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Visit any critical care unit, children’s hospital, or other specialty inpatient facility, and you’ll find a common feature: therapy dogs. For decades, healthcare practitioners have understood the surprisingly positive effects on patients of time spend with cute and cuddly dogs. Therapy dogs reduce stress, improve mood, and can help patients reframe their outlook on whatever condition ails them. The positive effects of patient interactions with therapy dogs are a well-documented fact of the medical world. Senior citizens with limited mobility and other health conditions also benefit from the companionship of dogs. Owning a pet reduces feelings of loneliness among seniors living at home or in a retirement facility, which in turn greatly reduces the risk of diseases associated with loneliness and isolation. Pets can also decrease the number of stress hormones in a person’s blood, lower blood pressure, and contribute to a more positive outlook on life. Dogs and other pets, it seems, have tremendous healing powers!
Since Alzheimer’s patients cannot adequately care for a pet, owning one is out of the question. Considering the nature of Alzheimer’s dementia, it is easy to assume that a loved one may not benefit from a pet since they will not remember the interaction. Researchers, convinced therapy dogs would have a positive effect on Alzheimer’s patients, put this question to the test: Do Therapy Dogs Help Alzheimer’s Dementia Patients?
Short-Term Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Patients with Alzheimer’s Dementia.
A study conducted in the early 2000’s looked carefully at the subject of therapy dogs and Alzheimer’s dementia patients. They measured the incidence of behavioral disturbances among patients in a nursing home for a period of four weeks, then introduced therapy dogs. Their initial findings showed that the dogs helped to reduce behavioral disturbances in the short term, meaning they helped to immediately calm patients. The short-term effects proved that therapy dogs do have a positive effect on patients with Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in regards to anxiety, anger, and changes in behavior associated with the disease.
Long-Term Benefits of Therapy Dogs for Patients with Alzheimer’s Dementia.
The same study did not stop at the short-term effects of therapy dogs on Alzheimer’s patients. Previous assumptions suggested that since patients would not remember their encounters with the therapy dogs, the effects of spending time with them would vanish from one day to the next. Not true, the study authors found. Although most of the patients did not remember their interactions with the therapy dogs (some did), the behavioral disturbances noted in the four weeks prior to the study reduced. In fact, the longer and more frequently patients interacted with the therapy dogs, the less they exhibited behavioral disturbances.
Therapy Dogs As A Long-Term Therapy.
The study findings confirmed what clinicians suspected all along: dogs are an excellent long-term therapy for persons with Alzheimer’s dementia to reduce the incidence of behavioral disturbances. Therapy dogs also had the same effect on Alzheimer’s patients as they do on other kinds of patients, including reduced stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, better appetite, and fewer feelings of loneliness. These effects continued to increase the longer and more frequently patients interacted with the dogs.
What Makes Dogs Such Good Therapy?
Dogs are wired to give unconditional love and devotion. They can provide physical and social contact where it is missing, and they are not picky. what sets dogs apart, particularly those trained as therapy dogs, is that they will approach anyone regardless of their physical or mental deterioration, and initiate contact. Patients can pet, hug, and cuddle dogs unlike any other kind of pet. These positive interactions provide a distraction to the other goings-on around them and provide relief for those suffering from sadness, anger, or angst.
The Takeaway.
Dogs have a tremendous healing power. While studies have focused specifically on Alzheimer’s dementia patients, their positive effects will benefit anyone suffering from general dementia. Families of patients will feel relief that their loved ones have fewer outbursts of anger, sadness, or angst. While dementia impairs memory, it does not interrupt the long-term benefits of regularly interacting with a therapy dog. In fact, the more they interact with a therapy dog, the fewer behavioral problems they exhibit.
Wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are crucial for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These conditions can lead to physical limitations, such as difficulty with mobility, balance, and coordination, which can make everyday tasks and activities a challenge.A stroke or heart attack can impact a persons life in many ways, including the ability to enter and exit their home. The installation of a wheelchair ramp can provide a safer, more convenient means of access to and from the home, improving overall independence and quality of life.In addition to being useful for individuals who have suffered a stroke or heart attack, wheelchair ramps and other accessibility products can also be beneficial for those with other physical limitations, such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.Here, we will discuss the importance of wheelchair ramps and accessibility products for those who have survived a stroke or heart attack, and how they can make a significant difference in improving overall independence and quality of life.The Benefits of Wheelchair Ramps for People with Stroke or Heart AttackImproved MobilityThe primary benefit of a wheelchair ramp is improved mobility and independence. A ramp allows individuals who use a wheelchair or walker to safely enter and exit their home, which can increase their independence and reduce the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps can provide a convenient means of accessing public buildings, such as grocery stores, doctors offices, and other essential locations.ConvenienceWheelchair ramps are also convenient for individuals who experience mobility challenges as a result of a stroke or heart attack. Traditional steps can be difficult to navigate, especially for those who have limited mobility, balance, or coordination. A ramp eliminates the need to navigate stairs, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents. Additionally, ramps are typically wider than steps, making it easier for individuals to maneuver and move about regardless of whether or not they use a mobility aid.Increased SafetyOne of the most important benefits of wheelchair ramps for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack is increased safety. Steps can be slippery, especially in inclement weather, increasing the risk of falls and other accidents. A ramp provides a stable, slip-resistant surface that can be used in all weather conditions. Additionally, ramps typically have handrails, providing additional support and stability for individuals who need it.Cost-Effective SolutionWheelchair ramps can also be a cost-effective solution for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. Traditional home modifications can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. A ramp is a more affordable option and may be covered by Medicaid or other insurance programs. Additionally, ramps can be installed quickly and easily, reducing the disruption to the home and daily routines.The Importance of Accessibility ProductsIn addition to wheelchair ramps, there are many other accessibility products available that can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall independence and quality of life, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities.Grab BarsGrab bars are a simple but effective accessibility product that can be installed in the bathroom, bedroom, and other areas of the home. They provide a secure and stable surface for individuals who need support when getting in and out of the shower or bath, when using the toilet, or when sitting and standing in various areas around the home. Grab bars are available in a variety of styles and finishes, making it easy to find a product that complements the dcor of the home.Stair LiftsStair lifts are a more advanced accessibility product that can be installed in homes with multiple levels. These devices allow individuals to safely navigate stairs, eliminating the need to climb steps. Stair lifts come in a variety of styles and designs, including straight and curved options, to accommodate different types of staircases. There are also options for both indoor and outdoor staircases.Transfer BenchesTransfer benches are another useful accessibility product for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These benches provide a safe and stable surface for individuals to transfer in and out of the shower or bath. Transfer benches have a slip-resistant seat and backrest, and can be adjusted to accommodate different heights.ElevatorsFor individuals who live in multi-level homes, elevators can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for improving accessibility. These devices can be installed in the home, providing individuals with a safe and secure means of accessing different levels of the home. Elevators can be customized to meet the specific needs of the individual and can be equipped with safety features, such as emergency stop buttons and intercoms.ConclusionWheelchair ramps and other accessibility products are essential for individuals who have suffered from a stroke or heart attack. These products can improve overall mobility, convenience, safety, and independence, making it easier for individuals to perform everyday tasks and activities. Whether you are looking to install a ramp, grab bars, stair lifts, transfer benches, or elevators, it is important to work with a reputable and experienced provider to ensure the best possible outcome. Amramp Accessibility is a leading provider of accessibility solutions and is dedicated to helping individuals with physical limitations live a more independent and fulfilling life. Contact us at 800-649-5215 to learn more.
