What We Don’t Know We Don’t Know in Health Care

You think you or your loved one might need some help around the house, but youre not sure what. Youve done a bit of research, but the language can be confusing. Whats the difference between home care and home health care? What services does a companion provide? And most importantly, which services do you need? Each type of service, from companion care to skilled nursing care, caters to different needs and offers varying levels of support. Knowing the differences can help you make an informed decision thats best for your family, says Siarra Thorning of Right at Home Grand Junction. Heres a breakdown of the primary in-home caregiver services available. Companion Care (or Sitter Services) Companion care, sometimes known as sitter services, mainly provides companionship for seniors or individuals who do not require intensive medical care but may need supervision and light assistance. This service is ideal for those who wish to remain in their home and maintain a level of independence. Companion care helps ensure the individual is safe in their home and gets regular social interaction. Caregivers in this role engage in activities such as:         Conversation and companionship, including hobbies, games, and walks         Meal preparation and dining company         Light housekeeping         Errand services, such as grocery shopping         Transportation to appointments or social events         Medication reminders Companion care is suitable for individuals who are mostly independent but may be at risk if left alone for long periods, such as those with early-stage dementia or limited mobility, says Thorning.  Personal Care (or Home Care) Personal care professionals provide a more hands-on level of support, helping with the personal care of an individual. This service is often more generally called home care, explains Thorning.  These caregivers have more training than companion caregivers and can assist with the physical aspects of daily living. Their tasks typically include:         Bathing and personal hygiene         Dressing assistance         Mobility assistance         Incontinence care         More detailed medication management         Monitoring of vital signs under some circumstances Personal care is ideal for individuals who need regular assistance with personal care tasks but do not require medical intervention. Its a good fit for those with moderate disabilities or more advanced stages of age-related conditions. Home care visits are typically a minimum three-hour shift as often as needed up to 24/7 care and can continue as often as visits are needed. Nursing Care (Home Health Nurses) Nursing care at home is provided by registered nurses (RNs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). This type of care is necessary when an individual needs medical care at home, whether theyre recovering after a hospital stay or need help managing a chronic condition such as chronic lung or kidney disease. Home health nurses perform a range of medical tasks, including:         Wound care         Administering medications, including injections         Pain management         Medical equipment operation         Monitoring health status and adjusting care plans accordingly Nursing care is suited for individuals with significant medical needs that require professional health monitoring. Its commonly used for recovering from surgery, managing serious illnesses, or managing complex health conditions requiring regular medical attention. Home health visits are often intermittent and limited. As Thorning notes, They last until recovery goals are met or the health care provider certifies the visits can continue. How To Decide What Type of In-Home Care Is BestThorning says its common for care needs to cross over these categories. For example, someone who needs a nurses help managing their lung disease at home may also need the housework-type help provided by a home care aide. Here are some additional thoughts to help with the decision:         Evaluate the individuals level of independence and medical needs. A person with lung disease may not need help around the house.         Consider the care recipients preferences and financial situation. Insurance (including Medicare/Medicaid) typically does not pay for in-home care or may pay only under limited circumstances.         Consult with healthcare professionals for tailored advice and guidance. What kind of care does the primary care physician recommend? Patients who are being discharged from a hospital or nursing home may also receive recommendations from the discharge staff. Remember, advises Thorning the goal for receiving care or assistance at home is to maintain the highest quality of life possible. If you are helping a loved one or friend decide on care, respect their wishes and needs as they age or recover in the comfort of their own home. Questions To Ask When Considering In-Home Care Providers As you research in-home care options, ask each provider these questions to ensure the company is reputable and will provide exceptional, quality care:         Are Social Security, federal and state taxes, and unemployment insurance paid? Are the caregivers bonded/insured? Are workers compensation and professional liability insurance paid? A trustworthy company will pay the taxes and insurance for its caregivers, so you are protected from legal and financial responsibility.         