Knowing Community Resources Can Improve a Life

When it is time to seek out healthcare assistance for yourself or an older adult, there are many options. Creating a plan can be a confusing and daunting task as you try to piece together services to meet all of your needs.  For family caregivers, this can be especially stressful while also balancing the needs of work and family.  Many caregivers find that care coordination for their parents can be a full-time job.   PACE, which stands for Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, is an option that removes the burden of care coordination for older adults and their families. PACE is an innovative model of healthcare providing wrap-around services and coordinated care all in one place, alleviating stress on the older adult and their family.  PACE provides the flexibility needed to meet the health care needs of older adults to support them living successfully in the community. A unique approach for every personEvery individual who receives care and services through PACE has a unique plan of care developed by an interdisciplinary team including providers, nurses, social workers, therapists, dietitians, homecare, transportation specialists, and more. The team works with each PACE participant to create an individualized plan that cares for the whole person, including their medical, social, and mental health needs. PACE is more than a list of services; PACE is a complete solutionPACE offers a day center, where participants can receive medical care, rehab therapies, meals and socialization.  The PACE Center serves as the central hub of all services, including scheduling and transportation to and from all appointments.  PACEs comprehensive services and care coordination can be an invaluable solution for the older adult and their caregivers who are balancing the needs of family and work.        If you think PACE may be a solution for you, please call TRU PACE at 303-665-0115.   Editors Note: This article was submitted by Samantha Black, LSW, Executive Director at TRU PACE and may be reached at 303-665-0115 or by email at SamanthaBlack@TRUcare.org

Caring for an aging parent can be a rewarding yet challenging responsibility. As they grow older, their needs increase, and it can become overwhelming to provide adequate support. In this guide from Hover Senior Living in Longmont, CO, we will discuss why and when it may be necessary to seek help in caring for your senior parent, focusing on options such as Longmont senior housing, assisted living, and assisted living homes.Declining Health and Safety ConcernsAs your loved one ages, their health may deteriorate, making it difficult for you to meet their increasing care needs. If their safety is at risk due to falls, forgetfulness, or medical conditions that require specialized assistance, it may be time to consider professional care in a Longmont senior housing facility or an assisted living home.Social IsolationSeniors often experience feelings of loneliness and social isolation, leading to declines in mental and emotional well-being. Moving them into a community like assisted living not only provides access to 24/7 care but also encourages social interaction with peers, organized activities, and outings, thereby improving their overall quality of life.Caregiver BurnoutProviding constant care for your senior parent can be physically and emotionally draining. Many caregivers experience burnout, which can negatively impact their own well-being. Getting help with caregiving responsibilities can ensure that both the caregiver and the senior parent receive the support they need.Higher Level of CareAs your parents care needs increase, they may require specialized medical attention, including assistance with medication management, physical therapy, or memory care for conditions like dementia. Assisted living facilities are equipped to provide these higher levels of care, ensuring that your loved one receives the appropriate attention and support.Caring for a senior parent is a significant responsibility and recognizing when to seek help is crucial for their well-being, as well as your own. Consider the declining health and safety concerns, social isolation, caregiver burnout, and the need for a higher level of care as indicators that it may be time to explore Longmont senior housing, assisted living, or assisted living homes. By making this choice, you are ensuring that your parent receives the support they need to thrive in a safe and engaging environment. Contact us today to learn more.Contact Us Now 303-772-9292

When supporting patients who wish to age comfortably at home, distinguishing between home health and in-home care can be key to effective patient support. These terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but each service addresses different needs in patient care. Lets clarify the distinction, as understanding these differences can help guide patients and families to the right kind of support for their circumstances.Home Health: Skilled Medical Care at HomeHome health involves medical care provided in the patient's home by licensed professionals, such as nurses, physical therapists, or occupational therapists. It is typically prescribed by a physician and can include wound care, medication management, chronic illness monitoring, and rehabilitation therapies. Examples of home health services include: Wound care for pressure sores or a surgical wound Patient and caregiver education Intravenous or nutrition therapy Injections Monitoring serious illness and unstable health status Home health focuses on supporting patients in recovering from illness or surgery, managing medical conditions, and preventing hospital readmissionsall in the comfort of their homes.In-Home Care: Assistance for Daily LivingIn-home care, on the other hand, is non-medical support provided by trained caregivers to assist individuals with daily living activities. This type of care can be short-termsuch as during recovery from surgeryor long-term for older adults who need continued assistance. Examples of in-home care services include: Assistance with bathing, dressing, and grooming Meal preparation Light housekeeping Companionship In-home care is especially beneficial for individuals who need support with daily activities but do not require medical intervention. The goal is to enhance quality of life by addressing personal and emotional needs while promoting independence.Choosing the Right Care for Your PatientsResearch suggests that some medical professionals may not always draw a clear line between home health and in-home care, yet understanding these distinctions can help patients receive the right type of support. Home health is ideal for those needing medical care at home, whereas in-home care focuses on enhancing day-to-day living for those who value independence but need extra help.Aging in Place with ComfortFor many seniors and individuals with chronic health conditions, aging at home is an important aspect of maintaining their quality of life. Advances in telemedicine and remote health monitoring have made it easier to integrate a mix of home health and in-home care services. This personalized approach not only offers a convenient care experience but also helps patients stay in control of their health journey.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers provides uplifting in-home care that helps seniors thrive. Our specially trained caregivers focus on developing genuine relationships with clients, keeping them physically and mentally engaged while ensuring they experience joy in their daily activities.If you know a patient or family that could benefit from Comfort Keepers services, they can reach out for a free consultation. Lets work together to help individuals age comfortably and confidently at home.