Scams are on the rise, and fraudsters continue to find new ways to target vulnerable individuals. Roughly 50% of reported fraud cases come from people 65 and older, particularly retirees.

Scammers frequently target older individuals based on their assumption that seniors have accumulated wealth. They also operate on the belief that seniors are more isolated and less familiar with current technology and scam tactics.

Types of Scams That Target the Elderly

Investment scam: A scammer contacts your senior over the phone or online promising investment opportunities with high returns and little risk.

Funeral scam: Individuals pretend to work for funeral homes to get seniors to pay for a funeral ahead of time, often pressuring them to choose the most expensive options and services.

Tech support scam: Your loved one may receive a call, text, email or pop-up message on their computer warning them of a technical issue. Typically, they receive a fake number to call so a hacker can gain access to their computer, steal information or download malware.

Grandparent scam: A scammer poses as a grandchild, relative or friend in distress, pretending to be stranded, in an accident or in jail to acquire funds quickly.

Romance scam: Fraudsters create fake dating and online profiles to build trust and develop relationships by requesting money to pay for an emergency, buy a ticket or help a friend. Once they receive the funds, they usually delete the profile.

Government impersonation/Medicare scam: Often done over the phone, someone pretending to work for a government agency contacts your senior in an attempt to convince them to pay for a non-existent issue. A scammer may ask for their Medicare information, personal details or Social Security number.

Charity scam: This type of scam is common following a natural disaster or war. An individual claiming to be from a real or fake charity requests urgent donations.

Lottery/sweepstakes scam: Your loved one may be lured into paying a “processing fee” to receive a prize, sweepstakes or money.

Reverse mortgage scam: A reverse mortgage allows homeowners to access home equity based on the difference between the current market value of their home and their mortgage balance. Scam artists claim to be able to provide a reverse mortgage so they can steal the equity.

Robocallers: Phone scammers use pressure to encourage seniors to act quickly and send money via wire or app transfer or even mailing funds. They can even take your loved one’s voice signature to authorize fraudulent charges.

Warning Signs of Fraud and Scams

Beware the following tactics and behaviors employed by scammers:

• Unsolicited contact via call, text, email, social media or mail
• A sense of urgency or fear
• Pressure to act quickly
• Requesting personal information, like Social Security number, bank accounts and address
• Unusual payment methods, such as gift cards and cryptocurrency
• Poor grammar and spelling on websites and in emails
• Refusal to answer questions
• Pressure to not involve family, friends and financial institutions

Role of Technology in Elderly Fraud Schemes

Aside from tech support scams, fraudsters employ a variety of methods to con seniors out of information. Phishing is one of the most common types of online fraud. A scammer or hacker impersonates a legitimate organization via text or email, providing a link or attachment that contains malware.

Online shopping also presents fraudulent opportunities. Seniors may encounter fake online stores or listings on platforms such as Facebook Marketplace or eBay that offer low prices. Scammers can steal payment information or provide an item of lesser value.

How Seniors Can Protect Themselves from Fraud

Here are some tips to help seniors protect themselves against scams:

• Be skeptical. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
• Don’t share sensitive information unless you’re sure of the validity of a website, app or individual.
• Use secure payment methods that offer fraud protection features.
• Hang up on unsolicited calls and block the number.
• Create strong passwords for personal accounts, and don’t reuse them.
• Don’t make rushed decisions.
• Contact family, friends and financial institutions to verify claims.
• Don’t open emails from unknown senders or click suspicious links.
• Install security software.
• Enable two-factor authentication on online accounts.

Raising Awareness About Elderly Fraud

Discussing potential fraud with your loved one can help them stay vigilant and protect their personal information and assets. Embarrassment may prevent your senior from addressing a scam, so encourage your loved one to be honest about financial matters and suspicious activity.

If your loved one suspects they’re a victim of fraud, report it to the police as soon as possible. They should also notify their financial institution to protect their accounts. You can file a fraud claim with the Federal Trade Commission online or call 1-800-382-4357.

