For more information about the author, click to view their website: Carson Eldercare Management and Consulting
“What We
Don’t Know We Don’t Know” in Health Care:
September
24, 2024 -
Oral Care,
Monitored Meals, and Aspiration Pneumonia
Proper oral care is crucial for maintaining optimal health.
Keeping the mouth clean not only helps maintain the protective properties of
saliva but also reduces bacteria in the mouth which can be a source of
infection in aspiration pneumonia. In addition, monitoring meals and assisting
with feeding for those at high risk for aspiration is also a necessity. The
process of swallowing involves dozens of muscles that start in the mouth and
include the pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. These muscles can become weakened
with age and from various, often age-related diseases. The aging population is especially at risk
for aspiration pneumonia due to comorbidities, frailty, and conditions that can
impair swallowing. As a result,
aspiration pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death from infection in
individuals over the age of 65. One study shows that 1 in 10 deaths from
pneumonia in elderly nursing home residents may be prevented by improving oral
hygiene (Sjogren et al., 2008).
Unfortunately, proper oral care and monitoring of meals is
often overlooked in the health care setting.
Perhaps the greatest reason for this is the challenge that almost every
health facility faces today: adequate staffing. When I started working in acute
care as an RN over 20 years ago, nursing assistants (these are the staff
generally responsible for proving oral care in an acute care setting) were
typically responsible for 5-7 patients. Nurses had 3-5 patients (this was on a
step down cardiac unit). Between the nurse and the assistant, we were able to
provide oral care at every meal and offer one-on-one assistance to any patient
that was at risk for aspiration. This is no longer the case. RNs oftentimes look after upwards of 8
patients, and there is generally either no nursing assistant on the floor or
only 1 for a patient load that can exceed 20.
Consequently, proper oral care is neglected. I have often seen patients that are aspirating
during meals, but do not have adequate staffing on hand to provide them with
the supervision and monitoring that they need. This presents a hazardous catch-22:
the aging individual needs to eat to maintain nutritional needs yet he/she
needs assistance with eating to prevent aspirating pneumonia.
How can this be remedied? If the family is present, they can
provide oral care and meal monitoring. If meal monitoring is required for an at-risk
individual, it’s recommended to touch base with the health care team to inquire
as to what the specific aspiration precautions are (every individual may have a
different need and/or recommendation). A care companion can also be hired to
provide the needed care. I hired a companion for my father when he was in a
skilled nursing facility. He was not getting his teeth brushed or flossed
regularly, and I was seeing a decline in his dentition. Having this extra
support provided him with much needed assistance and the care companion had the
added benefit of encouraging him to eat more at every meal, something that was
a bonus as he was not meeting his nutrient needs. Touching base with staff to
request that oral care and meal monitoring be done can also be helpful. Having
an advocate to ensure necessary care is getting done can also be very effective
in the health care setting.
What is proper oral care and effective meal monitoring?
Proper oral care includes brushing the teeth for at least 1
minute after every meal. It also includes using a soft bristle brush, fluoride
toothpaste, flossing daily. A final component of oral care that is often not
discussed is denture care. Dentures should be cleaned at least once per day and
removed at bedtime. Removing them prior to sleeping can greatly reduce the risk
of pneumonia (Iinuma
et al. 2014). Effective meal monitoring includes adequate supervision during
mealtime for those at risk of aspiration. Such supervision includes ensuring
the individual is properly positioned for a meal (head of bed as high as can be
tolerated and supine position), takes small bites, eats slowly, swallows a
couple times in between each bite, and intermittently takes a sip of liquid to
clear the mouth of food particles. The use of straws is generally not
recommended for an individual at risk for aspiration as it propels the food to
the back of the throat and hence can increase risk. I recall when I was working
as a Registered Nurse (RN) in acute care that I was constantly removing straws
from the bedside of ‘at risk’ individuals and often reminding them to eat
slowly and swallow at least twice between each bite to ensure food clearance.
Individuals at risk for aspiration often require a modified texture diet as it
can further prevent the aspiration of food and liquids.
