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  • Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

    Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

    June is National Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month. This month CarePlus Home Health took part in programming that helped us raise awareness and support for Alzheimer’s Disease. 

    Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive disease that damages memory and other important mental functions. Memory loss and difficulty thinking are common symptoms and contribute to mental decline. Some other symptoms are:

    • Problems with language, visualizing and spatial relationships 

    • Difficulty performing familiar tasks 

    • Disorientation with time and place

    • Poor judgment 

    • Attention issues

    • Changes in mood, behavior or personality  

    • Loss of desire or initiative

    Better Care, Better Health – Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter

     

     

    Our CarePlus Executive Director, Andrew Ryan, sat down with Sheila Griffith, Program Manager for the National Capital Area Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. They discussed all of the exciting programs coming up for the Alzheimer’s Association including the Longest Day and the Alzheimer’s Walk!

     

    The Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter offers many different resources to support you and your loved one in all stages of the disease. From support groups to educational programs, there is something to guide everyone through this difficult time. 

    CarePlus is here for you!

    Our services are adjusted to meet your needs. Whether you need us for a few hours a day, or 24/7, we can support you and your loved one. Our caregivers can help with memory care, lifestyle strategies, nutrition and daily living, physical stability, mobility and exercise, and fall prevention. 

     

    Let’s Get Started. Call us today at (301) 740-8870 or email us at info@careplusinc.com to discuss your needs. We are here 24/7 to help you.

  • Depression in Older Adults

    Depression in Older Adults

    It’s Not Just “Getting Old” – Depression in Older Adults

    May is Mental Health Awareness month, and the National Institute on Aging, a part of the National Institutes of Health cautions that, “Depression is a common problem among older adults, but it is NOT a normal part of aging.” This year, the theme is “you are not alone,” and friends, family and caretakers of older adults can support them by learning more about the issue. Understanding the symptoms, some potential causes, side effects of medication, and beneficial treatments are critical to supporting our loved ones who may be suffering needlessly.

    Hiding in Plain Sight – Disguised Symptoms

    As people age, their energy, sleep, attention span, appetite and other factors evolve. This may be a natural progression, or they may be key indicators that someone is suffering from a mental health challenge. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, physical symptoms include “chronic joint pain, limb pain, back pain, gastrointestinal problems, tiredness, sleep disturbances, psychomotor activity changes, and appetite changes.” The Harvard Health Blog also notes that “depression can … impair your attention and memory, as well as your information processing and decision-making skills.” If an older person is showing these symptoms, they should have their mental health evaluated for possible treatment.

    Potential Causes

    Depression is a complicated condition, and it has a variety of causes. According to the Mayo Clinic, depression can be a chemical imbalance in the brain brought on by situations, genetics, hormones, other medications and a variety of additional factors. Older adults are particularly at risk for some situational causes such as grief, isolation, and physical pain. Aging itself can be a difficult transition for some people to accept. If an older adult is going through a potential trigger for depression, it’s important to monitor their mental health for signs of depression.

    Side effects of Medication

    Medications seem to be an inevitable part of the aging process. Whether it’s treatment for another condition that has been known to cause depression (e.g. beta-blockers and Parkinson’s medication), or side effects of anti-depressant medications themselves (e.g. sedation), an older adult taking medication should be confirming the potential side effects of their prescriptions, and advising their provider of all medications being taken. Today’s Geriatric Medicine notes that older adults have diminished function of some organs and their immune system, so they need to be particularly cautious about medication.

    Beneficial Treatment

    In addition to medication, there are excellent therapies that can treat depression. Individual and group counseling can have a significant effect on depression as well as introduce an additional trained professional to monitor the situation. Exercise, sunlight, and vitamin D have been shown to help alleviate depression as well. For serious cases, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Electroconvulsive Therapy and hospitalization are options. If a person is suffering from depression, they should confer with their medical provider about options and referrals for treatment.

    At CarePlus, our staff are trained to recognize the symptoms of depression, and to support aging adults with medication reminders, meals, exercise, and their healthcare appointments. To get started, call us today at 301-740-8870 or email us at info@careplusinc.com to discuss your needs.

