How to Find the Right Incontinence Product

n-home care traditionally relies on human interaction and personal touch. However, integrating technology into caregiving practices does not replace these elements but rather enhances them. Here are several ways technology is making a difference in in-home care: 1. Telehealth and Virtual Consultations Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, making medical consultations more accessible and convenient. Through video calls and online platforms, seniors can connect with healthcare providers without leaving their homes. Benefits of Telehealth: Convenience: Seniors can receive medical advice, follow-up care, and consultations from the comfort of their homes. Accessibility: Telehealth reduces the need for transportation, making healthcare accessible to those with mobility issues or in remote areas. Continuous Monitoring: Regular virtual check-ins allow for continuous monitoring of health conditions, enabling timely interventions. 2. Remote Monitoring and Wearable Devices Wearable devices and remote monitoring tools are game changers in in-home care, providing real-time health data that caregivers can use to tailor care plans. Key Technologies: Smartwatches: Equipped with features like heart rate monitoring, fall detection, and emergency alerts, smartwatches can help track vital signs and ensure immediate response to emergencies. Remote Sensors: Devices placed around the home can monitor movement patterns, detect falls, and alert caregivers to potential issues. Health Tracking Apps: These apps allow caregivers to monitor medication adherence, dietary habits, and overall wellness, promoting better health management. 3. Medication Management Systems Proper medication management is crucial for seniors, especially those with chronic conditions. Technology simplifies this task and minimizes the risk of errors. Solutions for Medication Management: Automated Dispensers: These devices dispense the correct dosage of medication at specified times, reducing the risk of missed or incorrect doses. Medication Reminders: Apps and smart devices can send reminders to seniors and caregivers, ensuring medications are taken on time. Electronic Health Records (EHRs): EHRs allow caregivers to access and update medication lists, ensuring all healthcare providers are informed of current treatments. 4. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology enhances safety and convenience for seniors living independently. These technologies can be integrated into daily routines, providing peace of mind for both seniors and their families. Examples of Smart Home Technology: Voice-Activated Assistants: Devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home can assist with daily tasks, provide reminders, and even control other smart devices. Smart Lighting and Thermostats: Automated lighting and climate control improve comfort and reduce the risk of accidents in the home. Security Systems: Smart locks, cameras, and alarm systems enhance home security, allowing caregivers and family members to monitor the home remotely. 5. Digital Communication Tools Staying connected with loved ones is essential for mental and emotional well-being. Digital communication tools bridge the gap between seniors and their families, fostering stronger relationships and reducing feelings of isolation. Popular Tools for Communication: Video Calling Apps: Platforms like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime allow for face-to-face interactions, helping seniors stay connected with family and friends. Social Media: Seniors can use social media platforms to engage with their community, share updates, and stay informed. Online Communities: Virtual support groups and communities provide a space for seniors to connect with peers, share experiences, and find support. The Benefits of Technology-Enhanced In-Home Care Integrating technology into in-home care offers numerous benefits, significantly enhancing the overall caregiving experience. Improved Quality of Care Technology enables caregivers to provide more precise, informed, and proactive care. Real-time data and continuous monitoring allow for early detection of potential health issues, leading to timely interventions and better health outcomes. Enhanced Independence and Safety With smart home devices, remote monitoring, and automated systems, seniors can maintain their independence while ensuring their safety. These technologies reduce the need for constant supervision, allowing seniors to live more autonomously. Increased Engagement and Social Interaction Digital communication tools and social media keep seniors engaged and connected, combating loneliness and promoting mental well-being. Virtual activities and online communities offer opportunities for socialization and mental stimulation. Cost-Effective Care By reducing the need for frequent hospital visits and enabling remote monitoring, technology can lower healthcare costs. Telehealth consultations, in particular, offer a cost-effective alternative to in-person visits, saving time and money. Choosing Acti-Kare for Technology-Enhanced In-Home Care At Acti-Kare, we are committed to incorporating the latest technological advancements into our in-home care services. Our goal is to provide the highest standard of care while embracing innovative solutions that improve the lives of our clients. Why Choose Acti-Kare? Comprehensive Care: We offer a wide range of services, from personal care and companionship to specialized medical support. Experienced Caregivers: Our caregivers are knowledgeable in using advanced technology to enhance care delivery. Personalized Approach: We create customized care plans that integrate technology to meet the unique needs of each client. Continuous Improvement: We stay updated with the latest technological advancements to ensure our clients benefit from the best available solutions.  Technology is transforming the in-home care industry, offering new ways to enhance the quality of care, improve safety, and increase independence for seniors. At Acti-Kare, we leverage these advancements to provide exceptional, personalized care that meets the evolving needs of our clients. Embrace the future of in-home care with Acti-Kare and discover how technology can make a difference in your loved ones life. For more information about our technology-enhanced in-home care services and to discuss how we can support your family, visit our website or contact us today. Let Acti-Kare help you navigate the path to innovative and compassionate care. Give us a call at 412-810-6595.

