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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. 

A Conversation with Jessica Howard: The JEVS Care at Home Difference

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) provides non-medical home care to seniors and adults with disabilities. “Non-medical” care includes help with personal care (grooming, bathing, dressing), and “activities of daily living,” including light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and other essential tasks. JCAH caregivers also provide help with transitions from hospital to home, companionship, and other services.

Jess Howard is JCAH’s Director of Recruiting and Retention. She plays a vital role in making JCAH one of the most respected home care providers in Pennsylvania. Jess manages JCAH’s team of recruiters who actively seek outstanding caregivers to join our team. She also leads our business development efforts, supporting JCAH’s Community Engagement Specialists as they develop relationships in the community and spread word about JCAH’s award-winning services. The “retention” part of Jess’s title applies to clients and employees alike. JCAH understands how important it is to maintain a work culture that supports employees and recognizes them for their contributions. As a result, JCAH has been recognized as both a Provider and an Employer of choice in the 2024 Best of Home Care awards, presented by Home Care Pulse.

We spoke with Jess recently about her career journey, her passion for home care, and what it’s like to work at JCAH.

You have an interesting and varied professional background. What prompted you to begin working in home care?

I was looking for a career change and was referred to someone who ran several home care offices. I eventually interviewed with that company and stayed there for 16 years. I fell in love with home care and one-on-one care.

Tell us a bit about how JEVS Care at Home is different from other Home Care providers.

Here at JCAH, we have an in-house nursing team, which is rare for home care agencies. We are very focused on providing the highest-quality care for our clients. That is why we’ve earned several prestigious industry awards. We also care about our employees and want to set them up to succeed and stay with us to grow within the home care field. Plus, as an affiliate of JEVS Human Services, a leading nonprofit in Philadelphia, we operate with JEVS’ backing and support on all levels. 

Given the great demand for caregivers in the Philadelphia area, why should caregivers work for JCAH rather than another agency?

We have a uniquely supportive and positive work culture. We offer great benefits. Also, employees can train with our nursing team to develop highly sought-after skills, like CPR and Dementia-capable care. Everyone at JCAH has a shared purpose to provide caring, personal services.

Tell us about a few of the qualities or skills that make for an outstanding caregiver.

The best caregivers are empathic, caring, responsive, genuine, people-focused, and driven. 

When you are speaking to someone who is unsure whether home care is right for them, what do you tell them to help them decide?

I have seen the power of home care. The care and support that caregivers provide enables people to age in place rather than move to a long-term care facility. That is powerful. I would love for my parents to be able to stay in their home and receive quality care. Home care can make that possible.

Transportation Options for Seniors, Part 1: Philadelphia 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

The theme of Older American’s Month 2024 is “Powered by Connection.” This theme reminds us that being connected to other people helps support good health and overall wellbeing. One way to stay connected is to visit a senior center, where you can make new friends, socialize and share a meal. 

Unfortunately, seniors who don’t drive can find it challenging to get around. But Philadelphia seniors have safe and reliable options for getting where they need to go, including free or low-cost options. 

Septa 

The first option is SEPTA.  SEPTA buses, trolleys, and subway lines are free to seniors ages 65 and older. According to SEPTA, Seniors ride for free on all routes for bus, trolley, Broad Street Line [B], Market-Frankford Line [L] and the Norristown High Speed Line [M]. Travel is also free for seniors on all Regional Rail throughout Pennsylvania. Septa states that seniors must have a valid Senior Fare card. According to the City of Philadelphia, other acceptable forms of ID are a PA driver’s license, Medicare card, PA senior citizen transportation card, SEPTA Key senior photo ID or PA non-driver identification card. For more information, contact SEPTA at 215-580-7145 (Press 6), or visit https://wwww.septa.org/fares/senior-fare-card/  

Public transportation is a great way to get around. However, trolleys and some subway stations are not accessible by people with limited mobility. And what if the bus or train won’t get you close enough to your destination?  

CCT Connect 

Fortunately, SEPTA runs a separate program for seniors who aren’t well served by bus, trolley, or subway. This program is called CCT Connect. CCT Connect is a shared ride service that provides door-to-door service for people 65 and older. The service costs $4.25 each way. An aide or attendant can ride along for the same fee. CCT vehicles are accessible to people who use mobility devices.

