How To Talk With Parents About Home Care Options

 Major pharmacy chains have closed hundreds of locations in the past year, making pharmacy services harder to find in some areas and, where such services are no longer available, creating pharmacy desserts. Without a nearby pharmacy, patients may have to travel further and navigate transportation challenges to obtain critical medications. Access to a convenient pharmacy is vital because adults are taking more prescription medications every year; up to 60% of U.S. adults reported they took at least one prescription drugs. Polypharmacy, where a patient is taking at least 5 medications, is a major risk factor for adverse health outcomes, especially for patients over the age of 65. Despite representing only 13% of the population, older patients consume approximately 30% of prescription medications and 40% of over-the-counter medications. Without access to a convenient pharmacy, patients may struggle to obtain life-saving medications, resulting in more cases of unmanaged chronic conditions, extended illness, and sometimes severe health complications. Even delayed access to medications can have serious health consequences, including higher medical costs and health complications. Often, when a service is no longer available, that is when we recognize how truly important they are.  Pharmacists do more than just dispense medications. They help patients find affordable therapies and provide preventive care services including vaccines and health screenings. Pharmacies also often offer medical supplies and over-the-counter drugs. As people take more medications, pharmacists are at the forefront of medication reconciliation, which includes reviewing all the medications a patient is taking to avoid errors such as omissions, duplications, dosing errors or drug interactions. Medication therapy management is also a vital service, offering patients education and consultation on their prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements. This helps patients better understand and manage their health. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) like Healthcare Network in Collier County provide additional benefits through their integrated pharmacy services.  Healthcare Network has two on-site pharmacies: Nichols Community Health Center in Golden Gate and Marion E. Fether in Immokalee. These locations allow patients to see a provider and fill their prescriptions in the same site. If a prescription is too costly or not covered by insurance, the provider can prescribe an alternative immediately, and refills can be expedited with providers nearby. For those with complicated medical regimens or multiple medications, pharmacists can organize pills in blister packs to help a patient track what to take and when. Healthcare Networks pharmacies provide mail-order and prescription delivery services, with support available for patients who speak languages other than English. Our multilingual pharmacy staff and language interpretation services ensure clear communication, allowing us to stay closely connected with patients, offering guidance, education, and encouragement as part of their care team.  Rising medication costs are another significant issue. According to the American Hospital Association, drug prices for nearly 2,000 medications rose between 2022 and 2023 at a rate exceeding inflation, with an average increase of 15.2%. These high costs are particularly burdensome for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured individuals, with estimates indicating that as many as 44% of patients forgo filling prescriptions due to financial constraints. As an FQHC, Healthcare Network can offer some medications at a reduced price through the 340B Drug Pricing Program, which requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to sell medications at a lower price to FQHCs. In addition, our pharmacies accept most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, and can help patients apply for available discounts from pharmacy assistance programs.  Providing pharmacy services in areas of Collier County that already lack primary care doctors is one of the many ways that Healthcare Network is increasing access to essential medical care for the community. About the AuthorDr. Martine Woolley leads pharmacy operations at Healthcare Network, including the Federal 340B discount program, to ensure accessible, high-quality care for patients and families. Her expertise in pharmacy management and commitment to compliance drive excellence and innovation across all services. For more information about Healthcare Networks pharmacy services, visit HealthcareSWFL.org.  By Martine Woolley, PharmD, MS, MBA,  Vice President of Pharmacy      

