Pneumonia presents a real and serious health concern for most elderly adults in the United States and beyond. However, many people do not know some important facts about the illness, such as the types of pneumonia, how to prevent it, and what your at-home healthcare treatments are. 

In this ultimate guide on pneumonia for seniors, we have compiled a wealth of information that you should find helpful. Keep reading to learn more about pneumonia and what you can do to prevent and/or treat it. 

What Causes Pneumonia?

According to the American Lung Association, there are three primary causes of pneumonia: bacteria, viruses, and funguses. 

Bacterial Pneumonia

This type of pneumonia can develop by itself or as a result of a viral respiratory infection like a common cold or influenza. In most cases, this type of pneumonia will infect an acute part of the body and can pose the greatest risk for those in surgical recovery, dealing with respiratory illnesses, or those with weakened immune systems. 

Viral Pneumonia

The leading cause of viral pneumonia is influenza. Unlike their bacterial counterparts, viral pneumonia cases are often milder, though some can still be deadly. Those with a pre-existing heart or lung condition, and those who are pregnant, are considered the highest-risk populations for this type. 

Fungal Pneumonia

Fungal pneumonia mostly affects those with chronic conditions and/or weakened immune systems, as well as those who come into contact with large amounts of specific types of fungi. It is considered most dangerous for those who are using medication to suppress immune function, such as cancer patients or organ transplant recipients. 

Pneumonia Symptoms

According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of pneumonia can include any combination of the following: 

• Chest pain when breathing or coughing
• Cough 
• Phlegm resulting from cough
• Fatigue
• Fever, sweating and shaking chills 
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Shortness of breath 

Other symptoms that people over the age of 65 may experience also include: 

• Confusion or changes in mental state 
• Lower-than-normal body temperature 

Additionally, these symptoms may present more severely in patients who have weakened immune systems from chronic health conditions, chemotherapy treatment, medication, or other reasons. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, and are concerned about them, you should contact your doctor immediately. 

How to Prevent Pneumonia for Elderly Adults

Fortunately, there are some concrete steps that you can take to prevent chances of contracting pneumonia. According to the American Lung Association, these include: 

Getting Vaccinated

Pneumonia can be caused by several different conditions, such as influenza, pneumococcal pneumonia, pertussis, and others. Talk to your physician about which vaccines you should receive to help prevent pneumonia. They will be able to advise you on your best options. 

Washing Hands Often

With the COVID-19 pandemic putting personal cleanliness and hygiene at the forefront of everyone’s minds, handwashing has become more important than ever. Similarly, you can help prevent chances of contracting pneumonia by often washing your hands after touching common-use surfaces, going to the bathroom, before and after eating, and other activities where your hands can come into contact with germs. 

If you are leaving the house to travel to a public place, bring hand sanitizer with you in your bag or pocket. This can help you maintain clean hands without having to look for a bathroom sink wherever you go. 

Not Smoking

Smoking damages your lungs’ immunity to diseases and infections. Smokers are deemed a high-risk population for contracting pneumonia and are often encouraged to receive a pneumococcal vaccine. 

Practicing General Good-Health Habits

These include: 

• Monitoring your body for any pneumonia-like symptoms so they can be identified and treated early 
• Exercising regularly 
• Eating a balanced, healthy diet 

Practicing healthy lifestyle habits like these can help either prevent contracting pneumonia or even treat it at its earliest stages to increase the chances of recovery exponentially.  

Pneumonia Treatment Options

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, your treatment options for pneumonia, depending on your personal risk factors, can include: 

At-Home Treatment

If your doctor determines your pneumonia case is mild, they will prescribe medication or suggest one that you can purchase over-the-counter. These can range from: 

• Antibiotics to treat bacterial pneumonia
• Antivirals to treat viral pneumonia
• Antifungals for fungal pneumonia
• Over-the-Counter Medication for milder cases and symptom relief 

Hospital Treatment

If your doctor deems your pneumonia case serious enough, they may urge you to seek hospital care to pursue more intensive treatments, such as a procedure or surgery to repair damage caused by the infection. These treatments are designed to both relieve symptoms and prevent redeveloping the illness at a later time. 