Unfortunately for seniors, Medicare does not typically pay for a walk-in tub. The program covers products considered to be durable medical equipment, i.e., durable equipment or devices that are medically required by a doctor to be used in the home and not typically useful to someone who isnt sick or disabled. Because walk-in tubs are not classified in this way, Medicare usually will not cover them.The upside is there are alternative finance options to purchase a walk-in tub. Learn if you may qualify for financial assistance through one of the programs, plans or grants listed below.Other Financial Assistance Options:MEDICARE FOR WALK-IN TUBSIn rare situations, original Medicare may make an exception and cover the cost of a walk-in tub. However, youd receive a reimbursement instead of an upfront payment. This means there is no guarantee that original Medicare would offer financial assistance until after you paid out of pocket and submitted a claim.To submit a claim, you have to prove the walk-in tub was an absolute medical necessity through a written medical diagnosis made by a doctor, which would include the reasons for why its needed and any essential features specific to a brand.  If you choose to go this route, you should be prepared to pay the full cost of the walk-in tub and additional installation costs, or seek other financial assistance.MEDICARE ADVANTAGE (MA) PLANSGetting original Medicare to pay for a walk-in tub is often a hassle and rarely delivers the outcome you want. Your best chance of receiving financial assistance through Medicare is with Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, or Plan C, which enables private insurance companies to contract with Medicare. Due to an expansion of health-related supplemental benefits in 2019, some MA plans will cover the cost of a walk-in tub.Not all MA plans are alike, so its important you talk to your plans representative about the types of benefits they offer. To learn more about your specific coverage, contact Medicare.MEDICAID FOR WALK-IN TUBSCompared to Medicare Advantage plans, Medicaid is more likely to pay for a walk-in tub. Because each state offers several different Medicaid programs, there is no universal rule governing its policy on home modifications. Contact your representative to confirm if your plan covers the cost of a walk-in tub.HOME AND COMMUNITY-BASED SERVICES (HCBS)You should also consider Medicaids Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver program. This program enables those with significant physical and cognitive limitations to receive services in their own home or community. Depending on which state you live, an HCBS waiver may pay for specialized medical equipment and environmental accessibility modifications, which can include the purchase and installation of a walk in tub.To determine if your states Medicaid waivers will pay for a walk in tub, contact the Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services (CMCS). Veterans Benefits for Walk-In TubsThe Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that provide financial assistance for the purchase and installation of a walk in tub. Read on to learn if one of these options is right for you.HOME MODIFICATION GRANTSDisabled veterans who are eligible may apply for grants to install home modifications that support disabilities related to their military service or resulting from aging. The two grants include:Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) GrantSpecial Home Adaptation (SHA) GrantVETERANS DIRECTED HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES (VD-HCBS)This program is modeled after Medicaids HCBS Waiver program. Participants receive a set budget to spend at their discretion on care services and supplies they elect as a medical necessity. As such, veterans may use a portion of the funds to purchase and install a walk-in tub or shower.VA AID AND ATTENDANCE, HOUSEBOUND AND OTHER PENSIONSThese pensions offer greater freedom to decide how the allowance is spent. With the only stipulation that it be used for the care of the beneficiary, a walk-in tub is an appropriate expense. The cost of a walk-in tub can also be considered an unreimbursed medical expense, which means it can be deducted from a veterans income. In turn, the veterans pension benefit will increase in the amount of the deduction, essentially covering the cost of the tub.  To learn more about veterans benefits, please contact your regional VA office or check out our blog.Grants for Walk-In TubsThe Rural Repair and Rehabilitation Loans and Grants for Seniors is a housing repair program offered by the US Department of Agriculture. This program assists seniors living on a low income in rural areas by offering grants that can cover home repairs, improvements or modifications to their home. It also applies to home modifications and accessibility features that eliminate health and safety hazards, including the cost of a walk-in tub.  You can begin the application process by contacting your local USDA service center.Financing Plans for Walk-In TubsAccessible bathing is an important investment to help you continue living in the home you love. At KOHLER, we are committed to offering walk-in tubs that blend the best in safety, comfort and affordability. We offer financing plans for all walkin baths as well as monthly offers to make the bath even more affordable.  Plus, we promise to give you the exact cost down to the penny during your consultation, so there are no surprise fees or hidden costs on installation day. You can also learn more about what goes into the total cost of the Walk-In Bath by exploring our Price Guide. Contact your local KOHLER Authorized Dealer to schedule a free in-home quote today.   Youre on your way to a safer, more comfortable bathing experience. Contact the individual programs and departments to see if you may qualify to receive financial assistance for a walk-in tub. You can also contact your local KOHLER Authorized Dealer for more information at (800) 707-5276.

People expect their home to provide independence, accessibility, safety, and peace of mind regardless of disabilities, limitations, or health challenges. Many folks are choosing to stay in their homes for as long as possible, bringing in supportive services to keep them safe, happy and healthy.This goal is important to everyone, not just those who are aging.  Patients with sudden health changes (accidents, strokes, spinal cord injury) or those with degenerative conditions (arthritis, ALS, dementia, MS, or Parkinsons) all may wish to alter or modify their home so they can remain where they are most comfortable.  If you share the desire to remain at home, will your current home sustain your independence for years to come?  Great design should be part of every home.  Universal Design dramatically improves the use by everyone:  Children, people with disabilities, and folks who are aging.  On the other hand, Accessible Design is incredibly personal and can create a customized environment specific for your needs. Examples of Universal Design in Your Home Open Concept Floor Plan Multi-Height Countertops No Step Entry to the home or rooms in the homeExamples of Accessible Design in Your Home 36-inch doorways for all entrances and doorways in the home Barrier Free Showers with no step or door to enter Stacked closets (4-foot x 5 foot or larger) on each level for future elevator useBoth types of design keep the end-user in mind with the goal of making the home convenient and upgraded.  Universal Design works to improve the home for every type of visitor as well as those living in the home.  Accessible Design helps the homeowner plan ahead to avoid moving if/when their needs change.  Whichever route you choose to follow, consult local professionals in the area to obtain free estimates and ideas.  Just like interior design, sometimes it takes fresh eyes to see what is possible in the design of your home, accessible modifications that can be made, or equipment that can be installed to add safety features.  Editors Note: This article was submitted by Karli Johnson with Accessible Systems and Lifeway Mobility. She may be reached at 719-974-4086 or by email at karli.johnson@LifewayMobility.com