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Programs About Support JEVS

Author: Rossella Alla

Celebrating 25 Years of the Franklin C. Ash Summer Internship Program

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Sage A.

The Franklin C. Ash Internship Program celebrates its 25th anniversary in Summer 2024.

This program runs for seven weeks and gives college students a chance to learn about jobs in non-profit organizations and gain real world experience. This year, 20 students are in the program, which is the largest group yet!

Students are matched with a company that best fits their interests and professional goals. They work at their placement from Tuesday to Friday and complete 28 hours of work every week. Every Monday, all the interns meet for activities like improving resumes, practicing job interviews, volunteering, talking about salaries, and more.

In this internship, the interns spend less than 10% of their time doing office work, so they learn about how a company works instead of just doing paperwork.

Every year Mr. Ash picks a day to have breakfast with the interns where he shares about his past, why he started this program, and how much he enjoys meeting the interns.

After the seven weeks, there is a special closing ceremony where Mr. Ash says goodbye to the interns. The students give speeches about what they learned and get to celebrate their hard work with their bosses, friends, and family. This program sets its participants up for success and helps them explore their interests.

Body Mechanics and Safety Tips for Caregivers: Prevent Injuries and Stay Healthy 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

Being a caregiver can be physically demanding. Whether you’re assisting a client with mobility, doing household chores, spending long hours on your feet or sitting in a chair, using proper body mechanics is important. Proper body mechanics help prevent injuries so that you can continue providing high-quality care. Here are some tips for maintaining body safety while sitting, standing, lifting, transferring clients, and performing household tasks. 

Understanding Body Mechanics 

“Body mechanics” means the way you move your body. By using correct body mechanics, you can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries, which are common in caregiving. Here are some basic principles of body mechanics: 

  • Maintain Neutral Spine Alignment: Keep your spine in a neutral position, with the natural curves of your neck, upper back, and lower back maintained. 
  • Engage Your Core: Use the muscles in your abdomen and lower back to support your movements. 
  • Use Your Legs: When lifting or lowering objects, bend your knees and use the strength of your legs rather than your back. 
  • Keep Objects Close: Hold items close to your body to reduce strain on your back and arms. 
  • Avoid Twisting: Turn your whole body by moving your feet instead of twisting your spine. 

Sitting and Standing for Long Periods 

Sitting or standing for extended periods can lead to discomfort and long-term issues like back pain or varicose veins. Here are some tips to stay safe: 

When Sitting: 

  • Choose the Right Chair: Use a chair with good lumbar support. When you are seated, your feet should be flat on the floor, and your knees should be at a right angle. 
  • Adjust Your Position: Change your sitting position every 30 minutes. Shift your weight, stand up, stretch, and take short walks if possible. 
  • Use a Footrest: If your feet don’t reach the floor, use a footrest to keep your knees level with your hips. 
  • Support Your Lower Back: Use a small pillow or lumbar roll to maintain the natural curve of your lower back. 

When Standing: 

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose supportive, non-slip shoes to reduce foot and leg fatigue. 
  • Shift Your Weight: Avoid standing in one position for too long. Shift your weight from one foot to the other or place one foot on a low stool and alternate. 
  • Take Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks to sit down, stretch, and move around. 

Lifting and Transferring Clients 

Lifting and transferring clients are physically demanding tasks. Proper technique is essential to prevent injuries: 

  • Plan Ahead: Assess the situation before you lift or transfer a client. Make sure you have enough space and remove any obstacles. 
  • Get Close: Stand close to the client, facing them with your feet shoulder-width apart. 
  • Bend Your Knees: Squat down by bending your knees, keeping your back straight, and using your core muscles. 
  • Use a Gait Belt: If the client is able, use a gait belt to provide additional support and control during the transfer. 
  • Lift with Your Legs: Push through your heels and use the strength of your legs to lift. Avoid using your back. 
  • Communicate: Explain the process to the client and encourage them to assist as much as possible. 
  • Use Assistive Devices: If the client has an order in place, you may use mechanical lift devices to assist with transfers. This reduces the physical strain on both you and the client.   
  • Team Lifting: If the client is heavy or the situation is challenging, ask for help. Lifting with a partner can be safer and more effective. 