This is a brief summary of the attention to detail needed in
addressing oral hygiene and meal monitoring amongst the aging population. Both measures
can play a significant role in reducing aspiration pneumonia. If you would like more information on understanding
proper oral care or any other questions that you may have regarding aging life
care, please feel free to reach out to me.
Sources:
1.
Sjogren P, Nilsson E, Forsell M, Johansson O,
Hoogstraate J. 2008. A systematic review of the preventive effect of oral
hygiene on pneumonia and respiratory tract infection in elderly people in
hospitals and nursing homes: effect estimates and methodological quality of
randomized controlled trials. J Am Geriatr Soc. 56:2124–2130.
2.
Iinuma T, Arai Y, Abe Y, Takayama M, Fukumoto M,
Fukui Y, et al. 2014. Denture wearing during sleep doubles the risk of
pneumonia in the very elderly. J Dent Res. doi:
10.1177/0022034514552493
3.
F Muller, 2015. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4541086/#
Staying hydrated is essential for everyone, but its especially critical for older adults. As we age, our bodies go through changes that can increase the risk of dehydrationyet many seniors are unaware of just how important proper hydration is for their health and well-being.Why Seniors Are More Prone to DehydrationThere are several reasons why older adults are at higher risk for dehydration: Reduced Sense of Thirst: Aging can dull the bodys natural thirst signals, meaning seniors may not feel thirsty even when their bodies need water. Medications: Diuretics, laxatives, and certain blood pressure or heart medications can cause increased fluid loss. Decreased Kidney Function: As kidneys age, they become less efficient at conserving water, increasing fluid loss. Mobility or Cognitive Issues: Physical limitations or cognitive decline may make it harder to access water or remember to drink throughout the day. Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, heart disease, and other medical issues common in older adults can contribute to dehydration risk. The Impact of Dehydration on Senior HealthEven mild dehydration can have significant effects on a seniors health, including: Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration can lead to low energy levels and muscle weakness, increasing fall risk. Confusion and Cognitive Decline: Lack of fluids may cause symptoms that mimic dementia or worsen existing cognitive issues. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Inadequate hydration can lead to more frequent UTIs, which can be serious in older adults. Constipation: Water helps keep the digestive system movingwithout enough, seniors may struggle with bowel issues. Kidney Stones and Damage: Chronic dehydration can contribute to kidney problems. Tips to Help Seniors Stay HydratedEncouraging proper hydration doesnt have to be complicated. Here are some practical tips: Set a Routine: Encourage drinking water with each meal and between meals. Setting reminders or using a water-tracking app can help. Offer a Variety of Fluids: Water is best, but herbal teas, milk, and broth-based soups count, too. Limit caffeine and sugary drinks. Make It Appealing: Infuse water with fruit slices or herbs like mint to add flavor without extra sugar. Monitor Intake: Caregivers and family members should watch for signs of dehydration and gently encourage regular fluid intake. Choose Hydrating Foods: Water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and lettuce can help supplement fluid intake. Watch for Warning SignsIts important to recognize early signs of dehydration in seniors, such as: Dry mouth or cracked lips Dark urine or reduced urination Dizziness or lightheadedness Confusion or irritability Fatigue Headaches Severe dehydration is a medical emergency and may require hospitalization for IV fluids and close monitoring.