In-Home Medical Care from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Our skilled in-home care staff are committed to providing your loved one with the clinical and personal support they need to live well. Learn about our services and contact us to schedule a consultation.

November was named American Diabetes Month in honor of Frederick Banting, who discovered insulin in 1921. This month serves to raise awareness and educate those affected by the disease.

According to the American Diabetes Association, approximately 1.2 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year. Understanding the causes and symptoms of diabetes can help you lower your risk and learn to manage your health.

 

What is Diabetes?

When you eat, your pancreas produces the hormone insulin to convert sugar from the food into glucose to energize your cells. If you have diabetes, your body doesn’t produce enough or can’t regulate insulin to control your blood sugar. Without insulin, your body will turn to other cells for energy by breaking fat and muscle.

Key Differences Between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes: This type of diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Type 1 diabetes typically develops during childhood but can affect people of all ages.

Type 2 diabetes: If you have type 2 diabetes, your body may not produce enough insulin or is resistant to its effects. It’s the most common type of diabetes among adults and can develop due to genetic and lifestyle factors.

What Causes Diabetes?

The exact cause of diabetes is unknown. Type 1 diabetes is believed to be influenced by genetic factors, a family history of diabetes and pancreatic diseases. Type 2 diabetes can develop due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, eating habits and comorbidities, such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes symptoms:

• Increased thirst or appetite
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination
• Dehydration
• Dry mouth or skin
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Tingling or numbness in your hands and feet
• Slow wound healing
• Nausea and vomiting (due to ketoacidosis)
• Abdominal pain

Type 2 diabetes presents many of the same symptoms as type 1. Additional signs include:

• Weight loss or gain
• Irritability or mood changes
• Yeast infections in women

Risk Factors for Diabetes

• Obesity
• High fat distribution around the abdomen
• Diet high in sugar, salt and trans and saturated fats
• Lack of exercise
• High cholesterol or blood pressure
• Age (varies between type 1 and 2)
• Autoimmune conditions, including Celiac disease, Addison’s disease and autoimmune thyroiditis
• A family history of diabetes
• Chronic high blood sugar, also known as prediabetes
• Gestational diabetes
• African American, Asian and Hispanic ethnicities

Diabetes Treatment Options

If left untreated, type 1 and type 2 diabetes can damage your heart, kidneys and eyes. Diabetes is also the most common cause of limb amputation due to circulation issues. It’s crucial to contact your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. Type 2 diabetes doesn’t always produce noticeable symptoms, so getting an annual physical exam and blood test will help you monitor your blood sugar level.

While there is currently no cure for type 1 or type 2 diabetes, they can be controlled with medication or injections to regulate your insulin and blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes requires daily glucose testing and insulin therapy to prevent adverse symptoms.

You can manage type 2 diabetes through a combination of lifestyle changes, oral medication, blood sugar monitoring and insulin use. In some cases, bariatric surgery can reduce obesity and lead to diabetes remission.

How to Get Involved During American Diabetes Month

You can participate in raising awareness during National Diabetes Month by making healthy lifestyle choices to reduce your risk of or manage diabetes.

Here are some tips to consider:

• Eat a well-balanced diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.
• Avoid processed foods, prepackaged snacks and sugary beverages as much as possible.
• Practice portion control to prevent overeating.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Exercise for 30 minutes a day or 150 per week.
• Find effective ways to manage your stress.
• Take your medication as prescribed.
• Check your blood sugar daily or per your physician’s instructions.
• Schedule routine eye exams
• Protect your feet from infection.

In-Home Diabetic Care from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Ohioans Home Healthcare specializes in creating personalized care plans based on your unique needs. We combine comprehensive evaluations with your preferences and insight to design a routine to help you regulate chronic conditions, including diabetes. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

You may feel uncertain about your first in-home physical therapy session, and that’s okay. Understanding what to expect can ease any anxiety or anticipation you may feel. Your first appointment is mostly about collecting information, conducting assessments, establishing a prognosis and creating a plan for future sessions.