Completing Household Chores 

Household chores like cleaning and laundry can also pose physical risks. Here’s how to perform these tasks safely: 

Cleaning: 

  • Avoid Overreaching: Use tools with long handles to avoid bending and stretching excessively. 
  • Kneel on a Pad: When cleaning low areas, kneel on a padded surface to protect your knees. 
  • Use Proper Tools: Choose lightweight, ergonomic cleaning tools that are easy to handle. 
  • Maintain Neutral Spine: Keep your back straight and avoid twisting while cleaning. Move your whole body to face the task. 

Laundry: 

  • Lift Properly: Use proper lifting techniques when handling laundry baskets. Bend your knees and lift with your legs. 
  • Avoid Overloading: Don’t overfill laundry baskets or washing machines. Multiple trips with lighter loads are safer. 
  • Use a Stool: When transferring clothes from the washer to the dryer, use a small stool to avoid bending over repeatedly. 
  • Elevate the Task: If possible, raise the height of your laundry machines to reduce the need for bending. 

General Tips for Body Safety 

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your muscles and joints lubricated. 
  • Stretch Regularly: Incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine to maintain flexibility and reduce muscle tension. 
  • Practice Good Posture: Whether sitting, standing, or moving, maintain good posture to prevent strain on your body. 
  • Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of fatigue and discomfort. Take breaks and rest when needed. 
  • Seek Training: Participate in training sessions on body mechanics and safe handling techniques provided by JCAH staff. 

By following these practical tips and maintaining awareness of your body mechanics, you can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Remember, taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your clients. Stay safe and stay healthy! 

Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, announces new Hybrid Construction Management Associate Degree Program

Posted on by Rossella Alla

The 15-month program beginning this Fall, will train the Philadelphia region’s next generation of construction managers, putting them on track to earn a six-figure salary in the fastest-growing occupation 

Philadelphia, PA (July 9, 2024) Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services (JEVS), has announced the launch of a new Associate Degree in Specialized Business (ASB) – Construction Management program. Through the help of JEVS strong partnerships, this program will help connect individuals in the Greater Philadelphia region to high-paying jobs with economic mobility, within a little over a year. This extends upon Orleans Technical College and JEVS commitment to promoting economic stability in the region through expanding offerings for high-demand careers, including Orleans Technical College’s recent healthcare expansion.  

The courses will be hybrid with technical courses held at Orleans Technical College, located in Northeast Philadelphia, and general education courses held online. Over 15 months, students will study blueprint reading, estimating, business law, and more. They will be prepared to plan and supervise construction projects, from start to finish. This program is an essential asset to the region, as the demand for construction managers is increasing faster than any other jobs by 2032 at 5% each year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In recent years, state and federal lawmakers have invested millions of dollars into repairs for roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects, making these jobs abundant and appealing for trades workers looking to upscale their careers without a 4-year degree. Students can graduate from this program and make upwards of $87,000 and eventually average 6 figures a year at around $130,000. This means construction work can help move Philadelphians from historically disadvantaged backgrounds to middle-class wages. The new ASB program will help create growth opportunities for individuals in our region and the overall construction industry.  

Orleans Technical College’s new ASB program will provide training for Philadelphians and surrounding county residents to enter the workforce prepared to handle the full process of delivering a construction project to completion and boost their careers. Graduates of this program will be equipped to begin careers as construction managers, construction estimators, site inspectors, surveyors, and more.  

“Orleans Technical College, of JEVS Human Services, is proud to launch this new ASB program, which solidifies our position as a leader in fueling a diverse pipeline for trades jobs that provide a career path for growth and economic mobility,” said JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia Figueroa.”  “This program will be a game changer in the Greater Philadelphia region for years to come, through dually empowering the lives of individuals and filling in-demand careers in the construction industry. JEVS is proud to continue our mission in creating opportunities and paving the way to sustainable career paths to independence and economic security.” 

Enrollment for the program is now open, with classes beginning in the fall. For more information visit the Orleans Technical College website.  

 

ABOUT JEVS  

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.   

Orleans Technical College, operated by JEVS Human Services, is an accredited, non-profit career training school. It prepares adults for careers in building trades and healthcare. Since 1974, Orleans Technical College has helped students move toward one common goal: learning new skills to enhance their success in the workforce. Orleans Technical College offers job training programs in building trades and healthcare. 

Q’s Story: How JEVS helps people gain independence

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Erin G.

When the City of Philadelphia referred a young woman named Q. to JEVS, Paul DeVito, Executive Director of Residential Services, took the call.

