Rhythms Home Care - Christian Living Communities

Rhythms Home Care Prepares to Receive COVID-19 VaccinePriority distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to healthcare workers who are at the most risk of contracting the virus is welcome news. Rhythms Home Care is ready to receive the vaccine to protect associates. We remain in constant communication with state health department, the CDC, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as details of the distribution process continue to develop.We want to share with you what we know now about the vaccine, how it will be distributed, what we are doing to keep associates, clients, and families informed about the process, and our continued commitment to testing, virus mitigation, and the overall quality of life for clients.Vaccine BenefitsCOVID-19 is a serious, life-threatening virus that has impacted the entire world. Protecting the most vulnerable Americans has been the top priority and vaccines have been developed at unprecedented speeds. The U.S. vaccine safety system has procedures in place to ensure the vaccine is as safe as possible. Clinical trials must show a vaccine is safe and effective before it can be approved for use. The National Association for Home Care & Hospice is actively advocating for the CDC to explicitly name homecare workers to prevent any confusion with local governments.The FDA will meet in mid-December to discuss both the Pfizer and Moderna 2-dose vaccines which have reported to be 95% effective. Once approval is given, the federal government will distribute the vaccine to the states for inoculations. Each state has its own specific timeline and process for distribution and administration. We anticipate all of the states we support will follow the CDC tier guidelines for distribution but that has not been confirmed.Having early access to the vaccine to protect associates is the first step in being able to lift restrictions. Combined with current safety measures such as face masks, physical distancing, and testing the vaccine will significantly reduce the spread of the disease and chances of exposure to the virus.Pharmacy Partnership for DistributionAll Rhythms Home Care communities are registered with Colorado for Human and Health Services, Home Care and Home Health for pharmacy partnership with the Pharmacy Partnership Program. We will work with an assigned local pharmacy, who will store, distribute, and administer the vaccine which is free of charge to team members. The pharmacy will also: Order vaccines and associated supplies (e.g., syringes, needles, personal protective equipment). Ensure cold chain management for the vaccine. Report all required vaccination data to the local, state, and federal jurisdictions within 72 hours of administering each dose. Adhere to all applicable Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) COVID-19 testing requirements.We anticipate the pharmacy will set up clinic dates and times for vaccinations and the pharmacy teams, working closely with our clinical teams, and will come to our communities and designated locations to administer the vaccines to associates. Three visits over approximately two months will likely be needed to administer both doses and vaccinate new team members.Some of the details of how and when and who will get the vaccine first are still being worked out. At the moment, we believe team members will be included, and that the first tier to receive the vaccine will also include residents of skilled nursing and assisted living communities. We are waiting to hear where residential (independent) living clients and those living in their own homes receiving services will fit into the distribution tiers.Keeping Team Members, Clients and Families InformedWe know many clients, team members and families have questions about the vaccine benefits and side effects, what options, if any, will be offered to clients or team members who decline the vaccine, etc. We will share more information as soon as it is available. We will continue to share resources from the CDC that answer questions specifically around vaccine development, safety, and why getting the vaccine is beneficial. Read more about the safety of the vaccine here and, answers to questions about vaccine administration in our communities here. Learn more about the benefits of the vaccine from the CDC below:For vaccine-specific questions, please refer to the CDC handouts,8 Things to Know About Vaccine PlanningBenefits of Getting a COVID-19 VaccineIn addition, we anticipate we will hold Family Town Hall Webinars as more information becomes available and throughout the process, giving team members, clients, and families an opportunity to ask questions and feel comfortable with the process. We are also providing hand-out materials to communities as they become available.Continued DiligenceWe are excited to add the vaccine to our arsenal of tools that will help eradicate the virus from our community, and eventually, assist in a return to normalcy. We also understand that many are experiencing COVID combat fatigue, growing weary from restrictions and isolation. While the vaccine will help control the virus, it will not completely eradicate it for quite some time, so we must continue to take precautions to stay healthy and protect ourselves and each other from this virus. We will continue with our robust infection control and testing program, and we ask for your continued diligence and patience as we all do our part to stop the spread of the virus.

