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At Visiting Angels it is our goal to care for our community as a whole. This includes caring for the environment and practicing "green" behavior both at home and at work.
With Earth Day right around the corner, Visiting Angels is sharing tips with our fellow professionals for how to make your workplace more environmentally friendly.
Here are the top 5 Visiting Angels Earth Day tips for your office:
1. Start a recycling program if your office doesn't already have one. It's easy, saves energy and pollution, and you can pool your recycling earnings to use for fun office extras.
2. Paper or plastic? Neither! They both gobble up natural resources and cause significant pollution. Save energy and trees by bringing your lunch in a reusable bag.
3. Americans send 29 billion plastic water bottles a year to our landfills, lakes, rivers and oceans. It takes 17 million barrels of crude oil to produce them- enough oil to keep a million cars going for a year! Reach for a reusable water bottle instead.
4. Turn off your computer or set it to hibernate when your day at the office is done. This alone can save $75 per computer per year in energy use.
5. Turn off your computer screen whenever you leave your office. Screen savers are not energy savers. Using a screen saver may in fact use more energy than not using one!
For more information about these and other Earth Day tips, visit these sites:
www.energystar.gov
www.reusablebags.com
www.nationalgeographic.com
To find out more about Visiting Angels and our homecare services, please contact one of our three Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 4/12/2010 2:51:53 PM |
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At Visiting Angels all of our caregivers are our employees. What does that mean for you, the consumer?
We run background and reference checks on all caregivers.
We handle all worker's compensation claims.
We carry liability insurance for all of our caregivers.
If something happens while a Visiting Angels caregiver is in your home you are not legally responsible- we are.
We handle all federal and state taxes for our caregivers so you don't have to.
We verify employment eligiblity.
We conduct ongoing supervision of all Visiting Angels caregivers.
Because we know we are not always the right option for every potential client we want to educate the public about the differences between employee-based companies like Visiting Angels and other companies who provide caregivers that are not employees. Be sure to ask every homecare company you research about how they handle the issues listed above. This will ensure you are not getting into a situation that you are not prepared to handle.
This article from the Wall Street Journal further outlines some of the differences between employee-based and referral agencies. It provides insight into why you should ask about caregivers' employment status when looking to hire an in-home care company.
What to Know If You Are The Boss of a Private Caregiver
To learn more about Visiting Angels and our experienced team of caregivers please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 3/15/2010 10:52:21 AM |
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Finding the right long term care option for you or your loved one can be overwhelming. It is emotional and can often become a jumble of information, paperwork, processes and procedures.
Looking for long term care options raises many questions- Can I stay in my home? Am I appropriate for an assisted living facility? What are my needs? What can I afford?
It also introduces a number of terms that the average person probably isn't familiar with: board and care home, home health v. homecare, palliative care, licensed v. unlicensed, and CNA (Certified Nurse's Aid), just to name a few.
Luckily, many professionals in the senior healthcare industry recognize the difficult nature of the process of finding the right long term care option. As a result there are an increasing number of tools available to help make the decision easier. Here is a short list of resources to get you started:
Placement Specialists:
It is the job of a placement specialist to be the expert on long term care options in a given community. They keep up-to-date on the status of facilities by conducting a regular rotation of visits- some scheduled, some impromptu- to check up on the places they recommend to their clients.
During their visits, placement specialists not only look into the care and licensing in each facility but at the intangibles that are important to families and future residents. What is the ambiance? Do the residents seem active and engaged? Is the facility clean and the staff attentive?
For a list of recommended placement specialists in your area contact your loal Visiting Angels office.
Online Tools:
Websites for finding long term care resources are popping up right and left. Some are simply online directories, others are a little more involved and help walk you through your needs and identify your options.
CalQualityCare.org is a great place to start. You can search for resources and take a quiz to identify what type of care you're looking for. Note: this site does not list non-medical options like Visiting Angels. The resources are provided by the State of California and only include licensed care options.
Non-profit Organizations:
Most communities are fortunate to have non-profit organizations that help connect seniors and their families with long term care resources. Some of these organizations are affiliated with hospitals and others are independent.
We refer many of our clients in the East Bay to John Muir Senior Services. This comprehensive organization is a one-stop shop for senior-related information in Contra Costa County. Anyone can call and speak with a social worker who can assess the caller's needs and recommend appropriate long term care options.
Ask your doctor, senior center or friends if they know of a similar organization in your area.
To learn more about Visiting Angels and find out how we fit into your long term care plan, or to receive further information about the long term care resources listed above, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 2/8/2010 1:14:34 PM |
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Winter 2009-2010 has already brought record cold temperatures to the Bay Area and the rest of the US- and it's only January! With weeks to go before the relief of Spring it is crucial that anyone who cares for a senior is aware of the dangers of cold weather.
The National Institute on Aging publishes a pamphlet called, "Stay Safe in Cold Weather!". It contains vital information about the risks posed by winter weather as well as tips for keeping older adults safe and healthy through the cold months.
To view or order the pamphlet click here.
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| 1/18/2010 3:05:05 PM |
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We have received a lot of inquiries from people looking for assistance with transportation. In response to this need Visiting Angels is proud to present our transportation service!