How Ohioans Can Help Elderly Adults in Pneumonia Treatment

At Ohioans, our team of highly-trained clinicians will provide our elder clients with a home care plan that will help meet their treatment goals. Our skilled nursing professionals can help with medication education, nutrition counseling, respiratory and cardiac assessment, and coordinate with your physician to ensure you are receiving the best at-home care possible. 

To learn more about how we help our elderly neighbors with at-home pneumonia care, please contact us anytime.

New Years 2021 is approaching, and many people are planning to attend in-person gatherings to celebrate the end of a stressful and challenging 2020. Though we cannot stop others from choosing to attend events physically, we do want to encourage our senior neighbors, friends, and loved ones, as well as members of other high-risk communities, to avoid doing so to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

To help you celebrate the New Year while keeping health and safety in mind, here are some tips to still enjoy your holiday: 

New Years Safety Tip 1:  Plan a Virtual Holiday

Planning a virtual holiday celebration with friends and family provides an opportunity to still get together while remaining as safe as possible from both the spread of COVID-19 and the increased amount of drunk drivers on the road during New Year’s. According to the American Safety Council, New Year’s is one of the most dangerous holidays for alcohol-related traffic fatalities. 

Instead of traveling this New Year’s, make plans with the people you love to join a video call at a scheduled time to ring in the festivities virtually. You can still enjoy the food, beverages, and fellowship you look forward to each year while prioritizing the health and safety of everyone. 

Safety Tip 2: Don’t Go Out to Celebrate

The restaurant and bar industry booms during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. However, these establishments are currently heavily restricted throughout the United States due to the pandemic. This should not come as a surprise since they are often associated with large crowds, close contact with others, and lively celebrations during the holiday. 

For many, New Year’s is synonymous with visiting your favorite establishment. This year, especially for at-risk individuals, we recommend that you stay home instead. Though most states have reduced restaurants’ indoor capacities, these environments will still attract a high volume of patrons looking to gather and celebrate.

Safety Tip 3: Instead, Bring Your Favorite Foods to Your Front Door

Fortunately, just because you are safer staying home for New Year’s, that does not mean you cannot still enjoy your favoritefavorites foods and drinks. Instead of dining out or visiting a bar for New Year’s this year, enjoy your favorite meal from your establishment of choice by placing a pickup order or using a delivery app like UberEats or DoorDash. If you would like to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with your meal, the State of Ohio does currently permit restaurants and bars to deliver drinks with food orders. 

Safety Tip 4: What to Do if Visiting People in-Person

While we advise that you try to celebrate with others virtually this season to reduce the risk of spreading or contracting COVID-19, we are also aware that many people will still visit with others physically as well. Though this is not recommended, we do advise that you adhere to the following guidelines if you are going to attend an in-person gathering: 

Socially Distance from Others

If you are visiting people for New Year’s let them know ahead of time that you prefer to maintain a safe social distance during your time there. This means remaining at least six feet away from others at all times, not engaging in physical contact, and sitting in the best-ventilated space possible. Ask the host of the event to request that other guests also honor your wishes to keep a distance from others during your visit. 

Wear a Mask at All Times

Wear a mask or face covering at all times when visiting others. This will help prevent you from breathing in any virus-infected respiratory droplets or from spreading your own to others. If possible, wear a KN-95 mask or one with a sophisticated filter. Basic cloth masks and neck gaiters are not recommended for seniors or any members of other communities considered high-risk. 

Sit in the Best-Ventilated Room

Close contact with others in tight quarters increases your risk of contracting COVID-19. These spaces are often poorly ventilated and do not allow for proper social distancing. Ask the event host if you can sit near an open window or in a well-ventilated area to reduce your chance of breathing in contaminated air. 

Wash Your Hands as Often as Possible

Bring hand sanitizer with you and wash your hands at any possible opportunity. Avoid touching your eyes, lips, nose, or face with unwashed fingers to also further reduce your risk of contracting the virus. 

No Shame in Keeping it Clean

If you are worried about contact with potentially contaminated objects or surfaces, bring disinfecting wipes with you to the event to wipe down chairs, tables, doorknobs, and any other area you are worried about coming into contact with. There is absolutely no shame in keeping your immediate surroundings as clean as possible. 

