premier Homecare , a leading provider of care management and clinical services to the East Texas community in the United States, to offer best-in-class services to your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. As one of the region’s largest community-based home care providers, it effectively delivers quality healthcare services designed for each patient.

Benefits of In-Home Skilled Nursing vs. A Nursing Home

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 19:22:48 GMT

Benefits of In-Home Skilled Nursing vs. A Nursing Home

As your parents and elders grow older, their dependency on you increases. It may be disheartening to see their frailty when you have always seen them full of vigor and good health. And this care does not stop with elders: at times, due to unfortunate incidents, it may be the younger generation who require continuous care.

Taking care of your family when they need continuous care may be physically and mentally draining on the caregivers. In such cases, you need to think about other ways to provide care without going through a stressful meltdown.

Multiple options are available for care, and it is only a matter of choosing the best one for your situation. Many financial implications come with choosing alternate care options. The benefits and drawbacks of each option need to be assessed with respect to your individual circumstance to decide upon the right choice of care.

While both these in-home skilled nursing and nursing homes could ease the burden of continuous care, a few points tip the scales of one in favor of another. Read on to learn more about why in-home skilled nursing is the better of the two care options.

Benefits of In-Home Skilled Nursing

Familiarity With Surroundings

With in-home nursing, your loved ones are cared for in their homes. They are familiar with their surroundings, which gives them a sense of security. This sense of security is essential when suffering severe illnesses like dementia or Alzheimer's.

In nursing homes, elders may be provided with a clean and comfortable living space. Still, it will be less personable and hinder the elders from being comfortable with their surroundings. Leaving elders in nursing homes could confuse them and bring out a feeling of abandonment.

Affordability

Nursing homes provide their patients with rooms, accessibility to nutritious food, and various amenities for their betterment. However, there is always a steep charge involved with each additional service. With in-home skilled nursing, you will only need to pay for the services of a skilled nurse.

All other amenities needed for the safety and health of the elders are already available in their homes. If any elderly patient needs more special equipment for their welfare, it can be arranged as per the requirement. There is no need to pay for amenities that your loved one might not use. Even if care is needed all day or 24/7, it might still be more cost-effective than nursing homes.

Personalized Care

Nursing homes could be impersonal. Nurses and attendants may be busy with all the patients in their care. They have to ensure that everything in the home runs smoothly for their patients’ benefit. They may not be able to spend more time on any particular patient.

However, in the case of in-home nurses, the situation is different. A nurse can spend one-on-one time with their charges and look after their individual needs. The likes, dislikes, and other personal opinions regarding their health can be conveyed to the nurses because of the trust built between them. With personalized care, a nurse can understand what their charges need and provide them necessary support.

Customize Your Plans

Most nursing homes have a standard way of caring for their patients. It may not be enough in case a person needs more assistance. In such cases, in-home skilled nursing is the best option.

Depending on a person’s needs, a personalized care plan can be drawn to ensure the patient receives comprehensive support. For example, while one person needs care throughout the day, another may need help only for a few hours. Nurses and attendants can be chosen as per the requirement.

Increased Privacy

In nursing homes, patients may have to share their bedrooms, bathrooms, and personal spaces with other residents. It could limit their privacy and make them long for home. On the other hand, even when you bring in skilled in-home nurses, the patients are assured privacy in their homes. They can live as they like without anyone creeping into their personal space. Nurses can help when needed but leave their charges to their routines otherwise.

Provided Independence

Elders who need nursing care are often limited in their physical abilities. They cannot do things they initially could, like gardening or preparing meals. Everything will be taken care of by the nursing home staff in a nursing home, limiting the elders' independence. This can take a mental toll on them and hinder their progress in getting better. With in-home skilled nursing, elders can still perform their everyday activities independently. They may take help from their attendants, but the sense of independence can keep them from feeling low.

Choosing In-Home Skilled Nursing Over Nursing Homes

Choosing alternative options for caring about your family is always a difficult task. Not only do you have to look at the financial aspects, but you also need to see which option would benefit your loved one better. In-home skilled nursing services win by allowing your loved ones to maintain their dignity and independence.