Our transportation service includes:
Door-to-door pick-up and drop-off
3 hours of service *
10 miles of free transportation **
Companionship and assistance
Our caregiver will wait with you
Flexible Scheduling
No Long Term or Ongoing Obligation
All caregivers are screened, bonded and insured with valid CA Driver’s Licenses and car insurance (can also drive insured client’s car)
Think of us for:
Outpatient Surgery and Procedures
Grocery Shopping
Prescription Pick-up
Doctor Appointments
Beauty Parlor Visits
Errands
Hospital Discharge Assistance
And much more!
To schedule transportation or for more information, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 11/30/2009 10:53:48 AM |
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The month of November is designated to draw attention to a few causes that are near and dear to our hearts here at Visiting Angels. Follow the links below to learn more about these causes as well as ways you can recognize some very important people and organizations during the month of November.
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month
National Family Caregivers' Month
National Hospice/Palliative Care Month
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| 11/2/2009 3:53:26 PM |
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The recent 20th anniversary of the Loma Prieta Earthquake reminded all of us living in the Bay Area of how important it is to be prepared. With fears of "The Big One" looming it's critical that we have disaster supplies on hand and an emergency plan in place.
For our clients and other seniors living in the Bay Area there are additional considerations. Health complications, physical impairments and isolation are very real issues facing seniors in our community, and they make disaster preparedness more complex. Questions that arise include, how can you ensure that you will have your necessary daily medications on hand after a major earthquake? If you live in an assisted living community or skilled nursing facility, how will you know where to go and what to do if the building sustains damage? If you have limited mobility or are no longer able to drive, what will you do if there is an evacuation?
Various organizations offer information about how to assemble a survival kit, what to include in your disaster plan and other crucial tips to be prepared in the event of an earthquake. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) along with many partner organizations published the handbook Putting Down Roots in Earthquake Country. An online version can be found here.
Rebuilding Together Oakland published a helpful handbook that focuses on extra steps seniors should take to be prepared. The Earthquake Preparedness Manual: Survival Guide for Seniors can be found here.
It doesn't take much effort to be prepared, but preparation is the key to surviving a major disaster like an earthquake. Use the publications above as a guide and make sure you have supplies in your home, office and car- you never know where you'll be when disaster strikes. Most importantly, be sure not only to prepare yourself but think about anyone you know who can't prepare themselves and may not have anyone else available to help.
For more information about disaster preparedness for seniors and the homecare services we provide at Visiting Angels, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 10/23/2009 5:23:30 PM |
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October 11-17 is National Case Management Week. This is the time of year when case managers around the nation are recognized for the important work they do and the contributions they make to healthcare.
But what is case management exactly? According to the Case Management Society of America (CMSA), "Case management is a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation and advocacy for options and services to meet an individual's health needs through communication and available resources to promote quality cost-effective outcomes."
At Visiting Angels we and our clients owe a lot to case managers. These individuals at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities and private organizations assist seniors in identifying their needs and connecting them with the resources necessary to meet those needs. Often, we will get a call from a case manager working with a senior who needs assistance staying independent at home. Conversely, Visiting Angels will contact a case manager when we recognize that one of our clients could use some additional services that we may not provide.
Case managers are extremely deserving of our thanks and we'd like to take this opportunity to wish all case managers a very happy National Case Management Week!
For more information about National Case Management Week click here.
To learn more about Visiting Angels and how we can help you or your loved one stay independent in the comfort of your home, please contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 10/12/2009 4:48:45 PM |
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Visiting Angels is part of a new group that has formed to help Danville area seniors and their families locate vital healthcare services. The members of the Danville Area Senior Health Advocates (DASHA) saw a need for educating the Danville community about the many outstanding services available in their own backyards. The group of 10 organizations, including Visiting Angels, banded together with a mission to "assist seniors and families in accessing quality local resources, services and information for every level of senior care."
DASHA has had informational booths at the Danville Hot August Nights and will have a booth once a month at the Danville Farmer's Market. For a calendar of events and more information about DASHA and its member organizations, visit the DASHA blog or send an email to dashanews@gmail.com.
For more information about the homecare services provided by Visiting Angels in the Danville area and throughout the Bay Area, please call one of our local offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 9/21/2009 3:49:11 PM |
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is predicting that 30-50% of Americans could contract the 2009 H1N1 Virus- commonly known as "Swine" Flu- during the 2009-2010 flu season. As flu season is officially upon us, there are many things the public can do to try and stay healthy during this period.
It is particularly important that anyone working closely with vulnerable populations is aware of what can be done to prevent the spread of the Swine Flu. Although seniors are not thought to be disproportionately impacted by the Swine Flu, it's still important for caregivers to avoid any behavior that may put their care recipient at risk- especially if the care recipient has a condition that makes them more suseptible to the virus, like a chronic respiratory condition or compromised immune system.
The following information taken from the San Francisco Examiner offers steps that caregivers can take to help their care recipients avoid falling victim to the Swine Flu:
Swine flu is a highly contagious disease, easily spread person-to-person by virus particles contained in coughs, sneezes, or personal contact (such as kissing or on hands). Caring for the elderly is a huge responsibility and the last thing anyone wants to do is spread the flu or swine flu by not practicing hygienic practices.
If you are a home care worker or health care worker, your job becomes more strenuous during the flu season. Below are some tips to ensure the continued health of your charges:
1. Schedule and get your own flu shots - for both the flu and the swine flu. The flu shot does NOT protect against Swine flu so make sure to get immunized against both. Swine flu shots are proposed to be available in October sometime and come in a series of 2 shots, 3 weeks apart.
