Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh

Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Washington & Westmoreland

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Apryl Garrett

Publisher's Note


Welcome to the Seniors Blue Book local page for the Greater Pittsburgh Area.  My name is  Apryl  Garrett, your local Publisher and Partner at the Seniors Blue Book. Please let me know how we can  help you!  Whether you're a caregiver seeking support, a senior looking for helpful information, local activities and events, or a professional dedicated to serving our senior community, we are here to be your guide.  Aging can bring its own set of challenges, we aim to be a beacon of support, offering a helping hand through the maze of available resources.  Our team is committed to providing you with the information and support you need as you navigate the journey of aging - don't hesitate to reach out to us.  We are here to help and we love hearing from you!

Click to the right to view our 2024 -2025 Edition!  Free hard copies can be found at your local Giant Eagle Pharmacy counters, Walgreens, Kuhn's Markets, Libraries, Senior Centers and Shop 'n Save stores or CLICK HERE to find a book near you. 

As industry professionals, your clients come from many different sources:  the seniors themselves, family caregivers/adult children and other healthcare professionals. The Seniors Blue Book’s wide and  diverse reach offers you business opportunities that other marketing mediums are simply unable to provide. Like any good engine, today's marketing has several moving parts.  Contact me to discuss a multi-faceted advertising package that will maximize your return for your marketing dollars at apryl@seniorsbluebook.com.  



Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh

Browse through the most recent copy of your local SBB!

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Pennsylvania - Pittsburgh

Browse through the most recent copy of your local DPRN!

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Local Seniors Blue Book News

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Activities & Events In Your Area

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Dec 12, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM

North Hills Marketing Meeting- December

North Hills Marketing Meeting- Christmas Edition

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Dec 04, 2024 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM

December 4th Fall Learning Series for the Teaching Nursing Home Collaborative

We look forward to the Fall Learning Series for the Teaching Nursing HomeCollaborative! We encourage Pennsylvania Nursing Homes and Schools of Nursing to join thecollaborative and register for the series! https://lnkd.in/dEyPT_2K

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Nov 20, 2024 08:00 AM - 04:00 PM

Southwestern Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging Annual Conference

The Southwestern Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging invites you to our AnnualConference. This is an opportunity to network with those who work to improvethe lives of older adults in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The Conference will beheld on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, from 8:00 AM- 4:00 PM at the RLA Learning& Conference Center in Cranberry Township, PA.  Register TodaySponsorship Information

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Local Aging Options

Grane Hospice Care

Hospice 260 Alpha Drive, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15238