Is the required state licensing up to date? Have all caregivers undergone background checks, including references and criminal records?         Are supervisory home visits conducted to verify that quality care is being provided?  Asking these questions will help sort out which providers have a good reputation and are highly regarded in the community and which do not have these qualities. Above all else, ensure that dependable, quality care will be provided by people you can trust.About Right at Home of Grand Junction   2777 Crossroads Blvd Ste 3 Grand Junction, CO 81506 Our office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Mesa, Garfield, Eagle, and Pitkin Counties.  For more information, contact Right at Home by Calling 970-697-1331 | Email: Care@gjhomecare.com | Web Address: www.gjhomecare.com  

Helen, a vibrant 78-year-old who thrives in the hustle and bustle of the winter holiday season, hosts gatherings and participates in longstanding family traditions. Come January, the sudden silence of her home, now void of guests and decorations, can feel overwhelming. This abrupt shift from constant social interaction to minimal contact is one of the main reasons seniors feel lonely after the holidays. This situation is, sadly, very common, says Meshelle McKendry of Right at Home of Glenwood Springs. The winter holidays bring a flurry of activity and companionship that can brighten seniors lives, whether they live alone or in a senior living community. But once the decorations are packed away and families return to their routines, a stark quiet can settle in, leaving many seniors feeling isolated. The contrast can be jarring, says McKendry. Why Post-Holiday Loneliness Occurs Social interaction drops off: During the holidays, older adults often experience an increase in social contactvisits from family and friends, holiday parties, and community events. Once the festivities end, the sudden drop in social interaction can feel particularly stark, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): The winter months bring shorter days and longer nights, whichespecially where winters are coldcan lead to seasonal affective disorder or winter blues, exacerbating feelings of loneliness and sadness. Physical challenges: Cold weather can also limit an older adults mobility, making it difficult for them to leave home and engage with others. Reflection and remembrance: The holidays can also be a time of reflection, where older adults may reminisce about past holidays and loved ones or friends who are no longer present. Even during the holidays, notes McKendry these memories can contribute to feelings of loneliness. Coping Strategies for Seniors Compare Helens story to that of David, a retired teacher who lives in a senior community. His family lives across the country, and visits are infrequent. Although he sometimes does not see his family during the winter holidays, David has found new sources of purpose and community throughout the year. He volunteers at the local library and participates in the community garden, activities that keep him connected and engaged all year long. For older adults, maintaining a regular schedule of social contacts like that can be incredibly beneficial, says McKendry Engaging in regular activities, even simple ones like joining a book club, attending a craft workshop, or simply having a scheduled weekly phone call with family, can make a big difference. Here are more tips:         Use technology. Technology can help bridge the gap, especially for family members who live far away. Video calls, social media, and even online games can provide interactive ways to stay connected.         Schedule regular activities. Many senior centers and communities offer regular programming. If you have hobbies that you typically do independently, like reading, crafts, or gardening, consider inviting a friend to enjoy them with you.         Look for volunteer work. Volunteering can be an excellent way for seniors to feel connected and purposeful, which are key to combating loneliness. McKendry suggests people start with their personal knowledge or interests. For example, avid readers could consider volunteering at a local library.         Consider getting professional help for mental health. Be honest with yourself about your mental health. You could start by asking your primary health care provider for advice or a referral. Unchecked loneliness and isolation can ultimately affect your physical health and well-being. How Family and Friends Can Help Older Adults 1.      Make regular visits or stay in touch. Make a concerted effort to visit or communicate regularly with the senior in your life. Something as simple as a daily text or phone call can make a big difference.2.      Plan post-holiday visits. Consider scheduling a visit in January or February, which can give your older loved one something to anticipate after the holidays wind down.3.      