2. Ensure your elderly friends are immunized against flu and pneumonia. The CDC recognizes that most elderly subjects have some natural immunity to swine flu so are more concerned with immunizing the primary targeted groups before the elderly.
3. Monitor visitors coming in. Everyone wants their darling child to visit grandma or grandpa but little ones are breeding grounds for illnesses due to having a new immune system. The elderly are especially susceptible to illness so keep anyone with a running nose, cough or sneeze away from the people for whom you care. Swine flu contagion period is 7 days after symptoms start but children may remain contagious for much longer.
4. Ask visitors to keep kissing and touching to a minimum. It's a good time to practice 'air kisses' or 'blowing kisses' from young children to the elderly.
5. Keep antibiotic solutions (such as Pyrex) handy throughout the house. Controversy exists about whether antibiotic solutions really help reduce the spread of flu or Swine flu as they're viruses but it can't hurt! Ask visitors to use the solution before touching the elderly.
6. Monitor the CDC Fluview spread maps to see where confirmed cases are, on a week by week basis. Increase prevention maneuvers accordingly - if flu cases have been confirmed in your immediate area, you might want to consider instituting a 'no visit' policy. Phone calls are always allowed....
For more information about the non-medical caregiving services we provide at Visiting Angels please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 9/8/2009 1:03:12 PM |
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Medication errors can be deadly, so developing a plan to help you avoid them is a must. The best way to prevent a medication error is to know your medications and when and how to take. Creating a personalized medication record will help you keep track of when to take your medication so that you do not make mistakes or miss doses. If you are unable to create a medication record yourself, ask your caregiver, doctor or pharmacist to help. Remember, you are the boss when it comes to your medication and taking a proactive stance will help ensure your medication safety.
The Vial of Life program consists of a vial (empty pill bottle, plastic bag or other container), labeled with a Vial of Life sticker, inside which is placed a medical form which has been filled out stating the health status of the individual and current medications being taken. The vial is placed in the refrigerator, usually recommended to be on the top shelf of the door, because it has been shown that the refrigerator's contents are preserved in the event of a fire. Stickers are placed in the front window of the home so that responding emergency personnel will know to look for the Vial.
For more information, visit the Vial of Life website. |
| 9/1/2009 12:37:05 PM |
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When a loved one is nearing the end of life, the last things anyone wants to be distracted by are legal issues. Unfortunately, along with the emotional and psychological components of the dying process come many important legal and medical questions. Who is responsible for making health care decisions on the patient's behalf if the patient is unable to? Should the patient be given CPR if the need arises? Should the patient's organs be donated?
There are many tools available to avoid confusion around these issues that arise at the end of a person's life. The Mayo Clinic has put together a helpful tip sheet that describes these tools and outlines their purpose. The information in the Mayo Clini's tip sheet can help you or your loved one prepare for both unexpected and expected end of life situations.
To view the tip sheet click here.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help care for your loved one at the end of life, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 7/27/2009 4:54:48 PM |
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Over the years, we at Visiting Angels have unfortunately heard many complaints about the care provided in some nursing homes. Overall, skilled nursing and rehab facilities provide outstanding services to patients who are recovering from a major surgery or illness or who require ongoing assistance beyond what an assisted living community or homecare company can provide. However, there are some homes that do not operate to the highest standards.
To help educate the public about nursing home performance, the consumer advocacy group America's Watchdog created the Nursing Home Complaint Center. The Nursing Home Complaint Center fields calls about potential situations of neglect and abuse in nursing home and acts as an advocate on behalf of the patient. If you suspect that your loved one is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, you can call the Nursing Home Complaint Center at (866) 714-6466.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help provide supplemental care to your loved one who is in a nursing home, please call one of our local Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 7/17/2009 3:27:38 PM |
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On June 12, 2009 all television signals switched from analog to digital, making many older TVs unusable. This transition particularly impacted the low income population, many of whom do not own digital televisions or rely on antenna reception. This group includes many seniors.
We all know seniors who depend on the television as a primary source of entertainment, a way to fill their day, watch movies from their youth and keep up on the latest reality TV show. Television can also serve as a vital link to the outside world for frail and homebound seniors. More importantly, television is a primary means of receiving emergency alerts and other important information about events and issues that may directly impact a senior.
Luckily, there are many low cost or free options to ensure that all televisions will continue to work now that the transition has taken place. To find out more about what to do to ensure continued reception of local stations, call the Federal Communication Commissin (FCC) at 1-888-CALL-FCC (1-888-225-5322) or visit the digital transition website, http://www.dtv.gov/.
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| 6/17/2009 10:13:55 AM |
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How would you react if you were sitting in the back seat, one of your parents were driving, and they became slightly confused when it came time to take an exit? Or if they brushed a curb while driving down the road?
Most people wouldn’t consider either situation alarming, but what if your loved one got lost on the way to the grocery store or some other place they had been to dozens of times before?
It happened to 84-year-old “Mary” of Charlotte, N.C., about two years ago. She was supposed to drive herself to a dentist appointment, but somehow ended up about 10 miles away at a post office. Fortunately she remembered her home phone number and was able to call her husband for help. When he arrived, he hugged her and with tears in his eyes told her it was time to take away the keys.
