CarePlus

Category: Caregiver

  • Aging with Chronic Disease: In-Home Care in Bethesda & Montgomery County, Maryland

    Aging with Chronic Disease: In-Home Care in Bethesda & Montgomery County, Maryland

    Managing a chronic condition can feel overwhelming especially when it involves ongoing monitoring, medications, and lifestyle adjustments. For aging adults and their families in Bethesda, Montgomery County, and throughout Maryland, the right support can make all the difference.

    In-home care in Bethesda, MD offers an effective way to manage chronic disease providing clinical expertise and daily support all within the comfort of home.

    A Comprehensive Approach: Skilled Nursing & Home Care in Montgomery County, MD

    Chronic disease management as you age can be challenging.  Skilled nursing services can help provide additional support to aging adults and their families.

    Skilled Nursing Care at Home in Bethesda, MD

    Skilled nursing services can include:

    • Medication management
    • Wound care and injections
    • Monitoring of chronic conditions
    • Ongoing clinical assessments
    • Coordination with physicians and specialists

    As a client’s condition changes, the level of care adjusts ensuring the right support at the right time.

    In-Home Care Services in Bethesda, Maryland

    Home care services in Bethesda and surrounding areas support Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), including:

    • Bathing and grooming
    • Dressing
    • Mobility and fall prevention

    This support allows individuals to maintain independence while receiving the help they need.

    A Dedicated Clinical Care Team in Bethesda, Maryland

    For individuals living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, COPD, and neurological disorders, continuity of care is an important component of care.

    Having a clinical team which includes Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) provides:

    • Ongoing health assessments
    • Early detection of changes
    • Proactive interventions
    • Responsiveness to needs

    A clinical team to help support your family to assess and provide a care plan for your loved one, might avoid ongoing hospitalizations and readmittance.

    Aging in Place In The Comfort of Home

    For many seniors in Bethesda and Montgomery County, aging in place allows for greater comfort, stability, and emotional well-being.

    Receiving in-home senior care in Maryland helps individuals stay connected to their routines, their families, and their community while still receiving the medical support they need.

    Reducing Hospital Visits with Home Health Care in Montgomery County

    Living with a chronic condition often means frequent doctor visits, specialist appointments, and/or ER visits.

    A trusted home health care provider in Bethesda, MD can help reduce the stress by providing:

    • Transportation and appointment coordination
    • Post-hospitalization care and discharge plans
    • Medication oversight and adherence
    • Ongoing monitoring to prevent complications

    By focusing on continuity of care and being proactive with concomitant illnesses, you may be able to avoid unnecessary hospital visits and readmissions.

    Coordinated Care, Better Care

    Care teams work closely with physicians, specialists, clients, and families to ensure everyone is “in the know” and part of the process. This coordinated approach leads to:

    • More accurate care plans
    • Faster response to health changes and medication modifications
    • Stronger reassurance for family members

    Personalized Care Plans in Bethesda, Maryland

    Chronic disease management is most effective when individuals and families feel informed.

    In-home care services in Bethesda, MD may also include:

    • Physical therapy to improve strength and mobility
    • Occupational therapy to support daily function
    • Speech therapy for communication, swallowing and/or eating concerns

    Education is key to helping clients and families understand their condition, recognize early warning signs and be proactive in managing their condition.

    Each care plan is personalized and designed around medical needs, lifestyle, and goals, which takes into consideration recovery, underlying conditions and/or quality of life.

    In-Home Care in Bethesda, Maryland and throughout Montgomery County

    Living with a chronic condition can be challenging, with the right support, aging adults can continue to live safely, comfortably, and confidently at home.

    CarePlus provides comprehensive in-home care in Bethesda, MD and throughout Montgomery County offering skilled nursing, in-home care, and a dedicated clinical team to support every stage of chronic disease management.

    Call 301-740-8870 or contact us here.

  • Home Healthcare and Nursing

    Home Healthcare and Nursing

    May 6-12 is National Nurse’s Week. Nurses across the country are recognized for their extraordinary skills and care as they support patients and their families. At CarePlus Home Health, we salute these valuable members of our home healthcare team. 

    Nurses, Our Frontline Workers 

    Nurses are an integral part of the healthcare system and can be found in medical offices, hospitals, assisted care communities and private homes. Regularly tending to the health and wellness of their patients, nurses understand the unique needs of the individuals and families they serve. Nurses provide expertise with compassion and care. As a part of the home care team, nurses provide a range of different services from medication management to hygiene to wound management depending on the need of the patient. 