About Grane Hospice CareA wise person once said that life is a journey, not a destination. This adage holds true, even if you are living with a terminal illness. At Grane Hospice Care, we are with you every step of the way and will help ensure that the last stages of your life are as fulfilling, enjoyable, and comfortable as possible.What Is Grane Hospice Care?Grane Hospice Care is a leading provider of premium comfort care services aimed at helping you manage pain, stay comfortable, and improve your overall well-being during the last stages of life if you are living with a terminal illness.Our professional care team include physicians, nurses, social workers, certified nursing assistants and others who function as part of a large interdisciplinary team. We are devoted to supporting your emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual health, and to helping you, your loved ones, and your caregivers navigate your illness and final days.Grane Hospice Care has been serving Pennsylvanians since 2005. We have several locations throughout Pennsylvania and are licensed to provide care services for in-state residents within a 60-mile radius of our office locations.Services Available from Grane Hospice CareAll our services at Grane Hospice Care can be tailored for you based on your unique health situation and on your personal goals and desires. We want you to feel comfortable and happy under our care and will do what it takes to make sure you have everything you need.Some of our services include:       24/7 on-call hospice support       Symptom management, to reduce symptoms including nausea, anxiety, and breathing difficulty       Pain management       Medication management and coordination       Nursing Aide visits to help with daily activities, including bathing, dressing, and eating.       Registered Nurse visits       Medical equipment and supplies services, for help with setting up equipment, including hospital beds and oxygen tanks.       Volunteer visits for companionship and help with running errands       Bereavement program for your friends, relatives, and loved ones       Inpatient respite care, general inpatient care, and continuous care programs       Social and spiritual services       We Honor Veterans program.What Are the Benefits of Hospice Care?Hospice care provides you with wholesome, personalized health care and support in the comfort of your home, surrounded by your loved ones as you cope with a life-limiting, terminal illness. This is one of the greatest benefits of hospice care, especially for those who want to avoid spending their last days in sterile and unfamiliar hospital settings.There are a countless number of benefits to receiving hospice care. Some of these benefits include:       Feeling more in control of your health       Reduction in symptoms, including pain       More quality time with friends and loved ones       Comprehensive health care from an interdisciplinary team of hospice care professionals       Around-the-clock medical care, including on weekends and holidays       Help with daily activities you may not be able to perform efficiently on your own       Financial savings       A sense of dignity during your last days       Respect for your wishes       Counseling and bereavement for your loved onesWho Is Eligible to Receive Hospice Care?Your healthcare provider may recommend hospice care if you are living with a terminal illness and its prognosis is a life expectancy of six months or less, given the illness runs its natural course.  Anyone can make a referral to hospice carewhich can include referring yourself to care or having a loved one reach out for a hospice care consultation.Illnesses that may be eligible for hospice care include:       Cancer       Stroke       Congestive heart failure       Dementia and Alzheimers disease       AIDS       Liver disease       Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)       End-of-stage renal disease       Parkinsons disease       Huntingtons disease       Multiple sclerosisConsult with us to determine whether you qualify for end-of-life care with Grane Hospice based on your condition.Tips for Finding the Best Hospice Care ProviderA great, quality hospice care provider will respect your end-of-life wishes and deliver unparalleled medical care that involves an interdisciplinary team of experienced physicians and hospice care professionals. The medical professionals with whom you interact should make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and content while navigating a life-limiting terminal illness.Follow these tips to select a quality hospice care provider:       Ask friends and relatives for referrals to local hospice care providers.       Seek professional opinions from your current healthcare provider.       Browse and read online reviews of hospice care providers written by the loved ones of former patients.       Choose a Medicare-certified provider that will uphold certain requirements related to patient care and management. All Grane Hospice Care offices are Medicare-certified.       Make sure it offers highly individualized care plans.       Confirm it offers all the services and programs you want or that are required for your condition.       Learn how often you will receive visits from hospice care workers.       Find out whether the providers hospice care services are covered by your insurance plan.       Choose a provider that offers bereavement and counseling services for your loved ones.       Confirm whether the provider will honor and respect your culture, beliefs, traditions, and needs.       Pay attention during interactions with hospice care staff to look for signs of empathy, kindness, compassion, and other traits you value in medical professionals.       Ask the hospice care provider how it can enhance your quality of life while living with a terminal illness.       Find out whether the hospice care provider specializes in treating your specific illness or comorbid conditions, if applicable.Grane Hospice Care is where life is celebrated, and we are devoted to becoming a member of your family during your last days and to providing premium comfort care. Contact us today at 1-800-379-0129 to learn more about our hospice care services.

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Western PA Eldercare Council

Senior Information Services & Websites , Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 00000

TheWesternPennsylvania Care Eldercare Councillists companies and individual providers on this website who help families deal with the crisis and burden of long term care. One purpose of this group is to educate the public on the need for care planning before a crisis occurs. A second purpose is to provide, in one place, all of the available government and private services for eldercare. Finally, our ultimate mission is to offer a trusted listing servicethat the public will recognize and turn to for expert help in dealing with the challenges of long term care.The council is a single listing source of community care providers and advisers who help the public deal with current elder care needs. State councils provide a platform for local groups of providers and advisors to offer the following services:Educate the public on how to plan for long term careProvide a local source of 15 to 20 different eldercare services through one single state contactPromote a trusted organization offering reliable services

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Dr. Rebecca L. Byard, MD - Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh

Physicians 750 Washington Rd Unit 15, Mount Lebanon, Pennsylvania, 15228

Healthcare, Without The HassleFor many patients, traditional healthcare solutions leave gaps in the way their health is addressed. Instead of preventing injury and illness before they become a source of struggle, patients are treated reactively, only after theyre sick and their lives have been affected for the worse.At Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh, were proud to do things differently. Our Member Practices follow the Direct Primary Care (DPC) approach, allowing us to spend all the time and energy necessary to educate patients on their bodies, be there when they need us, and help them to make decisions about the health in which they feel comfortable and confident. Most importantly, we practice preventative care, focusing on testing and lifestyle guidance to help patients be as healthy as possible before they get sick.Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh is committed to challenging the status quo of healthcare and providing a better experience for all patients. If youre ready to take charge of your health and receive the hands-on, one-on-one care you deserve, schedule your first consultation with the DCPP team today.Dr. Rebecca Byard is a family medicine doctor at Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh's Mount Lebanon location.  She provides personalized healthcare that puts patients first.  Her office hours are flexible and she provides supprt by phone, texting, email access, and home visits.  From physicals to wellness visits to chronic illness management, our services can address a wide range of standard preventive and primary care needs.Dr. Byard was born and raised in Pittsburgh, she graduated from Upper St. Clair High school in 1995, afterwards attending college and graduating from Chatham University with her biochemistry degree. She did not take the traditional path into medicine; she worked for 8 years at a biotech company before deciding to change careers. She headed off to medical school as a single parent of a 4 year old son, and graduated with her M.D. in 2011. She attended the family medicine residency at The Washington hospital until 2014 at which time she stayed on as faculty.  What is Direct Primary Care?Direct Primary Care, or DPC, is a model of healthcare that puts patients first by getting rid of the red tape that constrains traditional practices. How? It's simple: we don't accept insurance, and believe it or not this actually saves you money in the long run.You won't have to pay a co-pay for office visits or routine physicals. Also, you'll be able to avoid many visits by sending your questions directly to your doctor via email and text something you won't get from a traditional practice. Youll also benefit from negotiated deals for prescription medications, blood tests, X-rays, and MRI/CT scans.   More importantly, since you are getting all this amazing care, you can cut way back on your insurance premiums. Most DPC patients couple a DPC Membership with a high-deductible, low-premium insurance plan so they're covered in the case of a major health issue. But you can leave the rest of your healthcare to Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh.Benefits of Membership:COMPREHENSIVE CAREOur team offers high-quality care to kids, adults, and geriatric patients. This includes, but is not limited to, chronic disease management (diabetes, high blood pressure, etc), women's health, mental health, urgent care, sports medicine, weight management, lifestyle counseling, sports physicals, and annual physicals.OFFICE VISITS WHEN YOU WANT THEM, WITH NO COPAYNeed a visit? The physicians at DCPP can usually get you a same-day or next-day appointment, all included in your membership. EXTENDED TIME, CONTINUITY OF CARE, AND COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATIONS WITH YOUR DOCTORAppointments are typically 30 minutes, but can go as long as 90 -- whatever it takes to get you taken care of. And you aren't charged a copay for each time you need a return visit. Good healthcare takes time and continuity.MINOR LABS AND PROCEDURESFor example, minor suturing, cryotherapy, and skin biopsy are all included in your membership fee. If there is an extra charge for a service, you will know exactly what it is before proceeding. There are special labs and procedures that may require an additional fee. COORDINATION WITH SPECIALISTSIf you require a consultant for specialty medical care, our team will work closely with that specialist.GREATLY DISCOUNTED MEDICATIONSMany medications can be dispensed in-house, so DCPP offers medications to you at wholesale prices. For nearly all medications, the price offered wholesale is cheaper than your copay at a pharmacy. If you take medications for chronic conditions, the savings on medication might be greater than your entire membership fee.GREATLY DISCOUNTED LAB WORK AND RADIOLOGYDCPP has negotiated with national labs and local imaging centers, allowing us to get your tests done at affordable rates.INTENSIVE LIFESTYLE COUNSELINGIt's no secret that our health habits play a huge role in the development of chronic disease.  Did you ever wish your doctor had time to give you more lifestyle advice than "eat healthier and exercise? The members at DCPP do have the time, and above that, they have the expertise. You will be able to have as many appointments for as long as you need to address how your lifestyle plays into your health, and how you can get it back on track with specific lifestyle prescriptions. If you aren't a member, DCPP offers these services for a low consultation fee.Reach out to Dr. Byard to learn more at 724-288-6964.

