February is American Heart Month, so put a little love in your heart health with these lifestyle tips.

Heart Health Statistics

• Heart disease is the number one cause of death for American men and women.
• Someone has a heart attack in the United States every 40 seconds.
• Cardiovascular diseases claim more lives than cancer and chronic lower respiratory diseases combined.
• Heart disease costs the United States roughly $363 billion in healthcare services, medical expenses and loss of productivity each year.
• Men are at a higher risk for a heart attack earlier in life than women.

Follow a Heart-Healthy Diet

• Cut back on saturated fat, sodium and sugar.
• Avoid consuming large amounts of caffeine and alcohol as both raise your blood pressure.
• Include lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens, tomatoes and berries. Greens like spinach and kale contain Vitamin K, which protects your arteries from hardening. Berries and tomatoes are packed with antioxidants that neutralize free radicals and oxidative stress.
• Eat whole grains like brown rice, quinoa and barley to reduce your cholesterol and blood pressure.
• Add avocadoes to your plate for healthy monosaturated fats that lower cholesterol.
• Include omega-3 fatty acids to decrease triglycerides and prevent plaque from building up in your arteries. You’ll find it in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, cod, herring and trout.

Move and Groove to Better Heart Health

Getting the recommended amount of exercise doesn’t have to be boring. Finding fun ways to include exercise in your daily routine will help you stick to a fitness regimen. Consult your doctor before you start exercising to ensure you’re following a safe routine.

• Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week. That may include walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, water aerobics or Pilates. Bring a friend to a fitness class or take your dog for a stroll to mix up your routine.
• Add strength training at least twice a week using a resistance band or light hand weights.

Watch Your Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

• Purchase a blood pressure cuff or monitor and check your levels daily. The best times to take your blood pressure are morning and evening.
• Schedule a blood pressure test with your primary physician every five years.
• You should also schedule a cholesterol test every four to six years.

Find Ways to Unwind

Chronic stress raises your blood pressure and heart rate and creates an increased demand for oxygen in the body.

Here are some suggestions to help you ease overwhelm:

• Identify the stressors in your life and try to mitigate or avoid them.
• Learn when to leave stressful situations.
• Go for a walk to clear your head.
• Use exercise to blow off steam and boost your cardiovascular health.
• Try meditation, deep-breathing techniques or yoga to relax.
• Designate a time to turn off electronics and put away your phone to practice being present.

Eliminate Tobacco

Smoking raises your blood pressure and heart rate, narrows your arteries and can cause heart attacks.

• Quit cold turkey or try a substitution method to ease your nicotine craving. You may try chewing gum, popping a mint or eating a healthy snack when you feel the urge to smoke.
• Many products can help you kick the habit, including nicotine patches, gum and lozenges.
• If you continue to struggle to quit smoking, your physician may prescribe medication to help.

Ohioans Home Healthcare offers convenient, in-home cardiac care to monitor symptoms and improve your quality of life. Call 855.600.0806 or contact us online for more information.

Winter has arrived, and many seniors are preparing for the cold months. Preparation includes more than just buying firewood!

Today, you’ll learn important winter home preparation tips for seniors that will help you stay healthy and happy this season.

Change Your Wardrobe to Warmer Clothes

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for winter is to change your wardrobe. Wear clothes that are made from warmer, more insulating fabrics like wool. Be sure to also swap out lighter fall jackets for heavier ones that provide greater warmth.

You may also want to opt for cozy slippers and socks to keep your feet warm. If you tend to feel cold, consider wearing a hat, scarf, and gloves inside your house as well.

Check Your Heating System

Test your vehicle’s heating system and make sure it’s in good working order. Schedule a maintenance checkup with a qualified technician if necessary.

If you’re using a space heater, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Never use an electric space heater in your bathroom or bedroom. Also, don’t place space heaters directly on carpeting because it could catch fire.

If you use an electric blanket at night, make sure to read the instructions carefully and unplug when not in use. Keep anything flammable away from heating devices like radiators, open flames (candles), or portable heaters that are placed too close to any fabric surfaces (curtains, furniture).

Address Any Car Maintenance Issues

Before winter hits, practice some important care maintenance best practices, such as:

Get an Oil Change if You Haven’t in a While

Dirty oil doesn’t work well in cold weather, so it’s important to get a fresh oil change before winter sets in. This will help your engine run smoothly during these months.

Check Your Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure can be dangerous during the winter months, so be sure to check your tires and fill them with the right amount of air if necessary. Inspect them for any signs of an air leak as well and make an appointment with a reliable mechanic if you notice a flat or leaking tire.

Make Sure Your Tires Aren’t Worn Down

If your tire treads are excessively worn down, it’s time to get new ones. Bald tires cannot grip the road effectively for safe travel in the wintertime.