If you are one of the millions of Americans taking care of an aging parent, family member, or a spouse who requires daily care, you are at risk of developing caregiver burnout. This very real condition is defined as a debilitating psychological condition brought about by unrelieved stress. Healthcare professionals do not take this lightlyand neither should you.The more you know about caregiver burnout, the better you can protect yourself.Recognizing the Signs of Caregiver BurnoutCaregiver burnout is all too common. In a survey by theNational Alliance for CaregivingandAARP Public Policy Institute, 40 percent of caretakers felt emotionally stressed and about 20 percent felt physically strained.There are warning signs before burnout occurs. Being aware of and watching for them should signal that its time to take steps to combat the stress you are under. Some signs to be alert for include:Feeling anxious or depressedAvoiding peopleLosing interest in the things you normally like to doNeglecting your own needs, including your healthFeeling like you have no control over your lifeHaving a short fuseGaining or losing weight because you have drastically changed your eating habitsGetting sick because your resistance is downWhen One Spouse Is Caring for the OtherWhen you find yourself caring for a spouse with an illness and your daily life has become much more difficult than you ever imagined, it can be an incredibly lonely time. Social activities decrease, and friends are often lost for spouse caregivers. The tasks of caregiving take over any free time that may have once been available. Loneliness and isolation can lead to depression and even thoughts of suicide.Spousal caregivers often feel torn between caring for themselves or their partner. Many feel guilty for doing too little or too much. Some caregivers are unhappy with this unexpected role, and those feelings are valid. Caregiving can also take a toll on physical health.The Sandwich GenerationThe sandwich generation is a term given to those who are taking care of their children who are too young to care for themselves as well an aging parent or relative. With the responsibility of providing care for multiple individuals of varying ages weighing on their shoulders, these people usually middle-aged adults can feel stressed, overwhelmed, and under-appreciated.Often these caregivers have jobs outside of the home, and many feel forced to sacrifice their career to manage caregiving duties. This not only can lead to financial problems, but the transition to full-time caregiver can be a frustrating and difficult one.Ways to Cope with Caregiver StressIts important to remember that you dont have to do it all. Ask family and friends to help with some of your caretaking tasks. You should also seek support from those close to you or a support group so you can process your feelings and emotions. Dont be afraid to say no if saying yes means taking on more than you can handle.Make sure you take regular breaks; these are necessary to help relieve stress and restore your energy. Social activities are important, so dont feel guilty for continuing to do the things you enjoy that can get you away from the daily routine and setting of caregiving.If you dont take care of your own health, you cannot take care of someone else. Dont put off doctor appointments for preventive care. Get plenty of sleep and eat a healthy diet. Exercise regularly to relieve stress, increase energy, and take time for yourself. Regular exercise can also boost your mood and help keep depression at bay.Take family leave, if possible, from your full-time job. Removing the stress of work can reduce your responsibilities and free up more time for yourself.How to Know When It Is Time for AssistanceWhen the time comes that it is no longer feasible for you to continue as caregiver, it might be time to consider home care services. Rhythms Home Care has a highly trained team, dedicated to helping those living in their own home with additional supports for a successful life, by their own definition. Our in-home care services range from medication reminders, help with dressing and bathing, transportation and light medical services. Additionally, we provide annual competency training for our PCA and CNA team members and ongoing monthly training for our staff. All of our team members receive specialized instruction to support those living with dementia.It can be challenging to ask for help when you are used to doing things on your own, and family members often feel guilty when they cant do it all. Having a mission-driven care partner such as Rhythms Home Care can give you peace of mind knowing that your loved one is well cared for, and give you the time to take care of yourself as well.

There comes a time in life when you notice a shift in the quality of life for your parent, partner or older adult in your life and it might be time to have a conversation about in-home care.The change may be the result of physical limitations, memory loss or a drop in emotional well-being, often times caused by isolation. Under the COVID 19 restrictions we are currently living in, this feeling of isolation and possibly fear can be heightened. Perhaps you have noticed a cognitive decline, or a decrease in personal care. Are they remembering to take their medications? In addition, if they have a medical procedure scheduled, they may need extra help when they come back home. No matter what the reason is for the drop in their quality of life, the one thing for certain is you want to help but where do you start? Life does not prepare us for this conversation and finding the right words or knowing the right time to talk is not easy.Having the ConversationIt is important to respect and honor your loved ones ability to make this decision with you. Listen to how they define what they perceive as a quality life to help them continue to live in their own home and do the things that bring them joy. Once this is defined, ask how you can partner with them to make their wishes a reality. If other family members are involved, your parent or partner needs to make their wishes known to all and gain everyones support. Set aside a time that works for everyone, and talk frequently. If not everyone is able to meet in person, plan ahead to include them electronically. Having these discussions over a period of time will give your loved one a sense of control, and peace of mind regarding their future. Knowing that the decision does not have to be made right away gives everyone time to explore all options. Waiting until there is a crises, health or financial, would create more stress and less choices for them.How Rhythms Can HelpWhether together you are considering a senior living community or staying in their own home, it is important to allow them to maintain a sense of control and dignity. Often times, it is easier to introduce change within a familiar setting. Utilizing supportive services such as Rhythms Home Care puts them in control of their environment at home, and their personalized care. Rhythms Home Care has a highly trained team, dedicated to helping those living in their own home with additional support services for a successful life, by their own definition. It is important to remember that you dont have to do it all.Caregiver burnoutis all too common. Having a partner like Rhythms share in some of the care can help.Expertise During This Important TimeWe have all seen the news reports that COVID 19 is especially difficult on the vulnerable older adult population. Reducing the risks by staying in their own home for care is an important consideration at this time. Rhythms Home Care is following all current Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) guidelines, as well as state and local government and health department guidelines. We have specific procedures in place regarding prevention and containment, including proper disinfection before entering and after leaving a clients home.As you start to have this conversation with your loved one, be patient and listen to their concerns. Talk often. There is no question that there is a variety of senior care options out there. When it comes to adult in home care, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what the best solution is for you or your loved one.