Involve them in planning. Encourage your older loved one to help plan that post-holiday visit or other gatherings or events. Planning can help fill their hours and get them talking with you or others.4.      Watch for signs of depression. Signs of depression or severe loneliness could include changes in appetite, sleep, or general disinterest in life, says McKendry. 5.      Early intervention is key in managing these issues.6.      Talk to your older loved one about in-home caregivers. Right at Home offers companion care, in which our caregivers provide important social interaction while also helping with tasks at home or elsewhere. Understanding the reasons behind post-holiday loneliness and taking proactive steps to counteract it can help ensure that seniors feel connected, valued, and cared for all year round. By weaving a safety net of family, friends, activities, and professional support, we can help diminish the quiet that comes after the festive season and foster a year full of meaningful connections. About Right at Home of Grand Junction  We have two locations to serve Western Colorado.2777 Crossroads Blvd, Ste. 3 Grand Junction, CO 81506 ||||| 214 8th Street, Ste 215 Glenwood Springs, CO 81501 Our office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Mesa, Garfield, Eagle, and Pitkin Counties.  For more information, contact Right at Home by Calling 970-697-1331  | Email: Care@gjhomecare.com | Web Address: www.gjhomecare.com

While physical fitness is crucial for seniors health, nurturing ones mind is equally as important. Brain exercises enhance cognitive abilities, memory, and focus, similar to how diverse workouts target specific muscle groups. At Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, we understand the unique needs of our clients in the Northeast. Thats why weve gathered eight enjoyable memory games designed to improve mental skills and keep the mind agile. Read on to discover these delightful, brain-boosting activities and lets play!Jigsaw PuzzlesSolving jigsaw puzzles can enhance visual-spatial skills and improve problem-solving abilities. Connecting pieces of different shapes and colors tests patience and sharpens an individuals eye for detail.Simon SaysPlaying Simon Says, a classic childhood game, encourages active listening and short-term memory. Its a fun way to exercise ones ability to follow instructions accurately while encouraging quick thinking and coordination. Partner up with a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver and give it a try!TriviaAnswering trivia questions is a great way for seniors to test their knowledge of different subjects, while also learning new facts and improving memory. Looking for a topic? Consider exploring the Northeasts history, geography, and local culture. Challenge friends, family, or a caregiver to a few rounds and see who wins the title of ultimate trivia champ!Crossword Puzzles or SudokuCompleting crossword puzzles and Sudoku challenges vocabulary, logic, and problem-solving skills. Tricky brain teasers promote mental agility and are a delightful, accessible way to keep the mind sharp and active.Word RecallWord Recall is a fun game that involves remembering and reciting words. To start the game, pick a word. Next, each player takes turns adding a new word that begins with the last letter of the previous word. For example, if the first word is apple, the next could be elephant, and so on. This simple game is an engaging way to improve language processing and recall.Chess or CheckersChallenge a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver to a game of chess or checkers! Strategy games demand critical thinking, planning, and foresight. Playing a few rounds hones analytical skills and enhances concentration and decision-making abilities all from the comfort of home.Name That TuneHow well do you or your senior loved one know your favorite songs? Our clients can test their music knowledge with this enjoyable recall game. To get started, have a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver play a few seconds of a song and try to guess the title and who sings it. Studies show that music can stimulate the part of the brain responsible for memory and emotion. Not to mention, hearing familiar tunes can also bring back positive feelings of nostalgia.Memory TrayImprove short-term memory using items found around the house. Participants will need a partner for this one a Seniors Helping Seniors caregiver makes the perfect teammate! Start by asking them to place some items on a tray or tabletop. Study the pieces for a minute or two and then have them remove the objects. Afterward, try to recall as many items as possible. This game is an interactive way to challenge attention, concentration, and visual-spatial abilities. These memory games are specifically tailored to engage seniors, providing enjoyable moments of connection while challenging their minds. Activities like playing word games or testing analytical skills can boost brain function, improve cognitive skills, and enhance seniors overall mental acuity. When paired with Seniors Helping Seniors in-home care services, mental agility training enables seniors to live their golden years to the fullest potential, while staying connected to their community and their roots.