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MediConnect Insurance

Medicare Insurance 300 Bilmar Dr Ste 200, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15205

Welcome to MediConnect Insurance, Your Only TRUE Independent Medicare Plan Concierge Service. Helping to Bridge the Healthcare Gap.- Fully licensed agents representing all of the major carriers- Local office in Pittsburgh- Unbiased Medicare coverage advice- No cost or obligation- All representative compensation is direct from carrier- All from the comfort of your home.As your trusted partner in healthcare, we take pride in bridging the healthcare gap and ensuring you receive unbiased, expert advice tailored to your needs. In this blog article, we'll explore why MediConnect Insurance stands out as your only true independent Medicare plan concierge service, with licensed agents, local offices, and a commitment to providing unbiased guidanceall at no cost to you.MediConnect Insurance Your Medicare Plan Concierge At MediConnect Insurance, we understand the complexity of navigating Medicare, and that's why we're here to simplify the process for you. Our fully licensed agents are dedicated to representing all major carriers, offering you a comprehensive view of available options.Local Offices for Personalized Service With local offices in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, and Philadelphia, we bring personalized service to your doorstep. Our proximity ensures that you can access expert advice and support whenever you need it. Whether you have questions about coverage options, enrollment, or claims, our local offices are here to assist you.Unbiased Medicare Coverage Advice At MediConnect Insurance, we pride ourselves on providing unbiased advice. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage. Our licensed agents are not tied to any specific carrier, allowing us to offer recommendations solely based on your needs and preferences.No Cost or Obligation Your Peace of Mind Matters We understand that navigating healthcare options can be overwhelming, and financial concerns should never be a barrier to accessing expert guidance. With MediConnect Insurance, there is no cost or obligation for our services. Our commitment is to ensure your peace of mind as you explore and choose the right Medicare plan for you.Direct Compensation from Carriers Transparent and straightforward, our representative compensation comes directly from the carriers. This means you can trust that our recommendations are driven solely by your best interests. Our focus is on providing you with the information you need to make decisions that align with your healthcare goals.Convenience from the Comfort of Your Home In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key. With MediConnect Insurance, you can access our services from the comfort of your home. Our virtual consultations and online resources make it easy for you to get the information you need without leaving your living room. As you embark on your Medicare journey, trust MediConnect Insurance to be your reliable partner. With licensed agents representing all major carriers, local offices for personalized service, unbiased advice, no cost or obligation, direct compensation from carriers, and the convenience of accessing our services from home, we are committed to making your Medicare experience seamless and stress-free. Contact us today and let us guide you toward the optimal Medicare coverage tailored to your unique needs. OR... Join us at of one our local FREE seminars throughout Western and Central Pennsylvania! Whether retirement is on the horizon or a few years away, our must-attend educational events are your key to understanding Medicare complexities.We can help you plan your future with confidence. Click Here to view upcoming Dates & Times in your area: https://bit.ly/47Qjiya

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Articles Written By Local Businesses

The Perfect Estate Plan for Baby Boomers?

