What are Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE)?

How to Apply for Long-Term Care Medicaid in ColoradoApplying for Medicaid can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to long-term care. However, with the right guidance and resources, the process can be much smoother. This guide is designed for seniors, caregivers, and Colorado residents to help them understand how to apply for long-term care Medicaid in Colorado. Understanding Long-Term Care MedicaidLong-term care Medicaid provides financial assistance to those who need help with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. It covers care provided in various settings including nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and even at home. Why You Shouldn't Apply AloneGiven the high volume of applications and the complexity of the process, we do not recommend submitting an application on your own. Mistakes can delay approval or result in denial. Should you choose to apply on your own, we will give you the information and tools you need during our free initial consultation with you. Schedule a free consultation here  - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers Steps to Apply for Long-Term Care Medicaid in ColoradoStep 1: Find The Applicants DHS OfficeThe first step in applying for Medicaid in Colorado is to find the applicants local Department of Human Services (DHS) office. This is where you will submit your financial application. Find the Applicants DHS office here - cdhs.colorado.gov/contact-your-county Step 2: Submit a Financial ApplicationOnce you have located your local DHS office, you will need to submit a financial application. This form will require detailed information about your income, assets, and expenses. Step 3: Determine Financial EligibilityBefore proceeding with the application, it's crucial to determine if you qualify financially for Medicaid or VA Aid & Attendance benefits. Strategies exist to access benefits while protecting your personal assets, and a Certified Medicaid Planner (CMP) can help you maximize your benefits. Find out if you qualify - doinggoodforothers.com/financialinformation Step 4: Schedule a Health AssessmentAfter qualifying financially, you will need to schedule a level of care assessment, also known as a health assessment, with the Applicants Single Entry Point. This evaluation will determine the level of care you require. Schedule a health assessment - hcfp.colorado.gov/case-management-agency-directory Step 5: Skip the Hassle of Applying Alone Schedule an AppointmentIf you find the application process overwhelming, you can skip figuring out how to apply on your own by scheduling an appointment with our experts.  Schedule an appointment with a Certified Medicaid Planner - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers Our 4-Step Process for Application AssuranceWe have developed a streamlined 4-step process to help you feel relief about your loved ones care and save money. 1. Schedule a Free Initial ConsultationLearn more about what we can do to preserve your assets by scheduling a free initial consultation. 2. Make a PlanThrough an assessment of your financial circumstances, we will create a roadmap of the best options for you. 3. Pick an OptionWe explore legitimate opportunities to preserve your assets. 4. Gain BenefitsSelect the best option, and we will complete a successful application for gained benefits. Applying for long-term care Medicaid in Colorado doesn't have to be stressful. By following these steps and seeking professional guidance, you can ensure a smoother application process and maximize your benefits.For personalized assistance, schedule a free consultation with one of our Certified Medicaid Planners (CMP) today. Learn more and schedule now! - calendly.com/doinggoodforothers

