Abby Services In-Home Care

What do we mean by, In-home care Contracts, Cancellation, and Cash can hurt you?, it seems a little over dramatic. The reality is many seniors and their families seeking in-home care may not fully understand (or may be deceived) by In-home care contracts, an in-home care cancellation policy, or a deposit for in-home care.What does Abby Services know about in-home care contracts, cancellation policies, and deposits?Abby Services has been helping seniors and families seeking in-home caregivers in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas since 1997. In that time we have seen and heard many stories of how unclear contracts, cancellation policies, and deposits have hurt consumers.Our business was started to help connect seniors with the in-home caregivers they need to remain safe and independent at home. What seems simple can become quite complex. We have worked with many family members entrusted to help manage a seniors limited resources. Using our experience and expertise we will try to break down the details below.In-Home Care Contracts: A Necessary EvilWhen seniors and their families are evaluating in-home care options the choices can be overwhelming. This is further clouded by deceptive practices advertising NO CONTRACT.It makes sense that families would desire a no-contract option for in-home care. Typically a no-contract option is presented to families as a way to deceive them into believing they have a limited commitment to an in-home care service.What many families are not aware of is that there is are in fact in-home care contracts in place . Sometimes a service will simply call the contract an agreement caregiver arrangement or any other verbiage other than contract. These arrangements are still contracts that outline important expectations, requirements, and obligations.Other services that advertise No Contract may not have an upfront contract however every time a caregiver visits their loved one, they are asked to sign a contract agreeing to pay. Again this is still a contract.Some Services that do have in-home care contracts, will have long confusing multi-page documents that are filled with legal jargon and confusing provisions and terminology.How Abby Services approaches In-Home Care Contracts.At Abby Services our belief is that an informed consumer is a happy consumer. In the state of Florida, we are required to review specific information with clients. This is included in our in-home care contracts (we sometimes refer to this as a service agreement). Our service agreement is a one page document that clearly and concisely outlines what charges to expect, your cancellation policy, as well as information we are required to provide to clients and their families. Yes there is an contract (as there should be). However, the in-home caregiver contract is clear and concise to avoid misunderstanding and misleading a consumer. We provide this contract freely to the consumer to review and understand.In-Home Care Cancellation PoliciesIn-Home care cancellation policies are important. They clearly define to clients, caregivers, and services like Abby Services what to expect. As discussed above, contracts that include clearly defined cancellation policies are important to avoid misunderstanding. What to watch out for when reviewing cancellation policies.When evaluating In-Home care cancellation policies it is important to ensure that they are clear but also that they are fair and flexible. Unfortunately, the circumstances requiring in-home care can change quickly. Not all cancellation policies recognize this fact. Just recently we spoke with a client who was upset. They signed a contract with a large national franchise that required a 2-week cancellation notice.If you are seeking in-home care in Fort Myers or Cape Coral this is not standard, it is not ok, nor is it acceptable. A 2-week cancellation policy in this clients case would have required a client to lose their 2-week deposit and limited their options and opportunities when seeking care. The client simply wanted to cancel because the large in-home care franchise took away a caregiver the client liked.Abby Services In-Home Caregiver Cancellation PolicyAbby Services has a clearly defined cancellation policy that is fair and flexible. This helps to protect both the clients and caregivers we work with. The section on our agreement reads as follows:Termination of Services: I agree that scheduled shifts may be canceled with at least 4 hours advance notice by calling 239-590-0861. Please leave a message with the details of your call. Failure to cancel within 4 hours, or refusal of scheduled service, may result in billing for 4 hours of service.What this means is that you can cancel at any time with just 4 hours advance notice. This is a courtesy to the caregiver who has made arrangements to provide their services. Cancellation can be made simply by calling our phone number and leaving a message (if after hours).If within the 4-hour time frame, we reserve the right to invoice for just 4 hours of service as a way for you to compensate your caregiver.  In-home care deposits.In-Home care deposits are what we are referring to when we say in-home care cash. Why? Honestly, it seemed like a clever title. The reality is that different in-home care services approach deposits differently. In the example above the service required a 2-week deposit. This combined with the limiting nature of their contract seemed extremely excessive and is why we chose to write this entry.Lets face it. It would be great if we could do everything on a handshake. Like many other businesses, we have had to manage client and family non-payment. A deposit is typically an attempt to balance the risk of non- payment.Abby Services approach to customer depositsAt Abby Services we have identified a great way to handle In-Home Care deposits, we dont take them.Thats right, at Abby Services, we do not require a customer deposit. We are able to accomplish this using a client payment processing platform called Ally. By using this system, clients can be invoiced by their caregivers quickly and efficiently. This minimizes delays in billing and payment and eliminates the need for a deposit.When choosing an in-home care service its important to call Abby Services.When choosing an in-home caregiver service for yourself or a loved one we always encourage families to call around. Dont take our word for it. You should carefully evaluate what others say. Pay close attention to the in-home care contracts you are presented.Hopefully armed with this information you can make an educated choice and understand that No-Contract doesnt exactly mean what customers are sometimes led to believe. You should also pay close attention to deposit and cancellation policies.If you have any questions you can always call Abby Services at 239-590-0861. We are here to help.