As the baby boomers age, taking away the keys is a decision more and more of their children and spouses are going to have to make. Safe driving is no longer possible once a person’s vision, hearing and/or reaction time have become impaired by old age; or once diseases like Alzheimer’s and dementia have robbed them of such cognitive abilities as memory, judgment and understanding.
“In Mary’s case, it wasn’t the first time she had taken a wrong turn. Fortunately, her husband found the strength to take away the keys, but a lot of people are reluctant to do so because they fear their loved one will see it as a loss of their freedom and dignity. We make sure that is not the case,” says Pat Drea, vice president of Visiting Angels, the agency hired to help Mary just days after she lost her keys.
Some days the Visiting Angels would play cards with Mary or help her do housework and make dinner; other days she’d drive Mary to doctors’ appointments or the store, or just take her to the park for an afternoon stroll. “Our Visiting Angels did everything possible to make life seem normal that year before Mary entered the nursing home which I’m sure both she and her husband appreciated,” says Drea.
In addition to helping out at home, Visiting Angels can also be hired as companions for people in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Their services are covered by most long term care insurance plans.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can assist your loved one with their transportation needs, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 6/17/2009 9:53:42 AM |
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As part of their continuing efforts to raise awareness of Alzheimer's Disease and raise money for a cure, the Alzheimer's Association has partnered with HBO to produce a documentary titled "The Alzheimer's Project."
The Alzheimer's Association hopes that this new documentary will update the public on new advances in fighting the disease as well as expose the painful reality of what life is like for those living with the disease and their loved ones.
To watch a trailer and read more about "The Alzheimer's Project," including the dates when it will air, click here.
For more information about our homecare services and how we can help individuals living with Alzheimer's, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 5/8/2009 4:44:50 PM |
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Each year the government issues flu warnings for seniors and young children- the two populations most vulnerable to infectious disease. It is understandable that these same populations are particularly concerned about the new H1N1 flu virus, aka the "Swine" flu.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring the H1N1 strain and tracking the outbreak on the CDC's official website. Along with listing reported cases by state, the CDC's H1N1 website is a great source for up-to-the-minute news, facts about the virus, and information about what you can do to stay flu-free.
Being informed about symptoms and ways the virus can pass from person to person is the best way to make sure that you and your loved ones avoid contracting or spreading the flu. At Visiting Angels, we are closely monitoring our clients and staff to make sure we are doing our part to keep the H1N1 virus from spreading. Together we can keep our seniors and our community healthy! |
| 5/4/2009 5:57:57 PM |
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Want to be an Earth Day Angel? Change just one lightbulb in your home or office and you will be off to a great start!
Did you know that exchanging just one standard bulb with a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) can:
- Save at least $30-$40 over the life of the bulb (about 8,000 hours)
- Increase safety by producing 70% less heat
- Use 2/3 less energy, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and helps protect our environment from the risks of global climate change.
Encourage the seniors in your life, family and friends to use energy efficient light bulbs. They can help save money and save the Earth at the same time! Together we can work to improve the health of our seniors and our planet.
Sources: www.energystar.gov, www.lightbulbsamerica.com
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| 4/23/2009 9:56:13 AM |
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Wondering if losing your car keys is a sign that Alzheimer's or dementia is setting in? You're not alone, and that's one reason why the Alzheimer's Association has put together an updated list of early warning signs. The article below is taken from the association's monthly newsletter and includes their new list of signs that you should look out for.
Updated Warning Signs Help with Early Detection
It may be difficult to know the difference between age-related changes and the first signs of Alzheimer's. As part of it's public education effort, the Alzheimer's Association has worked with a wide range group of experts to update it's 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's to make them more current and user-friendly. The comprehensive review process included feedback from health professionals, clinicians, scientists and people with dementia.
The revised warning signs are the cornerstones of Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters, the Alzheimer's Association's national early detection campaign. The signs are a key tool in promoting recognition of common changes that may facilitate early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's or another dementia. Early detection, diagnosis and intervention are vital because they provide the best opportunities for treatment, support and planning for the future.
The revised list describes the following signs:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
For more information about the 10 warning signs and early detection and diagnosis, contact the Alzheimer's Association at 877.IS.IT.ALZ (877)474-8259 or visit www.alz.org/10signs.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can provide care to those living with Alzheimer's or dementia, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 5/8/2009 4:35:34 PM |
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Consider this situation:
You fell and broke your hip. You are sent to the hospital where you are quickly admitted and told that you will need surgery. Over the course of the next few hours you meet nurses, doctors and specialists. You are asked questions about your medical history, allergies and pain level. You are sharing a room with a stranger on a noisy, bustling floor. On top of all of this, you are in pain and you are alone.
Situations similar to this fictional scenario are very common among the senior population. Navigating the hospital system is intimidating to begin with, and adding pain, confusion or fear to that makes the experience practically impossible to handle.
Educating our seniors about what to expect in the hospital is one way to reduce the stress of hospitalization. Identifying people who are willing to act as your advocate in the hospital, whether it's a family member or friend, is also helpful. Anyone who will be charged with navigating a hospitalization should become familiar with basic processes and procedures, terminology, technology and personnal in order to reduce the chances of confusion and eliminate as much stress as possible.
The National Institute of Health has put together an article titled "Hospital Hints" that provides useful information regarding the hospital system that everyone should know. It is a great introduction to effectively navigating a hospital stay.
