The Impact of In-Home Care on Hospital Readmissions for Seniors

Receiving medical treatment at home can be a comfortable and convenient option for many patients. Home infusion therapy allows individuals to receive necessary intravenous (IV) treatments in a familiar environment, reducing hospital visits while ensuring high-quality care.Home infusion therapy involves administering medication or fluids through an IV at home under the supervision of trained health care professionals. With the increasing demand for home health care services, this option is becoming a preferred choice for many individuals, from young children to seniors who require intermittent doses of IV therapy.What Can Be Treated with Home Infusion Therapy?Home infusion therapy is a medical treatment that delivers medications and fluids directly into the bloodstream via an intravenous (IV) line, allowing patients to receive important therapies without the need for hospital visits. This approach is beneficial for a wide range of conditions across all age groups, from children to seniors. It is particularly useful for managing chronic illnesses, infections, and nutritional deficiencies, providing a convenient and effective way to receive treatment in the comfort of home.Some of the most common conditions (Opens in a new window) treated with home infusion therapy include:Infections requiring repeat doses of IV antibioticsDehydrationNutritional support for individuals who cannot eat or digest food normallyChronic diseases like Crohns disease, rheumatoid arthritis, hemophilia and multiple sclerosisPain management through intravenous medicationCancer-related treatments, including chemotherapy and immunotherapyImmune deficiencies requiring IV immunoglobulin therapy (IVIG)Hormone therapyBenefits of Home Infusion TherapyReceiving IV therapy at home offers numerous advantages, making it an attractive option for many patients and their caregivers. It reduces the need for frequent hospital visits, reducing exposure to infections and minimizing the stress associated with travel. Additionally, home infusion allows patients to maintain many of their daily routines, promoting a better quality of life while undergoing treatment.Key benefits of home infusion therapy include:Convenience: Reduced need for hospital stays or lengthy outpatient visits, reducing time and energy spent on transportation and waiting rooms.Lower infection risk: Reduced exposure (Opens in a new window) to hospital-acquired infections may help protect those with weakened immune systems.Cost-effectiveness: Often more affordable (Opens in a new window) than inpatient treatment, potentially lowering overall health care expenses.Emotional well-being: Patients receive care in a familiar and comfortable setting, leading to less anxiety and a more positive treatment experience.Faster recovery: Allows patients to rest and recover in their own home, which can contribute to better treatment adherence and overall health outcomes.Family involvement: Loved ones can play a more active role in patient care, offering emotional support and assistance during treatments.Enhanced independence: Patients can continue many of their daily activities, work, or school schedules with minimal disruption while receiving necessary treatment.Medicare and Home Infusion TherapyMedicare covers specific home infusion therapies (Opens in a new window) under Part B and Part D, but understanding eligibility criteria is essential. Part B typically covers professional services, including nursing, monitoring, and patient education, when provided by a qualified home infusion therapy supplier.The Durable Medical Equipment (DME) benefit covers the infusion pump, supplies, and certain home infusion drugs administered via a pump.Part D may cover certain infusion drugs that are not covered under Part B or the DME benefit, depending on the specific medication and administration method.Key Medicare considerations for home infusion therapy:Coverage typically includes certain infused medications and associated nursing services.Patients must meet eligibility requirements based on medical necessity.Alternative payment options, such as private insurance or out-of-pocket payments, may be available for non-Medicare patients.Coverage for home infusion therapy under Medicare depends on factors such as the type of medication, its method of administration, and the involvement of qualified home health providers. Patients should check with their Medicare plan to determine their benefits and any potential out-of-pocket costs.The Role of Family Caregivers in Home InfusionFamily caregivers play a vital role in home infusion therapy, helping patients receive their treatments safely and effectively. They must be trained to manage infusion equipment (Opens in a new window), recognize potential side effects, and communicate with health care providers to address any concerns. Proper education and guidance help caregivers provide the best possible support to their loved ones.Responsibilities of home caregivers include:Monitoring the infusion site for signs