We have heard the same scenario over and over. A family member is seeking an in-home care service in Fort Myers and is overwhelmed with the choices. It wasnt always this challenging. Back in 1996, when Abby Services started, there were only a handful of options when seeking a professional in-home care service. It made choosing a service much easier.With so many options in Fort Myers for in-home care we wanted to share what we have found over all the years we have been serving our area.All State-Licensed services operate by the same guidelines.The Agency for Healthcare Administration has guidelines to protect consumers of In-Home Care and also provides guidelines for services to follow. This creates a level and consistent playing field when choosing an In-Home Care service.Because of the high level of state oversight, we encourage those seeking In-Home Care in Fort Myers to call around and keep these 3 things in mind.Go with who you know: Having helped the Fort Myers area find the best in-home caregivers since 1996 we have had the opportunity to meet and get to know so many. Ask around, if you are seeking In-Home Care. Chances are anyone you ask in Fort Myers will know about Abby Services and our excellent reputation. Of course, you have to start somewhere. If you dont know us give us a call, we are sure you will find our staff, professional, friendly, and helpful.Go with who you trust: Yes, it can be a leap of faith to choose someone to assist a loved one with In-Home Care. Over the years we have helped Fort Myers residents secure over 1 million hours of In-Home Care. That kind of experience takes time and specialized local knowledge. You will know from your first phone call you can Trust Abby Services to help you meet your in-home caregiver needs.Go with who you like: Abby Services is truly a local family owned and operated business. It was started by Tom Strachan in 1996 and built from the ground up. Abby Services is currently owned and operated by Tom Strachans son and daughter Scott Strachan & Jaimee Thompson. Know that when you call Abby Services chances are that you will be speaking with the owner of the business. This is important because we are ultimately responsible for your satisfaction. Supporting a family-owned business helps support our area and many members of our community.Submitted By: Abby ServicesWritten By: Scott Strachan

Thats right! You can find the best Alzheimers care Cape Coral has to offer with one call! Clients seeking the best Alzheimers care in Fort Myers know Abby Services In-Home Care can help.How Can Abby Services In-Home Care help?Abby Services is a family-owned and operated state-licensed Nurse Registry. We have been helping seniors throughout Fort Myers and Cape Coral remain safe and independent in their homes since 1997!We help seniors remain independent by referring our areas best in-home caregivers. These professionals provide many types of in-home caregiver assistance including Alzheimers care.Alzheimer's Caregivers are available when you cant be there.Many seasonal residents do not have family nearby in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area. Families struggle with Long Distance care especially when concerns about Alzheimers Care arise. According to caregiver.org  In the US, approximately 5-7 million adults are responsible for caring for a senior family member who lives more than 26 miles away. Caregiving for senior loved ones is typically challenging. Coordinating services, ensuring a seniors safety, offering companionship, and dealing with emotions are all common difficulties for families. Distance adds more complicationsFor seniors and their caregivers, long-distance support is possible through smart strategies. The link below includes some sensible solutions for families managing senior care from afar.At Abby Services In-Home Care we work with a platform called Ally to help families manage their Alzheimers Care. Ally allows families to view upcoming scheduled caregivers, manage payment methods, and view past invoices. This helps to facilitate communication and eliminate confusion.Long Distance CareAn Alzheimer's Caregiver can limit a seniors loss of independence.Alzheimers is a progressive disease that can sometimes develop over years. Many individuals in Cape Coral and Fort Myers living with Alzheimers can successfully live independently with minimal caregiver support. One of the barriers to seniors seeking an Alzheimers Caregiver is the fear of losing their independence. This is a common concern and one that having an in-home caregiver actively addresses. The goal of in-home care is to enable a senior to remain independent in their home for as long as they choose. Private in-home caregivers are available short or long-term to accommodate a variety of seniors needs and schedules. Sundowners is a common reason families seek an Alzheimer's Caregiver.What is Sundowners Syndrome? Sundown Syndrome is acute confusion that worsens in the evening and through the night. Sundowning is common for those with Alzheimers and dementia and can be especially difficult for families to manage.While most people seem to calm down later in the day, seniors with memory-related issues experiencing sundowners syndrome tend to get more active. Careful and consistent communication between caregivers is important for seniors who face sundowners syndrome. This ensures routines are kept, which can alleviate symptoms.The following article discusses ways families can manage Sundowners Syndrome. Simple solutions such as appropriate lighting and sleep support can help. However, there are times when you need an Alzheimers caregiver to help provide attention and support. Especially overnight.Help with Sundowners SyndromeWith just one call Abby Services can help you find excellent Alzheimers Caregivers in Cape Coral and Fort Myers.Abby Services is available 24-7 to help seniors and their families find the best in-home caregivers. Our experience and service can help your families solve short-term in-home care needs or provide long-term solutions to help your loved ones remain safe and independent in their homes.Just call 239-590-0861 to learn how we can help find in-home Alzheimers Caregivers in Cape Coral and Fort Myers!