Hiring a homecare agency is another way to reduce the stress of a hospital stay. At Visiting Angels, we are experts in working with hospital staff and are familiar with the processes and procedures that you will likely encounter. We can work with you social worker or discharge planner to ensure that you have everything you need to recover at home and avoid future trips to the hospital. These and other care management services can help make your hospital experience and transition home more manageable and less stressful.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help you or a loved one who has been hospitalized, please feel free to call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 4/14/2009 12:54:52 PM |
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March is Social Work Month. We at Visiting Angels take this time to recognize all of the social workers who are our partners in care. Whether at hospitals, facilities or other organizations, social workers provide a critical link between our seniors and the resources they desperately need. Social workers give advice that helps people make informed decisions about services that can increase their quality of life and improve their health, including the homecare we provide at Visiting Angels.
For more information about Social Work Month and the valuable contributions made by social workers nationwide, click here to visit the National Association of Social Workers website.
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| 3/13/2009 2:49:55 PM |
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The COO and VP of Operations for Visiting Angels were recently interviewed in "Case in Point," the official magazine of the Case Management Society of America.
The article, titled 'Home Care Guardians," provides information about our company, our standards and our services. It also provides helpful insight into the homecare industry and some of the things that consumers should be aware of when hiring a homecare company.
Read the article in the Visiting Angels pressroom.
For more information about we can help you or your loved one, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 3/2/2009 1:36:36 PM |
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As Americans continue to live longer, the number of people with Alzheimer's disease is increasing at an alarming rate. Today, more than 5 million people have Alzheimer's in the United States.
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and fatal brain disease. It destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior severe enough to effect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer's, but treatment for symptoms, combined with support services, can make life better for people living with the disease.
Risk Factors
The greatest know risk factor for developing Alzheimer's disease is increasing age. Most individuals with the disease are 65 or older. However, people can get Alzheimer's in their 50s, 40s, and even 30s. Other risk factors for developing Alzheimer's include family history and genetics.
Although there are several risk factors for Alzheimer's disease that we can't change, including family history and genetics, research has shown that there are things we can do to keep our brains healthy:
Stay mentally active
Remain socially active
Stay physically active
Adopt a brain-healthy diet -dark fruits and vegatables and omega-3 fatty acids. Reduce your intake of foods high in fat and cholesterol.
For more information about Alzheimer's disease, visit www.alz.org or call 1.800.272.3900.
Reprinted by permission of the Alzheimer's Association. Copyright 2007 Alzheimer's Association. All rights reserved. |
| 2/25/2009 5:32:58 PM |
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When you think of your aging loved ones, what do you worry about most? Is it a heart attack or stroke cutting short their life, or perhaps cancer? While these illnesses are very real worries for everyone as they age, it may surprise you to discover that falls are the second leading cause of accidental death in the United States, and 75 percent of these falls occur in the older adult population.
Falls are the single largest cause of injury among seniors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, older adults are hospitalized for fall-related injuries five times more often than they are for injuries from other causes. One-third of older adults who fall, sustain a hip fracture and are hospitalized, die within a year.
Even if a fall does not result in hospitalization, fear of falling can become a major factor in seniors’ quality of life. Fear leads to inactivity and loss of confidence which in turn produces a cycle of fear, loss of self-confidence and inactivity.
Here are some easy tips to help minimize the risk of life-altering falls for your loved ones:
Throw rugs can be a tripping hazard. Either remove them or make sure they are securely tacked down.
Add hand rails to all stairs.
Clear clutter from walking paths, and make sure hallways and stairways are well-lit.
Eliminate long extension cords that snake across a room. Plug lamps into outlets near the wall so cords are tucked away.
Add grab bars next to the toilet, tub and shower.
Getting in and out of the tub can be hazardous. In addition to grab bars, make sure the tub has non-skid mats. A tub seat may make showering easier, too.
Trade in floppy slippers for well-fitting slippers with non-skid soles. Also, avoid night clothing that drags on the ground.
To learn more about Visiting Angels, our caregivers and how we can help prevent falls in your home, please feel free to call us:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 2/23/2009 4:41:03 PM |
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Many people, including some health care professionals, do not realize how common alcohol abuse is among older adults. Emotional issues combined with habit and generational norms contribute to the prevalence of seniors with drinking problems.
Alcohol abuse, while harmful at any age, is especially dangerous for older adults. As we age, our bodies become more sensitive to the effects of alcohol. Additionally, many seniors take prescription medications that cause severe interactions when combined with alcohol.
The National Institute on Aging published this report about the dangers of alchol abuse among older adults. It is an extremely helpful tool for family, friends and providers who work with seniors who have drinking problems, as well as anyone who suspects an older adult is abusing alcohol.
For more information about how our caregivers can help you care for an older adult who struggles with alchol abuse, please call one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 2/9/2009 1:17:04 PM |
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Did you know that US veterans and their spouses may be eligible to receive a benefit that will help cover homecare services like those provided by Visiting Angels? The benefit, called Aid and Attendance, is not very well known but can ease the burden of paying for care.
The Veterans Administration (VA) has set very specific gudielines for receiving the benefit. The description and requirements below are taken directly from the VA website.
*WARNING: The process to qualify for these benefits is very complicated. As a result, many companies and individuals have emerged offering to help veterans complete the paperwork necessary to receive these benefits. But take caution, not everyone has a veteran's best interest in mind. For example, some veterans are being charged illegally for seeking help in completing their forms. Be sure to find out if the company or individual you are working with is certified by the VA. Call the VA at 1-800-827-1000 to check.