Gather Information Ahead of Time

With COVID-19 remaining a real, relevant, and dangerous public health crisis, you should ask any hosts or guests whatever questions you deem necessary before attending a gathering. Some common ones you might want to consider include: 

• Will the event be inside, outside, or both? 
• How many people are attending? ‘
• Will everyone be wearing a mask or be willing to wear one? 
• Will I be able to sit in a well-ventilated room? 
• Have any attendants been recently exposed to the virus or work in a high-risk profession? 
• How long will the event last? 
• Will food and beverages be shared or individually served? 
• Will there be enough space to socially distance indoors? 
• Will lots of alcohol be served? 

Knowing the answers to questions like these can help you assess the safety level for a gathering. It can also assist you in deciding whether or not you will still attend the event. 

Above All: If it Doesn’t Feel Safe, Don’t Go

Right now, you should prioritize protecting your health, wellbeing, and personal safety, especially if you are a member of a higher-risk population. After assessing the safety of an in-person gathering, if it just doesn’t feel safe enough, do not go. As the old saying goes, it is better to be safe than sorry at this point in time. 

We Hope You Have a Happy and Healthy New Year 2021!

2020 has posed many challenges for countless people around the world. We want to thank our staff, clients, and colleagues for helping us continue to provide excellent home healthcare for communities in Ohio and Michigan. We are looking forward to continuing this mission in the new year! 

We wish you a happy new year and hope your celebrations are as safe as possible. If you have any questions about ways to further protect yourself during this holiday season, please contact us any time. 

Home healthcare services allow people the opportunity to pursue medical treatment from the comfort of home. This could involve:

• Treating chronic conditions (Parkinson’s disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, etc.)
• Infusion treatments (antibiotics, chemotherapy, pain medication, etc.)
• Nutrition
• Disability management taking charge of chronic conditions like Parkinson’s Disease, diabetes, respiratory pathologies, etc.; infusion services (antibiotics, chemotherapy, pain treatment, etc.); nutrition; or disability management.

Typically, home health providers will send patients home with devices or medications necessary for treatment. These could include tools like infusion or insulin pumps, oxygen concentrators, medical oxygen, equipment necessary for treatment (like masks, catheters, medical beds, etc.).

The home health provider will usually arrange for this equipment to be installed at the patient’s home. From there, the patient and their family will be advised on how to use and maintain the equipment. As treatment continues, the patient or their caregiver will relay information with a medical professional to track progress.

Is Home Healthcare Covered by Medical Insurance?

When considered a medical necessity, home healthcare is covered by Medicare and other health insurance programs. However, depending on the situation, this may only include certain aspects of care. A patient may be expected to pay supplements during the treatment. It is always best to maintain regular contact with doctors to explain why medical care is needed at home.

What Do Home Healthcare Agencies Provide?

Home healthcare agencies provide specialized nursing care under direction of the referring physicians. Home care agencies require communication between health professionals to ensure that vital functions are maintained and improve as expected. Services also include a thorough criminal background check of nursing assistants, including validation of work references and current skills, bonding, liability insurance, and workers compensation insurance as well as management. all responsibilities related to payroll and withholding taxes. They are in control of ensuring that you have the right carers for your exact needs.

Home Care agencies help find the people to assist you in your goals, giving you peace of mind and comfort in the most difficult times.

When Should You Hire Help?

Home healthcare may be needed at any time and comes in all kinds of forms. As your medical needs evolve, your home health provider can provide a variety of care services to help you. These services are primarily intended to ensure you can live at home for longer.

If you can no longer provide for all of your needs independently, it may be time to hire a home healthcare professional. Some reasons that may limit independence include injury, chronic illness, and old age, among many others.

Home Healthcare Services for a Variety of Patient Needs

Home healthcare allows people to receive the care that they need while continuing to live in the comfort of their own living space. Some common services that providers offer include:

Medication Teaching

Properly educating patients on medication compliance will allow them to maximize the benefits they receive from their care. For example, our team at Ohioans Home Healthcare will aid our patients by monitoring compliance, device set-up, IV therapy, injections, and will act as an informational resource if there are any questions during the course of the treatment.

Nutrition Counseling

Many home healthcare recipients are prescribed special diets and some may also require weight monitoring, intravenous nutrition such as TPN, tube feeding, and other similar care. A home healthcare provider can assist patients with ensuring compliance as well as education on using feeding equipment if the person is able to administer it autonomously.