Check Your Battery

Driving in the snow and ice requires more energy from your car battery than driving in warmer conditions. The average car battery will last three years, so if you are near this or over, make an appointment to replace it with a new one.

If the Heat in Your Car Doesn’t Work, Repair It

If the heat in your car doesn’t work, it’s important to get it fixed as soon as possible. Not only will you be uncomfortable while driving, but a lack of heat can be dangerous if you are stranded in your vehicle.

Prepare an Emergency Car Kit

An emergency car survival kit is a good idea for any wintertime trip, but it’s especially important if you’re traveling in the snow and ice. Winter weather can be unpredictable!

Include items like:

• Jumper cables
• A road flare kit
• Ice scraper
• A spare pair of gloves and winter hat
• Hand warmers
• Blankets
• A small broom
• Sand or cat litter to help give your tires extra traction

Prepare for Power Outages

It is also a good idea to prepare your home for winter emergencies, such as broken heating systems or power outages that can leave you without electricity. You may want to purchase some extra blankets just in case!

You may also want to consider stocking up on any daily essentials like food, medications, water, batteries, and matches so you don’t run out during a snowstorm or other cold-weather emergency situation.

In the event you might lose power during a snowstorm or other emergency, purchasing a portable generator can help power a space heater or other electronic devices if you are unable to leave your home immediately.

Make Sure Your Walkways Are Cleared of Ice

Icy sidewalks, porches, and driveways can increase the dangers of falls for seniors. Purchase some ice melt from a local store and sprinkle it over your shoveled walkway after it has been cleared. This will reduce or eliminate the ice on these paths and allow you to move with a significantly lower risk of slipping.

Ask Your Neighbors for Help

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed with all of the winter home preparation tasks, don’t be afraid to ask your neighbors for help. They may be able to shovel your driveway or sidewalks, take out your trash on garbage day, or just check in with you when a snowstorm passes through your neighborhood.

Stay Healthy During the Winter by Continuing Your Home Healthcare Checkups

During the winter months, it is especially important to stay healthy and maintain your regular healthcare checkups. Winter conditions can put seniors at a higher risk for health complications like pneumonia or even dehydration if you’re outside long enough or exposed to extremely cold temperatures. Weather changes can also worsen asthma symptoms and other breathing problems.

At Ohioans, we provide compassionate at-home healthcare to seniors in Ohio and Michigan year-round, even in the coldest months. For more information on how we can help you or your loved one stay healthy and cared for this winter, contact us anytime for more information.

As we say goodbye to Halloween and look forward to the next set of holidays, it will be time to prepare for the new year before we know it! During this time of the year, it’s a great idea to set some personal goals that can improve the quality of your life. Here are some 2022 resolution ideas to get started with as we wait for the new year to roll in.

Move More

Staying active is a great way to support healthy aging. Mild to moderate exercises, such as yoga, water aerobics, or walking, strengthen your bones and muscles while helping you maintain a healthy weight.

Staying active can also boost mental health, especially if you include your loved ones. When considering your 2022 resolution ideas, be sure to plan to move more and engage in some exercise. It can be as simple as committing to exercising for ten minutes a day.

Volunteer

Volunteering is a fantastic way to stay engaged with your community and interact with other like-minded individuals. Socializing is essential for healthy aging, and volunteer opportunities bring a sense of accomplishment, fulfillment, and self-confidence.

Not sure where to begin? Places like nonprofits, churches, hospitals and other community-based organizations often have plenty of volunteer opportunities to check out.

Improve Your Sleep Routine

A healthy night’s sleep is critical for people of all ages. Even for older adults, seven to nine hours of sleep per night is ideal. If you are not getting at least eight hours of sleep each night, consider adjusting your routine for a healthier rest.

Improving your sleep routine can help you maintain a strong immune system while improving your memory and concentration. For the best results, start going to bed and waking up at the same time every day.

Produce Less Consumer Waste

Consumer waste has a massive impact on the health of our climate and environment. This year, consider using more reusable containers, shopping bags, and other nonperishable alternatives to reduce the total waste you generate in a year. Participating in leaving a better world to the next generation can provide you with a sense of joy and fulfillment.

Create Some Healthy (and Delicious) Recipes

Keeping a healthy diet is one of the most ideal health goals for seniors. Eating well supports healthy organ function, mental health and can taste great too! Kick off the new year by looking up some tasty, nutrient-rich recipes and trying them for yourself. Don’t forget to stay hydrated – keep a container of water nearby and take frequent sips throughout your day.

Take an Online Class

No one is ever too old to keep learning! Plus, keeping your brain active can ward off mental deterioration. There are plenty of great classes online that cover nearly any topic you might be interested in.

Start and Finish a Book Series

Reading can play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cognitive function. If you like to read, consider finding a new book series that interests you and read it from start to finish throughout the year. Local libraries have a wealth of free series for just about any genre you could pick from. Some also offer audiobooks for those who may have vision difficulties.