What are Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits?
Aid and Attendance (A&A) is a benefit paid in addition to monthly pension. This benefit may not be paid without eligibility to pension. A veteran may be eligible for A&A when:
The veteran requires the aid of another person in order to perform personal functions required in everyday living, such as bathing, feeding, dressing, attending to the wants of nature, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting himself/herself from the hazards of his/her daily environment, OR,
The veteran is bedridden, in that his/her disability or disabilities requires that he/she remain in bed apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment, OR,
The veteran is a patient in a nursing home due to mental or physical incapacity, OR,
The veteran is blind, or so nearly blind as to have corrected visual acuity of 5/200 or less, in both eyes, or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less.
Housebound is paid in addition to monthly pension. Like A&A, Housebound benefits may not be paid without eligibility to pension. A veteran may be eligible for Housebound benefits when:
The veteran has a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, due to such disability, he/she is permanently and substantially confined to his/her immediate premises, OR,
The veteran has a single permanent disability evaluated as 100-percent disabling AND, another disability, or disabilities, evaluated as 60 percent or more disabling.
A veteran cannot receive both Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits at the same time.
How to Apply for Aid and Attendance and Housebound:
You may apply for Aid and Attendance or Housebound benefits by writing to the VA regional office having jurisdiction of the claim. That would be the office where you filed a claim for pension benefits. If the regional office of jurisdiction is not known, you may file the request with any VA regional office.
You should include copies of any evidence, preferably a report from an attending physician validating the need for Aid and Attendance or Housebound type care.
The report should be in sufficient detail to determine whether there is disease or injury producing physical or mental impairment, loss of coordination, or conditions affecting the ability to dress and undress, to feed oneself, to attend to sanitary needs, and to keep oneself ordinarily clean and presentable.
In addition, it is necessary to determine whether the claimant is confined to the home or immediate premises.
Whether the claim is for Aid and Attendance or Housebound, the report should indicate how well the individual gets around, where the individual goes, and what he or she is able to do during a typical day.
For more information about the homecare services we can provide to veterans of any age, contact on |
| 2/6/2009 4:18:37 PM |
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Choosing the right nursing home for your loved one is a difficult decision. Very few people- including those of us who work in the industry- know the questions to ask and things to look for when trying to figure out which facilities are better than others. Being educated about what makes a nursing home a quality facility can help you become an advocate for your loved one, but reliable, unbiased information that is easy for the average consumer to understand is difficult to come by.
In an effort to make the nursing home ratings system more transparent, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services developed a new method that assigns homes one to five stars for quality, staffing and health inspections, plus an overall score.
USA Today published an article about the new ratings system along with a link to the searchable results. You can search for one of the 16,000 facilities nationwide that are included in the study by entering the name of the nursing home, or the city and state in which the nursing home is located.
For a free assessment to find out whether in-home care or nursing home placement is the right option for you and your loved one, please call one of our Bay Area Offices.
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 1/26/2009 10:03:10 AM |
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Convincing an older adult that it is time to give up the car keys is a challenge. Many seniors see losing the ability to drive as a blow to their independence. However, older drivers can become a safety risk to other drivers and themselves. This is particularly true if they are experiencing any of the physical impediments to driving that come with age, including impaired vision, hearing loss and diminished response time.
An employee at Visiting Angels in Illinois faced just such a challenge with her own father-in-law. This article about her experience, as well as the experiences of a few others, may help you come up with a plan to approach the older driver in your life about giving up their car keys.
As the article explains, there are many resources available to help you convince a senior that they are no longer safe to drive. A person's physician or eye doctor can plead your case from an unbiased and professional perspective. In California, the California Highway Patrol Older Californian Traffic Safety Task Force conducts workshops and provides resources to promote older driver safety. Visiting Angels has developed informational brochures about the issues that arise among older drivers and how to address these issues. Our previously posted blogs on the subject may also be helpful. Click on the category "Driving Issues" on the list on the right side of this page.
To receive information about older driver safety or to find out how we can assist with transporting the older adult in your life who has given up their car keys, contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 1/19/2009 9:59:13 AM |
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Long-term care is expensive. Whether it's in-home caregiving services, like those provided by Visiting Angels, or an assisted living community, many seniors in our community struggle to cover the extensive costs involved in maintaining a comfortable standard of living after retirement.
Long term care insurance is one option available to subsidize the cost of services like those listed above. However, as this article from the Contra Costa Times discusses, long term care insurance is an option that many hold off considering until it's too late.
If you already have long term care insurance and are in need of homecare services, Visiting Angels can assist you in billing your insurance company.
For more information please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 12/8/2008 10:33:42 AM |
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December is Identity Theft Prevention and Awareness Month. This serves as a reminder to all of us to be vigilant about who has access to our personal information.
It is especially important to increase awareness of the freqeuency at which seniors are preyed upon by identity thieves and financial abusers. Unfortunately, the news is peppered with stories of elders who have lost their savings, homes, cars and other valuable possessions to the hands of criminals- often people they consider to be trustworthy.
According to the Identity Theft Resource Center, there are 4 types of identity (ID) theft:
Financial ID Theft: Thieves use victims’ names, Social Security numbers, and other identifying information to apply for telephone service, credit cards or loans, buy merchandise, or lease cars or apartments. /strong>
Criminal ID Theft: Imposters provide victims’ information instead of their own when stopped by law enforcement. Eventually, when warrants for arrest are issued, they are in the names of the victims.