Respiratory Assessment

Home healthcare providers assist respiratory patients by offering instruction on the use of necessary equipment like inhalers, aerosol machines, oxygen, and more. Furthermore, providers can also assist care recipients by educating them on the proper care methods for all equipment.

Cardiac Care

Home healthcare providers can prove a valuable resource for people in need of postoperative cardiac care. These services include:

• Continuous monitoring of chest pain
• Continuous monitoring of blood pressure
• Continuous edema monitoring
• Education on signs and symptoms of further complications

Wound Care

If a patient has sustained a wound, home healthcare aides can conduct dressing changes, wound vac therapy, monitor healing, and identify any infection signs. When necessary, a provider can also give the patient dressing supplies and order wound vacs. These services will help prevent potentially life-threatening infections and promote a healthier recovery process.

Disease Education

The likelihood of dealing with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), congestive heart failure, diabetes, renal failure, multiple sclerosis, osteoporosis, and others can increase with age. A home healthcare provider can provide vital information to care recipients about these conditions to help patients identify any early warning signs or symptoms to help begin treatment as soon as possible.

Is Home Healthcare the Right Option for You?

If you believe that you or your loved one would benefit from home healthcare, please do not hesitate to reach out at any time. We provide at-home care assistance to many individuals across Ohio and are more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Additionally, if you have given it a thought, here’s why you should consider working in home healthcare.

Flu season is approaching, and the COVID 19 pandemic remains a real and relevant public health concern. Because these two types of viruses may share similar symptoms across patients, knowing the differences can help save lives and stop the spread among vulnerable populations. For some, having to battle either of these prevalent illnesses can be life-threatening.

A Quick Primer on COVID 19

According to the CDC’s comparison between COVID 19 vs the flu, the former illness is caused when someone has been infected by a coronavirus officially named SARS-CoV-2. Though some of its symptoms may mimic influenza, not nearly as much information is known about COVID 19 and medical professionals are still acquiring information on the virus’s characteristics as well as investigating new therapeutic treatments and potential vaccine solutions.

While scientists are working to understand and develop treatments for COVID-19, the CDC offers this further guidance to protect yourself and others:

How COVID 19 Spreads

COVID 19 transmits between people easily. People who are closer than 6 feet apart from another and talking with uncovered faces are most likely to spread or catch the virus. This is because the virus is carried through respiratory droplets and can enter another person’s airways.

Some other less-common ways that COVID 19 can spread include being in an enclosed space with poor ventilation and, rarely, through contact with contaminated surfaces.

How to Protect Yourself Against COVID 19

Unlike the flu, which has various treatment options available, COVID 19 is still being monitored, studied, and understood. Because antivirals, therapeutics, and vaccines to combat the coronavirus are still in development and testing stages, people should take proactive measures to protect themselves and others from acquiring, spreading, and transmitting the illness.

To protect yourself from COVID 19 and reduce your chances of infection, here are some tips from the CDC:

• Wash hands frequently or use hand sanitizer containing 60% alcohol or more.
• Avoid close contact with others by maintaining 6 feet of distance between you and others that do not live with you.
• Regardless of having the virus or not, wear a mask in public settings and with others who are members of vulnerable groups.
• Do not place masks on children under age 2, anyone with breathing difficulties, an unconscious person, or someone unable to remove the mask independently.
• Always cover coughs, sneezes, and dispose of tissues in the trash.
• Immediately after, wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or with a proper hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• Clean commonly touched surfaces frequently; daily, if possible.
• Monitor your health symptoms and look for fever, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste, or other symptoms listed below. If symptoms do manifest themselves, take your temperature to see if you are developing a fever.

COVID 19 vs. the Flu: Similarities and Differences

Now that we have covered the basics of COVID 19, we should discuss the similarities that these two illnesses share with each other.

Common Symptoms

Though everyone may experience both viruses differently, these are some common symptoms that both COVID 19 and the flu share:

• Fever
• Chills
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath or general breathing difficulty
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Sore through
• Runny/stuffy nose
• Muscle pain/body aches
• Headache
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

Symptom Development Timeline

Because both viruses present many similar symptoms, it can be tough to determine which one you may be battling.