Why After-Hospital Care at Home is Key to a Safe & Speedy Recovery for Grand Junction, Colorado SeniorsRecovering after a hospital stay? Learn how post-hospital home care supports a safe, smooth recovery, reduces complications, and prevents readmission. Discover the benefits of after-hospital care at home. Leaving the hospital is a significant step in your recovery, but the healing process doesnt stop there. Proper after-hospital care at home is essential for a smooth recovery, reducing the risk of complications and hospital readmission. In fact, research indicates that people receiving home healthcare services have a considerably lower risk of being readmitted to the hospital within 30 days compared to those who do not receive such care; this reduction can be as high as 60% in some studies. Keep reading to discover why post-hospital home care is crucial and how it can support a faster, safer return to daily life for seniors and other adults in Grand Junction and the surrounding Colorado communities.What is Post Hospital Care in Grand Junction?After-hospital carealso known as post-hospital care, transitional care, in-home recovery care, or post-hospital home carerefers to the support seniors and other adults need after being discharged from the hospital to ensure a safe and smooth recovery at home.After surgery or a hospital stay, many individuals prefer to recover at home, where they feel most comfortable. However, since they are still in the healing process, its essential to follow their doctors recommendations closely to regain strength. Depending on their condition, they may need additional support for a short period or several months.Every situation is different, which means that every person's in-home recovery care needs will be different. Transitional care services can include a wide variety of services, such as:Assistance with implementing the patients recovery planCoordination with medical staffMedication remindersPersonal careCompanionshipTransportationLight HousekeepingRespiteFamily members often step in to help with in-home recovery care, and in some cases, their support may be enough. However, professional transitional care is often necessary to ensure a safe and smooth recovery. If loved ones lack the time, skills, or energy to provide proper care, hiring an in-home recovery professional can be the best way to promote healing, prevent complications, and support a faster return to daily life.The Benefits of Post-Hospital Home Care in Grand JunctionPost-hospital home care doesnt just make a patients life easier; it has been scientifically proven to improve recovery outcomes. The benefits of post-hospital home care include:Comfort of home. Most people prefer to recover in the comfort of their own home, surrounded by loved ones in a familiar setting. A 2018 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that people who received in-home recovery care experienced significantly less stress than those who remained in the hospital for an extended period.Personalization. Everyone has unique needs after a hospital stay, and at-home care allows for greater personalization than hospital-based recovery. Unlike hospitals, transitional care services are not restricted by schedules, staffing, or resource limitations. This flexibility enables patients to receive fully customized care tailored to their routines, preferences, and recovery plans.Safety. Recovery is a critical phase of healing, and post-hospital home care significantly improves the chances of a safe and smooth recovery. In-home care ensures that patients receive the supervision needed to follow their doctors recovery plan while reducing risks such as falls, infections, and medication errors. Transitional care professionals can provide medication reminders, assist with hygiene, and support daily living activities to enhance safety.Independence. Recovering at home empowers seniors and other adults to take an active role in their healing process. With support from a family member or professional caregiver, patients maintain more control over their daily lives. As their health improves, they can gradually resume more tasks on their own, fostering a sense of independence and autonomy.Community. Hospital stays can feel isolating, but at-home recovery allows patients to stay connected with friends and family. Without hospital visitation restrictions, loved ones can visit freely, and with transportation assistance, patients can continue participating in social activities aligned with their recovery plan.Cost-effectiveness. Hospital bills add up quickly, especially for extended stays. In contrast, post-hospital home care is significantly more affordable while providing greater comfort. Hiring a professional for transitional care services costs only a fraction of what a prolonged hospital stay would.Improved recovery outcomes. The greatest advantage of post-hospital home care is improved recovery. A 2021 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that in-home recovery care not only speeds up healing but also lowers the risk of infection. Additionally, the AMA found that patients receiving post-hospital care at home are 44% less likely to be readmitted to the hospital.Simply put, in-home post-hospital care is often the best choice following a surgery or illness, and professional transitional care services can help your family make sure your loved ones needs are met. How to Prepare for After Hospital Care at HomeBefore beginning after hospital care at home, you should make a few simple preparations for yourself or your loved one.Follow these steps to build the proper infrastructure for in-home recovery care:Consult with the patients doctor about their recovery plan.Make plans for the patients transportation from the hospital to home.Clean and organize the home.Purchase and set up any necessary equipment, like shower railings.Consider the patients nutrition needs and dietary restrictions and plan meals accordingly.Prepare a schedule for any prescribed medications.Address any limitations to mobility or daily living activities. Consider hiring an in-home post-hospital care agency, like the friendly, knowledgeable team at Comfort Keepers.Enjoy a Smooth, Safe Recovery with Comfort Keepers Grand JunctionComfort Keepers Grand Junction is a post-hospital home care provider in Colorados Western Slope. Our transitional care services are designed to provide patients with the support they need to get back on their feet as soon as possible.Our agency provides in-home senior care services to seniors and other adults in Grand Junction, Redlands, Clifton, Fruita, Palisade, Whitewater, Gateway, Orchard Mesa, Appleton, Loma, Glade Park, Fruitville, Glenwood Springs, Battlement Mesa, Parachute, and Rifle, Colorado. When you choose Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, you and your loved ones can benefit from:Experienced, compassionate caregiversPersonalized recovery plansEnhanced home safetyHelp with transportation, light housekeeping, and errandsMedication remindersAssistance with daily living activities, like bathing, dressing, and mobilityPeace of mind knowing that your loved ones are taken care of by professionalsAt Comfort Keepers, our clients are more than just clients; they are family. We care for the seniors in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties like they are our own loved ones, incorporating time-tested best practices alongside cutting-edge techniques.Contact Comfort Keepers Grand Junction today to learn how our post-hospital home care services in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray, and Garfield counties can support a safe, smooth recovery call today to ask how, 970-241-8818.