As an estate planning and elder law attorney, I am becoming increasingly frustrated to see how the long term care system is failing our seniors. I had a conversation with a client this week, who feels that the government programs supporting seniors are broken. My clients mom is in a nursing home and we are assisting them to get Medicaid eligibility to pay the nursing home. What he said really resonated with me, because people are continuing to go broke due to the long term care system.In a recent podcast, I discussed the article that was published in the news, about the baby boomers being the wealthiest generation in history. However, 70% of the wealth is concentrated in 7% of the population. Most of the people we work with are the middle-class baby boomers, who are part of the other 93% population. They own their house and have some money in the bank. Most of them have worked for 40-50 years trying to save a nest egg for their retirement. They have been sold this story that they will have healthcare coverage with Medicare when they retire at 65, and believe they will be taken care of should they get sick.Medicare Wont Pay for Long Term CareUnfortunately, Medicare wont pay for long term care. We help many families every month, going through the process of trying to gain eligibility for Medicaid benefits to pay for long term care. This requires some dramatic legal moves and I can appreciate why my clients feel so frustrated.On the long term care website, I read that around 70% of baby boomers are going to need some form of long term care if they get dementia or Alzheimers. Added to that, 20% of those seniors will need long term care for more than five years. Given the cost of nursing homes in this country, which is $150,000 a year, this is unaffordable for most families.The Future is Uncertain, But We Can Still PlanWe dont know what the future holds, and we cannot prevent the likelihood of getting dementia. However, we can take steps to protect ourselves and avoid going broke. If I end up with dementia, I want to make sure my wife has a house to live in and some money in the bank. We meet many families who want to protect themselves from this system, and ask us to advise them. Some people tell us they already have a will and want to know why they need an estate plan. I understand their confusion when I advise my clients that they need more than a Will. It is unfortunate that the attorney they worked with previously, only offered them a Will. This could be because they met with attorneys who work with clients that have a high net worth. They may also have gone to a general practice law firm, who deals with divorces, traffic tickets and Wills, and not estate planning. The attorneys, financial advisors, tax man and nursing homes know that there are ways to avoid seniors going broke, but none of them are doing anything to help.A Will Is Not EnoughA Will only states who will get your stuff when you pass away. Estate planning is not only about who gets your stuff when you pass away but it helps to provide a sense of security, by protecting your house and money. You have worked for your money, and you should keep it not the government or the nursing home. I want to ensure you have a peaceful retirement, without worrying about going broke to pay for long term care. If you need more than five years of long term care, you definitely want to protect your assets.Many of my clients like to use trusts, and I recommend putting your house and some money into an irrevocable asset protection trust. This means that after five years, the house is safe from any claims from the nursing home. You would have to give up access to the equity of the house, assuming of course you wont need to do a reverse mortgage. You also wont receive a distribution from the trust. However, you can still live in your home, but the difference is your house is now protected from the nursing home if you get sick.You Can Avoid ProbateIf you have IRAs, they will need to be beneficiary designated, and will avoid probate. You can put any other money you have that you want access to, in a revocable trust. Having your house in the asset protection trust and money in a revocable trust, will allow you to avoid probate. Your life wont change, but a large percentage of your net worth is protected from long term care costs. This in my opinion is a much better estate plan for you.We will help you to establish a Power of Attorney, as well as health care planning. The result of planning like this, is that you dont have to worry about the nursing home, or probate. We also teach your children, who are the future executors and trustees, about their future roles and responsibilities. Handing legal documents to your adult child and expecting them to know what to do is unfair and unrealistic. Do The Right Thing Get An Estate Plan To learn more about doing good planning for your family, come to one of our Three Secrets Workshops. I am sure you want to have a good retirement without worrying about anything intercepting your inheritance to your kids. Our free workshops will teach you all you need to know to make informed decisions. You will then be able to have the best estate plan for you and your family. By offering the education in a classroom setting, it makes it more affordable for you to do estate planning. Visit sechlerlawfirm.com/workshops to register for a workshop now.

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Oral Care, Monitored Meals, and Aspiration Pneumonia: “What We Don’t Know We Don’t Know” in Health Care:

What We Dont Know We Dont Know in Health Care: September 24, 2024 -Oral Care, Monitored Meals, and Aspiration PneumoniaProper oral care is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Keeping the mouth clean not only helps maintain the protective properties of saliva but also reduces bacteria in the mouth which can be a source of infection in aspiration pneumonia. In addition, monitoring meals and assisting with feeding for those at high risk for aspiration is also a necessity. The process of swallowing involves dozens of muscles that start in the mouth and include the pharynx, larynx, and esophagus. These muscles can become weakened with age and from various, often age-related diseases.  The aging population is especially at risk for aspiration pneumonia due to comorbidities, frailty, and conditions that can impair swallowing.  As a result, aspiration pneumonia is one of the leading causes of death from infection in individuals over the age of 65. One study shows that 1 in 10 deaths from pneumonia in elderly nursing home residents may be prevented by improving oral hygiene (Sjogren et al., 2008). Unfortunately, proper oral care and monitoring of meals is often overlooked in the health care setting.  Perhaps the greatest reason for this is the challenge that almost every health facility faces today: adequate staffing. When I started working in acute care as an RN over 20 years ago, nursing assistants (these are the staff generally responsible for proving oral care in an acute care setting) were typically responsible for 5-7 patients. Nurses had 3-5 patients (this was on a step down cardiac unit). Between the nurse and the assistant, we were able to provide oral care at every meal and offer one-on-one assistance to any patient that was at risk for aspiration. This is no longer the case.  RNs oftentimes look after upwards of 8 patients, and there is generally either no nursing assistant on the floor or only 1 for a patient load that can exceed 20.  Consequently, proper oral care is neglected.  I have often seen patients that are aspirating during meals, but do not have adequate staffing on hand to provide them with the supervision and monitoring that they need. This presents a hazardous catch-22: the aging individual needs to eat to maintain nutritional needs yet he/she needs assistance with eating to prevent aspirating pneumonia.   How can this be remedied? If the family is present, they can provide oral care and meal monitoring. If meal monitoring is required for an at-risk individual, its recommended to touch base with the health care team to inquire as to what the specific aspiration precautions are (every individual may have a different need and/or recommendation). A care companion can also be hired to provide the needed care. I hired a companion for my father when he was in a skilled nursing facility. He was not getting his teeth brushed or flossed regularly, and I was seeing a decline in his dentition. Having this extra support provided him with much needed assistance and the care companion had the added benefit of encouraging him to eat more at every meal, something that was a bonus as he was not meeting his nutrient needs. Touching base with staff to request that oral care and meal monitoring be done can also be helpful. Having an advocate to ensure necessary care is getting done can also be very effective in the health care setting.  What is proper oral care and effective meal monitoring?  Proper oral care includes brushing the teeth for at least 1 minute after every meal. It also includes using a soft bristle brush, fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily. A final component of oral care that is often not discussed is denture care. Dentures should be cleaned at least once per day and removed at bedtime. Removing them prior to sleeping can greatly reduce the risk of pneumonia (Iinuma et al. 2014). Effective meal monitoring includes adequate supervision during mealtime for those at risk of aspiration. Such supervision includes ensuring the individual is properly positioned for a meal (head of bed as high as can be tolerated and supine position), takes small bites, eats slowly, swallows a couple times in between each bite, and intermittently takes a sip of liquid to clear the mouth of food particles. The use of straws is generally not recommended for an individual at risk for aspiration as it propels the food to the back of the throat and hence can increase risk. I recall when I was working as a Registered Nurse (RN) in acute care that I was constantly removing straws from the bedside of at risk individuals and often reminding them to eat slowly and swallow at least twice between each bite to ensure food clearance. Individuals at risk for aspiration often require a modified texture diet as it can further prevent the aspiration of food and liquids.   This is a brief summary of the attention to detail needed in addressing oral hygiene and meal monitoring amongst the aging population. Both measures can play a significant role in reducing aspiration pneumonia.  If you would like more information on understanding proper oral care or any other questions that you may have regarding aging life care, please feel free to reach out to me.    Sources:1.      Sjogren P, Nilsson E, Forsell M, Johansson O, Hoogstraate J. 2008. A systematic review of the preventive effect of oral hygiene on pneumonia and respiratory tract infection in elderly people in hospitals and nursing homes: effect estimates and methodological quality of randomized controlled trials. J Am Geriatr Soc. 56:21242130. 2.      Iinuma T, Arai Y, Abe Y, Takayama M, Fukumoto M, Fukui Y, et al. 2014. Denture wearing during sleep doubles the risk of pneumonia in the very elderly. J Dent Res. doi: 10.1177/0022034514552493 3.      F Muller, 2015. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4541086/#   

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HOW TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH A LOVED ONE WHO HAS DEMENTIA