Beyond the common symptoms shared with the flu, COVID 19 patients may also experience a new loss of taste or smell. Because this coronavirus is still being studied, however, the CDC also advises that you stay informed on the latest information as new symptoms may be discovered over time.

Infection Timeline

Typically, a COVID 19 patient will develop symptoms over a longer period of time than a flu patient. With the flu, it takes approximately 1-4 days to develop symptoms post-infection, whereas COVID has a wide-ranging timeline for developing symptoms that can take anywhere from 2 to 14 days.

Complications

The CDC notes these complications that can result from both COVID 19 and the flu:

• Pneumonia
• Respiratory failure
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Sepsis
• Cardiac injury (heart attack, stroke, etc.)
• Multiple-organ failure
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions
• Inflammation of heart, brain, or muscle tissues
• Secondary bacterial infections

Additionally, COVID 19 patients may also face other complications, such as blood clots. Children infected with the coronavirus may be at risk of developing Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C).

COVID 19 vs Flu Treatments

Because the influenza virus has been studied for longer than COVID 19, there exists a wider range of known treatments. Typically, flu patients are prescribed specific antiviral drugs that are approved by the FDA.

Unlike the flu, COVID 19 has no FDA-approved therapeutic solutions available. Though some are in testing phases, there is no official treatment for the virus yet.

The same goes for vaccines. Flu shots are regularly available and widely used. Because they typically take a long time to be developed, there are no approved vaccines for COVID 19, though some trials are taking place.

I Have COVID 19 or the Flu – What Should I Do?

If you are developing symptoms that mimic either viral infection, you should go to your nearest medical provider that can administer a COVID 19 test. If you are not receiving a rapid response test, it is important to socially distance yourself from others and wear a mask around people until the results are available.

No matter the condition, if you are a person over the age of 60, you should discuss your treatment options with your provider. If you have a chronic or preexisting condition, you may be at greater risk of developing worse complications from COVID 19. You should discuss with your care provider if you should pursue intensive treatment at a medical facility where you can be more closely monitored for any worsening symptoms.

Should you test positive for COVID 19, the CDC recommends doing the following to prevent the spread:

• Stay home and rest
• Hydrate yourself regularly
• Monitor your symptoms
• Tell close contacts they may have been exposed to the virus
• Remain in regular contact with your doctor
• Call ahead if you need to visit a medical facility
• Call 911 if you are having emergency warning signs like Trouble breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or bluish lips/face. Be sure to tell them you have COVID 19.

For more information, visit this CDC infographic on managing your COVID 19 symptoms at home.

Are You Receiving Home Healthcare and Are Worried About COVID 19?

For those that invite healthcare providers into their homes, we thank you for your willingness to continue doing so during this pandemic. If you would like more information on how we are responding to COVID 19, please refer to our official statement. If you would like to learn more about COVID 19 vs the flu or ask any more questions about this, contact us anytime.

The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority recently asked the community for nominations of health care professionals that have risen to the challenge of treating pandemic patients. Of all the nominations, Shannon Wojtowicz RN, Ohioans COVID Task Force Nurse, was one of the 5 healthcare heroes selected for the “We’re Plane Thankful” award!

Here’s what Shannon had to say about being chosen. “Thank you for letting me serve our community in such an important way. I feel so humbled and proud!”

We are truly grateful for Shannon, and all the healthcare professionals who have helped our community stay safe and healthy during this global pandemic.

Who says you have to act your age? September is Healthy Aging Month, so it’s time to celebrate getting older. You’re never too old to reinvent yourself by focusing on physical health, emotional well-being, or trying something new. The sky’s the limit!

Improve Your Diet

A well-balanced diet is a good practice at any age. We need fewer calories when we’re older because our metabolism slows with age, so focus on fruits and veggies. Five servings of fruits and vegetables a day will cut calories and get you the vitamins and minerals you need.

Avoid a diet with lots of processed food that’s high in sugar, sodium, and fat. And stay hydrated by drinking at least six glasses of water a day.

Change Up Your Physical Activity

Try low-impact exercises like cycling or swimming or take up a new sport like tennis. Yoga and Pilates are excellent options to burn calories while improving your balance as well.

Start slow if you’re unsure where to begin. Try 15 minutes of light exercise, like walking, three to four times a week, to build your endurance. Consult your doctor for advice if you don’t know where to begin.

