Common Misperceptions about Hospice

As a hospice care provider, we understand the complexities and challenges of managing end-stage heart conditions. These advanced stages of heart disease can significantly impact the quality of life, making it essential to consider supportive care options that prioritize comfort and dignity.Common End-Stage Heart ConditionsCongestive Heart Failure (CHF): Advanced CHF often includes symptoms such as persistent fluid retention, severe fatigue, and difficulty breathing, even at rest.Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): When CAD progresses to frequent angina (chest pain) and limitations in daily activity, the condition may be nearing its final stages.Valvular Heart Disease: Severe valve dysfunction leading to heart failure or recurrent infections may indicate the need for advanced care.Cardiomyopathy: End-stage cardiomyopathy can result in arrhythmias, significant heart enlargement, and a decline in heart function.Pulmonary Hypertension: As pulmonary hypertension worsens, it can lead to right-sided heart failure and a marked decline in physical capabilities.Signs It May Be Time for Hospice CareFrequent hospitalizations or emergency room visits for heart-related symptoms.Progressively worsening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, or swelling, despite maximum medical therapy.Dependency on assistive devices like oxygen or a ventricular assist device (VAD).Decline in physical function, including the inability to perform daily activities.Presence of co-existing illnesses or significant weight loss (cachexia).According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), patients with heart disease qualify for hospice care if their life expectancy is six months or less, as certified by a physician (CMS, 2022).How Hospice Care HelpsSymptom Management: Hospice provides expert care to alleviate symptoms such as pain, dyspnea, and fatigue.Emotional and Spiritual Support: Patients and families receive guidance and support to navigate the emotional challenges of end-stage heart conditions.Care Coordination: Hospice teams work closely with cardiologists, primary care providers, and family members to ensure continuity of care.Respite Care for Families: Caregiving can be overwhelming; hospice provides temporary relief to family members.Why Hospice is a Win for End-Stage Heart ConditionsQuality Over Quantity: Hospice shifts the focus to quality of life, helping patients find comfort and peace in their remaining days.Reduced Hospitalizations: Studies show that hospice care reduces hospital admissions and emergency department visits for patients with heart failure (Gelfman et al., 2021).Patient and Family Satisfaction: Families often report higher satisfaction with care when hospice is involved, as it addresses physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.Cost-Effective Care: Hospice care can reduce healthcare costs by avoiding unnecessary treatments and hospital stays (Connor, 2021).Statistics to ConsiderNearly 6.2 million adults in the U.S. live with heart failure, and approximately 50% of these individuals will not survive more than five years after diagnosis (American Heart Association, 2021).Hospice care reduces healthcare costs by an average of $9,000 per patient during the last 30 days of life (National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, 2022).Next StepsIf you or a loved one is living with an advanced heart condition, consider how hospice care can help maintain dignity, comfort, and peace during this challenging time. Our team is here to provide expert care and guidance every step of the way.Contact us today to learn more about hospice services for patients with end-stage heart conditions. Let us help you make the most of every moment. Contact us for details.ReferencesAmerican Heart Association. (2021). Heart disease and stroke statistics2021 update. https://www.heart.orgCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2022). Hospice care eligibility. https://www.cms.govConnor, S. R. (2021). Hospice cost savings in the U.S.: Evidence and implications. Journal of Palliative Medicine, 24(5), 698-703.Gelfman, L. P., Kavalieratos, D., Teuteberg, W. G., & Lala, A. (2021). Hospice and palliative care for heart failure patients: Evidence and future directions. Journal of Cardiac Failure, 27(7), 888-897.

The Best Bathroom Paint Colors For 2025If you love using color in your home, 2025 is the year for youespecially when it comes to bathroom paint color trends. The timeless, gleaming white bathroom aesthetic has competition this year as bold colors are at the top of every top trend list. Ranging from warm peach to luxurious jewel tones, rich color is finding its way onto bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories. However, that does not mean neutrals are dead far from it. This years crop of color trends truly offers something for every taste.Despite the plethora of options, choosing bathroom paint colors does not have to be difficult. To keep yourself from being swept up in the many paint options and bathroom color ideas that you see online, it is helpful to start by thinking about color in terms of style: trendy, traditional or timelessness. This guide will help you select the best bathroom paint colors for your homes style and your personal taste.How to choose a bathroom paint color? Start with your style.Staying true to your style is important when choosing paint colors: straying too far from your preferences could lead to a less satisfying result. Thinking about your style as you make your color choices will help you find the right shade for your home and your family. Let us start by describing the key style categories, and what each means when it comes to bathroom designs and colors: Trendy: Trendy bathroom color ideas and designs are circulated widely on social media as well as in interior design blogs and magazines. Trendsetters re-think fixtures, finishes and color schemes, providing fresh ideas and inspiration for your project. Alternative metals, innovative features and new colors are the hallmarks of the trendsetting style. Traditional: Traditional bathroom styles feature neutral palettes, polished brass or chrome fixtures, wood cabinetry and natural (or natural-looking) stone counters. While