    Creative, Collaborative, and Caring

    Providing in home care requires flexibility, skill and expertise. Home healthcare nurses are trained to adapt to developing situations and use resources accordingly. Their experience guides families as families decide how best to set up the home for optimum safety and wellness. Home health nurses understand the importance the home environment and work hard to maintain that comfort.

    A Critical Part of the Team 

    A person living at home with health challenges needs the support of a team to be able to maintain comfort and independence. Doctors, family, friends, and other professionals work together with the patient to ensure that their care and comfort are planned for and executed in a way that maintains the dignity of the patient. Home healthcare nurses are a critical part of this team.

    Thank A Nurse

    Take time to appreciate and recognize nurses for their hard work and dedication. Patients and family can express their appreciation with a card of thanks, a testimonial, an online review, a letter to a supervisor or a referral. 

    CarePlus Home Health has many experienced nurses who understand the special needs of in-home healthcare. Contact us today to learn more. 

  • Holiday Hints for the Sandwich Generation

    Holiday Hints for the Sandwich Generation

    The holidays are fast approaching. While they are a time of togetherness and joy, for some family members, the responsibilities add up, which can make this time feel stressful and difficult to manage. Known as the “Sandwich Generation,” adults who have children under the age of 18 and parents over the age of 65 experience the caretaker role on both ends of the age spectrum. Planning for the holidays involves many moving pieces, and it helps to keep some of the following goals in mind.

    Be Prepared

    The holidays are about a lot of things, but food and fun are two major aspects of the end-of-year season. With that in mind, and knowing that you will be spending a lot of time with a full household, try to plan for activities and hungry hordes. Stock up on snacks, consider buying some board games, and if you plan to go anywhere, make sure to check into reservations so you don’t leave the clan hanging.

    Coming Together

    The movies make holidays seem like a fun, chaotic series of activities where everyone spends time together and has a wonderful time. They sure can be, but when there are younger children and older parents involved, it’s worth being a little more realistic in the approach. Instead of a family game of football, consider something a little easier on the knees and hips like a walk in a local park. If mobility is an issue for a parent, you can also plan fun indoor activities like an arts and crafts project, or participate in the meal preparation. The key is to assess the abilities of all the participants and come up with something where everyone can feel included.

    Giving Them a Break

    Family is all about love and togetherness, but sometimes, it can be tiring to interact with another generation for too long. The kids need to have some activities that let them get their wiggles out. Parents need to have time to rest and also some quality adult time. Whether you are the type to build a complete schedule of activities for the entire holiday, or you like to wing it, make sure to include some time where the generations can relax.

    Taking Care of Yourself

    It’s hard to remember that you can’t be there for others if you aren’t there for yourself first. Make sure to keep up your health routines during the holiday. Give yourself some time to take a deep breath away from your charges, whether it’s taking the dog for a quick walk or another chance to be in the moment without two generations tugging on your arm for attention. While it’s hard to watch what you eat and drink when you are making merry, try to keep hydrated and put some limits on your consumption.

    Asking for Help

    You don’t need to do it alone. If you feel overwhelmed with the demands of the season, take stock of who can lend a hand. Visiting family may be able to step in for some responsibilities, but if it’s really all on your shoulders, consider some outside support. Housecleaning, cooking, errands and caretaking can all be found to alleviate some of the stress.

    CarePlus Home Health understands that the holidays are supposed to be a time for family, but someone has to make sure it goes off without a hitch. We can help. By being there for your loved one’s daily living needs, we can give you time and focus to make the season a time to remember. Contact us today to learn more about our services.

  • Understanding Bone and Joint Challenges

    Understanding Bone and Joint Challenges

    Our bones and joints become a source of potential serious injury as we age, and because last week was Bone and Joint National Action Week, everyone should be thinking about ways to care for these important body parts. Of course, a diet high in calcium and vitamin D are great for growing kids, but older adults need to continue to take these issues seriously. Here are some facts and tips to consider. 

