Is this the Last Pandemic? Tips for Seniors and Caregivers to Prepare Mentally and Physically

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It’s crazy to think, but COVID-19 isn’t the first pandemic the world has suffered, and it most likely won’t be the last.

If you check back in history, you’ll notice that pandemics just happen every few decades or so. And, there’s no stopping them. At least for now.

So, the best we can do is prepare in advance, physically and mentally, and be ready for anything.

Here Are 5 Ways Seniors and Caregivers Can Prepare for a Pandemic in the Future

1. Make a list of essentials

It’s hard to think properly in the moment. When Covid-19 first hit, people went running out to the stores, buying everything in sight. This caused major chaos, as well as shortages of even non-essential items.

Avoid the panicked over-buying, and stick to a list. While you have the time to calmly think, now is when you should make a list of all the items you would want to buy if another pandemic hit.

2. Keep an emergency bag handy

You never know how badly a pandemic is going to strike, and how isolated you may end up. So, it’s good to be prepared for worst-case scenarios. Knowing that you’re prepped and ready for even the worst possibilities is a huge stress reducer.

You can buy pre-made emergency kits. Or, you can put one together based on what you, personally, may need. Consider items like: gauze, band aids, pain relievers, heat packs, tissues, fully charged power banks, solar powered flashlights, rope, water, etc.

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3. Stock up on non-perishables and freezer-food

Another item that will make you feel much calmer knowing that you already have is food.

Take some time now before another pandemic comes along to stock up on non-perishables and freezer-food. Nowadays, there are plenty of options out there, so you can really choose what you would actually enjoy eating (and not just old-school camping food).

Some foods you may enjoy are: BPA-free canned salmon, tuna fish pouches, boxed milk, nut or rice milk, coffee, spices, crackers, frozen fruits and veggies.

4. Include some self-care products

It’s important to remember that items for our mental and emotional states are just as essential as items for our physical health. While you’re stocking up on grocery items, throw in a few things for your mental health as well. Things like: face masks, puzzles, adult coloring books, or even a novel or two.

5. Look for sales

Buying all these extra supplies at once can really add up in expenses. And, if you’re looking at your list of things to buy and thinking you need to buy them all at once, you’re probably feeling a bit overwhelmed.

The good news is that since you’re doing this in advance, you have time.

You don’t need to go out of your way to do extra shopping. Simply buy doubles (or triples) of things you’re already purchasing. And, look for sales! For instance, if you’re already buying toothpaste one week, buy an extra tube or two to add to your stockpile. If you are already in an electronics store fixing your computer, grab an extra power bank for your emergency kit.

Prepping should reduce stress not add to it.

If you need our help, AmeriBest Home Care will always be happy to help you prepare for any necessary situation regarding our care for you.
Call the number: 215-925-3313 so that we can be useful to you!

 

What Home Health Care in Philadelphia PA Can Do For your Loved One

Most families are not prepared for the time when their loved ones need help with the everyday things. As more people age, there is more of a need for home health care Philadelphia PA. Home health care can provide a myriad of services. Often, patients are discharged home from the hospital with no way of properly caring for themselves. They may be unable to walk to the bathroom unassisted or even unable to shower or bathe on their own. Some may not even be able to cook for themselves. Times like these are when a provider of Home Health Care Philadelphia PA may be necessary.

Many companies provide home health care in Philadelphia PA services for people who need a little help due to medical conditions. A good home health care Philadelphia company will send people out to do a variety of assorted jobs for the patient.

When it comes time to hire someone to help a person with the daily tasks of life, you should ask them before hiring a company to perform the duties.

  • Is the company accredited and licensed?
  • Do they take the insurance that you have?
  • How often do they visit and for how long?
  • Are their workers certified to perform the job duties?

If the worker that comes to do the work is not acceptable, can someone else be sent instead? It is imperative to have a worker you like and trust.

Ascertaining these questions is important, as it will affect the person receiving the services. These Home Health Care in Philadelphia PA companies provide a variety of services such as:

Cooking and cleaning: If a patient requires help with cooking, it is a good idea to make sure she gets a person who can cook.

General housekeeping– The helper, if provided, will sweep, mop, dust, wash dishes and other household chores the patient cannot do.

Bathing– The helper can assist with bathing the patient, drying and dressing.

Medications– The home health nurse can refill the patient’s medicine box with the correct dosing.

Having a good home health company to provide services can enable patients to live at home in their familiar surroundings.

5 Popular Pandemic Hobbies for Seniors and Caregivers

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While the world begins to re-open stores, schools, theaters, amusement parks, and more- many seniors and caregivers are still sitting at home waiting for safer conditions before they fully re-enter society.

And with so much time on their hands, they’re looking for more to do than just watch TV or read a book.