Comprehensive Health Evaluation

Once your physical therapist arrives at your home, they’ll begin with a thorough review of your medical history, health status and specific issues or injuries. It’s helpful to have a list of your medical conditions, history of problems and medications to give the therapist a complete picture of your current condition.

You’ll discuss your lifestyle and activity level to determine where you’re at and how you want to progress. It’s also important to talk about any pain you experience, including the intensity and location.

Personalized Assessment

The physical therapist will conduct a series of assessments and measurements to evaluate your symptoms and see how your joints and muscles move. You’ll need to wear comfortable clothes and shoes that allow free movement and can be moved and adjusted.

Functional assessments are used to review your:

• Range of motion
• Posture
• Strength
• Balance
• Endurance
• Gait
• Joint flexibility

Physical therapists also check palpation to identify tenderness and abnormalities that could cause discomfort. A pain evaluation is another important component of your in-home therapy assessment. You’ll need to describe your pain on a scale and characterize the intensity.

Goal Setting

Reviewing your goals allows your physical therapist to develop an appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve them. That may include pain relief, increased mobility, better coordination and enhanced independence. Understanding your goals also helps your physical therapist establish a monitoring system to track your progress and adjust as needed.

This portion of your first physical therapy session is also a time to set expectations. Your therapist will talk about what you can achieve through therapy and detail a potential timeline for reaching your goals.

Customized Treatment Plan

The exercises in your physical therapy plan will address your specific condition and rehab goals based on your assessment.

They may include:

Strength training: Working on muscle groups supports your joints and improves your balance.

Flexibility exercises: Stretching is good for joint mobility and can reduce stiffness.

Balance exercises: Your therapist can help you improve your coordination to reduce your risk of falls and further injury.

Functional movements: This type of training helps you learn how to move safely while performing daily functions, such as sitting, bending and lifting.

Posture correction: Practicing good posture while seated or standing can help alleviate pain and body strain, especially if you have a spinal injury.

Daily living exercises: Techniques like gait training can help you learn to walk and climb stairs comfortably. You’ll also work on daily activities such as dressing and cooking.

Education on Condition and Therapy

A physical therapist can teach you how to move safely in your home environment. They also provide patient and caregiver education to ensure you and your loved ones can practice between appointments. That begins with a clear understanding of your therapy plan to ensure you know what needs to be addressed. Learning about your diagnosis and the healing process can help you reach long-term success and achieve your wellness goals.

Safety and Comfort Measures

Your physical therapist will review safety measures during your first session. You may not get to the exercises during that appointment as some therapists focus the time solely on evaluation and education.

It’s important to begin slowly and gradually introduce resistance, intensity and complexity to your routine to avoid unnecessary strain. You’ll undergo supervised movement assessments. Your therapist can also use a gait belt to assist you if necessary. They will set up an open space so you have plenty of room to conduct your therapy session.

Use of Therapy Equipment

Physical therapists can employ assistive equipment such as canes, walkers and braces to help you during training. You may also require supportive devices like cushions, stretch bands and pillows to complete certain exercises or movements. Using therapy equipment can help you ease into your program and regain strength and mobility.

In-Home Physical Therapy from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Home is where the heart is. That’s why Ohioans Home Healthcare brings comprehensive skilled nursing care to your doorstep. Our expert team can help you recover from illness, injury and surgery and assist in managing chronic conditions. Contact us to learn more about our in-home physical therapy services.

Good nutrition is essential for healthy aging. Getting the right vitamins and minerals supports physical and cognitive wellness and reduces your risk for chronic health issues.

As you age, your body’s ability to absorb and use nutrients changes, and you may not know which foods to eat to support your dietary needs. Nutrition counseling can help identify nutrient deficiencies and create healthy meal plans.

Who Provides Nutrition Counseling?

Nutrition counseling is provided by a registered dietitian or a registered dietitian nutritionist. Those professionals work in hospitals, clinics, skilled nursing facilities and private residences. A registered dietitian must complete extensive training and meet certification guidelines provided by the Commission for Dietetic Registration.

What to Expect During Nutrition Counseling

Nutrition counseling is available as an in-home health service. A registered dietitian can come to your home and assess your medical history, eating habits and lifestyle factors.