Do you want to monitor a senior living alone for safety?Home Security Cameras For Seniors can be a great option to remotely monitor the safety of your loved ones when you cant be there. Of course, if you need more support, an in-home caregiver referred by Abby Services can help but sometimes that level of support is not necessary.You want to be sure your elderly loved one is safe.Not every family has the ability to closely monitor a frail family member to ensure their safety. Families may do what they can by calling to check in but often find that that only presents a limited view of what is occurring. Families are often concerned about falls, injury, and confusion when considering how best to monitor a family member from afar. In some of the worst-case scenarios, a phone call is either too late or your loved one may not have access to a phone when they need it most. That is where the value lies in home security cameras for seniors.Families are seeking options to help ensure their elderly family member is safe and has the support they need.At Abby Services, we are senior care experts. Often Families will call inquiring about hiring a private caregiver just to check in on a loved one. While Abby Services is one of our areas most cost-efficient options for families, seeking private in-home caregivers, the cost of a caregiver visit is often difficult to justify just for someone to check-in.Families continually struggle to balance personal and family lives, especially when an aging parent requires more attention than a loving family member can give. Fortunately, technology has presented many solutions in the form of home security cameras for seniors. Home security cameras for seniors are often a cost efficient way for families to monitor their elderly family member from afar.When families are considering the cheapest option to monitor their loved ones, home security cameras for seniors are at the top of the list. By using affordable, readily available, wifi-enabled home security cameras for seniors, families can monitor their elderly family members from afar. The challenge with this technology, while powerful, is that it can be intimidating or difficult for people to use effectively.Most home security cameras for seniors promote easy setup to share access. We find the biggest challenge with this technology is internet access. Especially when managing the technology with someone who may not be extremely familiar with managing the home wireless networks necessary for these devices to function.What are the top 3 home security cameras for seniors?#1 WyzeWyze cameras are at the top of our list for a reason. The Wyze home security cameras for seniors are easy for family members to set up and share access. While basic, they also have an array of available features and add-ons that can further increase their functionality when monitoring a seniors safety from afar. #2 Blink Blink home security cameras for seniors are also at the top of many lists. They are industry leaders and much like Wyze offer a variety of additional features while also easily making basic features available.#3 RingWhile known for their doorbell cameras, Ring has options with similar functions focusing on simple home security cameras for seniors. When considering in home monitoring it is important to consider privacy.When utilizing home security cameras for seniors it is important for families to consider privacy. A best practice is to notify any guests or caregivers in the home that the area does have home security cameras for seniors. This should not be a surprise, and the notice should be included in a conspicuous area. What about security cameras inside an Assisted Living Facility?This is a question that often comes up. If a seniors home is in a senior living facility families may still want to remotely monitor their loved ones and the care that they receive.There are a few considerations in this scenario. Access to WifiIs it legalDoes the facility permit recording devices? Access to WiFi: For this technology to work and be useful a stable internet connection is required that is fast enough to support video streaming.  Is it legal: Legal questions are best handled by an attorney. Here is a link to an article by an attorney covering Webcams in Nursing Homes.  In the article, the conclusion is: Its a crime to record a persons voice in Florida without their permission. But it is not a crime to videotape them without their permission. So, if you decide to put a hidden camera or granny cam in your loved ones ALF or nursing home room, make sure you turn off the sound.Does the facility permit recording devices? Whether this technology is permitted at a facility will vary depending on their internal policies. Families have been known to push for this despite facility policies that prohibit this type of monitoring.In our experience, facilities who do actively permit this technology do the following: Remind families of the audio recording requirement outlined above.Post a notice reminding staff, guests, and residents that there is a recording device in use. When does a senior need more help?Unfortunately, there is no simple clear-cut answer to when a senior needs home help. The goal of remote monitoring is to allow families an opportunity to observe their loved ones to be sure they are safe and to identify concerns that may require further support. Often the next step is contacting a service like Abby Services. With the support of a private caregiver, most seniors can remain safe and independent in their homes. 