If that sounds like you, or someone you know, here’s a list of 5 popular pandemic hobbies to help you occupy your time!

Make the most of your days with worthwhile and enlightening activities.

1. Gardening

As we all strive to navigate through this uncertain time, some hobbies have skyrocketed in popularity.

Gardening is one of those hobbies. In fact, gardening went up 100% on Google Trends– a whopping twice as much as last year!

Gardening is a great way to spend some quality time out in the fresh, open air. And, there’s so much to do: planting new flowers, designing topiaries, growing fruits and vegetables, creating raised gardens beds. The creative possibilities are endless.

2. Cooking

Another fan favorite has been the #QuarantineFifteen.

During the months of quarantine and social distancing, many caregivers and seniors have finally found time to not only enjoy the food they eat, but also the cooking process beforehand. Searches for “recipe” of all kinds went up 100% when compared to 2019’s search trends.

Sitting or standing, humming along to music or listening to a podcast, chatting on the phone or pondering in silence- there are so many ways to enjoy yourself while cooking. Not to mention, the delicious food that comes after!

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3. Pet Fostering

One good thing to come from this pandemic is that animal shelters have emptied tremendously.

Animals give people joy and companionship. So, it’s no surprise that during these trying times, people have flocked to animal shelters to help not only the animals, but also themselves.

One act, two kindnesses.

If you’re looking for way to boost your mood at home, consider fostering a pet for a little extra love and fluffiness in your life.

4. DIY Projects

“Do it yourself” activities have become a huge hit in recent months. With most people stuck at home, it’s been hard to make purchases and hire others to do work around the house. This struggle has encouraged many to start fixing up their homes on their own and even making their own products.

For seniors and caregivers who are goal oriented, DIY’s are a wonderful hobby. There are plenty of easy-to-follow DIY videos online, as well as books and magazines that feature various projects.

Furniture, cosmetics, clothing, stickers, home renovations, jewelry- there’s so much to choose from that you’re bound to find something you just can’t wait to make!

5. Backyard Birding

Spending so much time at home has also allowed seniors and caregivers to gain a new appreciation for their homes and the wonders that reside in their own backyards.

Backyard birding is a calming activity that brings a sense of excitement to your own backyard. You’ll suddenly take note of things you never noticed before like rare birds, unusual melodies, interesting migration patterns, and more.

AmeriBest Home Care caregivers are ready to assist you or your loved one with daily activities so that you can peacefully enjoy your favorite hobbies.
Call AmeriBest Home Care today by phone: 215-925-3313
We will always be happy to take care of you!

Trust the Home Health Care Services in Philadelphia PA

Trust is vital when it comes to any aspect of the medical field. The more one looks into it, the more one will find that it all comes back to trust. Sure, price is important, as is location and reliability, but when it comes to the bottom line, you cannot, and should not, pick someone that you do not trust 100%. When it comes to home health care services for yourself or someone you love, you need to make sure that you don’t just go with the first person you find, but instead someone you know will be trustworthy in everything that they do. After all: it is not just about having someone to help, it is about having someone that you KNOW is going to do the job the right way each time that they come.

Trust is even more important when you are talking about a healthcare professional going to your home to care for you or a loved one. After all: it is one thing to trust your doctor when you go to their office, but it is another thing to have the doctor come to your home to care for you. With this in mind, it is not only about finding a professional that you trust, but also about finding a company that you trust. The company that supplies Home Health Care Services in Philadelphia PA professionals needs to be one that doesn’t just have good reviews and does a thorough background check on the people they hire.

A great place to start is to find a company that is licensed, bonded and insured. Furthermore, you want to make sure that you go with a company that only hires professionals who have experience in home health care. They should also allow you to interview the home professionals at your home or office and pick the one that is best suited for your needs. Finally, any Home Health Care Services in Philadelphia PA company you go with should promise you the same professionals you trust each time they come out.

Experienced and Compassionate Home Care Services in Philadelphia PA

Some people experience illnesses or diseases that make it difficult for them to care for themselves. They don’t want to spend time in the hospital than necessary, and they search for other options. Home Care Services offer a perfect solution because they offer a range of helpful services based on the individual’s needs. This type of care makes it possible for the patient to stay at home and receive the necessary care. Services such as home visits, medication management, personal care, companionship and more are offered. Medical equipment such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, oxygen and more are also offered.

This type of care can help the patient to have a better quality of life by letting them stay at home, where they feel most comfortable. Hospice care is also offered to those patients who wish to forgo curative care. This type of care lets them stay in their own home while receiving compassionate treatment. They provide pain relief and symptom treatment for all of their patients. Many feel that this type of care is ideal because it allows the patient to enjoy a better quality of life. Hospice care is specifically designed for those whose life expectancy is six months or less and choose to forgo curative treatment.