Try Something Creative

We all have an inner artist inside of us. If you’re looking to pick up a new hobby this year, consider trying your hand at something creative, such as writing, drawing, painting, etc. For a real brain teaser, you might even take a shot at sudoku or crossword puzzles. You never know – you might discover a hidden talent or find something that you really enjoy.

Prioritize Your Mental Health

When living at home, it’s common for feelings of isolation or loneliness to creep up on a person’s mental health. A healthy mind is a key part of healthy aging. If you are struggling emotionally, make an appointment with a counselor or therapist. Staying connected gets more and more important as you age, so it is essential to prioritize your mental health.

Keep a Journal

Journaling can help organize your thoughts and explore them. There’s no right or wrong way to keep a journal – do what comes naturally! Whether you keep a gratitude journal, practice writing, or document your days, buy yourself a lovely journal and let your thoughts flow.

Prioritize Your Physical Health

Preventing illness is easier than treating it, so don’t forget to prioritize your health by practicing preventative health measures. Schedule all of your annual physicals and screenings, get up to date on your vaccinations, and actively manage your medications to ensure a long, happy year.

Are you considering home health care this year? Many senior citizens prefer to be at home rather than go to a nursing facility. Home health care can provide various benefits that support daily living, longevity, and quality of life. If you’re looking to provide in-home care for a loved one, contact Ohioans Home Healthcare to learn more about our services for the Ohio and Michigan areas.

Every October is National Physical Therapy Month and a perfect opportunity to raise awareness about the benefits of senior physical therapy. At Ohioans, we offer three types of treatment: physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. We work with leading local providers to develop treatment plans for our clients and educate our staff on how to help support your individualized treatment plan. This month, we highlight the many ways in which physical therapy can improve you or your loved one’s quality of life.

Physical Therapy

If you are an older adut mobility has been limited due to injuries or strokes, senior physical therapy can help you achieve more movement in the body. At Ohioans Home Healthcare, we provide the following physical therapy services to help you or your loved one maintain safety and independence at home:

Fall Prevention

Falls are among the top causes of accidents for senior citizens and often result in a bone fracture or other injury. Physical therapists can provide you with the knowledge and equipment to help prevent falls, significantly reducing the likelihood of injury or death.

Balance Training

Physical therapy can help you learn how to maintain stability when mobile—maintaining a level balance while moving can improve your mobility and decrease your risk of falling. If you have already experienced an injury, balance training can also help to prevent re-injury.

Increasing Endurance

As we age, our bodies do not generate the same energy they used to and sometimes even require more energy to keep moving. When you participate in physical therapy exercises, not only can you improve your endurance, but you can also increase your chances of living an active, independent lifestyle for a more extended period.

Reduction of Pain and Stiffness

If you are experiencing pain and stiffness, your discomfort may be stemming from physical causes, such as arthritis or osteoporosis. A customized physical therapy plan can help you reduce general pain and stiffness, offsetting any future symptoms and leading to increased mobility.

Improving Range of Motion

Seniors looking to maintain an active and independent lifestyle should consider practicing physical therapy exercises that support a healthy range of motion. Range of motion plays a critical role in maximizing your movement. Improving it through physical therapy can help increase your mobility to its fullest potential.

Assistive Equipment

After your physical therapy evaluation, your therapist may recommend assistive equipment like canes, walkers, or other devices to assist with your movement. Such devices can help prevent falls and help you maintain your daily activities and routines safely.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists develop plans to help seniors improve their daily functions. In partnership with these providers, the Ohioans team faithfully follows their recommended treatments. These can include:

Wound Care and Dressing

Whether you are suffering from a leg ulcer or recovering from a surgical procedure, it is critical to care for your wounds correctly. An occupational therapist may assist with dressing and cleaning your wounds to promote healthy healing and longevity.

Meal Preparation

Meal preparation often requires bending, reaching, pouring, and recalling – but for those who suffer from ailments such as arthritis, poor vision, or balance issues, it can become challenging and even take twice as long. Occupational therapists are trained to prepare light and healthy meals for those who experience difficulty cooking for themselves.

Transfers From Bed to Chair

Seniors who experience chronic pain, difficulty moving, or recovering from surgery may need help getting out of bed, heightening their chances of falling. Occupational therapists can help you or your loved one safely rise from beds and into a comfortable seated position in a chair and protect them from injury.

Assistive Equipment

Your occupational therapist may also assess the need for assistive equipment, such as mobility devices, grab bars, and elevated toilets. Sometimes called daily living aids, these devices can help you or your loved one accomplish everyday tasks while improving their quality of life.