The holidays can be an emotional time for older adults, and this is especially true for a loved one living with Alzheimers or another form of dementia. The thought of planning a holiday celebration while caring for your loved one can feel overwhelming, but it doesnt have to be.  In this article, were going to cover some best practices on how to host a successful holiday gathering with a loved one with Alzheimers or another form of dementia. INVOLVE YOUR LOVED ONEOne of the easiest ways you can bring your loved one joy during the holidays is to include them in your holiday preparations. This can mean allowing them to take a more active role in simple holiday preparations or having them observe your own. Think about what sorts of things your loved one enjoyed most about previous holidays and involve them where appropriate.Encouraging your loved one to take part in preparations can help get them into the holiday spirit and also make them more comfortable with what is happening on the day of the celebration.PLAN A SMALLER CELEBRATIONA loved one who has dementia can quickly become overwhelmed by large groups of people, especially those friends and family members who they may only see a few times a year. Whether youre planning a holiday celebration at a memory care residence or at home, youll want to keep the guest list to a minimum. Youll also want to keep your holiday celebration quiet and relaxed.One way to ensure your loved one gets to see everyone who is important to them is to arrange for family members to drop in on different days. Schedule visits at times when you know your loved one is typically in a good mood. Consider virtual visits where appropriate, as well.CREATE THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERECreating the right atmosphere is a large part of any successful holiday party. When youre celebrating the holidays with a loved one who has dementia the atmosphere can still be festive. You just need to keep your loved ones comfort in mind while you do your planning.Here are some tips to help you set the right mood for a loved one with dementia.Celebrate in a familiar setting. A sudden change in environment may cause distress for a loved one who has dementia. Consider bringing the party to them.Prepare quiet distractions to have ready if your loved one becomes overwhelmed. Even something simple, like going for a walk, can help your loved one feel more comfortable.Avoid excessive noise, including loud conversations or loud music. Make sure there is a quiet space where your loved one can rest and recharge as needed.Avoid lighting that is too bright or too dark. Blinking or twinkling lights can also be disorienting for someone who has dementia. Non-blinking lights are best.Instead of elaborate decorations, choose a few meaningful items.Creating the right atmosphere will vary from person-to-person. Keep in mind what types of things typically cause stress or bring your loved one joy. Know this may change as time goes on.ADAPT HOLIDAY ACTIVITIESWhen planning holiday activities for a loved one with dementia, its better to focus on a smaller number of meaningful activities they will enjoy. Someone who loves cooking may find joy in helping prepare the holiday meal. Others may simply appreciate observing activities.Consider setting an agenda for activities ahead of time and sending it out to your guests. This will help everyone know what to expect and if they need to bring anything with them. Getting your guests all on the same page ensures a better holiday experience for everyone involved.TAKE TIME TO ENJOY THE EXPERIENCEHoliday celebrations, while fun, can be stressful for the person planning them. But the additional effort you put into accommodating the needs of someone you care about allows you to reflect on what is most important in life and filter out the noise and clutter.Know that things may not go as planned. Remain positive and stay flexible. When youre celebrating the holiday with your loved one, give yourself time to enjoy the experience.CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT FRIENDSHIP VILLAGEAt Friendship Village of South Hills, a senior living community in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania, we work with our memory care residents and their families to help them celebrate the holidays in a way that is joyful for everyone.Whether you are looking for a private space to hold a small gathering of family and friends or simply want to have a holiday celebration in your loved ones suite, our team members will work with you to help identify the right holiday setup and accommodations for your loved one.This article was written by Friendship Village of South Hills.

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North Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Association

Alzheimer's is a progressive and irreversible brain disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a devastating disease that can have a profound impact on the individual living with it, as well as their family members and caregivers. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh is a valuable resource for families who are struggling to care for a loved one with Alzheimer's. Here's how they can help:1. Personalized AssistanceAssisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh provides personalized assistance to families who are searching for the right assisted living facility for their loved one with Alzheimer's. They take into account the unique needs and preferences of each individual and their family, helping to ensure that they find a facility that is the right fit.2. Expert GuidanceAssisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh has a team of experienced professionals who are knowledgeable about Alzheimer's and the various treatment options available. They can provide guidance and support to families throughout the process of selecting an assisted living facility, including information on specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's.3. Access to a Network of Assisted Living FacilitiesAssisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh has access to a network of assisted living facilities throughout the area, including those that specialize in caring for individuals with Alzheimer's. They can help families narrow down their options and find a facility that provides the appropriate level of care and support.4. Assistance with the MoveMoving a loved one with Alzheimer's into an assisted living facility can be a complex and emotional process. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh can help families with all aspects of the move, including downsizing, packing, and coordinating with the facility.5. Ongoing SupportAssisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh provides ongoing support to families even after their loved one has moved into an assisted living facility. They can help families navigate any issues that may arise, such as changes in care needs or communication with the facility.In conclusion, Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh is an invaluable resource for families who are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's. They provide personalized assistance, expert guidance, access to a network of assisted living facilities, assistance with the move, and ongoing support. Their services can help alleviate the stress and anxiety that families often experience when caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's, and ensure that their loved one receives the best possible care. Save the date for Team Assisted Living Locators North Pittsburgh Alzheimer's Walk in Pittsburgh October 14, 2023.