of infection or complicationsEnsuring medications are administered correctly and on scheduleCommunicating with medical professionals about any concerns or changes in the patient's conditionLearning how to handle infusion equipment safely and effectivelyWhat to Expect During Home Infusion TherapyThe process of home infusion therapy begins with a consultation (Opens in a new window) between the patient and their health care provider to determine the best course of treatment. Once a plan is established, a trained nurse sets up the necessary equipment and administers the medication. Throughout treatment, the patients condition is closely monitored to ensure safety and effectiveness.Steps involved in home infusion therapy:(Opens in a new window)Initial consultation and prescription from a health care providerDelivery of infusion medications and supplies to the patients homeSetup of IV lines and infusion pumps by a qualified professionalMonitoring of vital signs and response to treatmentRegular updates to physicians and adjustments to care plans as neededCan a doctor prescribe IV fluids at home? Yes, physicians can prescribe home IV fluids if a patient meets the medical criteria for in-home treatment.Explore Your Options for Home Infusion TherapyHome infusion therapy is a valuable health care option that enhances patient comfort while providing essential medical treatments. By understanding the process, benefits, and considerations involved, patients and caregivers can make informed decisions. Those interested in learning more should explore available resources and speak with health care professionals to determine the best approach for their needs.If you or a loved one requires home infusion therapy, consider discussing your options with a trusted provider to ensure the highest quality of care and support.To learn more, reach out to a BrightStar Care representative.Home Infusion Therapy FAQsMany patients and caregivers have questions about how home infusion therapy works, its logistics, and what to expect. Below are answers to some of the most common concerns.How are medications and supplies for home infusion therapy delivered? Medications and necessary supplies are typically delivered directly to the patients home (Opens in a new window) through a specialized pharmacy or home health care provider.Can I travel while receiving home infusion therapy? Traveling while receiving home infusion therapy is possible but requires careful planning. Patients should consult their health care provider to arrange for medication supply (Opens in a new window) and identify health care facilities at their destination.What support is available for caregivers assisting with home infusion therapy? Caregivers can access educational resources, training, and support from health care providers to ensure they are prepared to manage home infusion therapy safely and effectively. To learn more call, us today at 303-300-6666.

As we age, our nutritional needs change. If youre an older adult or caregiver to a senior, you can support healthy aging with proper nutrition. This can include a healthy diet and supplements if needed.Some of the best supplements for seniors include vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. Learn more about what these essential vitamins and minerals do, so you can help your loved ones stay healthy as they age. Understanding Changing Nutritional NeedsCompared with younger adults, older adults tend to have lower calorie needs but more nutrient needs. Changes in appetite, metabolism, bone and muscle mass, gut health and physical activity levels can affect what our bodies need to be healthy. Chronic health conditions, diseases and certain medications can alter nutritional demands, too.Shifts in eating patterns, immune system function, sleep, taste and smell, vascular and brain aging and gut health all can affect how our bodies process nutrients. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and medication can also impact our nutritional needs.Malnutrition can become a factor as we age, which is why seniors need to pay special attention to any nutrient deficiencies. Key Vitamins for SeniorsHere are some of the most important vitamins for seniors and how to include them in your diet:Vitamin DVitamin D (Opens in a new window) supports the immune system, helps regulate mood, strengthens bones and muscles, aids in calcium absorption and minimizes bone loss. Good sources of vitamin D include salmon, tuna, mackerel, and sardines, egg yolks, beef and chicken liver, fortified milk and soy milk, yellow cheeses and mushrooms. Older adults have a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency (Opens in a new window) due to factors like less sun exposure and the fact that, so few foods are high in vitamin D. Most adults over the age of 70 need 20 daily micrograms (Opens in a new window) (mcg) of vitamin D.Vitamin B12Most people get enough vitamin B12 in their diets, but some older adults may be susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiencies (Opens in a new window). This can happen due to diet, decreased absorption in the gut, medication interactions or illness. Thats why its a good idea to talk to your doctor. Good sources of vitamin B12 include clams, liver, fish, eggs and milk.Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, cognitive health and red blood cell production. The recommended dose of vitamin B12(Opens in a new window) for all adults is 2.4 mcg per day.Your doctor also may suggest that you supplement other B vitamins, such as vitamins B6 and 9 (folic acid). Vitamin B6 has been linked to cognitive health in older adults. Women over 50 should get 1.5 milligrams (mg) of vitamin B6 a day, while men should aim for 1.7 mg. All adults should get 400 mcg of folic acid (Opens in a new window) daily.Vitamins A, K & EVitamin A (Opens in a new window) is essential for immune health, vision and cellular health. Most adult men need about 900 mcg a day, and women should get 700 mcg. Veggies, fruits and fish oils are good vitamin A sources.Equally important, vitamin K (Opens in a new window) assists with blood clotting and is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent. The recommended daily amount for adults is 120 mcg for men and 90 mcg for women. Vitamin K deficiency may lead to cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases and osteoporosis. Good food sources include veggies, fruits, fish and meat.Vitamin E (Opens in a new window) is linked to healthy brain function, vision, blood and skin. You can get it by eating canola and olive oils, margarine, almonds and peanuts. All adults should aim for 15 mg per day.Essential Minerals for SeniorsWhen caring for yourself or an older adult, keep these key minerals in mind during grocery shopping and meal prep:CalciumMany doctors recommend calcium as one of the best supplements for seniors. Our bodies dont produce calcium, so we need to get it from food, supplements or both. Good sources of calcium include dairy products, dark green veggies like kale and broccoli, sardines and salmon and calcium-fortified foods.Calcium (Opens in a new window) is especially essential for older adults. In women, estrogen levels drop with age, which can reduce bone mass and lead to the bone-weakening condition, osteoporosis. Older men can also develop osteoporosis, though the risk of a fracture is delayed compared to women. Once men are over 70, they should get 1,200 mg a day (Opens in a new window), compared with women, who need 1,200 mg a day once theyve reached 50.MagnesiumThis must-have mineral helps with muscles, nerves, blood sugar, blood pressure and making protein. People with higher amounts of magnesium (Opens in a new window) in their diets tend to have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. You can find magnesium in dairy, legumes, nuts, green leafy veggies, whole grains and magnesium-fortified foods.Men over the age of 70 typically don't get enough magnesium and should try to get 400420 mg per day, while women need around 310320 mg daily.PotassiumPotassium (Opens in a new window) is found in foods such as bananas, raisins, some veggies, dairy, beans and certain meats. Its an essential nutrient for healthy nerve and blood pressure function, proper fluid management and bone health. Men should get 3,400 mg a day, while women need 2,600 mg a day.IronCertain factors such as diet and genetics can cause you to get too much or too little of this mineral, which is vital for making blood proteins and hormones. Ask your doctor to check your iron levels to see if you need to take an iron supplement (Opens in a new window). Try to get 8 mg a day from foods such as lean meats, poultry, seafood, nuts, legumes, raisins and spinach.ZincZinc (Opens in a new window) keeps out immune systems working properly while helping our bodies produce DNA and proteins. A zinc deficiency can cause a loss of taste and smell. If you're older, it also can impair wound healing and lead to certain cognitive issues. Men need about 11 mg a day, while women need 8 mg a day.SeleniumThis mineral is a must for everything from thyroid function to DNA creation. It also protects against infection and free radical damage. Adults need 55 mcg per day.  You can find selenium in seafood, bread, nuts and poultry. Ask your doctor about taking a selenium supplement (Opens in a new window) if youre undergoing dialysis.Omega-3 Fatty AcidsThe body cant make this fatty acid, so we have to get it from foods like fish and flaxseed. Men need 1.6 grams a day, and women need 1.1 g daily. While deficiencies are rare in the United States, omega-3s(Opens in a new window) may lower your risk for age-related macular degeneration, some heart problems, Alzheimers disease and dry eye disease.Why Supplements Matter for Older AdultsRegular doctor visits and bloodwork are a great way to make sure your body has enough essential nutrients. If youre low on a vitamin or mineral, your doctor can suggest a supplement or diet modification. They can also advise you on the best supplements and dosages based on your specific needs.Always talk to your doctor before starting any supplement. Taking