Many people who are ill wish to stay home and deal with the illness on their terms. This is the best way for them to live the rest of their lives with dignity. These providers also offer services for their family members that include bereavement services. The quality of life is so important when the end is near and many believe that this is the best option available.

It is good to contact an agency that offers Home Care Services in Philadelphia PA to learn more about what they offer. Many people feel good about this option because it makes their loved ones happier. It also allows family members to spend special and precious time together in a more comfortable atmosphere. It is important to see that a loved one’s wishes are being met, and this is a great way to do so.

Staying Safe as a Home Health Worker (Official Guidance)

As home health workers, we care for those vulnerable and at-risk to get severely ill from COVID-19. Learn how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your clients. Below is the City of Philadelphia – Department of Public Health’s official document for home health workers.

You can also download this brochure by clicking here. Stay safe!

 

 

 

Caregiver in Philadelphia PA: Building Rapport

The relationship between the caregiver and the patient is one that should not be mechanical. Instead, the two should have the opportunity to build rapport and to establish a relationship. Whether the recipient of a caregiver or a loved one who is helping with the process, taking steps to facilitate this relationship can make for a truly amicable bond to form. Expressing that In-home caregiver in Philadelphia PA is there for certain needs helps to start this connection. Consider a relationship between two people; it is often defined by the boundaries and expectations discussed. Knowing that AmeriBest Home Care representative is there for can help the patient to better understand what to expect.

Some may assume that no common ground exists between the caregiver and the patient, but that is a dangerous assumption. Even if they are in two entirely separate parts of their lives, they may find that they share a common passion for a television show, movie, hobby, or activity. The two may both discover that they simply like to chat with others. Two people who are good at listening and speaking make for a suitable pair. The patient may spend time talking about the days before injury or illness, and the In Home Caregiver in Philadelphia PA may listen attentively and share related experiences.

If the patient can leave home and the caregiver’s role involves transporting the patient in the manner, arranging for activities is another way for the two to build a connection. They may go to programs at a local senior center or go for a meal at the patient’s favorite restaurant. On the other hand, the caregiver may be asked to attend family parties to help the individual. Not only is the caregiver meeting with members of the family, but he or she is also seeing the patient in a new light. The two can begin to form their memories together. The bond between a patient and a caregiver is one that may last for quite a while, and they may see each other daily. Therefore, nurturing this connection is important.

Rely on In-Home Care Service Daily

If you have a family member who is physically unable to take care of themselves, it is likely they need constant attention. Often, older people don’t like the idea of going to live in a rest home. It can be costly, and they don’t like leaving the comfort of their own home. This is why many people rely on an In-Home Care Service. This is someone who is going to stop several times throughout the day. They will take care of medical needs. They will also make sure their patient is eating correctly and choosing the correct dosage of medication.

Sometimes, patients need help with bathing. It can be a bit embarrassing to ask a family member to help with giving a bath. Somehow, it seems more natural to rely on a nurse for this type of thing. Rest assured, someone from the In-Home Care Services in Philadelphia PA is happy to help out whenever possible. Sometimes, a ride to the doctor is needed. Rather than turning to family, think about hiring someone to take on the responsibility. They will make sure the patient arrives on time for their doctor’s appointment, and they will take them to get prescriptions after the meeting. This is going to be their responsibility. This can be very helpful for family members because everyone is so busy. Rather than spending the afternoon running errands, leave the responsibility to someone else, and spend free time together visiting with one another.

Check out the website today. Learn more about these services and decide whether or not it would be beneficial to use them. Rest assured, all caregivers will go through an extensive background check, and they are tested for drug and alcohol use. Employees understand the importance of giving professional experience to their patients. The caretaker is fully aware of what to do in an emergency, and they are prepared for the unexpected. Set up an appointment to meet with someone in your home today. They will answer any questions and go over where to begin the process. Someone is available to help every step of the way. Give them a call, and they will get started right away. You can also like them on Facebook for more information.

Sit Back and Relax with Passive Stretching for Seniors

What is passive stretching?

When it comes to stretching, there are two important categories to know: active and passive.

Active stretching is when you target a specific joint or muscle and work to stretch it using only that same joint or muscle.

Passive stretching, on the other hand, is when you target a specific joint or muscle using external pressure to stretch it out.

For instance, if seniors were interested in stretching their fingers, here is what the two types of stretching might look like:

  • For active stretching, seniors would try to wiggle and move their fingers about, with no external help.
  • For passive stretching, seniors would use their other hand (or something else) to physically push the fingers back and forth.

What are the benefits of passive stretching?