white linens are the traditional choice, the neutral colors of the traditional palette are flexible, enabling you to inject added color into the room with bright artwork or colorful linens. Timeless: Timeless style is simple and balanced and allows you to make simple modifications to update the look of a room. The clean white bathroom is a classic example of a timeless look. Crisp white tile, cabinetry and fixtures do not go out of style and are easy to accessorize. The top bathroom paint colors for 2025There is something for every style, aesthetic and personal taste among this years color trends. Whether you are planning an all-out, maximalist remodel or prefer your bathroom to be a soothing oasis, 2025s color trends offer everything from bold hues to a fresh look at calming neutrals.A peachy pick is the top color trendA good place to start when it comes to bathroom paint color choices is the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year, a soft peach shade aptly named Peach Fuzz that is setting the tone for current color trends. Unlike recent years which featured intense shades of fuchsia, periwinkle and yellow, Peach Fuzz ushers in a range of livable, sophisticated colors that nod toward nature and complement the increasing popularity of natural-looking stone and wood accents.One word about on-trend colors: you do not have to stick to the exact shade or palette! Feel free to interpret the trends according to your personal taste. Peach Fuzz, for example, sits between pink and orange on the color wheel and can be easily nudged in either direction, toward terra cotta for an earthier feel, or toward pink shades which are infinitely flexible and flattering.Shades of peach and apricot also pair beautifully with white, neutrals and with the next trend category: jewel tones.Vibrant jewel tones are back in styleWhite-on-white bathrooms and kitchens have been on trend for years and are always timeless. However, for 2025, bold color makes its return. Rich jewel tonesdeep emerald, rich topaz, dark sapphire, dusky ruby and velvety dark shades of plumare being seen on bathroom walls, cabinetry and accessories.These vibrant hues stand in stark contrast to the neutral palettes that have been popular for the last several years. Whether used as accent colors or as the focal point of a design, jewel tones can stand alone or play well with neutral colors.Spa-like neutrals define in-home retreatsWhile strong colors are making the headlines for current bathroom color trends, that does not mean that neutral palettes are out of favor. Warm and soothing shades of beige and taupe are fresh choices for those seeking a more tranquil and traditional bathroom look.When thinking about a neutral palette, do not be afraid to look at darker neutral shades. Mid-brown shades of taupe, for example, can be striking when paired with white for a tailored look, or provide a soft background for other accent colors.Which bathroom color trend is right for you?The current years trends offer a multitude of color options and interpretations for every style. To help ensure you are happy with your color choice, keep the following tips in mind: Always test the paint color in the room you are going to paint. Colors can look vastly different on a swatch or in a store than they do on your bathroom walls. Always test a small area first. Do not ignore your lighting. Lighting dramatically affects how a paint color looks in a room. Natural light can make colors appear differently than artificial light. Not considering how the color will look in your bathrooms lighting conditions can lead to unexpected results. Consider the size of the bathroom you are painting. Using dark or very bold colors in a small bathroom can make the space feel cramped and smaller than it is. While these colors can be striking, it is important to use them wisely in smaller spaces. (More on picking paint colors for small bathrooms is below!) Do not forget the paint finish and moisture resistance. Choosing a moisture-resistant paint is the first order of business when it comes to painting your bathroom. However, the finish of the paint (gloss, semi-gloss, matte) can also have a significant impact. Glossy finishes are easier to clean, for example, but they also highlight any imperfections in the walls. Matte finishes, on the other hand, can be easily spotted if splashed with water. Small bathroom paint color tipsWhat is the best color for a small bathroom?  The answer depends on a few things, from the lighting in the room to (as always!) your own taste. When choosing a color for a small bathroom, several factors should be taken into account to make the space feel welcoming and avoid feeling claustrophobic. Here are some key things to keep in mind: Light colors: Lighter colors can make a room feel more spacious. Soft whites, neutrals and pastels can brighten up the space and give an illusion of it being larger than it is. You can interpret color trends by using a lighter shade of a bold color on the walls and using a darker shade sparingly in accents or accessories. Cool tones: Cool blues and greens can create a calming and refreshing ambiance in a small space, and they often reflect light better, contributing to a more open feel. Consistent or monochromatic color scheme: Using a consistent or even monochromatic color palette can help the space feel unified and expansive. If you choose to have multiple colors, make sure they complement each other and keep contrasting colors to a minimum. Accent wall: An accent wall can be a terrific way to use color strategically in a smaller room. Painting one wall in a bolder or darker shade can add depth without overwhelming the space with a dark color. The right color can transform your bathroom, turning it into a sanctuary or highlighting beautiful design and materials. Whether your style is trendy, traditional or timeless, this years color trends offer beautiful options for all baths, regardless of size. Keep our tips in mind, and if you need more ideas, schedule a free bathroom design consultation with one of our professionals.  Schedule a free, in-home design consultation today with your Local Re-Bath location at 251-220-9284. Servicing Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe & Washington counties in Alabama.