supplements without the advice of a doctor can be just as harmful as not getting enough of certain vitamins and minerals. Medications can interact with supplements, leading to adverse effects in some cases, so its best to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you use.Ask your doctor for supplement recommendations. Any you choose should have the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) (Opens in a new window) logo on the package. The organization verifies the identity, quality, dose and purity of supplements.Prioritizing a Balanced DietSupplements can be a great way to ensure you, and your loved ones are getting enough of the recommended nutrients, but nothing beats getting them directly from food sources whenever possible.A nutrient-rich diet (Opens in a new window) that provides adequate fiber while being low in added sugar, saturated fats and sodium is essential for aging adults who are trying to maintain their health. By focusing on your diet, you may be able to get all the nutrients you need without taking supplements though its perfectly OK if you need some support.Diet and supplements are just part of the puzzle for optimal senior health. Regular exercise, drinking enough water and getting sufficient sleep can help you and your loved ones maintain a healthy weight, mind and body. Supplement Your Way to Better HealthFood is medicine, and it can help our bodies function at their best. If you or someone you care for needs a vitamin, mineral or other nutrient support, talk to your doctor about taking a supplement. A professional home-care provider, like BrightStar Care, can also advise you on the best supplements for seniors.If you have questions, please call us at 303-300-6666.

Many married couples share almost everything, including finances. This may be reflected in their estate plan by using one joint living trust instead of two separate trusts. Separate trusts can provide greater flexibility, but a joint trust can be structured so that when one spouse passes away, the trust is split into two sub-trusts: a survivors trust and a decedents trust. This arrangement provides the surviving spouse with the same versatility that separate trusts offer. The surviving spouse has full control over their survivors trust, but may have limited control over the deceased spouses accounts and property that make up the decedents trust. Decedents Trust and a Survivors Trust A survivors trust is a middle ground between a joint trust and separate trusts. If a couple chooses to combine their assets (accounts and property) into a joint revocable living trust, both spouses will usually be named as trustees and beneficiaries. The joint trust can further stipulate that when one spouse passes away, the trust divides into subtrusts. One of those subtrusts can be a survivors trust. A second subtrust, the decedents trust, will also be created to hold and manage assets owned by the decedent. How a Survivors Trust Works A typical joint trust arrangement lists four types of property, depending on the state in which you live: Joint assets Community property First spouses separate property Second spouses separate property When the first spouse dies, the survivors trust receives one-half of the community property, one-half of the joint property, and all property identified as the separate property of the surviving spouse. The deceased spouses half of the community property and joint property, along with their separate property, may be funded into the decedents trust with its own set of instructions. The trust agreement could also state that all of the deceased spouses property will go into the survivors trust instead of going into a separate subtrust. Reasons to Have a Survivors Trust Regardless of exactly how the joint trust assets are allocated, a crucial distinction is that a survivors trust is revocable, while the decedents sub-trust is irrevocable. This means that the surviving spouse retains full control over the survivors trust. They can alter the terms of the trust however they want. For example, they can add and remove assets, change beneficiaries, appoint new trustees, or terminate the trust. The surviving spouse can also completely change the terms of the survivors trust in its entirety. While the surviving spouse may be the beneficiary of the decedents trust, the surviving spouse will likely have less control over the management of assets in the decedents trust. This allows the deceased spouse to put protective measures in place while they are alive to make sure that their assets are managed the way they want and that someone cannot change the rules after they pass away. This can be helpful for clients who are worried about their spouse remarrying after their death and to ensure that assets that remain at the surviving spouses death go to a predetermined person. The purpose of any trust is to take care of loved ones and protect assets from costly probate and taxes. To discuss an estate plan that meets your goals, please schedule your appointment with our Estate Planning attorneys - 724-375-4005.