Summer can be one of the most joyful seasons for seniors, offering opportunities for movement, connection, and fun. By choosing the right activities and staying mindful of heat and hydration, older adults can enjoy everything the season has to offersafely and comfortably.Summer offers the perfect opportunity for seniors to enjoy the outdoors, soak up some vitamin D, and stay socially and physically active. However, rising temperatures and increased sun exposure can also bring unique risks, especially for older adults. With a bit of planning and awareness, seniors can make the most of the season while prioritizing safety and well-being.Here are some enjoyable and safe summer activities for seniors: 1. Morning or Evening WalksWalking is one of the best low-impact exercises for seniors. During the summer, its safest to walk early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak heat. Local parks, botanical gardens, or shaded trails offer refreshing scenery and a chance to connect with nature.Tip: Wear a hat, sunscreen, and breathable clothing, and bring water to stay hydrated. 2. GardeningGardening provides gentle physical activity and can be a therapeutic hobby. Whether its tending to flowers, vegetables, or herbs, it allows seniors to be outside while staying in control of their environment.Tip: Use raised garden beds to reduce strain on joints, and aim for shaded gardening times to avoid heat stress. 3. Outdoor PicnicsGathering with family or friends for a picnic is a great way to enjoy warm weather without exertion. Seniors can bring a comfortable chair and enjoy a meal, music, or a game of cards under a shaded tree or pavilion.Tip: Choose locations with accessible seating and restroom facilities. 4. Water Aerobics or SwimmingSwimming and water-based activities are ideal for seniors because theyre easy on the joints and help with mobility and flexibility. Many community centers offer senior-friendly aquatic programs in the summer.Tip: Always swim in supervised areas and wear water shoes to avoid slips and falls. 5. Outdoor Arts and CraftsFor those who love being creative, setting up a shaded table for painting, sketching, or crafting outdoors can be relaxing and inspiring. This combines artistic expression with the calming influence of nature.Tip: Use portable umbrellas or tents to create a cool, shaded workspace. 6. Farmers Markets and Outdoor FairsExploring a local farmers market is a pleasant way to get some light exercise while supporting local growers. Seniors can sample fresh produce, enjoy live music, and engage with their community.Tip: Go early in the day and use a rolling cart or bag to make carrying purchases easier. 7. Bird Watching or Nature ObservationBird watching can be both calming and mentally stimulating. A pair of binoculars and a local field guide can turn a simple outing into an enjoyable and educational experience.Tip: Choose a quiet, shady spot with seating and bring a journal to record observations. 8. Attend Outdoor Concerts or MoviesMany communities host free or low-cost concerts and movies in the park. These events offer great social opportunities and entertainment in a relaxed, outdoor setting.Tip: Bring a chair with good back support, a fan or mister, and snacks to stay comfortable. Safety Tips for Summer Fun Hydration is Key: Older adults may not feel thirsty as often, so its important to drink water regularly. Dress for the Weather: Light, loose-fitting clothes and a wide-brimmed hat help protect against heat. Use Sun Protection: Sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be applied 20 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours. Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, and confusion. If any of these occur, seek shade and medical attention immediately.
Providing care for a loved one is a profound commitment, and in Pennsylvania, various programs exist to support family caregivers in this vital role. While Personal Care Assistance (PCA) broadly refers to services that help individuals with daily living activities, its important to understand that paid family caregiving in Pennsylvania primarily operates through specific Medicaid waivers. These initiatives aim to support the invaluable work of caregivers while allowing loved ones to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes or the homes of family members.Understanding Personal Care Assistance (PCA) in PennsylvaniaIn Pennsylvania, Personal Care Assistance (PCA) refers to the services that help individuals with daily living activities and household tasks, enabling them to live independently. Its crucial to differentiate this from Personal Care Homes (PCH), which are residential facilities that provide housing, meals, supervision, and assistance, but typically do not offer third-party reimbursement for family caregivers providing care within them.Instead, paid family caregiving for PCA services in Pennsylvania primarily operates through various Medicaid waivers, also known as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers are designed to provide direct assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and household services for older adults or individuals with disabilities who live in their own homes or the homes of loved ones. The services provided under these waivers are what constitute Personal Care Assistance in the context of paid family caregiving.Key Pennsylvania Medicaid Waivers for PCAPennsylvania offers several Medicaid waivers that facilitate paid family caregiving for Personal Care Assistance, each with specific eligibility criteria and rules regarding family members.1. Community HealthChoices (CHC) Waiver: Getting Paid to Care for Loved OnesThe Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver is Pennsylvanias most common Medicaid managed care program that facilitates paid family caregiving for PCA. It is designed for individuals aged 21 or older who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare and require a nursing facility level of care. This program consolidates several former waivers into a single, comprehensive system and is administered by private healthcare insurance companies