Be Social

Joining a new sports club or trying a new activity can put you on the path of making new friends. Regular social interactions prevent isolation and depression and keep your mind engaged – especially during a pandemic.

Stay social while staying safe by:

• Joining remote social or recreational clubs
• Including family and friends in daily activities
• Calling or video chatting with loved ones
• Finding transport services to get you to events

Get Creative, Be Passionate

Have you always dreamed of becoming a painter? Maybe you want to start training for a 5K. Well, there’s no time like the present. You may find you have a hidden talent or passion you didn’t know you had.

Think about what you were passionate about when you were a teenager. Why not pursue those dreams now? Keeping a positive attitude and surrounding yourself with positive people will help you pursue your interests and have fun doing it.

Don’t Skip The Doctor’s Office

Getting an annual check-up and scheduling recommended tests will help keep you healthy. Most diseases are treatable if they’re caught early enough. Take advantage of Telehealth through video chat during the pandemic and make all your appointments while you practice social distancing. Take your medications, vitamins, and supplements as recommended.

Call 855.600.0806 or contact Ohioans Home Healthcare online for service information.

Whether you’re sheltering in place, getting your kids ready to go back to school, or caring for a loved one, you’ve probably felt the stress created by the uncertainty of the last six months Here are a few ideas to manage stress before it gets overwhelming.

Eat Well And Exercise

These are necessary habits to have anyway, but especially when you feel stressed. A well-balanced diet gives your mind and body the nutrients and energy it needs to keep going. Energy is especially essential when you’re coping with lingering stress.

Exercise is an excellent way to burn off steam and calories, relieve stress, and increase mood-boosting endorphins. Make your daily activity fun. Dance to your favorite music, go for a quick walk, or take a bike ride.

Try Meditation

Meditation is a simple practice that has excellent stress-relieving results when done consistently. Take deep breaths through your nose and release them through your mouth. Change up your routine and take 5-minute breaks throughout the day to pay attention to your breath.

With meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques, you’re teaching your brain to slow down as you lower your heart rate and blood pressure. It’s believed meditation can also alter your neural pathways, making you more resilient to stress.

Get Your Rest

Getting on a consistent sleep schedule can significantly contribute to your stress management. A good night’s sleep can improve your concentration, judgment capabilities, energy, and mood. Stress can affect your sleep cycle, so here are a few tips for good sleep habits:

• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially in the evening
• Avoid blue-light devices like phones, computers, and televisions
• Practice breathing techniques
• Keep your environment quiet and cool

Talk It Out

Build and utilize your social support network. You may be able to slow the stress rolling around in your head by expressing yourself to friends and family. Having a support system provides you with an outlet to vent, and you may gain a new perspective or insight.

Contact Ohioans Home Healthcare to become a new patient or call 855.600.0806 for service information.

Ohioans Home Healthcare created a COVID-19 task force at the beginning of the pandemic to combat the spread of the virus. OHH remains committed to taking precautions to ensure the safety of our staff and patients while the spread of the virus continues to change, and challenges persist.

Receiving quality in-home care methods is of the utmost importance, especially during times of crisis. Our preexisting emergency preparedness plan allowed us to respond to the obstacles created by the pandemic without an interruption in service.

Here are a few ways your OHH nurses are working to keep you safe:

• Nurses who work with COVID-19 patients will only work with symptomatic individuals or households.
• A separate team will attend non-symptomatic patients to avoid the potential spread of the virus.
• OHH staff will employ N95 Envo masks and surgical masks to protect themselves and their patients during their visit.
• OHH encourages all patients to wear masks during visits to protect themselves and the staff.
• All staff regularly inspect masks for tears or holes and will always keep their noses, mouths, and chins covered.

Our emergency preparedness plan has withstood the test of COVID-19, and we will continue to administer to our patients with our signature dedication and care. The task force will also remain in place while the virus runs its course.

Call OHH at 855.600.0806 or contact us online for more information.

The world of home health care offers a change of pace for those nurses who want to grow in their field while building genuine patient relationships. Here are a few reasons why home health nursing might be for you.

Work With Flexibility

Home health care nurses work through an agency and are out in the field, visiting patients at home. You don’t have set work hours, so your daily schedule is flexible and can provide something different every day.