  • Parkinson’s Awareness Month

    Parkinson’s Awareness Month

    April 2021 is National Parkinson’s Awareness Month. At CarePlus Home Health, we have a particular focus on the care and wellbeing of people living with Parkinson’s Disease. In honor of the month, and as part of our Better Care – Better Health Series, CarePlus has undertaken some exciting activities to raise awareness and deepen our own understanding of Parkinson’s.

    #KnowMorePD

    Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive, neurological disease that is estimated to affect approximately one million people in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, Parkinson’s is the 14th leading cause of death in the United States. The Parkinson’s Foundation theme for 2021 Parkinson’s Awareness Month is #KnowMorePD. “The goal of the campaign is to raise awareness about Parkinson’s disease, the Parkinson’s Foundation and all of our available resources that help make lives better for people with Parkinson’s.” 

    A Conversation about Speech and Swallowing

     

    Andrew Ryan, Executive Director of CarePlus, had a conversation with Susan I. Wranik, a board-certified speech language pathologist and LSVT LOUD Certified Clinician, specializing in the treatment of neurogenic speech, language/memory, and swallowing issues in adults with Parkinson’s. Together, they had a wide-ranging discussion that provided some important information, guidance and resources. In particular, they discussed the LSVT LOUD treatment protocol, which was designed to help people with Parkinson’s to speak in a normal tone of voice. 

    Accessing Local Resources and Education

     

    Another important conversation occurred between Andrew Ryan and Jared D. Cohen, MBA, President & CEO of the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area (PFNCA). Located in Montgomery County, PFNCA is a wonderful resource for people suffering from Parkinson’s as well as their families. They provide many programs, including virtual wellness activities and dozens of local support groups. The PFNCA Medical Advisory Board has organized the 2021 PFNCA Symposium, featuring over 40 sessions by 37 physicians, and some question-and-answer sessions. In their discussion, Andrew and Jared went into detail about the Symposium and the many educational topics being addressed by experts. 

     

    CarePlus Provides

    Our Parkinson’s team begins with a nurse assessment who helps put together a customized plan based on individual needs. We then step in to provide a range of assistance that can be medically related (doctor’s appointments, medication reminders), activities of daily living, self-care or other support like walking and meal prep. No person is alike, and our care plans are unique and capable of evolving as the needs of the individual change with the onset of the disease. 

    To get started, call us today at 301-740-8870 or email us at info@careplusinc.com to discuss your needs.

  • Spring Cleaning for Seniors

    Spring Cleaning for Seniors

    The change of seasons isn’t just a change of the weather, but chances for us to make some changes to our homes and lives. Spring cleaning, organizing and getting a fresh start is a great way to start the season anew. We have all been stuck indoors from the cold weather and now we can get a jump start on the tasks we have let go over the winter season. Here are five simple spring-cleaning tips for seniors:

    Tip #1: Plan & Prioritize

    Spring cleaning doesn’t need to be overwhelming! Make a list of items that need to be cleaned or organized and prioritize which are the most important. Don’t forget to call on family members to come over and assist. This will not only complete the list faster but will make for some fun as well!

    Tip #2: Don’t be afraid to de-clutter. 

    Over the years, there are many items in our homes we have stopped using and suddenly there is a lot of clutter! Donate or throw away unused items that have collected to make room for tidiness and order in your home. Clutter can cause a heightened risk of falls for seniors, so this is an important place to start during spring cleaning.

    Tip #3: Do a little at a time. 

    During the planning process, you may realize you have more to do than you initially thought. Everything doesn’t need to be done in just a few days, especially if alone, do a little each day. Use your prioritization list and tackle a few items off the list per week if there is time and relax in between.

    Tip #4: Check expiration dates. 

    Go through medicine cabinets, pantries and any other areas with perishable items. Having expired medication or food around can be dangerous so remembering to throw away and replace expired items is important.

    Tip #5: Check your battery powered safety devices.

    Smoke detectors, carbon dioxide detectors and fire extinguishers are all crucial to a safe home and need to be working properly. Now is the time to make sure you have fresh batteries in your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors and that they are properly functioning. Fire extinguishers expire, so be sure to check the date.