contracted by the state.Recipient Eligibility for CHC: To qualify for the CHC program, the individual needing care must meet several criteria: Age: The recipient must be 21 years of age or older. Dual Eligibility: They must be eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. Functional Eligibility: A physician must certify that the individual has a condition requiring long-term services and supports, specifically an inability to perform essential Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, toileting, or transferring. A trained assessor will also conduct a functional eligibility determination to confirm the level of care needed. Financial Eligibility: The individual must meet specific income and/or asset requirements, determined by the local County Assistance Office (CAO). For example, in 2023, the income limit to qualify for the Pennsylvania Medicaid waiver program under CHC was $2,742 per month. Caregiver Eligibility (Who Can Be Paid, Spousal/Guardian Restrictions): Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers generally permit family members, such as adult children, siblings, and even friends, to be compensated for providing care. However, under the CHC waiver, spouses (husband or wife) are typically not eligible to be paid caregivers. Similarly, individuals holding Power of Attorney (POA) for the care recipient or legally responsible guardians (such as parents caring for children under 18) are also generally excluded from paid caregiver roles under this program.Application Process: The process involves contacting the Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at 1-877-550-4227, applying on the COMPASS website, and submitting necessary documentation, including physician certification and financial information. Once approved, the care recipient can select a state-licensed home care agency that employs family members, such as Avondale Care Group.Services Covered & How Agencies Facilitate Payments: The CHC waiver covers a range of personal care and home care services. This includes direct assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management, as well as various household services. Family caregivers are hired as regular employees of the licensed home care agency, which handles all administrative tasks, including payroll and compliance.Payment Rates & Benefits for Family Caregivers: The compensation for family caregivers through Medicaid waiver programs in Pennsylvania typically ranges between $10 and $15 per hour. The number of hours approved depends on the care recipients health and needs, with a maximum of 35 hours of care per week often allowed. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week, which aligns with or exceeds these hourly rates, potentially including overtime or other factors. Many agencies also offer additional benefits that significantly enhance the overall compensation package for family caregivers. These can include overtime pay, weekly pay, free Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training for eligible caregivers, holiday pay (often 1.5 times the regular rate for specified holidays), 401k plans with company matching, company-sponsored healthcare insurance (with substantial premium coverage), flexible schedules, and paid time off.2. OBRA WaiverThe OBRA Waiver is designed to support individuals aged 18-59 who have a severe developmental physical disability and require an Intermediate Care Facility/Other Related Conditions (ICF/ORC) level of care. This program helps these individuals live as independently as possible within their communities by providing assistance with activities of daily living (PCA services).Family Member/Spouse Eligibility: Similar to the CHC waiver, the OBRA waiver excludes spouses or legal guardians from being paid caregivers.Payment Rates: Compensation for caregivers under the OBRA waiver varies by geographic area, typically ranging from $13 to $15 per hour. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week.Application: The application process also begins by contacting the Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at 1-877-550-4227. 3. Consolidated WaiverThe Consolidated Waiver provides support and services to a broader population, including individuals of all ages with an intellectual disability (ID) or autism, as well as children under 22 with a developmental disability due to a medically complex condition. Recipients must be recommended for an intermediate care facility (ICF) level of care based on a medical evaluation.Family Member/Spouse Eligibility: A significant difference with the Consolidated Waiver is that it explicitly allows a friend or family member, including a spouse or legal guardian, to receive payment for care provided.Payment Rates: The average pay for Pennsylvania caregivers under the Consolidated Waiver typically falls between $11 and $14.50 per hour. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week.Application: To apply for the Consolidated Waiver, individuals should contact the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) customer line at 1-888-565-9435. Important Considerations: Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)While Pennsylvanias Medicaid programs offer crucial financial relief for family caregivers, it is essential for families to understand the long-term financial implications. The Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) is a federal requirement for all state Medicaid programs to seek repayment for long-term care costs after a recipient passes away. This recovery typically applies to individuals aged 55 and older who received Medicaid long-term care services, including those provided through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. Assets subject to recovery can include the deceased recipients primary home, even if it was exempt during their lifetime while receiving benefits. The states claim is generally delayed if there is a surviving spouse, a child under 21, or a child of any age who is blind or permanently disabled. Families may also be able to apply for undue hardship waivers in certain circumstances. Given these potential impacts on family inheritance and assets, it is highly advisable for families to consult with an elder law attorney or financial advisor for personalized guidance on MERP and comprehensive estate planning.