Speech-Language Pathology

Dysarthria is a common cause of speech difficulties in seniors. Although various conditions can cause it at any age, dysarthria may present itself among seniors following events like a stroke, progression of Parkinson’s disease, head injuries, or dementia. At Ohioans, we work with local speech-language pathologists on treatment plans for our seniors with speech difficulties. These services include:

Swallowing Dysfunction

Individuals who experience a medical episode may need assistance with swallowing afterward. Our team will help you relearn to swallow foods you’ve been experiencing difficulties with by following a professionally developed treatment plan.

Motor Skills and Speech Development

Performing activities that require using the muscles in your hands, fingers, or wrists requires fine motor skills. Likewise, older adults can experience speech changes due to sensory, cognitive, and neurological factors. Our team can assist with performing treatment exercises to help seniors with speech difficulties learn to redevelop their speech and the motor skills necessary to communicate.

Cognitive and Memory Function

Just as exercise physically strengthens our body, cognitive training can stimulate your brain, keeping it active and sharp. As you age, you may have difficulties in memory recall, problem-solving, and other cognitive functions. At Ohioans, we offer mental exercises to help seniors maintain healthy brain function and memory recall.

Physical and occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology can all play instrumental roles in helping seniors maintain an excellent quality of life. To find out more about our therapy services, please feel free to contact us any time.

You may benefit from home health care if you’re recovering from a recent surgery or hospitalization. The care is also beneficial for the long-term management of chronic health conditions so you can maintain your quality of life.

But there are specific criteria you must meet to qualify for Medicare service coverage. Let’s break down the eligibility factors for home health care and the stipulations of each requirement.

You’re Under a Doctor’s Care

To qualify for Medicare home health care, you must be under the care of a physician and receive services as part of an established care plan. Your doctor must also certify that you require a specific service to maintain your comfort and quality of life.

Qualifying home health care services include:

• Intermittent skilled nursing
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech-language pathology services
• Medication management
• Medical supplies
• Daily task management

You’re also required to attend regular face-to-face appointments with your primary physician within a certain time frame to meet home health care regulations.

You’re Homebound

Being homebound is defined by the following scenarios:

• You have difficulty leaving your home without the assistance of another person.
• You require a supportive device such as a cane, walker or wheelchair to leave your home.
• You only leave your home for necessary trips, like doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, religious services and adult daycare.
• You rely on others for transportation.
• Your doctor believes your illness or medical condition will worsen if you leave home.

Your Home Health Care Agency is Medicare-Certified

A home health care agency must meet specific federal requirements and safety regulations to receive Medicare certification. Agencies must be primarily engaged in providing skilled nursing and therapeutic services but may also offer social services to maintain your quality of life.

A physician or registered nurse must administer services and maintain up-to-date clinical records documenting your condition and progress. Your doctor must certify that the home health agency can provide reasonable and necessary services and sign off on your home health certification.

Ohioans Home Healthcare is a Medicare-certified agency, and we’re committed to providing comprehensive and convenient health services. Call 855.600.0806 or contact us online for service information.

Many believe that yoga is only for the young and agile, but the truth is that people of all ages can enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of yoga – including seniors! Yoga can play a crucial role in living your best life as you age. Strength building, stress reduction, and flexibility are just a few benefits yoga can bring to seniors. 

In honor of Healthy Aging Month and National Yoga Awareness Month, we have compiled ten reasons for seniors to try yoga:

Yoga Strengthens Your Core

There are many yoga poses that focus on strengthening abdominal muscles, which can lead to improved core stability. For seniors, practicing yoga can help maintain greater balance and prevent the likelihood of a dangerous fall. Yoga can significantly benefit those who suffer from limited mobility because it often results in more independence and confidence. 

It’s Low Impact

Yoga is a form of low-impact exercise, meaning that you can enjoy its benefits without putting strain on your body. Seniors who suffer from joint pain or osteoporosis are perfect candidates for yoga, as it does not require exerting a great deal of physical strength or pose a high risk of injury. 

People With Limited Mobility Can Do It Too

Chair yoga allows seniors to practice the benefits of yoga while in a seated position. This alternative enables you to continue enjoying a healthy motion for those who cannot walk easily or at all. 

Chair yoga can be performed from virtually anywhere and is simple to learn. For instance, the seated forward fold is a gentle sequence where you sit with your hands on your thighs, breathe in, and fold forward as your hips as you exhale, draping your body over your legs and sliding your hands down to the floor. After allowing your body to hang over your legs as your neck and head relax, breathe in, and slowly return to your starting position. 

Some Forms of Yoga Can Help Maintain a Healthy Weight

More active forms of yoga can help seniors maintain a healthier weight, which can further support healthy bodily function and encourage mobility. According to Healthline, intense styles of yoga such as hot Vinyasa and power yoga can burn the most calories. Regularly practicing yoga may help develop muscle tone, which can also result in improved metabolism. 