    Bone and Joint Injury and Disease Facts

    According to the National Bone and Joint Initiative half of adult Americans suffer from musculoskeletal complications and many of these people require medical intervention for care. The National Institute on Aging (NIA), part of the National Institutes of health, identifies Osteoarthritis, falls and fractures, and Osteoporosis are among the most important health topics related to aging. Currently, there are some basic treatments for bone and joint injury and disease, but these conditions are often cumulative and degenerative, and the best that can be done is treatment of the pain and other symptoms.

    Prevention

    In addition to diet and supplements, the most significant way to prevent and alleviate bone and joint conditions is through a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise strengthens muscles, which eases the strain on bones and joints. Luckily, it’s never too late to start, but if exercise hasn’t been a part of daily activities, it is important to consult with a physician before starting a new program. 

    Treatment and Care

    Individuals with debilitating bone and joint problems, including severe pain, can find their lives impacted in many ways. Simple tasks like laundry, cooking and cleaning can become major hurdles. In order to maximize independence and minimize pain, it is important to follow doctor’s orders about medication and treatment like physical therapy. Where an extra pair of hands can help with things that require dexterity like folding laundry or dicing vegetables, home health care can make a huge difference in continued life enjoyment. 

    At CarePlus Home Health, we work with clients to help them feel able to stay in their homes as long as possible. We do this by assessing their needs and providing trained, professional assistance to round out their lives in the ways that make the most meaningful impact. For clients with bone and joint challenges like arthritis, we can assist with meal preparation, laundry and other household activities that may be impacted. For more information about how we can help, contact us today for a free assessment. 

  • Living At Home With Alzheimer’s

    Living At Home With Alzheimer’s

    For adults with memory impairment like Alzheimer’s, change can be difficult, so it is no surprise that the prospect of moving out of the home and into a care facility is met with resistance. According to research published in the Journal of American Geriatrics, there has been an increased trend for people with dementia to prefer staying at home for as long as possible. However, staying at home presents some significant challenges, particularly for people who live alone. With some awareness and forethought, it is possible to stay at home. Here are some important considerations.

    Managing Activities of Daily Living

    As dementia progresses, many activities of daily living (ADL) become increasingly difficult. From grocery shopping to cleaning, household chores become confusing, and often they are neglected. In addition, personal care like bathing, dressing, and grooming can be forgotten or avoided. As dementia progresses, individuals require increasing assistance with ADLs, which may be beyond the capacity of family, especially if they don’t live together. It’s important to regularly assess the status of ADL abilities and make adjustments to meet increased needs. 

    Assuring Safety

    Individuals with Alzheimer’s suffer from progressive cognitive decline, which impacts many aspects of their safety. Something as simple as remembering to turn off a stove can be a major hazard for someone with memory and focus impairment. Since Alzheimer’s affects older adults, there can be physical challenges that are exacerbated by dementia, such as an inability to problem solve in the event of a medical emergency like a fall or a kitchen accident. Also, dementia can lead to “wandering” – where a person gets lost in their own neighborhood because they simply can’t remember where they live. With care and planning, each of these and many other safety elements can be addressed, and measures can be taken to adapt to increasing impairment as the disease progresses.

    Avoiding Isolation

    Loneliness and isolation are a problem for all people who live alone, but for people living with Alzheimer’s the consequences can have a real, negative impact on their continued ability to live in their own home. A recent Washington Post article identified a significant increase in individuals with Alzheimer’s who experienced isolation due to the COVID-19 protocols. Since dementia can make even simpler technologies difficult to manage, in-person contact is critical to the continued health and well being of people with Alzheimer’s. 

    In order to take care of these and other issues that impact people with Alzheimer’s living at home, we recommend beginning with a thorough assessment by a specialist in geriatric and memory-care concerns. The assessment should look at all of the factors in the home that might pose a difficulty or even a threat. Once the assessment is complete, there are a number of ways to address the findings. In-home care offered by trained specialists like our team at CarePlus Home Health can be an important part of the solution. Located in Montgomery County, our team is highly trained in the care, dignity and safety of our clients with Alzheimer’s. We offer in-home assessments as well as a wide range of customized services to best address the needs of each individual. Contact us to find out how we can help.

  • 3 Qualities to Achieve Excellence in Home Health Care

    3 Qualities to Achieve Excellence in Home Health Care

    More and more adults are choosing to stay in their homes, so they can age in place without the disruption of relocation. Health and safety challenges make this course of action impossible without help, and many people prefer to work with seasoned, trustworthy professionals to make sure their care is appropriate. When selecting home health care, an important balance of factors needs to be considered to make sure the experience is truly supportive. At CarePlus, we believe that quality home health care is made up of multiple factors, and we believe these three are essential.

