For more information about the author, click to view their website: www.jaapgh.org
The JAA’s Mollie’s Meals program delivers over 28,000 meals annually to seniors in the Squirrel Hill, Greenfield, and Shadyside areas. Dedicated volunteers bring nutritious meal options directly to the doors of homebound older adults who are unable to prepare their own meals. In addition to providing a hearty meal, these visits also offer a friendly greeting and an opportunity for connection.
In partnership with the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging, the program ensures that these fresh meals are affordable, thanks to subsidies. Designed to be easily microwaved or frozen for future use, the meals offer flexibility and convenience for the recipients.
But don’t just take our word for it! Hear from one of our very satisfied customers: “I am a relatively active senior but have a difficult time shopping and I’m not always motivated to cook for myself. My out-of-town daughter ‘encouraged’ me to try Mollie’s Meals. And I am so glad that I did. Now mealtime is a treat! I anxiously await the arrival of my cheerful volunteer who always has an extra minute to visit while she makes sure I am well! Your meals have truly changed my life… and my outlook! I can’t thank you enough. PS. My daughter AND my doctor second those words of gratitude!!”
Mollie’s Meals isn’t just about providing food—it’s also about the relationships our volunteers build with recipients. These bonds allow our volunteers to notice when something is wrong. For instance, when Chris arrived to deliver Mr. H’s meal, she grew concerned when he hadn’t picked up his morning newspaper and wasn’t answering his phone. Then, when he didn’t answer his door as usual, she contacted the Mollie’s Meals office. We reached out to his nearby emergency contact who had a key. It turned out Mr. H had fallen and couldn’t reach the phone or door. Thanks to our driver, Mr. H was able to get the help he needed. After a few days in the hospital, Mr. H was back on his feet and now wears a life alert button.
If you would like to register yourself or a loved one to receive Mollie’s Meals, or if you would like to become one of our compassionate volunteer deliverers, please call the Mollie’s Meals office at 412-521-7616.
-Sharyn Rubin, MEd
Director of Resident & Community Services
National PACE (Programs of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) Month is an annual celebration in the United States that takes place in the month of September. This month-long event aims to raise awareness about the PACE program and the important role it plays in enhancing the lives of elderly individuals. Senior LIFE is a provider of the PACE program, called LIFE in Pennsylvania. The innovative model of care allows seniors with long-term care needs to remain living in their community for as long as possible, as independently as possible. More than 95 percent of PACE participants live outside of a nursing home.The COVID-19 public health emergency taught everyone the value of community and the feeling of belonging. Loneliness and isolation have long been been issues for our seniors. This year, during National PACE Month, we celebrate the connections and communities that LIFE/PACE organizations can foster. This years theme is PACE: Where you Belong.Understanding the PACE ProgramThe LIFE/PACE program is a comprehensive, community-based healthcare model for elderly adults who need long-term care services. It provides a range of medical and social services to seniors, helping them live independently in their own homes and communities. LIFE is designed to provide personalized and coordinated care that takes into account the unique needs of each individual.The Goals of National PACE MonthNational PACE Month serves several important goals: Raising Awareness: The month-long celebration aims to increase public awareness about the existence and benefits of the PACE program. Many seniors and their families may not be familiar with this valuable resource, and National PACE Month seeks to change that. Highlighting Success Stories: It provides an opportunity to showcase the success stories of PACE participants and the positive impact the program has on their lives. Sharing these stories helps inspire others to explore the possibilities offered by the PACE program. Advocacy and Education: National PACE Month also serves as a platform for advocacy, education, and information sharing. It encourages discussions and exchanges about best practices, innovations, and policies related to senior care and the PACE program. Getting InvolvedAnyone can get involved in National PACE Month and help promote its goals. Here are a few ways to participate: Spread the Word: Share information about the PACE program with friends, family, and your community. Use social media platforms to raise awareness and share success stories. Attend Events: Participate in local events, workshops, and webinars organized by PACE programs or community organizations. Learn more about the program and the services it offers. Volunteer: Consider volunteering at a PACE program or a local senior center. Your skills, time, and companionship can make a significant difference in the lives of seniors. Advocate: Contact your local representatives and policymakers to advocate for the expansion and enhancement of the PACE program. Support legislation that promotes access to comprehensive care for elderly individuals. Senior LIFE and National PACE MonthSenior LIFE will recognize PACE Month with a special week long celebration held at each of the LIFE Health and Wellness Center. The special week recognizes the efforts, volunteerism, and extraordinary talents of the Senior LIFE staff and members.This