That may include:

• Food allergies
• Digestive issues
• Chronic conditions
• Medication and supplements

A dietitian will explain the basics of good nutrition and can teach you to read food labels, assess serving sizes and make mindful meal choices. Nutrition counseling also addresses behavioral factors that can lead to nutrition troubles, such as a lack of exercise, compulsive eating and unsafe dieting.

During your assessment, a dietitian will also ask if you experience symptoms like hair loss and muscle cramps as those are signs of nutrient deficiencies.

Your dietitian will work with you to create a meal plan that accommodates your budget, medical needs and food preferences. They can provide sample meal plans and recipe ideas that simplify cooking. Changes are implemented over time to track which strategies are effective and whether more steps need to be taken.

Benefits of Nutrition Counseling for Seniors

Prevent or manage chronic diseases: Poor nutrition can increase your risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, cancer and stroke. It can also worsen your symptoms if you live with those conditions. Nutrition counseling teaches you to identify the nutrients your body needs, allowing you to make healthy choices and lower your likelihood of chronic illness.

Reach a healthy weight: Obesity can affect your cardiac and respiratory health and strain your joints. Conversely, being underweight can weaken your immune system, decrease bone mass and slow the healing process. Working with a registered dietitian provides you with essential insight so you can develop a customized meal plan. Eating a balanced diet can help you shed pounds or put on weight, depending on your wellness goals. You’ll also learn strategies to maintain long-term weight management success.

Improve overall wellness: Feeding your body the nutrients it needs can improve your quality of life. Good nutrition boosts your energy levels, strengthens your immune system and improves your cognitive function.

Develop long-term healthy habits: Take advantage of nutrition counseling to identify obstacles to good nutrition and find ways to mitigate them. A dietitian can provide you with resources and information to support long-term dietary wellness.

How Can Seniors Receive Nutrition Counseling?

Consult your primary care physician if you’re interested in receiving nutrition counseling. They can provide you with information on local services to help you get started. Senior and community health centers may also have educational sessions and resources on nutrition counseling to help you find a registered dietitian.

Nutrition Services from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Nutritious meals can support strength and independence, allowing your loved one to stay in the comfort of their home. Ohioans Home Healthcare offers comprehensive in-home care and therapy to optimize a well-balanced diet with clinical support. Contact us to learn more about our services and schedule a consultation.

June marks National Safety Month—a crucial time to prioritize the safety of your senior loved ones by assessing and addressing hidden risks in their home. Ensuring a safe living environment is key to maintaining their health, well-being and independence.

Why Are Seniors More Likely to Sustain Injuries at Home?

Physical and mental abilities change with age, including:

• Vision
• Hearing
• Strength
• Balance
• Cognition
• Memory recall

Activities of daily living that were once simple may be more difficult for your senior. They may overestimate their abilities and hurt themselves.

According to the CDC, 14 million older adults fall every year. About 37% of those falls resulted in an injury that required medical treatment or restricted activity.

Recovery also alters with age. A minor cut or burn could take longer to heal and pose an increased threat of infection. A hip fracture from a fall could have long-term implications for your loved one’s mobility.

Home Safety Tips by Room

Living Room or Den

Clutter: Remove items that could pose a fall risk, such as pillows, blankets, clothing, shoes and other personal items. Clear coffee tables and entertainment consoles so your loved one doesn’t knock objects over.

Furniture: Move armchairs and couches against walls to prevent your loved one from bumping into furniture and getting bruised or falling. Opt for smaller pieces of furniture to open up the living space.

Rugs: Secure rugs with non-slip backing. Get rid of worn rugs with holes or frays so your loved one’s feet don’t get tangled or stuck.

Electrical cords: Keep electrical cords out of walkways to limit tripping hazards. Check them for fraying as well to avoid electrical fires.

Kitchen

Appliances: Move appliances away from the sink and other water sources. Label the on/off switch for easy use.

Cutlery: If your loved one struggles with fine motor skills, consider getting them a dicing or chopping tool to simplify cutting foods. Keep carving knives covered or stored in a drawer.