It Can Reduce Pain

Chronic pain is often unavoidable for older adults, but it can be managed with yoga. Yoga can help the body move healthily and reduce pains from chronic bone and muscle conditions by improving strength, flexibility, and mobility. A carefully performed set of yoga poses can reduce lower back pain and improve cognitive function. It can also reduce stress, lower heart rate, and reduce insomnia, which can lead to a higher quality of life. 

It Can Reduce Stress

Older adults may underestimate how much tension they carry in their neck, shoulders, and upper back. Yoga is an excellent option for reducing such pressure through stretching. Yoga is also often revered for its relaxing atmosphere, further working to eliminate depression and anxiety.

It Can Lead to More Restful Sleep

Insomnia is common in seniors and is often caused by nagging stress or pain. However, yoga can help individuals sleep easier without as much pain or stress in life, resulting in better mental and physical health over time. If you or your loved one has trouble unwinding, releasing the tension, and sleeping, yoga is a great way to heighten the chances of more restful sleep. 

It Can Help Increase Social Interaction

Yoga offers a fantastic opportunity for socializing, which is necessary for helping seniors maintain levels of happiness and self-esteem. Yoga classes can provide a social environment where older adults interact while exercising, allowing them to build a sense of community and share mutual interests with others.

Yoga Can Be Practiced Alone

One of the best benefits of yoga is that seniors can practice it together or by themselves. The internet offers many instructional videos and articles that seniors can use to supplement their in-person classes or try at home. Practicing yoga at home extends you the freedom to further customize your personal fitness goals. 

Yoga Can Be Done Anywhere

Whether you’re on vacation with loved ones, relaxing at home, or prefer to go to a yoga studio or gym, you can do your yoga routine almost anywhere as long as you have your yoga mat with you. If you enjoy yoga, you don’t have to worry about messing up your routine just because you are not where you usually practice it.

These are just a few of the reasons that seniors should give yoga a try this month. If you’re not already making conscious choices to healthily move your body during Healthy Aging Month, make it a point to try practicing yoga in honor of National Yoga Awareness Month. Contact Ohioans Home Healthcare today if you have any questions about how home healthcare can support your healthy aging process.

In today’s high-tech society, it’s no wonder that more and more seniors are turning to technology to improve the quality of their lives. From real-time health monitoring services to telehealth, reading apps, courier services, and beyond, many technologies are available to make life easier. Check out these six ways that technology for seniors can enhance their wellbeing.

Monitor Your Health with Real-Time Services

Monitoring your loved one’s health has never been easier, thanks to real-time health monitoring apps and services. Devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers can track sleeping patterns, monitor heart rate, send movement reminders, and even contact emergency services in the event of an accident, such as a fall.

According to the CDC, 36 million seniors fall every year, leading to over 32,000 deaths annually. Wearable technology isn’t just for the young and fit – now it’s for everyone and can even save lives. For example, Apple Watches have an Emergency SOS feature that can call local authorities or predefined emergency contacts while sharing your location to them.

Connect with Doctors Online Instantly

Say goodbye to dreary waiting rooms and hello to medicine in the comfort of your home. Innovations in telemedicine have made it possible for seniors to maintain their independence to connect with doctors online using video call features on telehealth apps. Such technology offers a range of services that make healthcare more manageable and more accessible.

From on-demand video chats with doctors to virtual preventative health visits, there’s an app for that. There are similar apps available for download where seniors can access their medical records via a web portal or track their vital signs with remote monitoring devices. Telehealth apps are an excellent option for those who want more peace of mind without sacrificing their self-sufficiency. Best of all, there’s no more waiting weeks for an appointment or deal with being put on hold.

Enjoy Favorite Books

If your loved one loves to read books but finds it difficult to see the pages, reading apps can be a lifesaver! Today’s technology for seniors has made it easy to enjoy reading again, thanks to free reading apps like Libby, Kindle, Scribd, and Audible. Many of these apps have features that can bring up favorite titles in large print or even in audiobook format, so all one has to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy a good story or two during their retirement. Whether your loved one wants a similar experience of going to a library and checking out a book or the option to purchase a title, there is an app that can satisfy their needs.

Stay Connected to Loved Ones with Social Media

No matter where you and your loved ones are located, you can both beat isolation blues by staying connected with social media. Social media apps like Facebook and Instagram make it simple for seniors to develop relationships with loved ones even from afar. Some apps, like Pinterest, can stimulate creativity with their many “do-it-yourself” project pins that are certain to keep all ages active.

Run Errands Without Leaving Home

In the event that your loved one discovers they’ve run out of paper towels or are out of an ingredient they needed for dinner, there’s no need to panic, thanks to online courier services. Services such as Amazon, Instacart, or DoorDash make it easy to have everyday items, groceries, and warm meals delivered straight to your doorstep. Services like these are great options for those who cannot drive or have limited mobility since they eliminate the need for unnecessary travel.

