Massachusetts - Greater Boston

A diagnosis of Parkinsons is a life-changing moment. However, with advances in treatment and the right support there is much an individual with Parkinsons disease can do to live every day to the fullest. Here in Massachusetts, we have many resources to help navigate the PD diagnosis and get the information you need. The American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA) is the countrys largest grassroots organization serving those touched by Parkinsons disease. What makes APDA unique is that we are in cities, towns, and communities across the U.S. In Massachusetts there is a APDA Chapter, Information & Referral Center, Centers for Advanced Research, Specialized programs in Young Onset, Veterans and Rehabilitation Resources, and countless support groups, we are able to quickly reach people and connect them to resources that will provide the best outcomes as they navigate Parkinsons disease.Parkinsons disease is a progressive neurological movement disorder. Over one million people live with Parkinsons. The results of a new study show that the incidence of Parkinsons disease (PD), or the number of new cases diagnosed per year, is 50% higher than previously estimated. Instead of past estimates of 60,000 new cases of PD diagnosed per year, the new study determined that there are approximately 90,000 new cases of PD diagnosed in the US per year. It can begin with a tremor, difficulty writing, stooped posture, stiff muscles, or slightly slurred speech; symptoms are different for every person. If you have questions reach out to your doctor. APDAs mission is to provide information, education, and support to all impacted by the disease and to fund scientific research into the causes, prevention, treatments and ultimately the cure.  We take pride in the fact that we are in your community and many others across the country serving people with Parkinsons disease to provide support from the day of diagnosis throughout the Parkinson journey. We have also been a funding partner in most major Parkinsons disease discoveries, and we will continue to fund research initiatives that can stop the devastation of living with this disabling disease.  The last few years have been especially challenging for the PD community and APDA has worked hard to develop programs and services that the community can access from the safety and comfort of their home. APDA has developed a library of virtual education topics, virtual support groups, caregiver programs and continues to operate the incredibly valuable APDA information and referral line that provides expert guidance without charge. APDA is here to help with the following programs some in person and others virtually:        Health and wellness initiatives delivering programs to help people maintain independence and optimism starting at diagnosis.        Education and support programs connecting people with Parkinsons in local communities.         Expedited and innovative research to develop promising clinical approaches and better outcomes and funding the next generation of scientists dedicated to finding new treatments and a cure. For information about Massachusetts programs or to become a volunteer contact: APDA Information & Referral Center at Boston University School of Medicine Boston, MA 02118 and at 617-638-8466 or 800-651-8466 apdama@apdaparkinson.org & www.apdama.org This article was submitted by Bill Patjane- Regional Director of the APDA- Northeast bpatjane@apdaparkinson.org (617) 352-9330

When health issues arise that require a high level of care, some folks are finding success with receiving Medicaid (known as MassHealth in Massachusetts) home care instead of moving to a nursing home. There are different qualifications to be eligible for home care versus nursing home care we broke down the differences.Home CareWhen a loved one needs nursing home level care but would like to remain living at home, the MassHealth Frail Elder Waiver (FEW) program is a great option. Although infrequent, there are instances where elders are receiving free 24-hour care at home. When not eligible to receive full 24-hours of care, the individual may need to supplement with private care for the remaining hours of the day.Asset and Income LimitsIn 2021, the monthly asset limit for an individual receiving FEW services is $2,000 for an individual, and $3,000 for a married couple, when both are receiving FEW services. (Note: This does NOT mean you have to spend down to nothing before applying for MassHealth. See Medicaid Applications in Massachusetts: When DIY is a Don't for more.)Additionally, there is an income limit. For 2021, the income limit is $2,382.00. This is your GROSS income limit, meaning the income you get each month prior to any tax or health insurance deductions.If an individual's income is over the monthly limit, it is still possible to receive FEW services. MassHealth will determine a deductible amount which will be due every six months. The deductibles can be very high at times, and quite burdensome, however if you are organized and prepared, they can be managed.Nursing Home CareSometimes staying at home is not appropriate or safe, and in these circumstances, a nursing home may be the next logical step. Having MassHealth pay for nursing home care is a great benefit, as private payment to a nursing home can cost around $450 per day.Asset and Income LimitsTo receive nursing home benefits, there is still a monthly $2,000 asset limit per individual.The income limit differs from the FEW services mentioned above. The individual in the nursing home is required to pay a co-pay to the nursing home. This co-pay is called the Patient Paid Amount (PPA). The PPA is calculated by taking the individuals monthly income, deducting any health insurance premiums, and deducting a $72.80 personal needs allowance. In situations where a married couple has one spouse in the nursing home (referred to as the institutional spouse) and the other healthy and at home (the community spouse), the community spouse may be able to keep some of the institutional spouse's income to help pay for the community spouse's expenses at home.The rules to qualify for MassHealth and other government programs available to seniors in need of care can be quite confusing and complicated. Working with an elder law attorney can help you decide if this option is right for you. To find out what other benefits may be available to seniors, download our eBook "Understanding Benefits for Seniors".Founded by nurse attorney and with offices in Acton, Burlington, and Sudbury, Massachusetts, Generations Law Group helps families navigate the complex areas of estate planning, elder law, and probate to inform and protect loved ones of every generation.