Q’s story reflects a difficult past. Living in different foster homes and “couch surfing” throughout high school, her history involves mistreatment by those who should have cared for her. Despite receiving earlier services, she had slipped through the system. After turning 21, she was no longer eligible for Department of Human Services (DHS) resources.

When Paul was contacted, he knew it would not be a quick process, but believed that JEVS Residential Services/Supported Independent Living (SIL) could help. When Paul met Q., he could tell she was determined to be a successful, independent adult. Along with the JEVS SIL team, he worked through paperwork and hurdles to get funding and helped her apply for JEVS’ services.

Through the efforts of the JEVS team, Q. finally got her own apartment. When she moved in, she was happy to have the clean and quiet space and furniture, like a bed with a frame and a headboard.

With continued support from JEVS, she learned to manage public transportation and became a permanent part-time employee in the housekeeping department at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP).

She’s learning about budgeting and living on her own; she opened her own banking account and pays room and board.

Q’s JEVS support team is proud of what she has accomplished. Q. inspires Paul and others who meet her.

JEVS Home Care and Residential Services supports individuals with disabilities to live independently. Click this link to learn more about JEVS programs and services.

Community Participation’s Community Garden

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Erin G.

With funding from the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS), JEVS Integrated Behavioral Health began a special project: a community garden. Program participants work together to care for the plants and enjoy the green space. 

Building a Garden at Orleans Technical College  

When the City of Philadelphia DBHIDS granted JEVS one-time funding to create the garden, many JEVS programs worked together to make it possible. The Design Lab, at Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, helped participants design and print their own pots. This experience gave them the opportunity to visit the design workroom and see how 3D printing works. Students and staff in the Carpentry Program at Orleans Tech supported the project and built raised garden beds. This joint effort shows how many people come together to support, use, and benefit from the garden.  

Nurturing Wellness Through Gardening 

The community garden is a place to grow vegetables, and it’s also a peaceful place where people can relax and connect with nature. Being outside, meeting other people, and getting sunshine benefit overall health. Each individual contributes to the garden’s success. Participants plant seeds, weed the beds, water the plants, and harvest the produce. This hands-on involvement builds confidence and self-esteem.  

Helping Others and Fostering Community Connections 

The garden provides fresh food for people in community living and behavioral health programs. When there’s extra produce, participants share it with people in independent living programs who can’t easily leave their homes. They are proud of working in the garden and of giving back by sharing produce with those who need it. It saves money, promotes healthy eating, and fosters a sense of community among them. Working together in the garden builds friendships and strengthens connections. If you want to help or find out more about the community garden, get in touch! Together, we make our community better. 

A Conversation with Dr. Rida Fatima, World Affairs Council Exchange Program Fellow 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H. 

JCAH was excited to host Dr. Rida Fatima, who is part of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia’s professional exchange program. In this program, “emerging leaders” from around the world visit Philadelphia each year to learn from local businesses and organizations and share their experiences. Dr. Fatima is from Karachi, Pakistan, where she works in the civil service. She helps local government work with regional and national authorities and oversees certain programs and services. She also writes reports that help shape policies and improve processes. Dr. Fatima is very interested in education and health. At JCAH, Nurse Kim St. Peter hosted her, arranged meetings with the JCAH team, and showed her the training provided to caregivers. Dr. Fatima kindly shared her experiences with us.

What influenced your decision to spend your time with JEVS Care at Home? 

Actually, the program selected JEVS Care at Home for me. This was the first time I had applied for the program, and, thankfully, I was selected. I am a doctor; I am an Assistant Director in my work. I have my masters, and I am doing another master’s in public health. So, based on these things the program chose JEVS Care at Home, because it would be relatable. 

Tell us a bit about your work.  

Back in Pakistan. I am currently working in the civil service. I am Assistant Director in local government in Karachi, where I am supervising Union Committees, which are the basic unit of any local government. I currently supervise 43 Union Committees in the East District of Karachi. 

I coordinate communication and collaboration between the union committees, other government authorities, and elected officials. Sometimes I am asked to supervise, to see if the union committees are operating as they should. We also have what are called TMCs, Town Municipal Corporations. They can collect taxes for example. I don’t directly supervise TMCs, but my superiors can assign me tasks that are related to them.  Just before coming to the US, for example, I completed a taxation proposal based on a visit to 5 TMCs. The population served by a TMC might be 50,000 or sometimes 80,000, or more. I looked at how taxes are collected, listened to ideas for improving tax collection, and incorporated the TMCs’s suggestions into a proposal I submitted to my superiors.  