Is your loved one suffering from a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills? Should you be concerned, or is this just a normal part of aging? Knowing what your loved one is going through, even if they have a difficult time expressing it, is important for you to help them age successfully. One way to do this is by being aware of any changes they may be experiencing.Alzheimers is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimers Association10 Early Signs and Symptoms of AlzheimersAccording to the Alzheimers Association there are 10 early signs that may help you become aware that your loved one may have Alzheimers or other dementia-related diagnosis https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signsMemory loss that disrupts daily lifeChallenges in planning or solving problemsDifficulty completing familiar tasksConfusion with time or placeTrouble understanding visual images and spatial relationshipsNew problems with words in speaking or writingMisplacing things and losing the ability to retrace stepsDecreased or poor judgmentWithdrawal from work or social activitiesChanges in mood and personality.It is important to note that the Alzheimers Association also lists the typical age-related change with each of these signs, so as to not confuse these early signs with typical aging. Everyone has episodes of forgetfulness from time to time, but people with Alzheimers will display these symptoms ongoing, and will worsen over time.What should you do if you notice your loved one has some of these symptoms? Early detection is the key to creating a positive and proactive plan, and to rule out other possibilities that may be causing the cognitive decline. You may want to keep a journal, to record any changes with a timeline. It is also important to speak with your doctor if you have concerns. Although there is no cure for Alzheimers, treatment can help slow the progression of the disease and will improve the quality of life.Caring for someone with AlzheimersAs a person progresses through the stages of Alzheimers, they will need increasing support from those around them. If you have a loved one with Alzheimers, you may consider becoming their caregiver. This can be a very rewarding experience, but it can be difficult as well. To be a fulltime caregiver for someone with Alzheimers takes patience, dedication of time, and a positive attitude. Over time, this can cause stress and anxiety for a caregiver. Enlisting the help of Rhythms Home Care can help you and your loved one with peace of mind and enriching life experiences.The care required of family members can result in increased emotional stress and feelings of depression. Continued support for care partners is instrumental in treating Alzheimers disease holistically. Alzheimers Association. Alzheimers Association Report: 2020 Alzheimers disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2020;16(3):391-460.

As your parents age, it is common for friends and family to encourage them to think about moving into a senior living community to get the extra care they need. However, most seniors do not want to leave the home they have lived in for so many years.According to a survey by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), more than three-quarters of Americans age 50 or older want to stay in their own home for as long as possible, even if they will need assistance.Allowing elderly parents to grow older at home has many benefits. Seniors are able to:Maintain a sense of independence and quality of lifeKeep a less stressful routine due to familiarity of surroundingsRemain close to neighbors and a familiar communityKeep a sense of worth and purposeHow Much Support is Needed?Before making any decisions, it is useful to consider how much help is needed, and what is available. It is important to be realistic regarding how much help family and friends can provide on a long-term basis. Making a list of specific care needs by day, week, and month will help determine the amount of care needed. Learn more aboutwhat to consider when choosing home care services.In many cases aging in place costs less than a move to a senior living community. With customized are plans from a home care company, families can avoidcare giver burnoutand know their loved one is receiving the support they need.What If My Loved One Lives with Dementia?Is your loved one experiencing memory loss? Some people believe that if their loved one is experiencing dementia or has been diagnosed with Alzheimers that their only alternative is for them to move to a memory support community. However, this is not always the case. The familiarity of surroundings and general routine can be beneficial for those living with memory loss. A qualified care partner who has been trained in the area of memory loss can help your loved one age in place. With Rhythms Home Carememory support services, we focus on the strengths of each individual living with dementia rather than their deficiencies.We consider family members as thoseliving with dementiaas well, because we know it is a whole community disease. Rhythms ensures every team member learns that dementia is a shift in the way a person experiences the world around him/her. Our job is to create environments where each person can navigate the world successfully and create worlds where life is worth living.Is Your Home Safe?Make sure your family member can age in place safely. Do any modifications need to be made to reduce the risk of falls? Do the door handles and faucets need to be replaced for ease of use? Modern technology, such as medical alert systems, should be considered as well. These important changes can help increase the level of independence and safety for older adults wanting to age in place. Consider thesetips from the National Institute on Agingon making an older adults home safe and accessible.Aging in place is a good choice for people who are proactive and want to be involved in the decisions regarding their future. Having a support network of friends and family that value this decision making process with the older adult involved will assure great success. Aging in place has many benefits, the most important being the ability to live in safety, comfort, and dignity in a persons later years.