    Expertise

    In the area of home health care, two types of experience are critical: health and hospitality. Geriatric health is a particular concentration in the medical field, and you want to make sure your caretakers know this area well. It also takes an extra level of compassion, care, and quality to go into a home and seamlessly become a part of daily living for an aging adult. Understanding how to make a home hospitable for an aging homeowner is a key to a successful relationship in home health care. Based on his years of experience in the hospitality industry, CarePlus Founder, Tom Najjar, recognizes the importance of a high level of quality care combined with customer service.

    Dignity

    As people age, their health may gradually decline, or in some instances, experience rapid changes in their health. Adapting to these changes with the help of home health care allows adults to maintain a sense of independence within their limits. With the ability to continue to make lifestyle choices and flexibility with support, as needs increase, adults can feel empowered to live their best lives. CarePlus recognizes these situations and is respectful and fully prepared to provide needed support.

    Comfort

    Whether it’s medication, groceries, a doctor visit or another service, a key to quality home health care is the comfort of the client as well as family and friends, who are concerned about the client’s well-being. Comfort comes in many forms. It can be a knowledgeable, experienced caretaker’s ability to help with medication and the activities of daily living. In addition, it may be the compassionate attitude of a caretaker who truly cares. Being a resource to the family, may also add peace of mind.

    At CarePlus Home Health we stand by our mission to deliver better care for a better life. We understand the trust being placed in our hands when our clients allow us to help them with their needs as they age. We look forward to the opportunity to bring Expertise, Dignity and Comfort to your home or the home of a loved one. For more information about our services, please contact us today.

  • Enhanced Senior Living Community Services

    Enhanced Senior Living Community Services

    At CarePlus, we are experts in home care services for older adults. When “home” is an independent living community, we offer individualized services to residents as well as community-wide programs that round out the experience of living in a safe, supported environment. By establishing a presence within a community, we are better able to meet needs by a customized approach to our clients and their families. 

    Independent Living 

    For seniors who want to maintain an active, independent lifestyle as long as possible, independent living communities are an excellent option. Catering exclusively to older adults, everything from the design of individual residences to a range of additional amenities like leisure activities, meal programs and healthcare facilities assure a healthy lifestyle in a supportive environment. According to SeniorHomes.com, there are 45 independent living communities in Montgomery County. 

    Where CarePlus Fits In

    As people age, their ability to manage some activities and tasks becomes more of a challenge. CarePlus supports independent living communities with a variety of offerings:

    Flex Care Services: We provide flexible care hours to residents at senior living communities. We can help with sheets/laundry, food prep, grocery shopping and housekeeping so residents can live independently and securely. We can be there for the small tasks. Residents can schedule as little as 30 minutes of assistance that can happen daily, weekly or occasionally. Whatever the need — we will be there.

    Wellness Center Program: CarePlus can set up a permanent wellness center on the premises or an “on the go” wellness pop up center according to need. We can do Blood Pressure checks, Zoom Lunch & Learns, Zoom health activities and much more. We also are able to support residents in crisis management, transitioning from hospital to home and supporting independent living.

    CarePlus tabling at a senior living community event

    Care Coordination Program: 

    We offer an onsite CarePlus coordinator to help support logistical needs of residents living in communities. In addition, we provide services for out of town families including transitions from hospital to home, rehabilitation and other logistical needs. 

    Personal Assistant Services/CarePlus Concierge: CarePlus offers specialty services to clients who need additional oversight and services. Groceries, supplies and other shopping needs can be done by our team independently or assisting a resident. We can schedule and attend doctor’s appointments, coordinate with multiple providers, and assist with insurance matters. 

    a CarePlus vehicle outside a senior living facility

    Create Your Own Independent Living Community

    Through our Care Share program, we can help people to age in place in their neighborhood. By working with neighbors, older people can obtain some of the services we offer to independent living communities without having to move. These can include pop-up clinics, lunch and learn programs, and other activities that benefit a group. 

    CarePlus is committed to being a partner in aging in safety and dignity. We strive to bring the most customized and useful range of services to our clients and communities. To learn more about our Flex Care options email info@CarePlusInc.com.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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!