Stay Informed

While many seniors live healthy and active lives, the truth is that aging is inevitable. Luckily, there is a great selection of reputable health and wellness websites where seniors and their loved ones can research medical conditions and treatment options. For example, NIH Senior Health is an extension of the National Institute of Health. It provides a wealth of information on topics on everything from bone health to nutrition and beyond.

These are just a few incredible ways that seniors can use technology to improve their quality of life. If you have a loved one who is inevitably aging, consider helping them learn to use electronics so they can take advantage of these fantastic benefits.

The Ohioans team strives to remain as technologically current as possible so we can work alongside medical providers to support at-home telehealth treatment plans for your aging loved ones. Contact us today for more information on how we can help your loved one enjoy greater independence while continuing to live in the comfort and familiarity of their home.

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Around the world, tens of millions of people experience Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Alzheimer’s can be stressful for many individuals and their family members. It raises many questions, such as where will the person live? Who will care for them? Will their treatment be covered?

Today, we’re going to cover some essential information about Alzheimer’s. We will also explore some of the home healthcare options that are available for both caregivers and patients.

A Quick Primer on Alzheimer’s Disease

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, the condition is a type of dementia that impacts an individual’s memory, thinking, and behavior. Over time, as symptoms progress, it will interfere with a person’s normal routine.

The Association outlines some key facts about Alzheimer’s that are important to mention:

• Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia and accounts for approximately 60-80% of cases
• Though often associated with old age, Alzheimer’s can affect people under the age of 65. This condition is known as younger Alzheimer’s or early-onset Alzheimer’s.
• Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and symptoms will worsen over a span of years.
• Following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, most patients will live 4-8 years afterwards, but this is not always the case.
• Presently, no cures for Alzheimer’s exist. However, treatments are available to help slow the progression of symptoms.

Alzheimer’s Early Signs

Are you wondering if a loved one is demonstrating early signs of Alzheimer’s? The Alzheimer’s Association advises to look for any of these 10 warning signs:

• Disruptive memory loss
• Difficulties with planning or problem solving
• Experiencing difficulty with completing common regular tasks
• Confusion over time or place
• Vision problems such as difficulty maintaining balance, judging distance, or reading
• Difficulty joining or maintaining a conversation
• Misplacing things while unable to retrace steps
• Poor decision making or judgment skills
• Withdrawing from usual social activities and work
• Displaying otherwise inexplicable changes in mood and personality

If your loved one is demonstrating any of these signs, we recommend that you make an appointment with their doctor as soon as possible. With any dementia, early intervention can help slow down the progression of symptoms more effectively and provide a better quality of life to the individual for longer.

Providing Alzheimer’s Home Care

Depending on the severity of symptoms, adults experiencing Alzheimer’s will require differing levels of care. As symptoms become more severe, a person may require constant supervision.

Today, many adults with Alzheimer’s and other dementias can receive care at home. This is due to innovations like sophisticated home healthcare and telemedicine. Now, people can receive a higher quality of care without needing to live in a facility.

A home healthcare organization can provide benefits to people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers such as:

Continue Living at Home

Understandably, people prefer to receive care around the comforts of home. A home healthcare organization provides treatment to patients in their private residence without needing to relocate them.

Most individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias cannot drive to receive treatment. A home healthcare professional comes to the person’s home to help assist with medication and perform other activities in line with the patient’s prescribed treatment plan.

For people with Alzheimer’s, this allows a greater degree of independence. They can continue to live in their home with a caregiver while a medical professional checks in on their progress regularly.

Much-Needed Relief for Caregivers

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s can become a full-time job. Symptoms of dementia are unpredictable and patients can require near-constant supervision. This places an immense responsibility on family caregivers.

A visit from a home healthcare professional provides caregivers with much-needed relief. The caregiver can take this time to relax and recharge without worrying about their loved one.

Does Medicare Cover Home Healthcare for Alzheimer’s?

Many senior-aged adults rely on Medicare to provide coverage for a variety of conditions. This is no different for Alzheimer’s.

So, what Alzheimer’s and dementia care costs does Medicare cover? The answer is not all, but some treatments.

In regards to Alzheimer’s, Medicare will cover:

• • Inpatient hospital care
  • Doctor’s fees
  • Most prescriptions (covered under Medicare Part D)
  • Up to 100 days of skilled nursing home care (long-term care is not covered)
  • In or out-of-home hospice
  • Annual wellness visits every 12 months

To find out if your loved one is eligible for Medicare benefits, we recommend you visit Medicare online and complete an initial assessment. The site also provides cost information at a glance.

Get Alzheimer’s Home Healthcare in Ohio and Michigan

Ohioans Home Healthcare provides skilled home healthcare services for people with Alzheimer’s in both Ohio and Michigan. If you are looking to find an at-home treatment solution for your loved one, please contact us at any time for more information.