A key component in limiting the spread of COVID-19 (and a key component of the Abby Services COVID Care Package) is knowing if you are infected. As frontline healthcare providers, private in-home caregivers should be tested as directed by the Florida Department of Health and the CDC. In general, the clients Abby Services serves also represent a vulnerable population at risk for infection and should know their infection status as well.In addition to CDC COVID resources The Florida Department Of Health also has more regionally specific guidance and information. According to The CDC, there are two types of tests available to evaluate for COVID-19. These tests are available to the caregivers and residents we serve throughout Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and the greater Lee County area however they may require a physicians order depending on where you are being tested. It is recommended that you call your healthcare provider or the Lee County Department of Health for direction. Viral Tests Show if a client or in-home caregiver currently has a COVID infection In this video we show how easy it was to get tested for free right here in Fort Myers. These tests typically involve a swab of your nasal cavity/sinuses. Antibody tests Show if a client or in-home caregiver has had a previous infection. This type of test requires a blood sample be collected by a healthcare professional. May not show an active infection due to the fact that COVID antibodies will take 1-3 weeks to be produced. It is currently unknown if having antibodies will prevent reinfection or how long antibodies may provide protection from infection. Drive through testing sites are open throughout the state. In Lee County, the current testing location is the CenturyLink Sports Complex. This site is administering viral tests for free. They do not require an appointment or a physicians order. As noted above we have a video of the process with our very own Scott Strachan RN getting tested. If you have any questions please contact us! As Lee County's premier source for In-Home Caregivers, we have the knowledge and access to professional caregivers to help you and your family.Written & Submitted By: Abby Services- click for more information*

"The Rule Of 4" can help direct elderly in-home care.Do you struggle with directing the in-home care of a loved one?  Those overwhelmed with the care of an elderly family member may not know where to turn.The day-to-day tasks required for elderly in-home care may bring unexpected surprises that can throw a daily routine into a tailspin. If you find yourself asking, What am I going to do all day? when providing elderly in-home care, then read on to learn about the Rule of 4.Using The Rule Of 4 is just one tool to help manage elderly in-home care. AARP has an excellent article on helping loved ones age in place. What is "The Rule Of 4"?The rule of 4 is a method of breaking up the day of a caregiver and a patient into manageable blocks and tasks. Family caregivers can use this method to not only help manage their time, but also to delegate the time a private in-home caregiver is assisting their loved one. The rule of 4 establishes realistic expectations and patterns in a predictable and easy-to-follow format.Why use "The Rule Of 4"?Abby Services has been helping families and seniors in Fort Myers and Cape Coral find the elderly in-home care they need since 1997. We have seen family caregivers burnt out and overwhelmed with the daily challenges of Alzheimers/memory careParkinsons careHospice carePostoperative care & supportGeneral mobility supportThose overwhelmed with caregiving responsibilities are often challenged with meeting all of the care their elderly family member requires. In an attempt to meet all of an individuals needs the caregivers needs may be neglected, leading to an even worse situation.By using the rule of 4 caregivers can work to make sure their needs are met, as well as meeting the needs of their loved ones. Ok, enough with the what and why, lets discuss the how.Using "The Rule Of 4" to plan elderly in-home care.My name is Scott Strachan. I am an RN and have been a caregiver with Abby Services. I have extensive in-home care experience as well as varied real-world hospital and senior care experience.However, The rule of 4 actually came about through my experience as a father. As many are aware child care can be demanding and exhausting (much like elderly care). As a new father, I followed the EASY method. EASY stands for Eat, Activity, Sleep, You. By following this simple method I was able to ensure my childrens needs were met as well as my own. While some of the EASY method can be adopted into senior care, it requires a bit more flexibility due to the varying needs elderly patients have.As a caregiver, nurse, and administrator of an In-Home service, I have learned to adapt some of the simplicity of the easy method into the rule of 4.Step 1: Identify elder care needs. The first step of the rule of 4 is to identify priorities or things that need to be accomplished. This can be done if a family member is a caregiver or if a family member is directing the care of a professional in-home caregiver. Families together with the elderly family member are typically the ones best suited to identify the care needs of an elderly patient. If you are struggling to identify what you hope to accomplish when providing elderly care a good place to start is through our commonly requested elderly caregiver services. These cover common day-to-day tasks that need to be accomplished. You want to be sure first and foremost that ADL (Activity of Daily Living) needs are met. Step 2: Break down your elderly in-home care day into blocks of 4Instead of considering what needs to be accomplished for an entire day (this can be overwhelming) consider what needs to be accomplished in 4-hour blocks. Typically there will be four, four-hour blocks during an individuals waking hours. Often the 4-hour blocks follow a natural rhythm:Morning CareAfternoon RoutineEvening activitiesBedtime activitiesWhile everyones needs and time frames will be different, this grouping can help in planning when and what activities need to be accomplished. This provides structure for the elder receiving care as well as the elder caregiver.Step 3: Consider 4 elderly in-home care activities that will occur during this 4-hour block.Using your list of required activities break down these activities based on the daily schedule you are developing. Many activities will fall into a natural time frame. For example, personal hygiene is typically accomplished in the morning, and before bed.  