Long-Term Care Workforce Challenges

Natural disasters and emergencies happen unexpectedly, making it crucial to be prepared, especially when caring for someone with dementia. Here in Southern Colorado, we have had multiple Red Flag Warnings already this year. Also multiple grass fires with evacuation orders have raised the hairs on many peoples necks. We also have the Los Angeles fires and Lahaina fires still fresh in our minds. On the flip side, the Colorado Springs area experienced blizzard and white out conditions with power outages which also raised stress and anxiety for caregivers of those experiencing brain change. Evacuating a person with dementia requires thoughtful planning and preparation to ensure their safety and comfort. This guide provides essential tips on how to effectively evacuate a person with dementia and what to include in a "Go Bag" to make the process as smooth as possible. Understanding the Challenges People with dementia often experience confusion, memory loss, and disorientation. In a high-stress situation like an evacuation, their cortisol hormone rises. Cortisol is the fight or flight hormone. Agitation and confusion can become more pronounced, making it essential for caregivers to provide reassurance and a sense of security just as you would for children. Here are some challenges to consider: Disorientation: Changes in environment can lead to increased confusion. Communication Difficulties: The person may have trouble expressing their needs or understanding instructions. Sequencing instructions is already challenging then add the stress of the emergency.Increased Anxiety: Unfamiliar situations can trigger fear and anxiety and your person may not be capable of expressing those feelings. This could result in anger and frustration.Preparing for EvacuationPreparation is key to ensuring a safe and efficient evacuation. Here are some steps to take:Develop an Evacuation Plan:Identify safe evacuation routes and destinations ahead of time.Ensure that all family members and caregivers are aware of the plan.Practice the evacuation plan regularly to reduce anxiety and confusion.Establish a Support Network:Inform neighbors, friends, and local emergency services about the needs of the person with dementia.Designate a primary and backup caregiver to assist during an evacuation.Create a Familiar Environment:Pack in the Go Bag familiar items or objects that provide comfort and security to the person with dementia.Keep outside stressors to a minimumMake sure the emergency is not on the TV. Keep the favorite or normal shows on the screen.If possible give a task to your person. I really could use some help with gathering X. Could you help me with that? Your tone should be calm.The Essential "Go Bag"Having a well-prepared "go bag" is crucial for a successful evacuation. Heres what you should include:Personal Identification and Medical InformationIdentification: Include a photo ID, medical ID bracelet, and any necessary documentation.Medical Records: A list of current medications, medical conditions, and healthcare provider contact information.Emergency Contacts: A list of family members, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.Essential SuppliesMedications: At least a week's supply of medications, along with instructions for administration.Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, and other personal care products.Clothing: Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, including a hat for both keeping warm and sun protection, sturdy shoes. People experiencing dementia often feel temperature differently; it may be their brain misinterpreting hot or cold. Prepare for the potential weather.Blanket or Pillow: For added comfort and familiarity.Comfort and FamiliarityFavorite Snacks: Non-perishable snacks that the person enjoys.Sensory Items: Items like a soft toy, fidget spinner, or a familiar object to reduce anxiety.Games: Simple games that the person is familiar with. This could depend on their stage of dementia.Photographs or Mementos: Photos of loved ones or cherished items that can help calm and reassure.Communication ToolsNotebook and Pen.Pre-written Notes: Cards with simple messages or instructions that the person with dementia can understand.Emergency ToolsFlashlight and Batteries: To help navigate in the dark if necessary.First Aid Kit: Basic supplies for minor injuries.During the EvacuationDuring the evacuation, maintain a calm and positive demeanor. Speak in short, simple sentences and offer reassurance frequently. Keep the person with dementia close to you, and involve them in simple tasks if possible to provide a sense of purpose and control.By preparing thoroughly and thoughtfully, you can ensure that an evacuation is as smooth as possible for a person with dementia. Remember, the key is to remain calm, organized, and compassionate. Your preparedness can make a significant difference in their feeling of safety and well-being.

The office of Governor Maura Healey has officially proclaimed September 28, 2024, Good Neighbor Day across the Commonwealth. As the proclamation notes, all residents are encouraged to join in this celebration by reaching out to their neighbors, extending acts of kindness and goodwill, and fostering strong bonds within our communities. Please see the attached news release and proclamation for more information. In honor of this important day, the Massachusetts Coalition to Build Community and End Loneliness has launched a movement to encourage communities to develop a day of activities to help build a culture of kindness, caring, and respect throughout our state. For a Good Neighbor Day of Action Toolkit with resources to help communities in developing plans for Good Neighbor Day, along with a reporting form to share your community plans with the Coalition, visit our website here.  

Email marketing plays a major role in communication, reaching over 4.3 billion individuals and delivering an impressive return on investment of $36 for every dollar spent. It surpasses Facebook and Twitter combined in customer acquisition by 40 times.ProgressionThe first email was sent by Ray Tomlinson in 1971 while Gary Thuerks commercial email to 400 recipients in 1978 resulted in $13 million in sales.Core Principles of Email MarketingAt its core email marketing focuses on engaging and communicating with both current customers. It serves to update subscribers on products, promotions, and the value your business offers.Key BenefitsDirect Audience Engagement -  Emails guarantee that messages reach their intended recipients.Increased Control - Marketers have control over how they reach their target audience.Personalized Content - Tailored content boosts relevance and drives revenue.Results - Metrics like rates and click through rates offer valuable insights into campaign performance.Cost effective with Returns - Email marketing is budget friendly while providing returns on investment.Operational FrameworkThe success of an email marketing campaign hinges on having an email list utilizing an Email Service Provider (ESP) and setting clear campaign objectives.DIFFERENT TYPES OF EMAILSThere are kinds of emails designed to meet marketing goals, such as welcome emails, transactional emails, newsletters, lead nurturing communications and promotional emails.TIPS FOR SUCCESS Following established practices is vital for the legality and success of email marketing efforts. These guidelines include steering of buying email lists implementing opt in processes carefully categorizing subscriber lists and using personalization tactics. Moreover, conducting A/B tests enhancing email deliverability and automating campaigns are strategies to maintain the relevance and effectiveness of your campaigns.*Image provided by the American Marketing Association.