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities and difficulties associated with aging? Have the responsibilities in caring for your loved one become unmanageable? Do you live far away and are unable to provide reliable senior care management? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you may want to consider hiring an eldercare manager. Hi, my name is Laura. I have been a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 20 years and have witnessed firsthand the challenges and complications that aging presents. It affects not only the aging themselves but also their families and loved ones. Health care is complex, and in this increasingly fragmented and overburdened system, it can be extremely helpful to have a professional oversee all aspects of care. As your eldercare manager, I will comprehensively assess the needs of your loved one and we will work together in establishing a care plan. I will assist you and your family with difficult decisions and help promote healthy communication on issues that are often difficult to address and navigate. An expanded version of my core services are summarized below: MANAGE health care needs, chronic conditions, illnesses, and coordination of careOPTIMIZE health outcomes via my extensive knowledge and experience in the healthcare system. I provide necessary education on chronic diseases and treatment plans, promote collaboration and communication amongst the health care team, ask the right questions of health care personnel, and any other needed activities in order to promote the safety and wellness of my clientsNAVIGATE the complex health system ADVOCATE for individuals to receive high quality care. I do this by such actions as asking the right questions of health care personnel, requesting a referral, second opinion, or further resources when appropriate, and anticipating/ planning for future health care needsTRANSITION clients to appropriate living conditions and proper levels of care. This may be from out of a private home into independent or residential living. It can also entail transition to a skilled nursing facility, assisted living, long term acute care, and hospice. There are many factors and variables to be considered when making these changes, and I provide assistance and support. The above services represent the bulk of my client/family needs. Some other services provided are:Comprehensive health status assessmentAssistance with medication complianceAssessing safety of the home and providing measures to reduce falls Helping clients/ families make difficult health decisions while navigating familydynamics and promoting effective communicationBeing present with client during doctor appointments etc. to ask the rightquestions and help assimilate health informationVisiting and interacting with clients at hospitals and facilities to assess healthstatus, monitor progress, and assist with any needs upon discharge or transfer Contact me today for a free 20-minute consultation!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexities and difficulties associated with aging? Have the responsibilities in caring for your loved one become unmanageable? Do you live far away and are unable to provide reliable senior care management? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you may want to consider hiring an eldercare manager. Hi, my name is Laura. I have been a Registered Nurse (RN) for over 20 years and have witnessed firsthand the challenges and complications that aging presents. It affects not only the aging themselves but also their families and loved ones. Health care is complex, and in this increasingly fragmented and overburdened system, it can be extremely helpful to have a professional oversee all aspects of care. As your eldercare manager, I will comprehensively assess the needs of your loved one and we will work together in establishing a care plan. I will assist you and your family with difficult decisions and help promote healthy communication on issues that are often difficult to address and navigate. An expanded version of my core services are summarized below: MANAGE health care needs, chronic conditions, illnesses, and coordination of careOPTIMIZE health outcomes via my extensive knowledge and experience in the healthcare system. I provide necessary education on chronic diseases and treatment plans, promote collaboration and communication amongst the health care team, ask the right questions of health care personnel, and any other needed activities in order to promote the safety and wellness of my clientsNAVIGATE the complex health system ADVOCATE for individuals to receive high quality care. I do this by such actions as asking the right questions of health care personnel, requesting a referral, second opinion, or further resources when appropriate, and anticipating/ planning for future health care needsTRANSITION clients to appropriate living conditions and proper levels of care. This may be from out of a private home into independent or residential living. It can also entail transition to a skilled nursing facility, assisted living, long term acute care, and hospice. There are many factors and variables to be considered when making these changes, and I provide assistance and support. The above services represent the bulk of my client/family needs. Some other services provided are:Comprehensive health status assessmentAssistance with medication complianceAssessing safety of the home and providing measures to reduce falls Helping clients/ families make difficult health decisions while navigating familydynamics and promoting effective communicationBeing present with client during doctor appointments etc. to ask the rightquestions and help assimilate health informationVisiting and interacting with clients at hospitals and facilities to assess healthstatus, monitor progress, and assist with any needs upon discharge or transfer Contact me today for a free 20-minute consultation!