Lighting: Install bright lighting in the kitchen so your loved one can read labels and prepare and cook food safely.

Floor mats: Lay mats in front of the sink and refrigerator to reduce the likelihood of slipping if there’s a spill.

Meal prep: Label and date food in the fridge so your loved one knows when to throw it away. That helps lower their risk of food poisoning.

Hallways and Entryways

Lighting: Well-lit hallways and entryways allow your loved one to navigate their home safely. Swap soft lighting with brighter bulbs, especially if your parent has vision impairments.

Stairs: Steep stairs pose a particular fall risk if your senior lives in a multi-story house. Make sure there are sturdy railings and non-skid mats to create traction. Consider placing ramps over porch steps and in rooms with different elevations to ease movement.

Handrails: Grab bars will help your loved one move down hallways safely, especially if they don’t use a walker or cane. They also provide something to grab if your loved one needs to pull themselves up.

Bathroom

Bathtub and shower: Getting in and out of the shower or tub can be tricky if your loved one has mobility issues. A shower seat and grab bars can help your senior move around. Installing a walk-in tub or shower is another option.

Medication: Improper medication management could lead to illness or hospitalization. Write reminders and use a pill organizer to remind your loved one to take their medication. Keep the bathroom well-lit for reading dosage and directions.

Toilet: Raised toilet seats ease the transition from seated to standing. Some also have armrests that allow your loved one even more leverage.

Non-slip flooring: Place rubber mats in the shower or tub and bath mats on the floor to keep your senior steady.

Comprehensive In-Home Healthcare from Ohioans

Be proactive about your loved one’s safety. Our dedicated team provides in-home assessments to help you and your loved one identify and mitigate potential safety issues. Call 855.600.0806 to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

It’s important to consider your physical, emotional and mental health when optimizing your stroke recovery process. Paying attention to your mind and body will help you improve your quality of life after a stroke.

The Importance of Consistency

Your brain can rewire and reorganize itself following a stroke. That ability is known as neuroplasticity and allows your brain to continue to create new neural pathways. Your brain relearns skills through repetition and requires stimulation to recover. The more consistent you are with physical and mental rehabilitation, the better your chances of recouping lost skills because of a stroke.

6 Stroke Recovery Tips

#1: Eat Healthy

Your body needs a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals to support cell regeneration and function. Eating well helps you manage your blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, which reduces your risk for another stroke. Focus on eating whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, lean and plant-based protein, whole grains, nuts and seeds.

Here are some brain foods to include in your diet:

• Avocadoes
• Eggs
• Quinoa
• Legumes
• Blueberries
• Pomegranates
• Citrus fruits
• Apples
• Salmon

#2: Move Often

A stroke can cause paralysis or weakness and affect your coordination and mobility. Implementing a consistent exercise routine helps you regain strength and balance as well as improve your respiratory and cardiovascular systems.

Exercise also enhances neuroplasticity as your brain relearns movements and lost skills. Aerobic exercises get your heart pumping and oxygenate your cells. Go at your own pace and start slowly, increasing the intensity and duration of your routine over time.

Here are some cardio exercises to try:

• Walking
• Jogging
• Swimming
• Dancing
• Cycling
• Yoga

#3: Interact with Others

Socializing reduces your risk of isolation, anxiety and depression. Spending time with your family and friends also provides a much-needed mood boost if you feel frustrated with your recovery.

Engaging with others provides your brain with visual and auditory stimulation, which contributes to cognitive recovery following a stroke. Your loved ones can help you through your rehabilitation process and offer essential emotional support, too.

#4: Keep Your Brain Active

Mental rehabilitation can prevent cognitive decline, maintain emotional well-being and improve long-term brain health. As with any other type of injury, it’s important to keep your brain active to maintain its agility.

Mental exercises that include problem-solving, memorization and reasoning skills that engage different parts of your brain. Board games, crossword puzzles and brain training apps keep your mind active. Reading, learning new skills and practicing a hobby are also effective cognitive exercises.