Identity Cloning: Imposters use victims’ information to establish new live. This form of ID theft is often committed by undocumented immigrants, criminals avoiding warrants, people hiding from abusive situations, or people who want to leave behind poor work and financial histories.
Business or Commercial Identity Theft: Businesses may also be victims. Typically, perpetrators get credit cards or checking accounts in the names of businesses, which find out when unhappy suppliers send collection notices or their business rating score is affected.
There are many local, state and national resources avilable to help prevent ID theft and assist victims. The following list is just a sample:
The Federal Trade Commission
United States Department of Justice
California Office of Privacy Protection
Contra Costa County District Attorny
San Joaquin County Superior Court
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| 12/4/2008 2:46:56 PM |
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The holidays provide a great opportunity for families and friends to spend time with each other and reconnect. Occasionally, family members notice subtle changes in loved ones that lead to health concerns and questions.
The Alzheimer's Association helpline experts (800-272-3900) assist callers who often, especially this time of year, have questions about warning signs and resources available to help family members possibly confronted with Alzheimer's disease.
There are 588,208 California residents age 55 and older living with this disease. It is critical for people with dementia and their families to receive the information, care and support they need as early as possible. Being aware of the different warning signs of Alzheimer's disease can equip families to look out for behavior and actions that may warrant concern and require follow up from a health professional.
The Alzheimer's Association has developed a checklist to help you recognize the difference between normal age-related memory changes and possible warning signs of Alzheimer's disease.
Additionally, if your family is struggling with the disease, the Alzheimer's Association website provides some suggestions to make your holiday celebrations enjoyable for all.
* Article provided by the Alzheimer's Association
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help individuals living with memory impairment, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585 |
| 11/24/2008 4:17:59 PM |
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President Reagan launched a national campaign against Alzheimer's disease 25 years ago when he proclaimed November as National Alzheimer's Disease Month. The former president courageously announced his Alzheimer's diagnosis to the public in 1994 and passed away ten years later.
Every November since President Reagan's proclamation in 1983, the President issues a White House proclamation calling upon American's to observe the month as National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. Communities around the country hold events, memorial services and forums. Organizations like the Alzheimer's Association use the month to increase awareness of the need for research, advocacy and support, as well as to educate the public about the disease.
At Visiting Angels we work with many clients who are living with Alzheimer's disease. Our caregivers provide compassionate and tireless service to increase the quality of live of these clients and help them remain at home as long as possible. This month we recognize the contributions made by our caregivers and remember our clients, past and present, who have been touched by Alzheimer's disease.
To find out more about how Visiting Angels can help you, a loved one, or someone you know who is living with Alzheimer's disease, please contact one of our offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 11/17/2008 11:22:52 AM |
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November is National Homecare and Hospice month, a time set aside to recognize the men and women who have dedicated their lives to caring for others through providing homecare and hospice services.
Our caregivers often provide supplemental assistance to clients who are receiving hospice care. In these special circumstances, Visiting Angels works closely with various hospice organizations to help ensure that clients are comfortable at the end of their lives, and that families can focus on their loved one rather than worry about meals, housework or errands.
Hospice care is a valuable resource to many in our community, but it is a service that is often misunderstood. In honor of this month's dedication to homecare and hospice workers, please enjoy the following article written by one of our local hospice organizations, Hospice of the East Bay:
Hospice isn’t a place. It’s a type of care that focuses on living; living as fully as possible, up until the end of life.
Talking with Bonnie Safine, Vice President, Clinical Services of Hospice of the East Bay, about hospice care, one soon understands that a significant component of the great work of hospice is bringing comfort during what can be the loneliest of experiences -- dying. "We make the journey less solitary," says Safine. "When a cure is no longer possible, hospice is with you every step of the way."
Since 1977, Hospice of the East Bay has worked to ease physical and psychological pain for terminally ill patients and their families by offering in-home medical care, practical assistance, emotional support, and bereavement services. “Until the 1950’s, most Americans were born and died at home, surrounded by those they loved. Death was seen as a natural part of life’s journey,” remarked Safine, “In today’s high-tech world, most people die in hospitals, isolated, and challenged to find meaning at the end of their lives.”
Surveys show that 8 out of 10 Americans wish to die at home, cared for by family, and in control of their medical and personal choices. They understand that death is as much an emotional and spiritual passage as a physical one. When they choose hospice care, terminally ill patients become part of a new tradition: death in the comfort of home, supported by a team of professionals who offer compassionate, practical, medical, emotional and spiritual care.
Hospice of the East Bay offers specialized programs that include: Anna’s Program (for women with recurrent breast cancer), Comfort for Kids (pediatric hospice and palliative care) and Skye’s Angels (perinatal hospice care). In addition, in 2004, hospice opened Bruns House acute care hospice facility in Alamo. Bruns House accommodates six terminally ill patients in comfortable, attractive, medically appropriate private rooms. Patients experience privacy and quiet that cannot be achieved in a hospital, and intensive around-the-clock care that cannot be achieved at home. Family members enjoy unrestricted access to the House.
During the 31 years that Hospice of the East Bay has been serving terminally ill patients, public awareness of the value of hospice care in general, and of the excellent quality of our services in particular, has increased dramatically. As a result, hospice’s patient load has grown from one patient in 1977 to more than 1500 in 2007.