Nurses have some input on their scheduling and patient population preferences. You’ll work on a team while retaining plenty of independence. Agencies offer scheduling options, including:

• Full-time
• Part-time
• Evening shifts
• Weekend schedules

RELATED ARTICLE: Why a Home Healthcare Career is a Worthwhile Opportunity

Develop And Hone New Skills

Nurses can improve their skills through continued education and certification programs. Home health care includes blood draws, ventilator and tracheostomy care, IV set up, and wound care.

This type of work creates a medical center in the patient’s home, so you’ll have the chance to master the skills to meet their complex needs. This work also puts you on the path toward developing lots of new skills. You’ll become a teacher as you train patients on how to care for themselves.

Build Patient Relationships

You’re working in a very intimate environment – the patient’s home. Regular visits mean you’ll be building a working relationship with your patients and their families.

Tending to someone’s medical needs creates a unique bond as you help them regain independence. You’re also helping patients live at home safely – something they are likely grateful to be able to do.

Grow In Your Industry

You can advance in the home health care industry as you build your skills and relationships. You may have the opportunity to grow from a field nurse to a nurse manager and coordinate schedules and services. In this role, your field experience will help you ensure care plans are correctly executed.

Ohioans Home Health Care is committed to providing top-rated training to our employees. Call 855.600.0806 for career information or go online to apply today!

Trying to figure out Medicare and Medicaid can leave your head swimming with questions. What do I qualify for, and what are my coverage options? Ohioans Home Healthcare will help you compare coverage programs and determine which option is best for you.

Medicare vs Medicaid

What is Medicare?

Medicare is an age-based healthcare program funded by the federal government for people 65 and older. People under 65 with particular diseases and disabilities may also qualify. Medicare is paid for by the public, like an income tax. You’re automatically enrolled in Medicare once you turn 65.

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is also a publicly funded healthcare program run by both federal and state governments. Medicaid is based on an individual’s income status. Coverage options vary because it is partially regulated by state governments.

Qualifications for Medicare

Medicare is split into Parts A, B, C, and D. To qualify for Parts A and B, you must be 65 or older, or disabled and collecting Social Security for at least two years. Part B is optional, and you must sign up during enrollment periods.
Part C, or Advantage Plans, requires the same criteria as Parts A and B but excludes individuals with renal diseases and those in hospice care.

Medicare Coverage Options

• Part A: Hospital services, part-time skilled nursing care and home health aide services, physical/occupational/speech therapies, and home medical supplies. Does not cover dental or vision.
• Part B: Medical services, like preventative and screening tests, and comes with additional costs. Similar home health care coverage as Part A. Does not cover dental but may cover basic vision tests.
• Part C/Advantage Plans: Similar coverage to Parts A and B and may cover prescription drug expenses. Advantage Plans offer coverage through Medicare-approved insurers and may include dental and vision.
• Part D: Prescription drugs.

Qualifications for Medicaid

The qualifications for Medicaid vary depending on your income, disability, the size of your household, and family status. Applying for Medicaid can take weeks to months and may require medical screening and documentation of past and present financial hardship. Qualified Medicaid applicants include:

• Low-income families and individuals
• Pregnant women
• Teenagers living alone
• Elderly, blind, or disabled
• Parents of sick children
• Those with high medical costs

Medicaid Coverage Options

Medicaid offers mandatory coverage of some services, but states decide which auxiliary services are covered. Coverage includes:

• Dental: Preventative, medical, and surgical dental services for adults, and all dental care for children.
• Vision: Eye exams, glasses, and optometry services
• Medical: Hospitalization/clinic services, labs and X-rays, family planning and midwife services, home healthcare for those eligible for nursing facilities, and doctor and nursing services
• Home health services: Part-time professional medical care, custodial home care, housekeeping services, medical equipment, and transport assistance

Can You Qualify for both Medicare & Medicaid?

You can qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. Most healthcare costs are covered if you have dual eligibility, including costs incurred from Medicare Parts A and B. If you qualify for Medicare but cannot afford your monthly premiums and deductibles, Medicaid can typically bridge the coverage gap.

Call 855.600.0806 or contact Ohioans Home Healthcare online to learn more about our skilled nursing services.