May is National Stroke Awareness Month. Each year, almost eight hundred thousand Americans experience strokes and, of that group, approximately one hundred thirty thousand of these individuals do not survive them.

For those living independently, the thought of experiencing a stroke can cause anxiety. Regardless of where you are at, it is important to know essential facts about strokes, what their warning signs are, and what you should do if you think you are having one.

What Exactly is a Stroke?

According to the Mayo Clinic, a stroke occurs when the brain’s blood supply is either cut off or significantly diminished. This prevents the brain from receiving oxygen and bloodborne nutrients that help it function.

Strokes always indicate an emergency medical situation and require immediate treatment. It is never wise to delay a hospital visit if you think you are experiencing symptoms.

Causes of Strokes

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), these are the main causes of strokes:

• High blood pressure
• Smoking/tobacco use
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol
• Obesity and sedentary lifestyle habits

Stroke Signs and Symptoms

The CDC advises that these are the most common warning signs of strokes for men and women:

Sudden Numbness in the Body

This can affect one’s face, arms, or legs. Though many conditions can cause a numbing sensation, a stroke is most often identified by a feeling of numbness on only one side of the body.

Unexplained Confusion

Because strokes affect the brain, they can also demonstrate cognitive symptoms. For many, this can be categorized by sudden and unexplainable confusion. Examples include trouble speaking, understanding what others are saying, or recalling basic information.

Sight Problems

Stroke patients may also encounter sight problems in one or both eyes. In most cases, this will cause unanticipated, sudden difficulties in vision.

Mobility Difficulties

Another symptom of strokes is sudden mobility issues. A person experiencing a stroke may have difficulty walking, experience a loss of balance, or unexpectedly struggle to maintain coordination in their limbs.

Severe Headache

A severe headache with no known cause can also indicate a stroke. Because the brain is in peril during an episode, your head may start to hurt.

Transient Ischemic Attacks

A person who is demonstrating signs of a stroke may be experiencing a transient ischemic attack (TIA). These are stroke-like symptoms that will go away in a short amount of time. If you or someone you know is experiencing a potential TIA, they should seek immediate medical help to treat them as it could indicate a more severe underlying condition.

Stroke Treatment

Stroke patients need to seek immediate treatment to increase their chances of survival and prevent any lasting damage to the body.

Identifying a Stroke at Home

The standard method for quickly identifying the likelihood of a stroke is to apply the FAST methodology. This includes:

• Face: Ask the person to smile. If only one side of their face moves, this could indicate partial paralysis.
• Arms: Ask the person to raise both of their arms. If only one raises, or if one droops downwards, this should be taken as a warning sign.
• Speech: Ask the person to repeat a short and simple sentence. Are they unable to? Slurring their words? Do they sound confused?
• Time: If the person is showing any of the above symptoms, call 911 right away.

At the Hospital

Strokes are considered emergency medical episodes. A doctor at the hospital will provide treatment to the patient. If the person survives the stroke, they will be discharged once the doctor declares them medically fit to return home.

Post-Hospital

Lasting Effects of a Stroke

Some patients may experience temporary or permanent long-term effects after suffering a stroke. The brain is a complex organ and thus can exhibit permanent changes if damaged.

Depending on the side of the brain that the person suffers the stroke, the American Stroke Association states that the individual may experience the following long-term effects:

Left Brain:

• Bodily paralysis on the right side
• Speech difficulties
• Slow and cautious behavior
• Memory loss

Right Brain:

• Bodily paralysis on the left side
• Vision difficulties
• Quick and inquisitive behavior
• Memory loss

A recovering stroke patient may also experience personality changes. As parts of the brain shape who we are as people, damage to some of them may affect an individual’s personality traits and alter their familiar behavior. During this time, it is essential to offer care and support to them as they recover and attempt to resume their lives.

Treatment for Stroke Patients at Home

Whether a person may be at risk of stroke or is recovering from a stroke at home, having the right care in place can ensure that they are being looked after with their safety prioritized. Our team of experienced home healthcare providers can provide care to individuals in Ohio and Maine who may be at risk of stroke or are in the process of recovering.

For more information, please contact us any time to speak with one of our team members.

The home healthcare (HHC) industry can provide immense growth opportunities and rewarding experiences providing excellent care to in-home patients. This is why building a strong team of professionals remains a critical core value to our organization.

If you are considering entering the HHC career field, we encourage you to consider some of the many options available to you. This industry allows you to shape your own path in ways that few others do.

Is an HHC Career Right for Me?

The HHC field requires individuals who have a heart for other people and take joy in making tangible differences in others’ lives. Providing care and preventing harm are two pillars that all medical professionals stand on. A person who will succeed in the HHC field will need to be friendly, outgoing, patient, and empathetic with a commitment to caring for others.