#5: Get Enough Sleep

A good night’s sleep allows your body to eliminate toxins that negatively affect your brain. Your brain undergoes processes that promote regeneration and memory formation during REM cycles. Information moves from your cerebral cortex to your hippocampus where it remains before becoming a long-term memory. Sleep eases the effects of stress associated with stroke recovery, too.

Consider these tips:

• Go to bed at the same time each night.
• Limit exposure to screens and blue light.
• Keep your environment dark and cool.
• Limit naps in the evening.

#6: Schedule Regular Health Checkups

Your doctors and specialists will track your progress as you recover from a stroke. They will monitor for adverse symptoms and provide recommendations to improve your rehabilitation.

Your physician may also assist with medication management and prescribe prescriptions to help you manage your blood pressure and cholesterol.

In-Home Rehabilitative Services from Ohioans Home Healthcare & Hospice

If you or a loved one has suffered a stroke, Ohioans Home Healthcare & Hospice can help. Our comprehensive in-home physical, occupational and speech therapies are designed to optimize your physical and cognitive abilities. We strive to provide personalized care plans that enhance your quality of life. Learn more about our services, and call 855-600-0806 to schedule a consultation.

You may feel apprehensive about using digital technology if you don’t have much experience with it, but it can provide several lifestyle benefits. Smart devices allow you to connect with your loved ones, stay safe and access a wide variety of entertainment.

Social Engagement

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 25% of adults 65 and older are at risk for social isolation which can increase the chance of cognitive decline, memory loss, dementia and depression.

Make video calls and phone calls on your computer, phone or tablet to connect with your friends and family. That technology is especially helpful if you have limitations with mobility or transportation.

And you can use social platforms like Facebook and X to stay up to date on your loved ones’ lives and interact with their posts.

Access News

Set up alerts on your smartphone or tablet to receive news updates as they happen. You can filter your content for local or world headlines, politics and trending topics. Stream from a tablet or phone to watch the news from your bed, in your kitchen or on your patio while you unwind.

Entertainment and Hobbies

Download and play games, listen to music and watch videos, sports and movies on a smartphone or tablet.

There are brain teasers, games and puzzles available online and through the app store on your device. The mental stimulation they provide can help you maintain your cognitive skills by keeping your brain challenged.

Are you considering a new hobby or maybe picking up an old one? You’re likely to find tutorials and how-to guides online that can help you get started.

Health Monitoring

Tracking your vitals allows you to identify changes that could negatively impact your health. Smartwatches and fitness trackers can monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, blood sugar and oxygen levels. You can also set reminders for medication management.

Your doctor can address concerns and make necessary changes to your care plan with the information collected by health monitoring technology. You can even schedule remote medical appointments and talk with your doctor from the comfort of your home at your convenience.

Safety and Emergency Systems

Safety technology can help you feel more comfortable living on your own. For example, a video doorbell will send an alert to your mobile device allowing you to see who’s outside without opening the door.

Some smart home systems let you adjust your thermostat, turn lights on and off and open curtains with a voice command. That gives you the freedom to manage your home regardless of your mobility.

Fall detection systems are wearable devices that send notifications to your loved ones and emergency services if you fall. That can improve response times and reduce your likelihood of sustaining serious injuries.

Home Health Care Services from Ohioans

Ohioans Home Healthcare and Hospice is committed to helping you feel safe and comfortable in your home. We offer a variety of in-home skilled nursing and therapy services designed to suit your unique medical needs. Call 855-600-0806 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

Social workers are trained to coordinate home healthcare. They’re experts in navigating the healthcare system and finding resources to optimize your at-home treatment.

They’re well-versed in the details of managing home healthcare, so you can focus on your wellness and quality of life.

What Does a Home Health Social Worker Do?

They provide you and your loved ones with emotional, mental and psychosocial support to ensure your needs are met. Social workers function as case managers to guide you through finding and scheduling home health services. They’re someone you can lean on to help you through the emotions that accompany living with chronic illness or recovering from injury or surgery.