    These spring-cleaning tips for seniors help to promote and maintain independence and quality of life, either in their home or in community settings

    CarePlus Home Health provides in-home care including: assisted daily living, flex care, skilled nursing and 24-hour care. Our mission is to give professional and compassionate care to individuals. Need support for day-to-day activities?  Please call us at 301-740-8870 or visit our website to learn more.

  • Caring for Our Caregivers

    Caring for Our Caregivers

    Caregivers are on the front lines providing safe and compassionate care each and every day.  Caregivers at CarePlus are essential workers for in-home care. Friday, February 19th was a special day for our caregiving team – National Caregiver Day! Our team came together to honor caregivers across the country and all over the world for helping our adults aging in our communities.

    We are fortunate to have the best caregivers working with our clients! Our team of talented and compassionate caregivers is very important to us. It is our commitment to hiring the best caregivers to support our clients. Our caregivers are qualified, vetted and passionate about helping others.

    As part of our hiring process, each caregiver is credentialed by the Maryland Board of Nursing, undergoes extensive background checks, reference checks, CPR certification, screenings and immunizations. This year, we have put in place routine COVID tests to ensure that our clients and caregivers stay safe. We are also in the process of having our entire team vaccinated. We are ready to support you or your loved one in a variety of situations: emergency, hospital transition and/or for a few hours a day. In addition, you can team up with neighbors and participate in our flex care program.

    Education is a very important part of excellence in care. Our caregivers continue their education by participating in our classroom, hands-on learning labs, and on-the-job training programs with our Director of Nursing. This ensures the quality of care and current best practices. 

    Thank you again to all of our caregivers. Your dedication and positive attitude, on a daily basis, is commendable. You are the reason why we are able to provide excellent in-home care for the aging adults in our community.

    CarePlus Home Health provides in-home care including: assisted daily living, flex care, skilled nursing and 24-hour care. Our mission is to give professional and compassionate care to individuals, while helping them maintain their independence and quality of life, either in their home or in community settings. Please call us at 301-740-8870 or visit our website to learn more.

  • In-Home Care Trends

    In-Home Care Trends

    What to expect as we head into 2021.

    We are following recent trends within the aging community and what that might indicate for 2021. Here are a few insights from 2020 leading the way: we are seeing families and caregivers working together to build strong communication networks that serve the needs of individuals and the families they serve; rapid integration of technology to help older adults stay connected; colleagues and referral partners forming collaborative endeavors to serve the aging community; and, professionals and healthcare providers sharing best practices to improve care and protect clients and their caregivers. All of these efforts have produced a safer and more responsive environment for aging adults. CarePlus Home Health is paying particular attention to these shifts and is proud to offer in-home care in Montgomery County, MD to meet and fill those needs. 

    Another important trend of note is that older adults will continue to choose to age in place.  According to an AARP survey conducted in 2018, approximately 87 percent of adults over the age of 65 want to age in place. While the pandemic has forced more service areas to provide digital and virtual options for care, there will always be the need for someone to provide in-home care for day-to-day needs. The growing number of seniors staying in their homes will increase and in turn, this need.

    CarePlus has been providing care for over 25 years. During these unpredictable times, we have included additional PPE training, testing procedures and best practices to protect our clients and caregivers.  We have made an investment and commitment to provide PPE to clients and caregivers to keep our community safe.  Our CarePlus team is working around-the-clock to provide care and safety measures for our community. Additionally, we have focused infection training for in-home caregivers with specific protocols to protect clients, families and caregivers. These practices will become routine and most likely, the standard of care even after a vaccine and the pandemic subside. 

    Caregivers have been key to supporting those in need and this trend will continue. As stated by Bill Dombi, President, National Association of Home Care & Hospice,  “Homecare has distinguished itself in many ways during the pandemic. Caregivers of all disciplines have really stepped up to the frontlines of caring for COVID-19 infected patients while continuing the serve the millions of others who benefit from home care annually. In addition, through significant media coverage, an increased awareness of the value of homecare has emerged in terms of safety, clinical efficacy, convenience and the breadth of services. That awareness has grown in both consumers and the health care community.” In-home care will continue to address the needs of aging adults,  adapt as those needs change, and continue to grow as more adults age in place throughout our communities. 