Benefits of Joining the Ohioans Team

We strive to maintain a culture that constantly looks for new ways to invest in our team members’ careers. Some of the many benefits that our team members enjoy include:

Flexibility

You can decide the schedule that best suits your lifestyle. This means a highly personalized work-life balance tailored to your preferences.

Autonomy

You can take ownership of your role on the Ohioans team. That means we let our experts be experts. Use your knowledge, skills, and judgment to provide the best level of treatment possible to your patients. You can also work additional hours, if desired.

Case Diversity

Our broad patient diversity means you will have the chance to interact with a variety of clients. This includes high-acuity cases that enable you to apply all of your skills and knowledge to improve as a professional.

Staff Support

We will do everything in our ability to equip you with what you need to succeed. This includes:

• Case manager accessibility at all times
• iPad/electronic charting
• Portable printers
• Open-door policy for executive management

When you join our team, we want you to feel as confident as possible that you have been given the tools you need to do the best job possible. If you need support in other ways beyond what’s listed above, we are always willing to listen and work with you to develop a solution together.

Industry-Leading Training

We provide you with a robust orientation that includes insightful lectures, hands-on field time, shadowing, and preceptor support. Beyond this, you will also have access to skill labs and the incredible Elsevier home Health Care platform that can be accessed via any mobile device.

Continuity of Care

Positive patient relationships drive all of our engines at Ohioans. Beyond providing routine care for your patients, you can also build fulfilling, long-term relationships with them and witness positive outcomes as they regain health and their independence increases.

Better Compensation and Benefits

You deserve to be paid what you’re worth. Our team members are the key component to our success. Our pay-per-visit model and benefits package also includes a company car, 401(k) plan, PTO, short-term disability, a diverse portfolio of insurance options (medical, dental, vision, and life), and more.

Nursing Positions Available

Registered Nurse (RN)

RNs are relied on to assess, plan, and implement patient care. This also includes educating patients and their families on any and all relevant condition-specific information, procedures, and medications that are part of the treatment plan.

RNs are also expected to help meet a variety of patient needs that include, but are not limited to:

• IVs
• PICC lines
• Lab draws
• Wound care
• Trachs
• G/J tubes
• Foley catheters
• Medication administration

RELATED ARTICLE: Qualities That Make An Ideal Nurse

Home Infusion Nurse (RN)

Our Home Infusion Nurses are expected to perform a similar scope of work to our other RNs, but with a specialized additional focus on infusion therapy. This includes a more acute focus on treatments like IVs, PICC lines, and lab draws as well.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Under an RN’s supervision, an LPN will provide nursing services to patients throughout their local service area. Duties include, but aren’t limited to:

• Educating patients/families on relevant conditions, processes, procedures, and medications
• Wound care
• Trachs
• G/J tubes
• Foley catheters
• Medication administration

Office/Administrative Openings

Care Coordinator (MA or LPN)

Our Care Coordinators ensure that all parties involved in patient care remain in lockstep with one another. Care Coordinator duties include:

• Scheduling and managing the daily workload of caregiver staff
• Evaluate patient referrals
• Ensure patient care meets company quality standards
• Assign cases to RN case managers
• Manage staff productivity
• Act as an informational resource for nurses

Medical Equipment and Supplies Coordinator

Without the right medical equipment and supplies, our team cannot perform their jobs effectively. This critical role ensures that our nurses are provided the necessary equipment to provide top-quality care to our patients.

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Maintaining positive relationships with nurses in your coverage area
• Order supplies for patients relative to their needs and treatment plans
• Learning and understanding insurance allowables for supply orders and communicating these amounts to the care team
• Facilitating correct documentation for equipment
• Ordering equipment in a timely manner
• Maintain positive relationships with community DME pharmacies and suppliers
• Ensure the office supply room is adequately stocked for nursing needs

Candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent credentials, a knack for impeccable organization, the ability to move and lift boxes up to 50 pounds in weight, and can demonstrate tactful and professional communication abilities are those most likely to be considered for this role. Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required.

Billing Coordinator

A timely and accurate billing process plays a critical role in our organization to continue operations smoothly. Our Billing Coordinators are expected to ensure completion and submission of commercial and private pay billing, perform accounts receivable tracking, and follow up on any outstanding payments.

This role requires excellent communication skills, at least two (2) years of healthcare data entry experience, and at least one (1) year of general healthcare industry experience. A high school diploma is required, but candidates with at least two (2) years of college experience are preferred.

Want to Know More About HHC Careers? Get in Touch!

At Ohioans, we strive to elevate the quality of care our patients receive on a consistent basis. We proudly serve communities throughout Ohio and Michigan. If you would like to learn more about joining our team and want to discuss HHC career opportunities, please view our current openings at any time.