In general, allot 1 hour for each chosen task. Some activities may take more or less than the time frame allotted. Thats ok, the intent is to provide a predictable structure for a caregiver and the elder care recipient that is not rushed or forced. Following the rule of 4 often allows flexibility and important downtime for both caregiver and their elderly loved ones. Step 4: Adaptation is key.Initially, the Rule Of 4 scheduling may need to be adapted and thats ok. The intent of The rule of 4 is not only adaptability but also the structure The rule of 4 provides. It is important to remember that as an elderly patients needs change, their care may change as well. Did your loved one need to sleep in? Thats ok, adapt. The rule of 4 is flexible. As you see predictable patterns you can adjust one or all of the 4-hour blocks you have scheduled. Using the rule of 4 to direct a private in-home caregiver.Are you providing direction to a private caregiver? With The rule of 4 simplicity is key. It is important to establish reasonable expectations both for the individual receiving elderly care, and their caregiver. Sometimes a rushed list of expectations in a 4-hour period creates undue stress and unrealistic expectations. Many in-home care services have a 4-hour minimum which makes The Rule Of 4 a perfect tool for identifying priorities and expectations. It is recommended that when directing your elderly in-home care you have a written clear and concise plan of care. This establishes expectations that your private caregiver can understand and live up to. When developing your plan of care, you may want to develop essential tasks to be accomplished using the Rule Of 4 format, as well as a list of secondary goals, should your caregiver require further direction or suggestions.An Example of "The Rule Of 4."It may help to see The Rule of 4 in action. In this example, we will be developing a plan of care for AM Care. The main priorities in the am care are:Waking up and preparing for the dayPersonal hygiene, dressing.BreakfastActivityRestWhen discussing The Rule of 4 as we said, it is important to allow adequate time to complete the tasks. In this example, while breakfast may not take a full hour, the morning hygiene and routine may take longer than an hour. Essentially just remember that these are goals, not requirements, as such they are flexible.As you may see rest is one of the goals in the 4-hour block. This is where the secondary goals can be utilized. These secondary tasks may include, light housekeeping, dishes, or laundry as time permits. Secondary goals may also include personal activities such as: reading the newspaper, watching a favorite show, or discussing current events.Often by using 4-hour blocks there is a natural rhythm that is good for the elderly patient receiving care as well as the caregiver.For many, there is stability in routine. Knowing what to expect brings a sense of structure.  Our days are often naturally broken up into 4-hour blocks. Consider Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, And Bedtime.  These are key events that can and should serve as anchors when considering The Rule of 4. In addition to meals and essential tasks such as personal hygiene, caretakers should consider an activity within each block.  Depending on an individuals circumstances an activity could include a walk, range of motion exercises, or assisting with laundry or even meal preparation.Do you need more information on elderly in-home care?If you have further questions about managing your elderly in-home care be sure to call Abby Services at 239-590-0861. Our team of experts can help be sure you have the input and direction to help your loved one stay safe and independent.

Home Hospice TipsWhen considering hospice care, families are often unsure about what to expect. Hospice is a great service with many dedicated nurses, doctors, caregivers, and team members. However, when tasked with providing home hospice care many families lack the experience needed to make informed choices.What is Home Hospice?Home hospice care is a compassionate and invaluable service that provides specialized medical, emotional, and spiritual support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses in the comfort of their own homes. It is a holistic approach to end-of-life care that focuses on enhancing the quality of life for both patients and their families.Home hospice teams typically include skilled nurses, social workers, chaplains, and volunteers who work collaboratively to address the unique needs and preferences of each patient. Through Home Hospice services they offer pain and symptom management, emotional counseling, and guidance on making informed decisions about treatment options and advance care planning.One of the key benefits of home hospice care is the ability to maintain a sense of familiarity and security for patients and their families during a challenging time. Patients can receive care in a setting that is not only physically comfortable but also emotionally comforting, surrounded by loved ones and familiar surroundings. This approach not only helps alleviate physical suffering but also provides emotional and psychological support, ensuring that patients can spend their final days with dignity, peace, and a sense of control over their care.Home hospice care allows individuals to create meaningful memories with their families and friends in a setting that holds personal significance, offering a compassionate and dignified way to navigate the end-of-life journey.What do we know about hospice care?Abby Services of Fort Myers and Cape Coral has been helping families find caregivers to assist with in-home care since 1997. With the help of a private professional caregiver, individuals can have the in-home care and support they want and need to remain safe and supported.Abby Services is owned and operated by a former hospice nurse Scott Strachan. Through his experience as a nurse and caregiver, Scott is able to help provide the insight and support to help guide families seeking home hospice care.Home Hospice tip #1: Hospice is a resource, use it.Hospice is a valuable resource. However, it can only assist those willing to receive their support. Hospice has an undeserved stigma to many that leads them to refuse to seek the support hospice provides.While this stigma is understandable, families should genuinely consider the benefits hospice provides. The