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Local Business Videos

SBB University welcomes Lukas Baker, owner of Baker Consulting Services LLC

SBB University welcomes our Lukas Baker, owner of Baker Consulting! Lukas helps individuals understand the route to Medicare. He shares with Heather the most common questions he receives and touches upon how to prepare if you are heading into retirement. Lukas can assist you to understand different options, the pros and cons of Medicare Gap and Medicare Advantage, and offers insight on HMO and PPO coverage and solutions to best fit your insurance needs. Beyond Medicare, Lukas is also able to guide you on the path of all major medical providers in the state of Pennsylvania and in other states. He can assist in selecting coverage if you are an employer and looking for group coverage for your team, or if you are an individual. Contact Lukas for a FREE consultation at 724-594-7648

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Let's Chat Advertising & Marketing for 2024

What is your marketing strategy for 2024? NOW is the time to prepare! If you are targeting the 50+ age group, Seniors Blue Book Greater Pittsburgh Area is your ultimate solution. With our specialized services, we will boost your brand visibility, connect you with your target audience, and establish credibility.As a brand with longevity for over 40 years, we know what works. We exist to assist our local community with making confident healthcare decisions - whether you are an active aging adult, or a senior in search of supportive care.Don't miss out on reaching those who need your services, precisely WHEN they need you.  Let's connect and start building a strategy today!

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SBB University welcomes Deanna Guarnaccio, LIFE Pittsburgh

Senior Care Spotlight welcomes Deanna Guarnaccio with LIFE Pittsburgh. Learn about their wonderful, all-inclusive (PACE Program) for individuals 55+ who want to remain in their home, but need supportive services. They are welcoming new participants at this time, the process can be started with a phone call assessment at 412-388-8050.

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Ask Ashley: Estate Planning Q&A: What Is A Trust?

What is a revocable living trust, how does it work, and who might benefit from it? Trusts are much more personal, customizable, and potentially efficient and thorough for you and your loved ones, so keep listening to learn all about this will-substitute.

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Job Opportunities Near You

Registered Nurses

Looking for a rewarding career in nursing?  The Kane Community Living Centers are looking for certified RNs to join our team.  Make a difference and get rewarded with generous benefits, defined pension plan, educational benefits, and much more.

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Acti-Kare Caregiver Careers

BECOME AN ACTI-KARE CAREGIVER!Acti-Kare is seeking qualified applicants for caregiver jobs throughout the Greater Pittsburgh Area. Enjoy the flexibility and compensation of a caregiver job. We encourage all care enthusiasts to be a caregiver and make a difference in someones life.

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Caregiver - Cranberry Township

Job descriptionLive your best life possible by helping others live theirs. Our caregivers are the heart and soul of what we do! At ComForCare, we like to celebrate successes and have fun while building meaningful relationships. Join our compassionate team as a senior caregiver and be a part of a certified Great Place To Work! This role is specifically tailored for those who can offer a wealth of life experience, knowledge, empathy, and dedication to the well-being of others. Embrace the opportunity to stay engaged, make new connections, and have some fun along the way! We have a Caregiver First promise! Recently awarded Provider of Choice by Home Care Pulse! No experience? No problem, we provide RN led paid training! Apply now or contact us at (878)231-3772!Caregiver Pay: 12-16/hrShift Type: Part time or full time.Caregiver Incentives:-Paid Training (food/drinks provided)-Gas Card Incentive-Overtime Pay-Flexible Schedules (PT or FT hours)-Caregiver Referral Bonus-Client Referral Bonus-Personalized Client Match-Employee Recognition/Award Incentives-AFLAC Insurance-Avibra BenefitsCaregiver Responsibilities:-Assist with daily activities to help clients stay independent and in their own homes.-Provide assistance with personal care.-Assist with mobility, transfers and range of motion exercises.-Handle meal planning, preparation and feeding.-Properly manage household needs.-Provide companionship and respite services for the family.Caregiver Requirements:- A High School Diploma or GED.- Access to reliable transportation.- Ability to follow instructions and work effectively as part of a team.-A passion to serve and help others.Your safety is our top priority. We provide COVID-19 training and personal protective equipment (PPE) to all of our team members.#caregiver #homehealth #homehealthcaregiver #comforcare #caregiverfirstJob Types: Full-time, Part-timePay: $12.00 - $16.00 per hourBenefits:Flexible scheduleHealth insuranceProfessional development assistanceReferral programSchedule:8 hour shiftDay shiftMonday to FridayNight shiftNo weekendsOvertimeEducation:High school or equivalent (Required)Work Location: In person

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