    We see tremendous growth and advancements in technology and aging.

    Throughout this pandemic, technology has proven to be a life saver.  Many businesses have pivoted to digital ordering and delivery services aimed at convenience and care for seniors. This trend will continue to grow after the pandemic is gone. Technology trends for seniors include telehealth, and better smartphones with health monitoring, artificial intelligence and security/safety features. CarePlus has, and will continue to, support seniors as they set up their telehealth systems, smartphone apps for monitoring home support programs as well as technology for safety and security. Older adults will find software programs for arthritis, blood pressure, falls risk and other medical conditions helpful, and even lifesaving.  

    Voice-activated phones and television software are helpful and vital for families to stay connected and informed as to the safety and location of older adults, ordering supplies or locating a family member.  Convenience with delivery services including meals, medications and consumer items will utilize technology to communicate these needed items.  In many cases, virtual games and entertainment– including Zoom birthday parties and milestone events— will continue to take place. The most important aspect of technology is the ability to stay connected from anywhere. Throughout this pandemic, it has provided connections to family members, near and far, and, of course, brings new meaning to “call your mother”.

    Over the years, colleagues and referral partners have collaborated to serve the aging adults in our community. Immediately following the rise in COVID cases, many professionals throughout our community connected through monthly meetings, organization networking, senior communities, and Zoom calls. There was no hesitation to work together, pick up the phone to discuss the problems and come up with solutions that support each other and the community. This trend will also continue to grow as we work together to accomplish shared goals. This has inspired our upcoming Podcast that will launch in 2021 with colleagues to share invaluable information. 

    As trends arise, we are reminded of the importance to adapt, support and come up with solutions — better care, better health– despite these unprecedented times. As we close the year, we wish all our clients, colleagues, friends and families a safe and healthy holiday season.

    If you need support, please call CarePlus at 301-740-8870 or visit: https://careplus.xenonprime.net/

     

  • National Family Caregivers Month- Feeling Gratitude

    National Family Caregivers Month- Feeling Gratitude

    During this truly unusual Thanksgiving season, we want to extend even more gratitude for amazing family caregivers. November is National Family Caregivers Month and we are overflowing with admiration for the dedicated people navigating the Covid-19 pandemic to provide care to their family members. Caregiving can be stressful at the best of times, but with the Thanksgiving holiday fast approaching, we want to help you find new ways to create connections and happy holiday memories.

    With recent CDC recommendations advising against hosting gatherings, this is a perfect time to ensure that families can gather with the help of technology. Video calls are an excellent way to offer a real time check-in with your loved ones that helps keep everyone safe. If your family members have been hesitant to pick up these new skills, this is a great opportunity to re-visit the idea with them. By enabling them to see AND hear the family on the holiday, they’ll get the chance to feel like they’re part of the celebration just like everyone else: virtually! There are great devices and apps that make it incredibly easy for seniors to connect quickly and easily. Devices like GrandPad, ViewClix, and Amazon Echo Show offer fast, easy set-up and the Oscar Senior app can be installed on their smartphone.

    The key to making this kind of new experience less stressful is to find ways to keep the setup and access simple and provide clear instructions. This is a great way to help support your loved ones and the family members who are caring for them. The more encouragement they receive, the more excited they will be to join in on video calls. Enabling loved ones who receive at-home care to receive video calls is a great way for caregivers to be able to touch base well past the holidays, and ensure that multiple family members can easily stay in contact from near and far.

    If your loved ones are already Facetime, Duo, or Zoom professionals, it’s time to add another layer of fun! Why not schedule a group video call where everyone sits down to enjoy their Thanksgiving meal together? Or even find a recipe and cook together? Meal kits are a simple way to achieve something like this and that allows everyone to be making the same dish all at the same time. Incorporate virtual family game nights, where everyone can participate in games like bingo, charades, and Pictionary. We at CarePlus recognize the dedication of all the family caregivers who are going above and beyond in these challenging months, and we want you to know that we are always here to offer solutions and support.