As we navigate through life, our belongings often tell the stories of our journeyseach item a snapshot of memories, milestones, and emotions. For seniors and their families, the process of organizing and downsizing can be a bittersweet journey, filled with both nostalgia and the promise of new beginnings. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we recognize that our mission goes beyond mere organization; its about cherishing what truly matters. In this blog, well explore the importance of thoughtful organization for seniors and their families, offering tips to make the process meaningful and stress-free.Understanding the Emotional Landscape of DownsizingMoving can be one of the most emotional experiences in a persons life, especially for seniors who have accumulated a lifetime of memories in their homes. Its essential to recognize that each item carries a story. When assisting seniors with decluttering or relocating, we encourage families to approach the process with sensitivity. Here are some tips to navigate this emotional landscape:Start with a Conversation: Before diving into the physical process, have a heartfelt discussion with your loved one. Ask them about their favorite memories associated with particular items. This not only honors their feelings but also allows for a natural segue into deciding what to keep.Create a Memory Space: Designate a small area in the new home or within a cherished space where significant mementos can be displayed. This way, clients can visualize how theyll preserve their favorite memories in their new environment.One Room at a Time: Instead of overwhelming yourself or your loved one, take it one room at a time. This approach not only makes the task more manageable but also allows for meaningful reminiscing as you go through items together.Focus on Functionality Over Volume: While its tempting to hold onto everything, focus instead on keeping items that are functional and meaningful. Prioritize essentials and items that elicit joythis can lead to a more peaceful and organized space.By approaching the process with empathy and understanding, families can foster an environment of support and love, ultimately enriching the moving experience.Practical Strategies for Efficient OrganizationOnce the emotional groundwork is laid, its time to delve into practical organization strategies. At A Call to Order, we believe that a well-organized space can lead to greater peace of mind and a more enjoyable living experience. Here are some effective tactics to transform spaces into organized havens:Sort and Categorize: Have three boxes labeled for items to keep, donate, or discard. As you sort, ask your loved one to contribute to the decision-making process. This empowers them, making the transition feel more collaborative rather than overwhelming.Optimize Storage Solutions: Maximize the use of multifunctional furniture, such as ottomans with hidden storage or beds with drawers. These solutions help minimize clutter while keeping essential items accessible and organized.Label Everything: Clear labeling can significantly reduce stress when trying to find items. Its helpful for everyone involved, especially if your senior loved one has a fluctuating memory. You can use color-coded labels for different categories, making it visually engaging.Personalize the Space: Encourage your loved one to include personal touches that reflect their personality and hobbies. Whether its family photos, artwork, or cherished collections, incorporating these elements can transform a house into a home filled with warmth.Set Realistic Goals: Break down the organizing tasks into small, achievable goals. Celebrate the little victories along the way, reinforcing a sense of accomplishment. Setting a timeline and checking off completed tasks can make the process feel less daunting.Ultimately, organizing a seniors home isnt just about tidiness; its about creating a nurturing environment that allows for comfort and joyful living. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we cherish the opportunity to serve seniors and their families, ensuring that each move or organizational project resonates with love and significance. By blending emotional connection with effective strategies, we create spaces that truly honor what matters most, leading to a more fulfilling life for seniors and their families alike.Remember, every item holds a storylets celebrate those stories together through the gift of organization!

1. Memory Care Assisted Living CommunitiesMemory care is a specialized form of assisted living that focuses on residents with memory-related challenges. These communities offer: Secured Environments: Prevent wandering and ensure safety. Trained Staff: Professionals experienced in dementia care. Structured Activities: Programs designed to promote cognitive function and social engagement. Memory care facilities are ideal for individuals who need daily assistance and a structured routine. 2. Skilled Nursing Facilities with Memory CareFor individuals requiring medical supervision in addition to memory care, skilled nursing facilities often provide: 24/7 Medical Assistance: Nurses and doctors available to manage complex health conditions. Specialized Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapies tailored to residents with memory loss. Comprehensive Care Plans: Addressing both cognitive and physical health needs. These facilities cater to residents with advanced dementia or coexisting medical conditions. 4. Adult Day Care CentersAdult day care centers offering memory care services provide daytime support for individuals while allowing them to return home in the evening. Key benefits include: Respite for Family Caregivers: Time for caregivers to rest or focus on other responsibilities. Engaging Activities: Socialization opportunities, games, and exercises tailored to memory care needs. Professional Oversight: Ensuring safety and well-being during the day. This option is ideal for families who want to balance professional care with at-home living. 5. In-Home Memory Support ServiceFor those who prefer to remain in their own homes, memory support can be brought directly to the individual. In-home services may include: Caregiver Assistance: Help with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. Cognitive Engagement: Memory exercises and stimulating activities provided by trained professionals. Safety Modifications: Recommendations for making the home safer for individuals with dementia. In-home support allows for familiar surroundings while ensuring proper care. 6. Community and Nonprofit OrganizationsMany local organizations and nonprofits offer memory support programs, including: Support Groups: Providing emotional and practical guidance for families and caregivers. Educational Workshops: Teaching coping strategies and care techniques. Day Programs: Offering structured activities for individuals with memory challenges. These services are often more affordable and widely accessible.