Premier Home Care has provided home health services for over a decade. The services are provided according to the requirements of each person. Contact us if you want to know more about specialized care at home!

What’s the Difference Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 19:00:46 GMT

What’s the Difference Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy?

When you hear the words physical therapy and occupational therapy, they may seem interchangeable. These two terms are used to describe similar causes and symptoms. Physical and occupational therapy can help you improve your quality of life while maintaining independence. These healthcare professionals provide rehabilitative care to patients recovering from illness or injury. Even though their areas of expertise differ, they frequently collaborate to get the patient's life back on track.

Whether you are looking to seek treatment or simply want to understand the differences between these two types of therapy, here we will explore physical and occupational therapy in detail and the key differences between them.

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy, also known as physiotherapy, improves a person's ability to move and function with the help of exercises and a hands-on approach. When you have difficulty walking, sitting, or standing, or if you have pain from an injury, your doctor may recommend physical therapy. Physical therapy is sometimes prescribed to avoid surgery or a sports injury. It is also highly helpful for patients recovering from a stroke or those suffering from issues like arthritis and osteoporosis. This treatment is tailored to your specific needs and is a conservative problem-solving approach. Physiotherapists generally work out of fitness centers, outpatient centers, clinics, offices, hospitals, and home health agencies .

What is Occupational Therapy?

Occupational therapy addresses difficulties with daily 'occupations' such as dressing, eating, brushing one's teeth, and so on. It will aid in improving your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, allowing you to carry out your daily activities with maximum independence. The treatment consists of repeated assessments, including interviews, observations, and other standardized procedures. Whether overcoming learning challenges, working, or even participating in sports, occupation therapy will make you feel better and more confident. Occupational therapists generally work out of clinics, mental health facilities, schools, and home health agencies .

Differences Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Scope of Work

Both therapies help patients to recover from an illness or injury. Physiotherapists ensure the strength and motion of the affected part are improved, and occupational therapists try to improve the ability to perform daily activities and improve the quality of life. Occupational therapy focuses on fine motor skills, whereas physiotherapy focuses on improving gross motor skills.

Mode of Treatment

Physiotherapy involves exercises, heat/cold treatment, and massage treatments to relieve pain, accelerate the healing process, and strengthen muscles around the injury.

Occupational therapy addresses psychological and social issues, along with physical sickness. Understanding the impact of the injury in daily life, identifying the patient's strengths and determining how to use them to perform everyday tasks, assessing school or workplace to identify ways to make daily life easier, teaching to manage stress better, teaching how to use wheelchairs and walkers. Anything that makes everyday life easier is all part of the treatment.

End Goal

The end goal of physical therapy is to improve strength, mobility, and range of motion. It can also be prescribed to relieve pain or prevent a condition from getting worse or avoid surgeries.

Occupational therapy mainly aims to restore self-care abilities and promote independence and productivity.

How to Choose the Relevant Therapy

How do you decide which therapy you need? It is best to consult a doctor who will gauge your current condition and requirements. They will also help you understand the benefits of the therapy and prepare you for the upcoming treatment.

Choose Physiotherapy if you:

● Are trying to heal from an injury and need to manage pain.

● Are recovering from a surgical procedure.

● Have joint-related ailments like arthritis, osteoporosis, spondylitis, and so on.

● Are recovering from a heart attack.

● Are suffering from hand conditions like carpel tunnel syndrome or trigger finger

● Are recovering from a stroke or have other neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease .

Choose Occupational Therapy if you:

● Have neurological conditions like cerebral palsy or recovering from a stroke

● Have developmental conditions like Autism and learning disorders.

● Are trying to recover from injury or surgery.

● Are suffering from depression and anxiety.

● Are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Both the therapists are responsible for educating the patient and the caregiver about the healing process and ways to avoid further injuries. A patient might begin the healing journey with a physical therapist and then later could consult an occupational therapist for a complete recovery.

Consult your caregiver immediately if you think occupational or physical therapy might help improve your or your friend’s life.

You could also contact Premier Home Services for any kind of service to restore and improve your overall health and function. This award-winning dedicated team of caregivers is a leading provider of care management, rehabilitation therapies, and supportive care at home. Contact 903-753-2273 or click here for more details.