    Visit CarePlus Resources Here. Please do not hesitate to contact us for support, resources and services at 301-740-8870.

    At this time of year, all of us at CarePlus want to wish you and your family a very Happy Healthy Thanksgiving filled with joy, good health and fun!

  • Five Reasons You May Need Home Care Nursing or In-Home Care

    Five Reasons You May Need Home Care Nursing or In-Home Care

    According to the CDC, as of 2016 in the United States, there were an estimated 4,600 adult day services centers, 12,200 home health agencies, 4,300 hospices, 15,600 nursing homes, and 28,900 residential care communities. 

    Caregivers are making the difficult choice of placing their loved ones in nursing homes every day. It is a challenging but an important decision to make.

    Certain factors should be considered before putting your elderly loved one in a nursing home:

    1. They are no longer able to take care of themselves: Everyday tasks are no longer possible for them. They cannot feed themselves, use the restroom by themselves, brush their teeth, or do personal hygiene by themselves. They cannot bathe, walk, stand, or lay down without assistance. Additionally, they cannot cook their own meals or keep their home clean. They are sometimes confused, forgetful, and cannot keep to a daily routine.
    2. Constant care can be overwhelming: Caregiving is a 24-hour, 365-day-a-year responsibility. It can be emotionally draining for everyone and eventually trigger health issues. Caregiving is added to our own daily responsibilities such as family, career, and community. Even though you love them and want to care for them, the daily caregiving grind is wearing you down and eventually, the exhaustion from juggling all these responsibilities may take its toll as you lose focus and make mistakes in your care of them. Your elderly loved one may also see you in an angry mood and that will adversely affect their mood and health. It is a domino effect, but there are in-home care options for loved ones so you are not alone in caring for them.
    3. You don’t live in the area: You may want to care for them but you live too far away to do it on a regular basis. Your obligations to your family and career get in the way of you being a consistent caregiver in their life.
    4. They need professional care: Elderly patients with serious medical conditions such as Dementia or Alzheimer’s need professional care, 24/7/365. They may also be on certain medications and require nursing care that you cannot provide.
    5. You have tried everything else: Your own caregiving may be helpful and compassionate, but it is not the best solution to your loved one’s unique and, perhaps, complex needs. After researching and asking around, you conclude that in spite of all that you are doing, it isn’t enough. Your loved one needs comprehensive, professional care.

    Now, maybe it’s time to place them in the care of a licensed, trained, and compassionate in-home caregiver or at a nursing home. Please, don’t wait until it is too late.  If you need a safety assessment or have questions about your loved one, call us at (301) 740-8870.

    CarePlus Home Health, Inc. has experienced and compassionate home health caregivers.  We offer home care in Montgomery County, MD and the surrounding areas.

     

  • Six Ways to Practice Fall Prevention During Home Falls Prevention Awareness Week (9/21-25, 2020)

    Six Ways to Practice Fall Prevention During Home Falls Prevention Awareness Week (9/21-25, 2020)

    We have all fallen and, perhaps, scratched a knee or dislocated a shoulder. It wasn’t a serious problem and we recovered. 

    However, for a senior, a fall can be serious, even fatal. Falls can diminish functions, cause loss of mobility, limit activities, fracture the hip, humerus, pelvis, and forearm. Based on CDC 2018 data, falls are the leading cause of injury-related death among adults 65 and older. The age-adjusted fall death rate is 64 deaths per 100,000 older adults, which is an almost 30% increase since 2009. The fastest-growing rate was among adults 85 and older.