“Hospice of the East Bay helps our patients and their loved ones meet one of the most difficult times in life with grace, dignity, comfort, and compassion,” says Safine, “We empower them to take control when they feel most powerless. Our focus is on quality of life, not the length of time left to live.”
To find out more about how Visiting Angels can help you, a loved one, or someone you know who is receiving hospice care, please contact one of our offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
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| 11/14/2008 12:43:57 PM |
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Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia brings with it many unique issues. Caregivers working with people suffering from various forms of memory loss often struggle with the ambiguity and uncertainty it causes. They also may have difficulty coping with the fact that someone living with memory impairment is physically present but is mentally and psychologically drifting away.
The Family Caregiver Alliance has compiled a helpful Fact Sheet outlining these and other issues facing caregivers working with memory impaired care recipients, why such issues arise and how caregivers can address them and better cope with the situation.
For more information about how Visiting Angels can help individuals living with memory impairment, please feel free to contact one of our Bay Area offices:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 10/13/2008 10:39:39 AM |
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Senate Unanimous on Increasing Falls Safety Awareness
Falls Are Leading Cause of Injury Deaths among Persons Over 65
Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Subcommittee on Retirement and Aging, announced the Senate's unanimous passage this week of her resolution to designate Sept. 22 as "National Falls Prevention Awareness Day." The resolution was intended to promote public awareness about how to prevent and reduce falls among older Americans, which are the leading cause of deaths from injury among persons over 65.
Falls among seniors are a very serious matter, and are costly not only in terms of spending for care and rehabilitation but in the quality of life of many older Americans. Falls often lead to reduced mobility and exacerbate other previously manageable problems, making independent living more difficult to maintain and fueling a negative outlook for those who suffer them.
But even modest efforts to increase fall awareness among seniors, as well as the clinicians who provide care for them, have been shown to have a significant positive impact. To boost these efforts, the Private Duty Homecare Association (PDHCA) has made fall prevention resources available for its members to help their clients avoid falls.
To learn more about how Visiting Angels can help prevent falls in your home or the home of a loved one, please call one of our Northern California locations:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 10/9/2008 12:09:30 PM |
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With caregiver fatigue and burnout being more prevalent than ever, it is vitally important that caregivers maintain a sense of well-being so that they can provide those important services required by the care recipients. We are always concerned about making sure the care recipient is well cared for, yet we rarely discuss the needs of the caregiver. Caregivers must take care of themselves if they are to remain effective in their duties for the care recipient.
There is no doubt that caregiving is stressful, even in the best of circumstances. With that in mind, below you will find a Caregiver Stress Test (from www.seniormag.com) which will help to identify particular areas of concern for caregivers.
Which of the following are "seldom true," "sometimes true," "often true," or "usually true"?
I find I can't get enough sleep.
I don't have enough time for myself.
I don't have time to be with other family members besides the person I care for.
I feel guilty about my situation.
I don't get out much anymore.
I have conflict with the person I care for.
I have conflicts with other family members.
I worry about having enough money to make ends meet.
I don't feel I have enough knowledge or experience to give care as well as I'd like.
My own health is not good.
If the response to one or more of these areas is "usually true" or "often true" it may be time to begin looking for help with caring for the care recipient and help in taking care of yourself.
To learn more about Visiting Angels, our caregivers and how we can help lighten your load by providing respite care, please feel free to call us:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 9/29/2008 3:14:08 PM |
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Visiting Angels is a member of the National Private Duty Association (NPDA), the nation's first association for providers of private duty homecare.
Membership to NPDA is limited to agencies who employ their caregivers, create a plan of care for clients, maintain 24/7 on call coverage, perform regular supervisory visits, maintain Workers' Compensation coverage and carry liability insurance.
Because of these rigorous standards, NPDA members offer more than just home care: They offer peace of mind. From their code of ethics to their continuing education to their gentle, compassionate services, NPDA members are ready to help you and your loved ones.
Visiting Angels is proud to be a member of the NPDA!
To learn more about NPDA and take advantage of their resources, visit their website.
To learn more about Visiting Angels, our caregivers and how we may be of assistance to you or a loved one, please feel free to call us:
Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano Counties: (925) 552-6500
Marin and San Francisco Counties: (415) 499-1200
San Joaquin Valley: (209) 952-3585
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| 9/20/2008 1:13:08 PM |
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The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a major new web resource for families, caregivers, and seniors to help navigate long-term care needs. The new website, activated Sept. 18, is part of the Medicare program's consumer site and includes links to help locate providers of services. It also provides a link to direct users seeking information on home care and hospice services to the National Association for Home Care & Hospice's (NAHC) home page.
The new Medicare caregiver site includes links to information on the variety of long-term care services and how to pay for them, including the types of Medicare coverage for eligible individuals and financial assistance. A link to the Administration on Aging's website helps caregivers locate federal, state, and local assistance and support through organizations and providers. Users of the caregiver site can also sign up to receive a free newsletter on updates from Medicare and learn about other caregivers' stories. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has unveiled a major new web resource for families, caregivers, and seniors to help navigate long-term care needs. The new website, activated Sept. 18, is part of the Medicare program's consumer site and includes links to help locate providers of services. It also provides a link to direct users seeking information on home care and hospice services to the National Association for Home Care & Hospice's (NAHC) home page.
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| 9/20/2008 12:55:19 PM |
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