According to the City of Philadelphia’s transportation guide, CCT Connect, “requires reservations 1-3 days in advance, and is offered on a space-available basis. It can be used to travel anywhere within the City of Philadelphia and to locations within 3 miles of the City’s limits.” Seniors who want to use the service must apply. To receive the application or for more information about the service, seniors can contact customer service at (215) 580-7145 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m Monday through Friday. For more about riding CCT, visit https://wwww.septa.org/cct/traveling-on-cct-connect/  

Other Services 

Some insurance companies will arrange for transportation for members who need to get to medical appointments. If you have private health insurance, contact your provider and ask if transportation is covered by your policy.

The City of Philadelphia Transportation Guide lists several other transportation services that may be helpful for seniors. These can be an option when public transportation doesn’t serve a destination or there isn’t enough time to book a ride through CCT Connect. Most have a fee. These include ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft, medical transportation companies, which can be used in non-emergency situations, and other options. To download the City of Philadelphia’s Transportation Guide, click here https://www.phila.gov/documents/transportation-guide/  

JCAH is committed to helping clients live fully and independently. Contact us today for more information about our award-winning services for seniors and adults with disabilities: https://www.jevshumanservices.org/jevs-care-at-home-form/  

Stay Connected at One of Philadelphia’s Senior Centers 

Posted on by Rossella Alla

By Thomas H.

May is Older American’s Month (OAM). This annual celebration is led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), which is part of the US Department of Health and Human Services.  This year’s theme is “Powered by Connection.” This theme recognizes that meaningful relationships and social connections are very important, especially as we age. Being connected to others, says the ACL, helps us maintain good health and overall well-being. Among other benefits, “connection” helps older people combat isolation and loneliness. 

Senior centers play a vital role in helping older people stay connected with their community.  They offer a welcoming and supportive space where those over age 55 can take part in activities, enjoy a meal, socialize, and make new friends.  

There are over 2 dozen senior centers in Philadelphia. Some neighborhoods have more than one. Others serve several neighborhoods. Seniors who need transportation may be able to use Septa’s CCT service to get to and from their nearest senior center. 

The following is a list of senior centers in Philadelphia. Each one offers a unique mix of activities and services. Contact the senior center nearest you for information on their hours and activities. 

Senior Centers in Philadelphia

  1. Center at Journey’s Way

    403 Rector Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19128 

    215-487-1750 

  2. Center in the Park

    5818 Germantown Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19144 

    215-848-7722 

  3. Juniata Park Older Adult Center

    1251 East Sedgley Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19134 

    215-685-1490 

  4. KleinLife Northeast Philadelphia and Russian Speaking Satellite

    10100 Jamison Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19116 

    215-698-7300 

  5. KleinLife: Rhawnhurst Satellite

    2101 Strahle Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19152 

    215-745-3127 

  6. Lutheran Settlement House Senior Center

    1340 Frankford Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19125 

    267-426-8610 

  7. Mann Older Adult Center

    Remote programming only. 