    Falls Prevention Awareness Week is September 21-25, 2020. This is the perfect time to decrease the risk of falls by seniors by taking preventative measures that reduce risk factors. Here are several steps you can take during this week:

    1. Home safety measures: Install a stairlift, add more lighting, add motion-activated night light, clap on overhead lights, and motion-activated lamps. Make a risk zone list of places in the home where they may fall then commit these to memory. Stay away from these areas or take fall prevention measures to reduce the risk. 
    2. Install bed rails: Getting in and out of bed can be risky for some seniors. Bed rails reduce the chances of falling and also a way of anchoring them when they are ready to get out of bed. 
    3. Install bathroom safety accessories: The bathroom is the most dangerous place for seniors, especially due to wet floors. The addition of support bars next to the toilet and sink, non-slip rubber mats in the tub and front of the tub will make bathing much safer. 
    4. Walk-in tub: These types of tubs are much safer by allowing seniors to walk in and out without lifting their feet up and over the siding of a traditional tub. They can sit inside the tub and bathe as usual. 
    5. Wear practical shoes: Shoes that are at an angle or sit high can put them at a greater risk of falling. They can be difficult to walk in and are a fall risk. Instead, purchase slip-on shoes with arch support, and can be slipped on while standing or sitting.
    6. Speak openly with family and friends: There needs to be an open and honest conversation with the senior, their family, and caretakers. By setting up a communication system, everyone can work together to prevent falls. Have the grandchildren keep high-traffic areas clean and give the senior a cell phone they can use to contact them quickly. Lastly, the family should stop by as often as possible to check in on them. 

    Fall prevention is a team effort with family, caretakers, neighbors, and the seniors working together so they are safe. Use common sense and consult their physician on all safety measures that can be taken. All it takes are a few equipment installations and creating an efficient communication system to provide a safer home for your aging loved one. 

    CarePlus Home Health is one of Montgomery County, Maryland’s, most experienced home care agencies, providing assisted daily living, skilled nursing, 24-hour care, and stroke, dementia, and Alzheimer’s care. Our mission is to give professional and compassionate care to individuals, while helping them maintain their independence and quality of life, either in their home or in community settings. Please feel welcome to call us at 301-740-8870 or use our contact form to discuss your home care needs or those of an older loved one.

  • Home Health Care: Five Things to Look for in a Provider

    Home Health Care: Five Things to Look for in a Provider

    It’s a difficult topic to discuss with your family and loved ones: the choice of a home health care provider. However, it is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. 

    So, in order to help guide the decision-making process for a home health care provider, here are five considerations:

    1. Is the staff experienced and licensed? : Thorough screening of prospective caregivers is a priority as you are ensuring the safety of your loved one in their care. Caregivers must have all the up-to-date, certifications, and licenses for the specific care that you require. Your caregiver should be experienced, professional, and compassionate. 
    2. How many years have they been in business? Every business has to start at some point in time yet a caregiver from a reputable company with years of experience is a plus when seeking care for your loved one. In-home health, companies that have been in business for numerous years may have higher retention rates and more experienced caregivers. In addition, established companies tend to have excellent training programs in place to retain compassionate caregivers and grow referrals. 
    3. What services do they offer? : If you are looking for nursing or supportive services, a comprehensive home healthcare provider should be able to deliver a wide variety of services.  Among those services may be hourly and live-in home care services either at home or at an assisted living facility or nursing home. Care Plus provides both in-home care and nursing home services. Our services are customized to meet the needs of the patient and their families. It may be a short-term or long-term plan. Avoid “cookie-cutter” or “one size fits all” service providers. Each patient is unique and deserves a customized plan that will meet their unique needs.
    4. What do the reviews say? : Reviews are a reliable resource that can be quite helpful to you as you weigh the different caregiving choices. Home health care providers that have been in business over the years, should have an extensive list of online reviews.   You can visit the www.caring.com, Better Business Bureau (BBB), Yelp, Google My Business, and Facebook should have client reviews posted on their pages. The caregiver website should have testimonials posted, too. We also recommend that you call the caregiver and ask for references.
    5. What do they provide for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients? Make sure the caregiver offers services for Alzheimer’s or dementia patients. As older adults age this may be a need and having an In-Home Healthcare provider who is attuned to early signs of dementia is imperative. Check with the company to verify that the caregivers have specialized training in these health conditions.

    It will give you peace of mind knowing that they have the best care available. These five tips will prepare you for your next steps. If you should have any questions feel free to reach out.

    CarePlus Home Health, Inc. has experienced and compassionate home health caregivers. Call us at (301) 740-8870 for a consultation. We offer home care in the Montgomery County, MD area.