Inpatient RehabilitationFacility vs. Short-term Rehabilitation Facility You have just gone through an illness (stroke, brain injury, amputation, prolonged hospital stay, etc.) now what?  You are not ready to go home, where should you go?  The hospital service isrecommending rehabilitation, but which type and where?  There are two different types of facilities that you reside/stay while you get your rehab: inpatient rehabilitation facility (IRF) and short-term rehabilitation facility.  What is the difference? Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility Short Term rehabilitation -       Hospital level of rehabilitation -       24/7 in-house physician care -       24/7 nursing care -       Intensive therapies: regulated by CMS o   Individualized therapy session o   At least 3 hours/dayx6-7 days a week -       Shorter stay: average stay is 14 days -       Nursing car level of rehabilitation -       Physicians available but not always in-house -       24/7 nursing care -       Less intensive therapies: o   30min-a few hours, a few times a week (this varies among facilities)-       Longer stay: average stay is 20-30 days  Your medical team has determined you qualify for IRF level of rehabilitation.  Where should you go?  VA Boston Healthcare System (BHS) has an accredited IRF just for Veterans, regardless of service connection located at the West Roxbury Campus. Our physicians trained at some of the best rehabilitation medicine facilities in the country.  They are board certified in rehabilitation medicine and brain injury medicine.  Our therapy staff also trained at some of the best facilities in Boston and have advance certifications.  Our nursing staff are caring, loving, and Veteran centered too.  What separates BHS IRF from community IRF?-       We are Veteran centered-       We can provide equipment that other community facilities may not be able to -       A sense of comradery with other Veterans can help with improvement in mood and function -       We understand PTSD and other mood changes and can offer on-site services -       We provided outpatient follow-up after discharge from IRF to assess, manage and treat issues that may interfere with your function and/or quality of lifeHow do I contact BHS IRF?-       Please have your case manager in the hospital call Boston Healthcare System Flow center and request referral to BHS inpatient rehabilitation program: 857-203-3835-      The rehabilitation physician will review your medical record and provide a decision to your medical team            This article was submitted by Dr. XinLi, Medical Director of Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility at West Roxbury VA, Boston Healthcare System. Information Contact:  David Hencke, US Dept of Veterans Affairs, Directors Office, VA Boston Healthcare System  Veterans Outreach Coordinator  O: 857-364-5934; C: 617-275-6101  David.hencke@va.gov 

Any initial transitions, whether it be a new home, a job, or school, can be difficult. The transition, and even the decision, to move to an assisted living community can be another challenging life transition for both seniors and their children. Acknowledging it can be difficult is both necessary and refreshing professionals in an assisted living community realize this, showing seniors and their children alike that this new experience is a shared experience. It is completely normal for many emotions to follow the decision to move to an assisted living community, including relief, guilt, sadness, and happiness. It is important to reinforce the initial reasons why the decision to move to an assisted living community was made. An assisted living community offers many benefits: increased social engagement through a variety of enrichment and wellness activities, nutritious meals, assistance with activities of daily living, a safer, more accessible living space, and more.A great deal of thought, research, and planning is typically involved when looking for the best community. Take the time to ask questions, take a tour, if available, and become familiar with a community before the move it can help ease fear and apprehension. You can make the move easier and exciting bringing key items from the seniors previous living space including artwork, family photographs, a favorite quilt, or a tote filled with crafts or hobbies they enjoy will make the new residence feel more familiar. A few new items like decorative pillows or books help personalize the new space. It can take some time for a new resident to adjust, especially in a memory care setting. With an abundance of patience and kindness, even the most challenging transitions will work out.  New residents necessary level of care will change and fluctuate over time. Assisted living communities have the resources and knowledgeable staff members to meet those changing needs. Staff observe residents and discuss changes in care needs with the resident or designated family member or friend. Every transition comes with unexpected challenges. Make sure to use resources available to you and seek support from professionals within the new community. Keep in mind that assisted living communities can be the ideal solution to maintaining a seniors quality of life while fulfilling their healthcare needs. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jenna Anderson. Jenna is Director of Sales and Marketing for SALMON Health and Retirement and may be reached at 774-270-7613 or by email at janderson@SalmonHealth.com.