    3201 N. 5th Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19140 

    215-685-9844 

  8. Marconi Older Adult Program

    2433 S. 15th Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19145 

    215-218-0800 

  9. Martin Luther King Older Adult Center

    2100 W. Cecil B. Moore Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19121 

    215-685-2716

  10. Nativity BVM Senior Community Center

    3255 Belgrade Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19134 

    215-423-2772 

  11. Norris Square Senior Center 

    2121 N. Howard Street

    Philadelphia, PA 19122 

    215-423-7241 

  12. Northeast Older Adult Center

    8101 Bustleton Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19152 

    215-685-0576 

  13. Northern Living Center

    827 N. Franklin Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19123 

    215-978-1300 

  14. On-Lok House

    219 N. 10th Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19107 

    215-925-3118 

  15. Peter Bressi Northeast Senior Center

    4744-46 Frankford Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19124 

    215-831-2926 

  16. PHA Cassie L. Holly Senior Center

    2100 Dickinson Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19146 

    215-684-4891 

  17. PHA Emlen Arms Senior Center

    6733 Emlen Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19119 

    215-684-5892 

  18. PHA Wilson Park Senior Center

    2508 Jackson Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19145 

    215-684-4895 

  19. Philadelphia Senior Center – Allegheny Branch

    1900 W. Allegheny Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19132 

    267-286-1455 

  20. Philadelphia Senior Center on the Avenue of the Arts and Asian Pacific Resource Center

    509 S. Broad Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19147 

    215-546-5879 

  21. South Philadelphia Older Adult Center

    1430 East Passyunk Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19147 

    215-685-1697 

  22. Southwest Senior Center

    6916 Elmwood Ave. 
    Philadelphia, PA 19142 

    215-937-1880 

  23. St. Edmonds Senior Community Center

    2130 S. 21st Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19145 

    215-790-9530

  24. Star Harbor Senior Citizen Center

    4700 Springfield Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19143 

    215-727-0100

  25. West Oak Lane Senior Center

    7210-18 Ogontz Avenue 
    Philadelphia, PA 19138 

    215-685-3511 

  26. West Philadelphia Senior Community Center 

    1016-26 N. 41st Street 
    Philadelphia, PA 19104 

    215-386-0379  

If you or a loved one needs help to live fully and independently at home, JEVS Care at Home can help. Contact us today for more information on our services for seniors and adults with disabilities.   

 

Arthritis: What Older Adults Need to Know

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

When someone says they have “arthritis” they may have one of more than 100 diseases that affect the joints. These diseases include osteoarthritis (also called degenerative arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and gout. All these diseases cause joint pain and stiffness. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), arthritis is the leading cause of disability. In the U.S., 53.2 million people (21.2 % of adults) have arthritis, which occurs more frequently as people age. Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis) is the most common form of the disease.

Arthritis symptoms like pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion may come and go. They can be mild, moderate, or severe. They may stay about the same for years but may get worse over time. Severe arthritis can lead to chronic pain. People who have arthritis may have trouble walking, climbing stairs, or doing essential daily tasks. Arthritis can cause permanent joint changes. Some types of arthritis also affect the heart, eyes, lungs, kidneys, and skin as well as the joints.

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis, doctors typically use a combination of methods:

  • Medical History: Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms. They will ask when your symptoms started and how they affect your daily life. Your doctor will also want to know about any family history of arthritis.
  • Physical Examination: Your doctor will check your joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. This will help your doctor learn which joints are affected and how bad your symptoms are.
  • Imaging Tests: Your doctor may order imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound. These can help your doctor to see signs of arthritis, such as joint damage or inflammation.
  • Blood Tests: In some cases, blood tests may be helpful. These can rule out other conditions. They can also reveal certain antibodies and other markers of arthritis.
  • Other Diagnostic Tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may recommend other tests. For example, your doctor may want to take a sample of fluid from a joint that is causing you pain.

Your doctor will use your medical history, exam, and tests to diagnose arthritis and create a tailored treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and enhance your well-being

When the joint symptoms of arthritis are mild or moderate, they can be managed by:

  • balancing activity with rest
  • using hot and cold therapies
  • maintaining a healthy weight
  • using assistive devices
  • taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines

To combat pain and stiffness, increase routine physical activity. According to the Mayo Clinic, “low impact” exercises like walking and stretching are best. These can “decrease your pain and stiffness, improve your range of motion, strengthen your muscles, and increase your endurance.” Mayo recommends avoiding any exercise that requires jumping or repeating the same motion. You want to avoid putting unwanted stress on joints.

JEVS Care at Home can Help 

Arthritis can make daily activities like laundry, cooking, and dressing difficult. This is especially true for people with severe symptoms. A home health aide from JEVS Care at Home can help. Our aides support clients with daily tasks that are difficult due to arthritis pain. This enables our clients to live fully and independently at home. Contact us today for more information on our award-winning services.

Get to Know JEVS Care at Home (JCAH)

Posted on by Erin Giberson

Are you familiar with JEVS Care at Home (JCAH)? You may have seen our blogs or social posts, but we’re taking this opportunity to share about who we are and what we do. 

JEVS Care at Home provides non-medical home care to seniors and adults with disabilities. ”Non-medical” care includes help with personal care (grooming, bathing, dressing), and “activities of daily living,” including light housekeeping, meal preparation, laundry, and other essential tasks. JCAH caregivers also provide help with transitions from hospital to home, companionship, and other services.