How does your work relate to public health?  

Broadly speaking there are issues that are related to public health. For instance, a recent task was to inspect some schools and dispensaries. What is the condition? What is the enrollment? Is there clean drinking water? Are they planning any immunizations? How many children or newborn babies are coming? So, these are some things that I might do that are related to public health. We are trying our best so that we can make improvements.

You’ve had a chance during your time with us to learn about home care and how home care is provided. Are things similar or different in Pakistan? 

Our two societies are totally different. A lot of people in Pakistan who are aging are aging in a family home. That is generally the case in Karachi. As someone ages they are likely to live with a daughter or son, or granddaughter or grandson and receive support through the family. 

This kind of support is very strong in Karachi and in the in whole of Pakistan. But there are certain exceptions, for example, if a person has no children and they are unable to take care of themselves, then there are homes for the aged. What JEVS Care at Home does is not common in Pakistan. 

Tell me about some of the things you’ve learned since you’ve been here. 

I have learned so many things. The first thing is that the working environment is not so formal here. And that is a good thing. I was very relaxed, and people are people are welcoming and receptive. Whenever I asked for help, people have been more than willing. More specifically, I met with Tony [Marinello], and he showed me some basics of financial management. Earlier I met with Ryan Loesser [VP of Home Care]. And he is exceptional in data analytics. I love the software you are using. I was very impressed that you can enter data and it immediately becomes a graph.  

I have learned much about communication in an office such as yours, and also how you must coordinate with private companies. This is very different from Pakistan.  

Also, I have spent much of my time with Nurse Kim [St. Peter], and I told her that I was interested in learning CPR. I am a doctor, but I have not learned this yet in my training, so Nurse Kim has arranged to teach me.

I have learned so much. The environment [of the JCAH office] is very new for me. I have been very impressed by how well organized you are and how smoothly things operate as you serve more than 800 clients. Also, I’m impressed how you prioritize employee well-being. Oh, and  I have also learned how to make coffee with the Keurig! Your kitchen is so good. I liked it very much! [Laughs]  

How will you use the things that you’ve learned here at JCAH in your work back home? 

My experience has confirmed my interest in education and health. I received some great advice about communication and collaboration, and I have seen how different software can make some tasks so much easier. I have learned many things here that will help me improve my personal and professional skills. 

Cataracts: Essential Information for Aging Adults and Caregivers on Symptoms and Treatment

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H

Cataracts: what aging adults and caregivers need to know  

Changes in vision can make life more challenging, especially for aging adults. If you are caring for a loved one, it’s important to ask them about any changes in their vision and make sure they see an ophthalmologist for regular check-ups. It’s also important to know about some basic steps that everyone can take to protect their eyes as they age.  

Cataracts: 

Cataracts is one of the most common medical disorders that affect our eyes. With cataracts, the lens of the eye gets cloudy, causing blurred vision. Imagine trying to look through frosted glass instead of a clear, clean windowpane.  Cataracts typically happen to older adults. In the US, Roughly 24 million people over the age of 40 have cataracts. According to the National Eye Institute, by age 80, most people either have cataracts or have had cataract surgery. Surgery for cataracts is common and highly effective. Still, cataracts is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. 

Cataract Risk Factors: 

In addition to age, there are several risk factors for cataracts. They can be hereditary. Also, people with diabetes are more likely to get cataracts. Here are some other factors that can elevate our risk for cataracts:  

  • Exposure to UV rays 
  • Inflamed eye(s) 
  • Injured eyes 
  • Drinking too much alcohol 
  • Taking steroid medications 

Symptoms of Cataracts:

Cataract symptoms can take years to develop, or they make come on relatively quickly once a cataract develops. Every person is different.  

According to the Mayo Clinic the following are common signs of cataracts: 

  • Clouded, blurred or dim vision. 
  • Trouble seeing at night. 
  • Sensitivity to light and glare. 
  • Need for brighter light for reading and other activities. 
  • Seeing “halos” around lights. 
  • Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription. 
  • Fading or yellowing of colors. 
  • Double vision in one eye. 

SOURCE: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cataracts/symptoms-causes/syc-20353790  

There can be other reasons for these symptoms. If you are experiencing any of them see a board-certified ophthalmologist to find out if you have cataracts or need to be screened for another medical condition. 