benefits of hospice should be considered when appropriate and available. This is especially true for home hospice care.To be considered a candidate for hospice care an individual requires a doctor to certify their illness is terminal and that they have 6 months to live.This can be a difficult reality to confront however these guidelines can be fluid. It is recommended that families have a conversation with a hospice professional to discuss their specific situation.Scott Strachan reports that he has had hospice patients who have received hospice care for years. Families also have to recognize that should they choose, they can stop hospice care at any point and resume traditional treatment. Home Hospice tip #2: Hospice can provide many necessary supplies. Here are the supplies many families don't consider.Hospice provides many supplies necessary for an individuals care and comfort. Having access to these supplies is especially important for those receiving at-home hospice care. Even with all of the materials and support provided by hospice, there are common items that can help families providing home hospice care that are not provided. These items can help create a calm, comfortable, safe atmosphere for those receiving home hospice care.Sound Machines: Sound machines generate white noise. They can mask outside noises. When in use they promote a calm restful environment that limits outside disturbances and interruptions. Baby Monitor: Baby monitors are cheap and effective ways for families and caregivers to monitor a home hospice patient without hovering. Baby monitors allow hospice caregivers to monitor an individuals safety and needs from a distance.Scent: Scent plays a major role in creating a calm and restful environment. Scent can be managed with candles, scent diffusers, or other products. The importance of scent should be considered when planning home hospice.Baby Powder: Many receiving home hospice may be bed-bound or have limited mobility. This can be uncomfortable and make an individual restless. Baby powder can help to promote comfort and is something many fail to consider.Bell on clothespin: This is something Scott Strachan learned as a private caregiver. The purpose of the bell and clothespin is similar to a baby monitor. They both allow hospice caregivers to monitor their patients without being physically present at the bedside. Falls can quickly and easily happen without warning. A clothespin with a bell attached to blankets or sheets notifies a caregiver when a hospice patient moves. This can notify the caregiver if an individual needs their attention when a patient does not or can not communicate their need for support. Pillows, pillows, pillows: A core focus of hospice care is comfort. Individuals receiving home hospice care may need frequent repositioning to promote comfort and rest and minimize injury. This often requires more pillows than are commonly used. Having pillows available can help your home hospice caregiver provide excellent support.Home Hospice tip #3: Hospice cant do it all.The care, attention, support, and resources provided through in-home hospice are amazing. That being said, those receiving in-home hospice care may require more support than is provided by hospice.Additional care and support may be provided by a spouse, friend, or family member. When an individual requires more care (or a family member providing support needs more rest) a private professional in-home caregiver may be considered. Do you have home hospice questions?If you or your loved one is considering seeking hospice support in Fort Myers and Cape Coral we can help find affordable home hospice care. Just call 239-590-0861 to learn how Abby Services can help!

ALS and In-Home Care unfortunately go hand in hand. ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a progressive neurological disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As the disease progresses, people with ALS may experience difficulty speaking, swallowing, and breathing, as well as a loss of mobility and muscle control. This often requires an individual to receive ALS in-home care.What is ALS?The Mayo Clinic defines ALS as:Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (a-my-o-TROE-fik LAT-ur-ul skluh-ROE-sis), known as ALS, is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS causes loss of muscle control. The disease is progressive which means that it gets worse over time. ALS is often called Lou Gehrigs disease after the baseball player who was diagnosed with it. The exact cause of the disease is still not known. A small number of cases are inherited.Can ALS patients live at home?ALS In-home care can be an important component of the care plan for individuals with ALS, as it can provide much-needed support and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. ALS In-home care can also provide emotional support and companionship, which can be especially important for people with ALS who may experience social isolation and depression. In addition, ALS in-home care can help minimize the risk of complications and hospitalizations by ensuring that individuals with ALS receive appropriate medical care and monitoring. Overall, in-home care can play a critical role in helping people with ALS to maintain their independence and quality of life for as long as possible.How to care for an ALS patient at home.Caring for an ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) patient at home requires patience, empathy, and careful planning. First and foremost, it is crucial to establish a comfortable and safe environment for the patient. This includes modifying the home such as installing grab bars, ramps, and wheelchair access. This enables a caregiver to safely and effectively care for the patient as their disease progresses.Home Modifications For SeniorsIt is also important to ensure that the patient can access all necessary medical equipment and medications. Caregivers should also be trained on how to properly assist with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.Communication is vital to understanding the patients needs and preferences. ALS patients often experience difficulty communicating as the disease progresses, so caregivers should be knowledgeable about communication devices and techniques that work for the patient.It is also important to prioritize the patients emotional well-being by providing emotional support, engaging in activities the patient enjoys, and connecting them with support groups and resources. Overall, caring for an ALS patient