As an affiliate program of JHS, we are aligned with the organization’s mission to work with individuals to create paths to independence and economic security.

The JCAH Difference 

In addition to our not-for-profit and award-winning status, we differ from other home care providers in several important ways. 

JCAH works with a broad range of clients.

While some providers only work with clients who pay for services out of their own resources, we work with the broadest possible range of clients, including eligible Veterans and qualified Medicaid recipients, who can receive services at no cost.

We support clients through the application process.

Our Community Engagement Specialists, Mason Wallack, Rachel Fein, and Tim Lawson, are experts in helping clients with low income or selected disabilities navigate Pennsylvania’s application process for “waiver program” services.

We have fun!

Mason, Rachel, and Tim also support the community by partnering with senior centers and other community organizations to provide educational and entertainment programming. For instance, Mason, who’s also a talented musician, hosted a “Piano and Pizza” event at Scottish Rite Senior Apartments in Center City, and Tim gave a talk on “Black Leaders in Health Care” at The Firehouse Senior Center in West Philadelphia. 

Resources and Contacts

JCAH has an in-house nursing team who train our caregivers and oversee the design of personalized care plans for each of our clients. Look for regular health and wellness tips from JCAH’s Nurse Kim St. Peter in JEVS blogs. .

And please follow us on Facebook and Instagram, where you can get updates and learn more about our team members.

For additional information about JCAH, contact Communications Manager Tom Hartmann.

Home Care for Veterans: Discover Benefits and How to Apply

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Home care can be a solution for Veterans who need additional support to live independently at home. For many veterans, home care is available free of charge. Veterans can apply to receive home care benefits through the Veterans Administration’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide program.

What is Home Care?

Home care refers to non-medical help with personal care and everyday tasks, also known as “activities of daily living” or ADLs. ADLs include dressing, grooming, food preparation and cooking, and light housekeeping.

Home care is provided in the home by Home Health Aides or Caregivers. It plays a vital role for many people who are aging, ill, or disabled. Home care enables them to keep living at home rather than moving to a nursing or assisted living facility.

What are Home Health Aides?

Home Health Aides are trained professionals who assist with personal care and daily activities. While they’re not nurses and don’t provide medication or therapy, they support clients in living independently. At JEVS Care at Home, all caregivers complete a rigorous training program conducted by our in-house nursing team. Caregivers must pass a skills assessment test to demonstrate that they are ready to work with clients. All JCAH caregivers also pass a thorough background check.

What is the Homemaker and Home Health Aide program?

The VA’s Homemaker and Home Health Aide program is for Veterans of any age who need personal care services, including home care. The program is also for Veterans who are isolated, or whose caregivers need a break or “respite” from providing care. According to the VA website, services are available to Veteran’s who are already enrolled in the VA’s Healthcare Benefits Program. Home care and other services are provided based on a needs assessment. The VA encourages Veterans to speak with a VA social worker to explore services they may be able to receive

How do I apply for Home Care Services?

For information about applying for home care services under the VA Homemaker and Home Health Aide program, contact the VA at 800-698-2411. To learn how to enroll in VA health care benefits, click here to learn how to apply. 

JEVS Care at Home has a long history of assisting Veterans, with highly experienced staff dedicated to guiding them through home care options and available benefits. If you are a veteran residing in Philadelphia, the Lehigh Valley, Gettysburg, or Pittsburgh, contact us today to explore available services!

 

What Every Caregiver Should Know About Parkinson’s Disease 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Approximately one million people in the US have Parkinson’s, with 50,000 new cases each year. Men are twice as likely to get Parkinson’s. The average age of someone diagnosed with the disease is 56.

Parkinson’s is a brain disorder

It causes unintended or uncontrollable movements, such as shaking, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Parkinson’s is usually diagnosed only when symptoms appear.

There’s no known cause, and no cure 

We don’t know what causes Parkinson’s disease, although a family history of the disease increases risk. There is also no cure. However, there are medications that can help patients with the symptoms. Patients can also undergo deep brain stimulation. This is when doctors use electric current treatment to help block tremors and manage movement symptoms of the disease.