Tips for Protecting Your Eyes: 

Get in the habit of protecting your eyes from injury and risk factors related to cataracts. Here are some tips from JCAH’s Nurse Kim: 

  • Wear sunglasses and/or a hat while in the sun to protect your eyes against heat and UV rays. 
  • See your ophthalmologist right away if you have been experiencing puffy, itching or burning eyes. 
  • Wear protective eye coverings whenever there is a risk of “getting something in your eye” or injuring your eye.  

Cataracts Treatment: 

Currently, surgery is the only effective way to treat cataracts. According to The National Eye Institute, cataract surgery is very safe and it improves the vision of 9 out of 10 people. During the surgery, “the doctor removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a new, artificial lens (also called an intraocular lens, or IOL).” SOURCE: https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts The surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. It can take as little as 10 or 15 minutes. After surgery there can be minor side effects. According to The Cleveland Clinic, it’s normal to experience blurry vision for several days or longer, but this will gradually go away as you recover. Redness, watery eyes, and eyes that feel “gritty” are other common, temporary side effects.    

 

Remember: be good to your eyes and get in the habit of protecting them from possible harm. And if you or someone you care for are having any problems with your vision, see an ophthalmologist right away! 

JCAH provides award-winning home care to seniors and adults with disabilities. Our services are available at no-cost to eligible veterans and qualified Medicaid recipients. For more information, get in touch today:  https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

 

 

 

Thomas H. and Nurse Kim 

Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, announces new Practical Nursing Program

Posted on by Rossella Alla

The program beginning this Fall, will train students in the Philadelphia region to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) and help fuel a diverse pipeline for the booming healthcare industry 

 

Philadelphia, PA (June 10, 2024) Orleans Technical College, a program of JEVS Human Services, has announced the launch of a new Practical Nursing (PN) program that will connect students to viable career opportunities and economic mobility, with the help of employer partners including:   

  • Fox Subacute 
  • Holy Redeemer 
  • Jefferson Einstein 
  • Oakwood Nursing  
  • Public Health Management Corporation  
  • SageLife 

The courses to be held at Orleans Technical College, located in Northeast Philadelphia, can be completed in a year, and combine classroom, laboratory, and clinical experiences.  

The timing of this new healthcare program is essential, as healthcare and Licensed Practical Nurse jobs are the fastest growing occupations in the Philadelphia region and expected to grow exponentially over the next decade. There are more than 13,000 LPN jobs in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With the high demand for these jobs, students who enroll in this program can expect to complete their nursing certificate and be prepared to begin a fulfilling and rewarding career pathway in a year.

“Partnering with Orleans Technical College is critical for Jefferson as we work to build talent pipelines for care teams of tomorrow and healthcare overall,” said Daniel Hudson, Vice President, Associate Chief Nurse Executive Nursing Operations, Jefferson Health. “Through this new practical nursing program, we know individuals will receive a quality education, hands-on experience, and real-world training through clinical rotations and externships at Jefferson, leading to employment.”  

Orleans Technical College’s new PN program will provide training for dozens of Philadelphians and surrounding county residents to enter the workforce and provide in-demand medical services in a variety of settings. Graduates of this program will work in essential settings throughout the Philadelphia region, including doctor’s offices, hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and clinics. 

“The launch of this critical program will help address healthcare staffing shortages, by fueling a diverse pipeline of skilled professionals, and connecting our students to viable and rewarding career pathways. We are committed to empowering the next generation of healthcare workers and ensuring they have the tools and training needed to make a significant impact in the industry, while achieving economic stability,” said JEVS President and CEO, Cynthia Figueroa.  

 

 

ABOUT JEVS  

JEVS Human Services (JEVS) has an 80+ year history in working with individuals to create sustainable paths to independence and economic security. JEVS’ vision is to help every person achieve personal independence and fulfillment. Our mission and vision reflect JEVS’ long-standing history of helping people connect to opportunity and cultivate independence.   

Orleans Technical College, operated by JEVS Human Services, is an accredited, non-profit career training school. It prepares adults for careers in building trades and healthcare. Since 1974, Orleans Technical College has helped students move toward one common goal: learning new skills to enhance their success in the workforce. Orleans Technical College offers job training programs in building trades and healthcare. 