How does your home care business run its marketing efforts?A successful home care marketing funnel helps attract potential clients, guide them through decision-making, and turn them into loyal advocates. The marketing funnel for home care businesses typically follows four key steps: Awareness, Consideration, Decision (Conversion), and Advocacy (Retention & Referrals). Heres how you can implement each step effectively.1. AwarenessWhat is it?At this stage, potential clients first learn about your home care services. This could be through online searches, word of mouth, or community events.Goal:Introduce your home care services to potential clients and their families.Strategies to Achieve Awareness: Local SEO Optimization Ensure your Google My Business profile and directory listings are up to date. Social Media Marketing Regularly post on platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to engage potential clients. Content Marketing Share blogs, videos, and senior care guides to educate and attract attention. Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Ads Target families searching for home care services. Community Engagement Attend or host local events, networking opportunities, and partnerships to build trust within the community. 2. ConsiderationWhat is it?Potential clients are now comparing their options and evaluating whether your services fit their needs.Goal:Build trust and educate potential clients about your services.Strategies to Achieve Consideration: Testimonials & Case Studies Showcase positive experiences from past clients. Free Consultations or Assessments Offer in-home evaluations to build trust. Webinars and Live Q&As Educate families about home care options. Email Nurturing Campaigns Send helpful guides and answers to common concerns. Comparison Guides Provide easy-to-read comparisons between home care vs. assisted living or private caregivers vs. agencies. 3. Decision (Conversion)What is it?This is when prospects make their final decision and choose your home care services over competitors.Goal:Convert leads into paying clients.Strategies to Achieve Conversion: Strong Calls-to-Action (CTAs) Ensure your website, social media, and ads clearly direct visitors to contact you. Easy Contact Options Provide phone, chat, and form submissions for quick communication. Transparent Pricing and Service Details Make it easy for families to understand their options. Personalized Follow-Ups A care coordinator should connect personally with leads. Trial Periods or Flexible Care Plans Reduce hesitation by offering trial services or customized plans. 4. Advocacy (Retention & Referrals)What is it?Once clients experience great care, they can become loyal advocates who refer others and leave positive reviews.Goal:Turn satisfied clients into brand advocates who help grow your reputation.Strategies to Achieve Advocacy: Client Satisfaction Surveys Gather feedback to improve services and show you care. Referral Programs Offer incentives for happy clients who recommend your services. Regular Check-ins Stay in touch with families to ensure ongoing satisfaction. Encourage Online Reviews Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Facebook, and Yelp. Engagement with Past Clients Keep in touch via newsletters, community events, and support groups. A well-structured home care marketing funnel is essential for attracting potential clients, building trust, and turning them into loyal advocates. By focusing on Awareness, Consideration, Decision, and Advocacy, you can create a seamless journey that connects families with the right care solutions.At Seniors Blue Book, we help home care providers increase visibility and connect with the right audience through our trusted platform. A free listing gives you instant exposure, while our upgraded options take your marketing to the next level.Dont let your services go unnoticedget listed today and start reaching families in need. Contact us at hello@seniorsbluebook.com or call 800-201-9989 to learn more!