Here are 10 tips every caregiver should know to best support someone experiencing Parkinson’s disease:

1. Be organized

Keep all your loved one’s records in a folder you can access. These records might include medical notes, insurance papers, records, appointments, telephone numbers of clinics and doctors, and medication details. Take this folder with you to all appointments so you always have everything on hand.

2. Look after yourself

To be able to look after your loved one, you need to be physically and emotionally well. Take time off — it’s important to unwind and de-stress. Ask family members and friends to help or hire professional care. Spend some time doing something you enjoy and take your mind off things for a few hours.

3. Join a support group

Find out if there are any active support groups in your local area. If not, look online for a support group for caregivers of Parkinson’s disease patients. This will give you both practical and emotional support, and you will be able to ask advice and share your experience with others who are going through the same thing.

4. Educate yourself about Parkinson’s disease

Learn about the condition and symptoms. Talk to your loved one’s doctor about what to expect with the progression of the disease.

5. Expect changes in your relationship 

Mood swings and depression are common in Parkinson’s disease and your loved one may even become resentful. It is difficult to deal with these changes in the relationship, so open and honest communication is critical. You will both need time to adjust to your new roles in the relationship.

6. Observe symptoms

As your loved one’s caregiver, you will be the first person to notice any changes in behavior or worsening of symptoms. Report these to your loved one’s doctors as they occur so they can be addressed as soon as possible.

7. Report changes

If you spot any changes, let your loved one’s doctors know right away. They need this info to tweak treatment plans or address new issues quickly. Your quick reporting helps keep your loved one’s health on track.

8. Encourage independence

Try to let your loved one maintain routines that are doable. They will want to hold onto their independence for as long as possible. Ask if they need help and respect their answer.

9. Know your rights

Familiarize yourself with both caregivers’ rights and disability rights. Find out if you are entitled to any disability or caretaker benefits.

10. Talk about the future

Although this is a difficult topic to broach, it’s important that you understand what your loved one wants further down the line. You need to discuss wills, treatment options, and end-of-life decisions.

Find resources and get support

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s disease is challenging, but you aren’t alone. JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) supports clients with Parkinson’s disease and their families. We provide award-winning home care that helps clients live full and independent lives. Contact us today for more information about our services or how you can become a paid family caregiver.

Essential Kitchen Safety Tips for Dementia Care at Home 

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H.

Caring for a loved one with dementia at home requires awareness and patience. One area that needs special attention is the kitchen, where potential hazards can pose risks to their safety. By implementing simple precautions and strategies, caregivers can create a safer environment while maintaining their loved one’s independence. Here are some essential kitchen safety tips for caregivers of individuals with dementia.

Clear Clutter and Maintain Order

Keep countertops and surfaces clear of unnecessary items to minimize distractions and confusion. Clutter can overwhelm individuals with dementia and increase the risk of accidents. Organize cabinets and drawers neatly, placing commonly used items within easy reach. This simple step can enhance kitchen safety and promote a sense of familiarity.

Label and Color-Code

Labeling drawers, cabinets, and containers can help individuals with dementia identify items more easily. Use large, clear labels with bold lettering. Additionally, consider implementing a color-coding system for different types of items (e.g., red for cooking utensils, blue for cleaning supplies). Consistency in labeling and color-coding can reduce confusion and promote independence in the kitchen.

Install Safety Devices

Equip the kitchen with safety devices to prevent accidents and injuries. Install stove knob covers to make sure burners aren’t turned on accidentally. Automatic shut-off devices for stoves and ovens will minimize the risk of fire. Place non-slip mats near sinks and work areas to prevent slips and falls. These simple additions can provide an extra layer of protection for individuals with dementia.

Supervise and Simplify Tasks

Supervision is crucial when individuals with dementia are in the kitchen. Encourage them to engage in simple tasks, such as setting the table or stirring ingredients., Be sure to also provide guidance and assistance as needed. Break down tasks into manageable steps and avoid overwhelming them with complex instructions. By supervising and simplifying tasks, you can promote a sense of accomplishment while ensuring their safety.

Create a Safe Cooking Environment

When cooking with individuals with dementia, prioritize safety at every step. Use appliance timers to remind them when food is ready or when it’s time to turn off the stove. Choose simple recipes with fewer preparation steps to reduce the risk of confusion. Avoid leaving cooking unattended and always supervise the use of kitchen appliances. By creating a safe cooking environment, you can minimize potential risks and enhance their kitchen experience.