 

 

opportunities for career success 

2770 Red Lion Road • Philadelphia, PA 19114-1014 TEL 215-728-4700  
EMAIL [email protected] WEB www.orleanstech.edu 

C2L-PHL Seeks Providers for ‘24-25 School Year and ‘25 Summer!

Posted on by Rossella Alla

Are you an experienced provider of youth services? JEVS on behalf of the program funders is looking for providers who wish to participate in Career Connected Learning PHL (C2L-PHL) for the 2024-2025 school year and/or 2025 summer. Proposals are welcome from high-performing, youth-serving, non-profit organizations from neighborhoods across Philadelphia to become providers and operate developmentally appropriate programming through C2L-PHL. 

C2L-PHL is designed to support large-scale, coordinated, career-connected learning efforts, to engage Philadelphia youth in paid, meaningful work experiences. Providers will implement programs that introduce youth to career options and pathways, build workforce skills, earn industry-valued credentials, and lead them to next steps toward jobs that pay a living wage.  

The full Request for Proposals (RFP) can be downloaded and reviewed at this link: C2L-PHL Request for Proposal – JEVS Human Services. There will be a Bidder’s Conference via Zoom on June 17 to address questions, please register to attend for details to be emailed to you.   

All completed RFP applications are due Monday, July 15, 2024 at 5:00 PM. To submit an application, all applicants must submit a “Notice of Intent” (“NOI”) to apply via this link. The submission of an NOI is strongly encouraged by 5 pm ET on Thursday, June 27, 2024. All organizations who complete an NOI by this date will receive a unique link for the application and supporting documents on Friday, June 28, 2024. NOIs Submitted after this date will be accepted, however it may delay the delivery of the application submission link. 

Questions about this RFP should be submitted electronically to [email protected]

What Caregivers Need to Know About Stroke – Recognize Symptoms and Act FAST 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

What Caregivers Need to Know About Stroke: Recognize Symptoms and Act FAST 

By Thomas H. and Nurse Kim 

If you are a caregiver, it’s important to understand stroke and be able to recognize symptoms. Stroke kills about 130,000 Americans each year, and it is the cause of 1 in 20 deaths. May is stroke awareness month, so there is no better time to learn about stroke, its telltale symptoms, and what actions you should take if you recognize them in someone you care for. First some facts:  

  • In the U.S. someone dies from stroke every 4 minutes.  
  • There are 800,000 strokes annually. 
  • 1 of every 6 people will suffer a stroke in their lifetime. 
  • Stroke is a leading cause of serious long-term disability. 

 

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when blood flow to an area of the brain is cut off.  Brain cells are deprived of oxygen and begin to die.  A stroke can cause you to permanently lose speech, movement and memory.   

  

Stroke Signs and Symptoms: 

Recognizing a stroke early can save a life and may also reduce long-term disability. Emergency treatment of stroke is most successful in the early minutes and hours after symptoms begin, so early recognition is key. 

  

Stroke Signs and Symptoms: 

  • SUDDEN numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body 
  • SUDDEN confusion, trouble speaking or understanding 
  • SUDDEN trouble seeing in one or both eyes 
  • SUDDEN trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination 
  • SUDDEN severe headache with no known cause 

  

Think F-A-S-T! 

Healthcare professionals often say to “Think FAST” when they talk about stroke. Remembering the letters F, A, S, T, and what they stand for will help you recognize the most common stroke symptoms and what to do if one or more is present.  

  

F-A-S-T Stands for: 

F – Face drooping. Is one side of the person’s face drooping or numb? When he or she smiles, is the smile uneven? 
A – Arm weakness. Is the person experiencing weakness or numbness in one arm? Have the person raise both arms. Does one of the arms drift downward? 
S – Speech difficulty. Is the person’s speech suddenly slurred or hard to understand? Is he or she unable to speak? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence. Can he or she repeat it back? 
T – Time to call 9-1-1. If any of these symptoms are present, dial 9-1-1 immediately. Check the time so you can report when the symptoms began. 

  

If someone you care for has a family history of stroke or has a condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, or overweight, encourage them to visit their doctor. The doctor will determine if they are at risk for stroke. Also, the doctor will speak with them about healthy lifestyle choices that can reduce stroke risk and improve overall health and well-being. 

For more information about stroke, visit the American Stroke Association at www.stroke.org 

JEVS Care at Home provides award-winning home care that enables adults with illness or disability to live fully and independently at home. For more information about our services and how we are different from other providers, contact us today. 

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