Inspiring Seniors Who Are Redefining What It Means to AgeYouve got to get to the stage in life where going for it is more important than winning or losing. Arthur AsheAging is not a limitation; its an opportunity to embrace life with wisdom, experience, and newfound purpose. Theres a survival benefit to resilience, Dr. Susan Friedman, director of geriatrics and aging at the University of Rochester School of Medicine told AARP. People can reframe their situation and make the best of it.Making the best of things, particularly as seniors age and live with a serious or chronic condition, is the message of AARP National Geographics Second Half of Life study. Given the rise in popularity of older influencers (aka granfluencers) on social media, younger generations (were looking at you, Millennials and Gen Z) are taking in their lessons of aging well and adopting their attitude that age is just a number.Members of our professional teams at Amada Senior Care franchise offices around the country have had the honor of witnessing countless older adults who shatter stereotypes and redefine what it means to grow older. Their stories inspire us all and challenge the outdated notions of aging as a period of decline.Who Are Super Agers?Super agers are individuals aged 80 and older who exhibit cognitive and physical abilities on par with people decades younger. Studies have shown that super agers often have thicker brain regions related to memory and attention, which helps them maintain sharpness as they age. These remarkable seniors prioritize mental and physical health, often engaging in challenging mental activities, staying socially connected, and leading physically active lives. Their resilience and commitment to lifelong growth serve as an inspiration for all generations.Embracing Lifelong LearningMany seniors are proving that curiosity and the desire to learn never fade with age. Take, for example, 75-year-old Marcia, who decided to pursue her lifelong dream of earning a degree in art history. Not only did she graduate with honors, but she also inspired her grandchildren to value education and chase their dreams fearlessly.Seniors like Marcia remind us that its never too late to start something new. More inspiration comes from famous lifelong learners like artist-scientist-sculptor Leonardo da Vinci and mother of modern physics and two-time Nobel Prize winner Marie Curie.Breaking Barriers in Health and FitnessAge is just a number for individuals like Harold, an 82-year-old marathon runner who competes in events worldwide. Harolds commitment to physical fitness and healthy living serves as a beacon of hope for others looking to prioritize their well-being.With tailored exercise routines and proper guidance, seniors can defy physical limitations and enjoy an active, vibrant lifestyle. In the news is Gwen McFarlan, a world-record-holder runner at 89 years old, who plans on running her 26th full marathon next year at age 90.Giving Back to the CommunityRetirement doesnt mean stepping away from purpose. For 68-year-old Eleanor, it marked the beginning of her philanthropic journey. After retiring from a successful career in education, she launched a community tutoring program to help underserved children improve their literacy skills. Her efforts have touched countless lives, proving that the golden years can be a time of giving back and making a difference.A lifelong philanthropist, investor Warren Buffet gives millions to foundations each year at during the Thanksgiving season, and instructed his children to distribute the rest of his holdings upon his death. He has encouraged fellow millionaires and billionaires to donate at least half of their wealth.Redefining CreativityA study by the National Endowment for the Arts found that seniors who made art or crafts and attended cultural arts events in tests showed higher cognitive functioning abilities, along with lower rates of hypertension.From painting to writing memoirs, seniors are exploring their creative sides in inspiring ways. At 103 years old, Louis continues to explore his passion for woodworking. His work has not only brought him joy but also provided a meaningful way to stay connected with his community.Building Strong ConnectionsStaying socially active is a cornerstone of aging well. Seniors who cultivate strong relationships and participate in group activities often report higher levels of happiness and fulfillment. Whether its joining a book club, attending dance classes, or traveling with friends, seniors are finding innovative ways to stay engaged and connected.Barriers to Aging WellWhile the opportunities for thriving in later years are abundant, some barriers can make aging challenging. Common obstacles include: Health Issues: Chronic illnesses, limited mobility, and cognitive decline can impact quality of life. Social Isolation: Loneliness is a significant concern for many seniors, especially those who live alone or far from family. Financial Constraints: Limited income or savings can restrict access to healthcare, nutritious food, and recreational activities. Access to Resources: Lack of transportation, inadequate community programs, or difficulty navigating technology can hinder seniors from staying engaged and supported. Addressing these barriers is critical to ensuring that all seniors have the opportunity to age with dignity and purpose. Support networks, including family, caregivers, and community organizations, play a vital role in overcoming these challenges.Aging in Place with SupportWhile independence is important, aging successfully often involves seeking the right support. At Amada Senior Care, we understand the value of compassionate care that empowers seniors to live their best lives. From personalized care plans to community resources, our mission is to help seniors embrace this chapter with confidence and dignity.Celebrate the Possibilities of AgingAging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength. Betty FriedanAging at its best is about seeing the possibilities instead of the limitations. Its about finding joy in the journey, continuing to learn, and leaving a legacy that inspires future generations. To the seniors redefining what it means to grow olderwe salute you. Your stories remind us that aging is not an end but a beginning of new opportunities to thrive.Lets celebrate the achievements and contributions of seniors around us. If you or a loved one are looking for ways to embrace aging with support and inspiration, were here to help. Together, we can redefine what it means to age well.  Contact Amada Senior Care serving Baldwin & Mobile Counties at 251-305-4500 for in-home caregiving, financial care coordination, and finding senior living.