years event will be held September 5th September 8th at each of the LIFE Health and Wellness Centers.The annual week-long event will be filled with activities and events that will engage Senior LIFE with the local community. Past years have featured events such as scavenger hunts, wheel chair races, and carnival days.All activities will take part at the LIFE Health and Wellness Centers. At the center, members of the LIFE Program can see their Primary Care Physicians and participate in rehabilitation programs.LIFE is a team-based model of care based on the idea of effectively and efficiently treating patients with multiple chronic conditions outside of the hospital setting. The LIFE Program takes a comprehensive approach to care management: providers, homecare coordinators, transportation drivers, nurses, social workers, physical and occupational therapists, dietitians, recreational therapists, and others, who evaluate LIFE members and develop an individualized plan of care. Medical and supportive service services are provided with the intention of putting preventive support in place that sets seniors up to remain living in their homes long term, all at no cost to seniors on Medicaid who live in the community.National PACE Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the PACE program and its impact on the lives of seniors. By coming together as a community, we can celebrate the successes, advocate for improvements, and ensure that the PACE program continues to provide exceptional care and support to our elderly population. Lets make National PACE Month 2023 a time of gratitude, recognition, and a catalyst for positive change in senior care. To find out more about the LIFE Program, or to see if you qualify for the program, please contact us today!
As we age, staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes increasingly important. One way to do this is by walking more. In fact, research suggests that taking just 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health.Health Benefits of WalkingWalking is a low-impact form of exercise that can have numerous health benefits, especially for older adults. It can help improve cardiovascular health, strengthen bones and muscles, and reduce the risk of chronic conditions like osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. In addition, walking can improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.The Benefits of 500 Extra StepsTaking just 500 extra steps per day may not seem like much, but it can have a significant impact on senior health. Research suggests that taking an extra 500 steps per day can lead to a decrease in the risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. In addition, it can lead to improved mental health, better sleep, and increased energy levels.A study conducted by the American Heart Association found that for people ages 70 and older who walked an additional 500 steps per day, or an additional quarter mile of walking, experienced a 14% lower risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure. Also, compared to adults who took less than 2,000 steps per day, adults who took about 4,500 steps per day had a 77% lower observed risk of experiencing a cardiovascular event.Strategies for Walking MoreTaking an extra 500 steps per day may sound like a daunting task, but there are many strategies that can help seniors achieve this goal. Here are a few tips: Take multiple short walks throughout the day: This can help add up to 500 extra steps without requiring a lot of time commitment. Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Tracking steps can help seniors stay motivated and monitor their progress. Find a walking partner: Walking with a friend or family member can make it more enjoyable and provide social interaction. Set achievable goals: Start small and gradually increase the number of steps taken each day. Choose scenic routes: Walking in a park or nature trail can make it more enjoyable and provide additional health benefits. In conclusion, taking 500 extra steps per day can have a significant impact on senior health, and its an achievable goal for most people. Walking can help improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk of chronic conditions, and improve mental health and overall well-being. By incorporating walking into their daily routine, seniors can help maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life.Senior LIFE can help you with your goalsAt Senior LIFE, our goals align with the goals of many seniors to stay in the comfort of their homes, and out of a nursing home. We work with seniors and their caregivers to help seniors maintain independence by providing medical and supportive services including physician and nursing services, medication management, in-home care, and so more more! For a full list of services, please visit us online at: Senior LIFE ServicesSenior LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) is state and federally funded Medicare and Medicaid Program that provides long-term care for seniors, 55 years of age or older, so that they can remain living at home and out of a nursing facility.Senior LIFE Services are provided at NO COST to those on Medicaid who live in the community.To speak with a Senior LIFE representative about the program, and to learn if you or a family member may be eligible, please contact us via our website or email us at info@SeniorLIFEPA.com