If you try out the finger stretching example, you’ll see that passive stretching (moving your fingers with external pressure), allows you to stretch your finger much further and much faster than active stretching. Because, you can push your fingers further than they can bend on their own.

This means, that with passive stretching, seniors can get to their stretching end goal much faster than with active stretching.  Not only that, but passive stretching can give seniors an opportunity to sit back and relax while someone else does the hard work for them. Since the stretching is coming from an external pressure, seniors can get help from friends, family members, or caregivers. This makes passive stretching more enjoyable for many seniors, and makes it easier to psychologically maintain a steady schedule.

Note: If you’re still not sold on the benefits of passive stretching, here’s a fun fact that might just change your mind. According to research published in the Journal of Physiology, regular passive stretching done for a consecutive 12 weeks can help reduce stiffness in arteries, allowing for improved blood flow. This, in turn, can help prevent heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and more.

How to successfully engage in passive stretching?

As with all types of stretching, passive stretching requires consistent work if you want to reap the benefits. Stretching a little bit every day is better than stretching a lot every few days.

Each day that you stretch, your body builds on what it could do the day before. Like steps on a ladder. The more rungs you move up, the higher the rungs you can reach.

However, when you skip a day (or days) of stretching, your body doesn’t just stay where it was before. It actually moves down a rung.

So, essentially, on days that you miss stretching, you’re not just not moving forward, you’re actually moving backward. Which is why, consistency is key when it comes to passive stretching. 

Passive stretching tips for caregivers.

As a caregiver, your job is two-fold for helping your senior successfully stretch.

First, you need to give your senior motivation and inspiration to keep stretching regularly. It can be difficult making a habit out of something new. And it’s all too easy to skip days or become lax with a new routine. However, for the best results, seniors need to passively stretch on the regular.

Second, you need to equip your senior with the tools to stretch whether you’re there or not. This might mean buying stretchy exercise bands so your senior can stretch on his or her own. Or, it might mean putting up signs around the house reminding your senior to stay on track.

And, just remember, stretching doesn’t have to be a chore. 

It can be a fun and relaxing activity too!

Protecting the Senior Community of Philadelphia During COVID-19

With so many heads turned toward the actual COVID-19 virus, the number of deaths caused by other indirect factors has received little to no attention.

Unfortunately, a large percentage of deaths during the pandemic have actually been caused by conditions other than the virus itself. Albeit, not unrelated to the virus.

With all hands on deck dedicated toward helping those immediately affected by COVID-19, fewer resources have been available to those in need of other types of care. Many seniors have suffered from not getting fast enough medical attention, as well as from lack of emotional and financial support.

The struggles have been especially hard for seniors who live alone and rely heavily on friends and family visiting. While social distancing has been a successful precaution against the virus, it has also caused many dilemmas for seniors who need help with daily activities.

In light of these deficiencies, many organizations and outreach groups have stepped up to give a lending hand to seniors in need. From grocery shopping to social phone calls, individuals have been working hard to ensure that our seniors stay safe and secure.

Supporting the Senior Community of Philadelphia

One such group that has persevered in its assistance for older adults is the leading home care agency – AmeriBest Home Care. Located in the heart of Philadelphia, AmeriBest has done nothing but focus on caring for its older adult community during the pandemic.

Here are just a few of the ways in which AmeriBest Home Care continues to care for its seniors and its caregivers.

Continual support for clients.

As an essential business, AmeriBest Home Care has been open and functioning throughout the entirety of the pandemic. AmeriBest’s caregivers have worked tirelessly to find careful and innovative ways of serving their clients in order to ensure that those in need still receive the medical and emotional help they require. AmeriBest caregivers continue to help seniors with acquiring food, medical supplies, medical treatments, doctors’ appointments, as well as help with everyday living activities.

Continual support for caregivers.

AmeriBest’s priority is not just its clients, but also its caregivers who give up so much to help those in need. Right from the start of the pandemic, AmeriBest’s administration dedicated its time to keeping caregivers in the loop with up-to-date information on the virus, as well as guidelines for how to handle COVID-19 situations that could arise with clients. AmeriBest continues to gather and share resources with caregivers to help them protect themselves and be the best caregivers they can be.

Taking COVID-19 precautions.

In order to ensure the safety of both caregivers and clients, AmeriBest Home Care has instructed all caregivers to wear personal protective equipment, wash hands for 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, and to always be cognizant of coughing and/or sneezing into tissues and not touching their faces.

In addition to the above-mentioned precautions, AmeriBest Home Care also adheres to social distancing, increased office cleaning, the limiting of large social gatherings, and consistent monitoring of any and all virus updates.

For more information on how AmeriBest Home Care is taking steps to ensure the safety of seniors and caregivers alike, give us a call at (215) 925-3313.

We’re here for you.