Adding these kitchen safety tips to your caregiving routine can help protect individuals with dementia from accidents and promote their independence in the kitchen. Remember to maintain a supportive and patient attitude while assisting them with daily tasks. By prioritizing safety and implementing practical strategies, you can create a nurturing environment where your loved one can thrive.

The Spring Cleaning Guide for Seniors

Posted on by Erin Giberson

By Thomas H and Nurse Kim

Spring is here! As flowers bloom and days grow longer, many of us set aside a day or two for spring cleaning. But what does it look like for seniors?

When you think of Spring Cleaning you may think of washing windows, putting away cold-weather clothes, and airing out rooms. But Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and scrubbing and polishing. It’s a time-honored ritual that is important for seniors. Spring cleaning is an opportunity for seniors to freshen their homes, but it is also a time to check that essential systems in the home are working properly. Doing these tasks improves their overall health and wellness. Read on to explore why spring cleaning matters for seniors:

Promotes Physical Activity

Many seniors are more sedentary during the colder months. This can lead to stiffness and decreased mobility. Spring cleaning is an opportunity to get moving, stretch muscles, and engage in physical activity, which is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.

Reduces Allergens

As we age, our immune systems may weaken, making us more susceptible to allergens and airborne irritants. Deep cleaning tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and washing linens can significantly reduce allergens in the home and help protect seniors against respiratory illnesses.

Enhances Safety

Clutter and disorganization can be a major safety hazard for seniors. Clutter increases the risk of trips, falls, and other accidents. By decluttering and organizing their living spaces, seniors can create a safer environment that reduces the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Boosts Mental Health

An untidy or cluttered home can contribute to feelings of stress and anxiety. Spring cleaning can give seniors a sense of accomplishment and control over their environment. This can have a positive impact on mental health and overall well-being.

Prepares for the Future

Regular spring cleaning allows seniors to assess the condition of their homes and address any maintenance or repair needs promptly. By performing an annual check of important systems and appliances, seniors can identify problems before things break, avoiding larger, more expensive issues down the road. Making this check a part of spring cleaning helps seniors maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.

To support seniors, JEVS Care at Home (JCAH) has a dedicated team of caregivers, such as Nurse Kim. Here is her checklist to follow as you spring clean:

  1. Check your medicine cabinet. Remove all expired medications and prescriptions and ones you no longer use.
  2. Check your refrigerator and pantry. Get rid of all food that is expired.
  3. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace all batteries.
  4. Check your fire extinguishers and make sure they read “full”. (Every home should have at least two extinguishers.)
  5. Replace air filters if you have central air/heat.
  6. Replace all broken light bulbs.
  7. Check area rugs for any tripping hazard.
  8. Watch out for electrical cords or phone cords that could be tripping hazards.
  9. Consider installing grab bars in the bathtub, shower, and near the toilet.
  10. Review your emergency plan

If you don’t already have an Emergency Kit, spring cleaning is a perfect time to put one together. Once you’ve assembled your emergency kit, check it in Winter and Spring and replace any items that you have used or that have expired.

Be sure that your emergency kit has these recommended items:

  1. Flashlight and spare batteries
  2. Thermometer
  3. Band-Aids
  4. Scissors
  5. Tape
  6. Triple antibiotic ointment
  7. Wound care dressings
  8. Protein bars/Granola Bar
  9. Current medication list
  10. Emergency contact list that includes the names and phone numbers of family and friends.
Put Safety First

Nurse Kim emphasizes that safety should always come first. If a task feels overwhelming, seek help! Remember these three things before you start your spring cleaning and whenever you are performing tasks around the house:

  1. Never try to move furniture or heavy objects on your own.
  2. Don’t stand on a chair or ladder to clean hard to reach spots or change light bulbs.
  3. Use cordless cleaning tools and lightweight equipment

Remember, JEVS Care at home (JCAH) can help! Our caregivers can assist with many of the tasks you need to complete to keep your home tidy, comfortable, and safe. Our services are available at no cost to qualified Medicaid recipients and eligible veterans. We also work with many long-term insurance plans, and we offer affordable rates for those who must use their own resources to pay for services. Contact us today for more information.

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