at home requires a holistic approach that addresses the patients physical, emotional, and medical needs.Local support for ALS patients and their families.Fortunately, the Fort Myers and Cape Coral area has local resources available that are specific to ALS patients. The Lee Health ALS Clinic is a key resource.When visiting the Lee Health ALS Clinic, a team of medical professionals individually assesses the ALS patients symptoms and provides recommendations for supportive therapies and symptom management techniques.Of course, other services to support ALS patients are available such as the private caregiver services available through Abby Services.How can Abby Services help with ALS in-home care?An AlS in-home caregiver can help with many activities to help you remain safe in the home. Abby Services helps residents in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, and surrounding areas find excellent in-home caregivers.We have clients call every day wondering how a private in-home caregiver can help them. As a state-licensed nurse registry overseen by the Agency For Health Care Administration, and The Department of Health, there is a list of things your in-home caregiver can and cant help with.Often this is simply related to a caregivers training and licensure. Wound care for example requires a skilled nurse (an RN or LPN) and your private caregiver is not allowed to assist with that.Overall it is truly a clients choice what they would like help with. The goal is to help clients remain safe in their homes with the support of a private ALS in-home caregiver.Together with our team, we can help guide a family to develop a client-driven plan of care that meets the needs of their loved one.Your private ALS in-home caregiver referred by Abby Services can help many things including:BathingDressingLight housekeepingMeal preparationPersonal hygieneLaundry and linensMedication RemindersAccompany to appointmentsAssist with shopping and errandsAmbulationTransfersToileting and continence carePet Care

Plastic Surgery Postoperative CareAre you having plastic surgery in Fort Myers or Cape Coral? If so, you should consider your plastic surgery postoperative care plans. You may need the help and support of a professional caregiver from Abby Services.Plastic surgery postoperative care plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal healing and recovery following surgical procedures. Whether its a facelift, breast augmentation, liposuction, or any other cosmetic surgery, the proper care after the operation significantly impacts the final results. Here are some essential aspects of plastic surgery postoperative care.First and foremost, following the surgeons instructions is paramount. They will provide specific guidelines tailored to the patients procedure and individual needs. These instructions may include details on wound care, medication management, and any restrictions on activities. Adhering to these instructions diligently is essential for promoting proper healing and minimizing complications. When working with a private caregiver it is important to share any plastic surgery postoperative care instructions.Proper wound care is vital in plastic surgery postoperative care. Keeping the incision sites clean and dry is crucial to prevent infections. Patients are often advised to clean the incisions with mild soap and water, apply antibiotic ointment as directed, and cover them with sterile dressings.Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon allow them to monitor the healing progress and address any concerns.Pain management is another critical aspect of postoperative care. Surgeons may prescribe pain medications to alleviate discomfort during the recovery period. Its important for patients to take medications as prescribed and communicate with their doctors about their pain levels.Additionally, applying cold compresses and keeping the surgical areas elevated can help reduce swelling and pain.Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for healing after plastic surgery. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein supports tissue repair and recovery. Staying hydrated aids in flushing out toxins and promotes healthy circulation.Physical activity should be limited as advised by the surgeon. Its crucial to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during the initial recovery phase to prevent complications and ensure the incisions heal properly.Finally, emotional support plays a significant role in the postoperative period. Undergoing plastic surgery can be an emotional experience, and patients may benefit from the support of loved ones or even professional counseling if needed.In conclusion, plastic surgery postoperative care is a comprehensive process that involves following the surgeons instructions, maintaining proper wound care, managing pain, practicing good nutrition and hydration, limiting physical activity, and seeking emotional support. By adhering to these guidelines, patients can optimize their recovery and achieve the best possible outcomes from their cosmetic surgery procedures.Do you need Plastic Surgery Postoperative care and assistance?If you are asking yourself if you need plastic surgery postoperative care and support, chances are you do. The best person to ask is your physician. Often the answer is a resounding yes. For many, plastic postoperative care is provided by a spouse, family, or friend. Arrangements for postoperative support should be made well in advance. How much postoperative support do you need?Once again, your physician is the one best suited to answer this question. Typically plastic surgery postoperative care is required for the first 24-48 hours. This is to provide support as needed, monitor for complications, and assist as necessary to avoid injury. What can your caregiver assist with?Your plastic surgery postoperative caregiver can assist with many things. The goal is to help you remain independent after your procedure and help to insure you are supported and safe while recovering from anesthesia, and the procedure itself.Your physician will most likely have standard post-operative instructions. These are important to share with your postoperative caregiver. They will share what to expect, complications to monitor for, activity limitations, when to contact the physician, and other important information.There are limitations to what your postoperative caregiver can assist with. These are often things that require a higher skill level such as an RN. Fortunately, by working together with your physicians office there is often an RN available as a resource.  