Protecting Your Loved Ones Independence and Well-Being at HomeHelping a family member remain independent and living at home is a labor of love, but at times it can be overwhelming. There is so much to consider beyond just their overall health and well-being. Depending on the situation, a loved one may need immediate or future help coordinating medical care or managing finances. Having the proper Power of Attorney credentials established can help caregivers navigate the complexities of the system and avoid costly or time-consuming pitfalls during their loved ones aging journey.Here is a basic overview of two of the most common Power of Attorney documents:Financial Power of Attorney (Durable)With a Financial Power of Attorney (POA), a person known as the principal appoints an agent to carry out financial and other activities, as instructed by the principal. Often the person designated is a family member but note that it may be advisable to name a primary agent and an alternate agent. Principals may choose whether the POA becomes effective immediately or only in the event of illness/disability. Ideally, the POA document should have language indicating that it is durable (remains in effect even after the person is legally incapacitated). In Pennsylvania, the Financial POA must be notarized and witnessed. The law also stipulates that a POA must exercise the powers for the benefit of the principal, keep the assets of the principal separate from their own, and exercise reasonable caution and prudence. Financial Power of Attorney ceases after the principal passes away.Medical Power of AttorneyPennsylvania recognizes two types of advanced directives for healthcare decisions: Medical Power of Attorney and Living Wills. The Medical Power of Attorney, also known as a Healthcare POA or healthcare proxy, is broader in scope than a Living Will in that it empowers the caregiver to make all medical decisions if their loved one is unconscious, incapacitated, or mentally incompetent. The appointed person will be able to access medical records, speak to healthcare professionals, and make healthcare judgments and medical decisions based on their loved ones treatment (or non-treatment) preferences. A Medical POA is a crucial component of advance care planning, allowing your loved one to ensure that their healthcare preferences are honored. The document must have two witnesses and be notarized.Information and downloadable Power of Attorney pdf documents are available online. During the application process to Senior LIFE, a Senior LIFE outreach coordinator can also help you get started with the POA process. Contact us today.
An assisted living residence that enhances the independence of those with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia or memory loss, AHAVA Memory Care Residence offers more than care. Partners with the Hearthstone Institute(r) which uses the "I'm Still Here(tm)" evidence-based, non- pharmacological approach to treatment. Purposefully designed to embrace residents in a secure yet soothing and comforting environment that promotes freedom and engagement. AHAVA is a community filled with activity and purpose. It is a place where your families find guidance, support, and peace of mind. Because AHAVA Memory Care Residence is part of JAAs own network of care, additional memory support at varying stages of memory loss, and rehabilitation are available.
The Choice Is Yours.Who do you trust when lifes journey comes to an end?At JAAs Sivitz Hospice, what matters to you drives everything we do.Our approach to hospice care is about life and well-being. We provide needed care and support, honor wishes, and are by your side until the very end.Hospice TeamOur patients and families establish relationships with our hospice specialists, all of whom provide support and ensure that no one faces this difficult time alone. Our care team supports you in your home or other location of your choice.We focus on your quality of life and include you and your family members in treatment plans.Your spiritual, physical, and emotional needs are our priority.Your choices include innovative and holistic approaches, if requested.Your hospice team includes:Medical DirectorYour Primary Care Physician (PCP) or Physician of ChoiceRegistered NursesMedical Social WorkersHome Health AidesSpiritual and Bereavement CounselorsSpecially Trained VolunteersNutritionists (when clinically indicated)Therapists (when clinically indicated)Palliative CarePalliative care is for those who have a life-limiting illness but are not ready for hospice or are still receiving curative treatment. Our palliative care program offers expert treatment of pain and continuity of care in a private residence or senior living center.Our highly skilled team offers expert assistance with symptom management. If needed, we can help patients transition to the hospice.Bereavement ServicesBereavement services are an essential and intricate part of the hospice program, and Sivitz Hospice is committed to supporting families during the grieving period following the loss of a loved one. Bereavement support is tailored to meet the unique needs of each family. We are devoted to providing ongoing support for as long as its needed.
Anathan Adult Day Memory Care Services provides therapeutic programming for people with memory care needs in a warm, caring, and secure setting. Offering an engaging schedule of activities by experienced, highly trained staff, the goal of Anathan is to encourage your independence and self-esteem through peer interaction. As a member, you are exposed to familiar as well as new experiences and are valued as a unique individual. Anathan provides support and peace of mind for your regular caregiver so that he or she is more able to take care of life's daily responsibilities. Space is available Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm. Medicaid and private pay are accepted. Some long term insurance companies fund adult day services. For more information or to request a tour call 412-420-4000.