Types of Social Services

Social workers offer a variety of services, including:

• Assessment and planning
• Community resource referrals
• Assistance with paperwork and insurance coverage
• Financial counseling
• Identifying preventative care to support independence
• Crisis planning and prevention
• Care advocacy
• Emotional and relationship counseling

What to Expect from Your Social Worker

You can meet with a social worker at home, if you’re in recovery, at a hospital or clinic. Your case manager reviews your preferences, health goals and routines and recommends appropriate skilled home healthcare.

After your assessment, your social worker contacts your physician, nurses, aides and other specialists to coordinate your care schedule. They visit periodically over the first few months of care to ensure you receive the support you need.

Benefits of Partnering with a Social Worker

Care Coordination

Social workers know the ins and outs of the healthcare system and excel at looking at the big picture. They maintain communication between your doctors and nurses to establish consistent care.

You’ll continue to meet with your social worker periodically so they can make necessary adjustments to your care plan. That might mean adding new services or cutting back on others you no longer require.

Access to Community Resources

There’s a wealth of community resources to enhance your treatment. It can be challenging to process all that information, especially if you’re recovering from an illness or injury or managing a chronic disease.

Social workers are knowledgeable about local services and programs, such as:

• Meal delivery
• Mental health support
• Transportation
• Social programs

Advocacy

A home health social worker is a part of your support system and advocates for your needs. If you have issues with the quality of your care, your social worker will elevate your concerns and ensure changes are made. They can also help you apply for Medicare or Medicaid to pay for services.

Social Services from Ohioans Home Healthcare and Hospice

Enjoy friendly, personalized care from social service professionals who are committed to creating successful clinical outcomes. Call 855-600-0806 to learn more about social services at Ohioans Home Healthcare and Hospice.

February is American Heart Month. It’s a good reminder to review the habits and traits that could increase your risk for a heart attack and then mitigate any negative influences to improve your heart health.

Controllable Risk Factors

Various lifestyle choices can affect your heart health, including your diet, exercise routine, stress management and substance use.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure damages the arteries that supply blood to your heart. It can also cause your heart muscle to thicken, which affects its ability to pump. High blood pressure may exacerbate other conditions like high cholesterol that contribute to your heart attack risk.

How to address high blood pressure:

• Use stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation and journaling.
• Avoid foods high in sodium, like canned soups, processed meats, pickles and salted nuts.
• Take blood pressure medication as directed by your doctor if you require it to manage your condition.

High Cholesterol

Lipoprotein or “bad” cholesterol can narrow your arteries, reducing the amount of blood flow to your heart. Plaque buildup can cause artery ruptures that may result in blood clots.

How to address high cholesterol:

• Swap red meat for poultry and fish.
• Avoid high-fat dairy products, shellfish and egg yolks.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

Physical Activity

Exercising boosts your cardiovascular system and reduces your risk of a heart attack. Aerobic exercise gets your heart pumping, improving blood flow and oxygenation. Your blood vessels dilate during exercise, which reduces the strain of high blood pressure on your heart.

Staying physically active also allows you to manage your weight and reduce your risk of obesity. Being overweight can place more strain on your cardiovascular system and increase your chance of having a heart attack.

Tips for getting more exercise:

• Take short 10 or 15-minute walks throughout your day, especially if you sit for long periods.
• Try home workout routines like yoga or Pilates.
• Participate in an active hobby, such as hiking or dancing.
• Walk or ride your bike to run errands or get to work.

Alcohol and Tobacco Use

Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can contribute to high blood pressure, plaque buildup and an irregular heartbeat.

Nicotine restricts your blood vessels and increases your blood pressure. Using tobacco products also decreases your blood oxygen level, so your heart has to work harder to oxygenate your body. You’re also at greater risk of developing blood clots that can cause a heart attack or stroke.

Tips for reducing tobacco and alcohol use:

• The CDC recommends that men limit alcohol consumption to two drinks per day and women to one drink.
• Drink beverages with a lower alcohol content.
• Create a timeline to ween off tobacco use.
• Identify and avoid triggers that may contribute to substance use.
• Try nicotine gum or patches.