The Mayo Clinic (www.mayo.org) states that in addition to financial limitations, physical, social, and psychological factors contribute to senior malnutrition, impeding seniors' ability to maintain a diet that provides the necessary balance of nutrients for healthful living.Below are leading contributing causes of senior malnutrition:Debilitating conditions that limit seniors ability to get out to shop, prepare meals and feed themselvesFixed incomes can prevent seniors from being able to purchase the groceries they need to stay nourished.Difficulty chewing and swallowing as a result of diseases such as Parkinson's, dry mouth caused by some medications, dental conditions, and poorly fitting denturesFrailty due to loss of muscle mass and fat, which can alter body chemistry, diminishing appetite, especially in seniors with serious illnessesMedications, such as some antidepressants, blood pressure, and osteoporosis drugs that diminish appetite alter the flavor of foods, and interfere with absorption of nutrientsReduced absorption of nutrients as a result of some physiological changes due to aging. For instance, in many seniors, reduced production of digestive enzymes and acids interferes with the breakdown of protein and absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B-12, folate, calcium, and iron. Some illnesses, such as gastrointestinal cancers, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease, can also cause this problem.Diminished sense of taste or smell that often occurs with aging. Some medications and illnesses accelerate or intensify this loss, depriving seniors of some of the pleasure associated with eating. These factors can affect appetite. Bland, medically prescribed diets can have the same effect. Natural flavor enhancers like garlic, onions, and spices can help counteract this.Dementia, which often prevents individuals from recognizing the need to eat. Some people with dementia need to be reminded to swallow.Depression, due to multiple causes such as grief, loneliness, retirement, poor health, and medications. Depression affects about 6 million American seniors.Alcoholism, which is often a hidden problem in the senior population, decreases appetite, destroys nutrients, and negatively affects seniors ability to care for themselves How Comfort Keepers can helpComfort Keepers can provide the assistance needed to help promote heart health, starting with nutrition. Whether a special diet has been prescribed or all required is a healthier meal plan, our caregivers, who we call Comfort Keepers, work with our clients to ensure they benefit from foods that promote optimum wellness.At Comfort Keepers, we believe in Elevating the Human Spirit by providing our clients with both assistance and daily moments of joy. With the help of our trained Comfort Keepers, seniors can enjoy a healthy lifestyle while finding pleasure in the everyday moments that make life worth living.

One in three hospital patients is malnourished upon admission and almost one-third of U.S. patients (31 percent) experiences declines in nutritional status while in the hospital.Dietary needs evolve as people age, and seniors need to know how to manage those changes to maintain physical health and wellness. Older adults need to take an active role in shaping their diet and nutrition habits to ensure more energy, better disease prevention and quality of life.Seniors should consult their physician to discuss their individual needs. Healthcare professionals can also help seniors and their families create and implement healthy eating plans.These plans often include:         Increased protein and fiber intake. Protein and fiber are important nutrients for seniors. Foods high in fiber can help maintain healthy digestive systems as we age, and increasing protein intake can help seniors increase or maintain energy and strength.          Whole grains have multiple benefits. Whole grains are also fiber-rich foods that not only aid the digestive process but promote healthy hearts for seniors. Cereal, rice and bread made with whole grains can easily be found at any grocery store and provide several serving choices to meet recommended daily requirements.         Calcium is a key component in maintaining bone strength. Calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, especially when calcium intake is consistent. Preventing osteoporosis is critical for seniors especially those that are at risk for falls.         Hydration is critical at any age. Physical changes that occur with age make hydration even more important for older adults. For those that are less inclined to drink water, there are alternatives milk, juice and broth are all hydrating liquids, and there are hydrating foods including watermelon, cucumbers and grapes. If engaging in good eating habits is a struggle, there are steps seniors can take to ensure that they are getting proper nutrition. In addition to consulting a physician about diet or health concerns they might have, they can also try the following tactics to get back on the right track:         Make meals a social occasion Sharing a meal is one of the most enjoyable ways to ensure that someone is eating well. This can include making something healthy and delicious for others, or reaching out to people that love to cook healthy food and offering them some company at mealtimes.         Make healthy eating fit your budget Good food doesnt have to be expensive. A doctor or nutritionist can point patients to budget friendly, nutritious food options. And maintaining a healthy lifestyle saves money on medical care in the future.         Shop for healthy foods Having a kitchen stocked with healthy snacks and meal options is one of the most important steps to maintaining a balanced diet.          Encourage people to ask for help If someone has concerns about their ability to plan healthy meals, shop for the groceries or if they just arent getting the nutrition they need, tell them to ask for help! In-home caregivers, delivery services, family, friends and medical professionals can all help older adults reach their nutrition goals.Comfort Keepers Can HelpIf someone is struggling to maintain healthy eating habits, consider getting support from the trusted care team at Comfort Keepers. Our caregivers can help with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and can help support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.ReferencesMayo Clinic. Senior health: How to prevent and detect malnutrition. Web. 2017.Next Avenue, Malnutrition is Affecting Too Many Older Adults. Web. 2016.  Public Health Post. Malnutrition in Older Adults. Web. 2017  Healthline. How Your Nutritional Needs Change as you Age. Web. 2017.