Welcome to Acti-Kare Responsive In-Home Care servicing North Pittsburgh. We are a locally owned and operated private home care. Acti-Kare takes home care from surviving to thriving through our exclusive Acti-Vate fatigue fighting program.Our services include: Azheimer's Care * Assistance with Walking/Mobility Bathing & Grooming Meal Preparation Medication Reminder Light Housekeeping Transportation to Appointments Shopping Engagement through Games, Crafts & HobbiesThere's no place like home! We all feel more comfortable in our own surroundings. But, what happens when we just aren't able to do everything we used to? Somewhere, somehow, we have to find reliable help. For some of us, that can mean facing the idea of moving to an assisted living facility or nursing home. For others, it can mean relying on friends or family to help when their schedules permit. Is that the answer? It doesn't have to be. Acki-Kare is the perfect solution to life's challenges. We offer customized plans of care to help you or loved one stay active and independent in your own home. We can assist with anything from light housekeeping to bathing and grooming. Our flexible scheduling lets you get the help you need, when you need it. OUR CAREGIVERS We will provide a no-charge, no commitment consultation to help you determine a personalized plan of care. Our promise to you is to provide the highest level professional caregiver to focus completely on providing the assistance you need. All Acti-Kare caregivers undergo rigorous background checks, reference checks, and specific training for your particular needs. This means you can rest assured that you will not only have a superior caregiver, but likely a trusted friend.ACTI-KARE's Acti-VATE Program: Mind - Mental stimulation to keep cognitive functioning at its peak Body - Boosting energy to improve physical health & alertness Spirit - Enhancing mood through engaging activitiesActi-kare offers a range of in-home senior care services, whether youre seeking personal care or in-home companionship, Acti-Kare has you covered. We will help your senior with any of the following companionship and in-home senior care services:Meal Preparation:Acti-Kare Caregivers will help seniors and elderly with everyday tasks such as meal preparation. Acti-Kare understands that constantly cooking meals can be a hassle for seniors, thats why our caregivers can help in the kitchen! Our caregivers will cook your loved one nutritional and wholesome meals! Your loved ones deserve to eat a healthy, and with Acti-Kare they can. In many cases, seniors work side by side with our caregivers cooking meals, this is a great time to promote social interaction.Conversations:Seniors who actively stay engaged in conversations have a lower chance of developing general depression according to multiple publications. Acti-Kares mission is to help provide your loved one with in-home care that matters, and makes a difference in their lives.Medication Reminders:Acti-Kare is a non-medical home care company, which means that we are not able to directly administer medications. However, our professional caregivers can assist the senior with reminders to take medication as prescribed. Acti-Kare Caregivers can help read labels, and remind seniors and the elderly on when to take their next medication.Light Housekeeping:Acti-Kare Caregivers will help your senior with light housekeeping, which includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping, bathroom cleaning, kitchen cleaning, and trash disposal. We want your loved one to live in a house that is cleanly and promotes great hygiene.Running Errands:Does your loved one need help running errands/grocery shopping? If so, theyre not alone. Seniors across the United States struggle with travel by themselves, many of which are unable to drive. Our Caregivers can help your senior with tasks such as grocery shopping, prescription pick up, and many more!RECOVERY HOME CARE SERVICESActi-Kare in-home care provides recovery care services after surgery, accidents and other disabilities. We use qualified caregivers to assist with meals, personal care, light house cleaning and other needed services to make sure that recovery is as effortless as possible.IN-HOME MEMORY CARE SERVICESFor over a decade, Acti-Kare has been providing in-home memory care services to thousands of individuals across the United States. Our caregivers are trained, licensed, and bonded, which provides your loved one with professional care that you can count on. Acti-Kare has developed a proprietary program known as Acti-Vate, which helps seniors who need memory care live a successful live in their home. Our Acti-Vate program promotes mental, physical, and emotional stimulation through games, puzzles, arts and crafts and more.At Acti-Kare, we understand that memory loss affects everyone differently, which is why we do not have a one size fits all approach like some of our competitors. Acti-Kare provides a personalized approach to memory care, which allows your loved one to feel confident and you to feel more comfortable about their safety in the home. For individuals who need assistance with memory care, we understand the value of creating not only a unique program, but one that relies on developing structure. Memory loss can be difficult and challenging for you and your loved one, but with the help of Acti-Kare, we will make sure your loved one is comfortable in their home through all phases of memory issues.We are Long Term Care Insurance Specialists - When you need to find home care, searching the options can seem overwhelming. If you have a long-term care insurance policy, it can compound the situation. We have been working directly with long-term care insurance companies since our beginning. We can navigate the approval and payment aspects on your behalf, as well as submit all of the paperwork and reports required by your insurance company, Our expertise in handling this process will make your search for care simple and easy, We can even arrange for your insurance company to pay us directly so you don't even have to worry about the bill.Acti-Kare takes all of the stress out of getting the help you need. Find out why so many seniors, and their families, have chosen us as their trusted care provider. Give us a call today to learn more at 412-810-6595.