Uncontrollable Risk Factors

Age: Women 55 and older and men 45 and older are at an increased risk for a heart attack.

Gender: Men are more likely to have a heart attack than women, though it’s still the leading cause of death for both genders in the United States.

Genetics: Cardiovascular conditions like coronary artery disease and arrhythmic disorders can be hereditary.

Ethnicity: People of African, South Asian and Latino descent are at greater risk for developing heart diseases that can contribute to a heart attack.

Chronic health conditions: Diabetes, metabolic syndrome, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases have been linked to an increased risk for heart attacks.

Personalized Services from Ohioans Home Health Care

Our dedicated team of nurses and aides is committed to providing you with the clinical services you need in the comfort of your own home. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.

Winter’s icy conditions, high winds and reduced daylight hours can increase your chance of slipping and falling. So, it’s important to be extra vigilant, even while doing simple tasks such as getting your mail or walking to your car. Here are some tips to prevent slips.

Take Your Time

Rushing to get out the door only increases the likelihood of missing a step or stepping on an icy path. So, give yourself extra time to complete chores or get on the road to reduce your chances of a slip-and-fall incident.

Here are some tips to remember:

• The floor near your door may be wet from melting snow or cluttered with boots, so take extra care in that area of your home.
• Be mindful that your feet don’t get tangled in long scarves and coats.
• When exiting a vehicle, swing both legs out of the door and stand on two feet for extra stability.

Pay Attention

It’s important to be aware of your surroundings. You can’t pay enough attention if you’re looking at your phone or carrying an armload of groceries. Make sure you have a clear view of your path and enough lighting to see clearly.

Take stairs one at a time, stepping straight up or down to maintain your balance. Check for ice while you’re walking outside by tapping your foot on a surface to see if it cracks.

Wear Proper Footwear

Rubber or rough-soled shoes with low, wide heels provide traction on ice and snow. To decrease your risk of tripping, wear shoes with laces that fit snuggly, instead of loose-fitting footwear. Consider changing your shoes when you come indoors to keep from tracking in snow.

Clear Walkways

Make your home safe for winter with these tips:

Indoor walkways: Remove loose cords and furniture from high-traffic walkways. Secure or move rugs that could be a tripping hazard. Keep a towel handy to soak up melting snow on your floors.

Outdoor walkways: Shovel snow regularly or ask a loved one to assist you. Lay down rock salt to break up ice on your porch, sidewalks and driveway. You can also use kitty litter for traction, but it won’t melt ice.

Take Small Steps

Walking the right walk can help you avoid falls. Bend at your knees and lean forward slightly to control your center of gravity. Take smaller steps and move slowly whether you’re inside or outside. You may need to shuffle or take gliding strides if you’re moving over ice and snow.

Dress Appropriately

Maintaining your body temperature and circulation keeps your muscles relaxed and your joints limber. Put on several light layers of clothing to allow air to circulate. If you wear gloves or mittens, you can keep your hands out of your pockets. That allows you to extend your arms to help with balance. Your hands will also be free to help you brace yourself if you do fall.

Use Handrails

Use railings to balance yourself when going up and down stairs and on sloping walkways. You can also install handrails by your toilet or in your shower to help you stay upright in the bathroom.

What To Do If You Fall

1. Tuck your chin and use your hands and arms to protect your head.
2. Evaluate yourself for injuries before trying to stand up.
3. If you’re hurt, call for help or use a medical alert system to get assistance.
4. If you’re uninjured and able to move, roll slowly onto your side to position your hands and knees under your body. Push yourself up onto all fours and crawl to a piece of furniture or handrail to pull yourself up.
5. Contact your doctor for medical advice.

Signs of an injury after a fall:

• Pain or swelling that lasts several days
• Lacerations
• Substantial bruising
• Persistent headaches
• Blurred or tunnel vision
• Disorientation
• Dizziness
• Loss of feeling in your limbs

Comprehensive In-Home Care from Ohioans Home Healthcare

Your safety and well-being are our top priority. We’re committed to providing you with the services you need for a quality living experience. Contact us to learn about our services and schedule a consultation.