Abby Services also has an in-house RN to help you plan and guide your postoperative care. Our nurse, Scott Strachan has the experience and training to help families develop a personalized care plan that addresses the unique needs of plastic surgery postoperative patients. With our support and input, you can develop a postoperative care plan that delivers stability, support, and quality of life.Together with postoperative instructions provided by your physician, we can work with you to develop clear expectations and guidelines for your private care provider By considering your specific situation combined with your physicians information, we can help to ensure the in-home caregiver you work with has the tools necessary to be sure you have a safe and speedy recovery.Your caregiver can assist with the following:BathingDressingTransfersFall PreventionLaundryGroomingHomecarelight housekeepingincontinenceTransportationErrandsDo you need short term or extended postoperative caregiver support?Short or long term, Abby Services can help. The caregivers we refer can assist you with all of your in-home caregiver needs short or long-term.Caregivers are available for as little as 4 hours one time, all the way through 24/7, to provide in-home support for as long as you need. Often we simply do not know how much postoperative support we need or for how long. Thats why its important to have the backing of Abby Services to help insure you have access to the best caregivers in Fort Myers and Cape Coral.How to arrange for plastic surgery postoperative care.Should you need the support and assistance of a plastic surgery post-operative caregiver you simply need to call Abby Services at 239-590-0861. Our professionals can answer any questions you have and provide you with the resources to get the help you need. All arrangements can be made by email. You will need to complete a service agreement and provide payment. Abby Services accepts all major credit cards, or ACH payment using your checking account.The following are plastic surgeons in the Cape Coral and Fort Myers area we are proud to have worked with:Prendiville Facial Plastic Surgery Garramone Plastic Surgery

Working With Independent ContractorsAbby Services is a Nurse Registry licensed and overseen by the Agency For Healthcare Administration (AHCA).We work together with 1099 Independent Contractors to offer private care opportunities to clients seeking their services. We also provide administrative services for private caregivers looking to market their services to prospective clients. We do not provide home healthcare, but are a source for prescreened individuals who do provide care.As any responsible business should operate, we comply with federal tax and Department of Labor requirements. Some unscrupulous or uneducated businesses attempt to mislead consumers and professionals by making deceiving generalized statements like Nurse Registries or Private Professional In-Home Caregivers do not pay Taxes.Statements like these are intentionally misleading and are meant to scare consumers and professionals into choosing one business over another. Abby Services does not engage in these dirty tactics to mislead consumers. Abby Services seeks instead to educate patients and their families about their options for In-Home Care as well as other options that may suit their needs. We are happy to discuss how our business operates with the intent to inform and educate.A 1099 is submitted for each caregiver we work with as a way to report caregiver earnings for the year. They are similar to a W-2 which is used for employees. A 1099 is required for any individual or business earning $600 or more in a tax year.Here are just a few of the ways Abby Services works to find consumers great caregivers so they can help you:Per The Agency for Health Care Administration Abby Services conducts a Level 2 background screening and verifies credentials of potential caregivers. We comply with a multitude of additional requirements to screen individuals who are suited to be safe and effective caregivers. We then assist clients by locating professional screened caregivers who may be able to meet a clients needs. Abby Services informs, potential caregivers, of the opportunity to work for a potential client. If the private caregiver is interested in the opportunity, they are provided general information on a clients requested schedule and services. The caregiver and client work together to fully develop; how a caregivers services will be provided, when caregiver services will be provided, and where caregiver services will be provided. Caregivers offered opportunities are not obligated to pursue and/or accept offered opportunities. Many caregivers working with Abby Services also work for other similar services and even choose to work privately. Abby Services does not provide any equipment to caregivers (If any specific materials or supplies are required, it is the clients/caregivers responsibility to provide them). Abby Services does not presume that we can effectively supervise a caregiver in your home and we do not try .In-home care is supervised by family, friends, guardians, etc. If a client has any issues Abby Services will take them very seriously and address them promptly as directed by a client. We do not attempt to insinuate that we could possibly supervise your private caregiver in an effective manner while they are in your home without being there .Clients wishing to receive professional supervision are encouraged to seek out a Certified Geriatric Care managers who can oversee and manage even the most involved cases. This may seem odd, but Abby Services will never terminate a caregiver a client is working with. It is always a consumers choice to use or not work with a private caregiver. Part of the services Abby Services provides is processing caregiver/client payments according to information provided by clients. Abby Services does not set the pay rate but facilitates client/caregiver negotiations by sharing with clients and caregivers current market rates and allowing them to independently adjust payment for services as they see fit.At its most basic, we are a matchmaking service. We work to match you or your loved ones with the perfect in-home caregiver. Submitting tax documents properly and responsibly is just one part of delivering a great service. To find out more click below!Written and Submitted By: Abby Services- click here for more information*