Category: Seniors care

Interconnected Health: Unveiling Patterns in Family Health History

Senior In-Home Care Services Allentown PA

November 23 is National Family Health History Day. It’s an ideal time to think about your family history and health screening needs. Dive into your family history to get a better grasp on your health needs if you see your family for the holidays. Find out what diseases run in your family. Determine the lifestyle changes you must adopt to maintain wellness. AmeriBest Home Care offers senior in-home care services in Allentown, PA, and we are here for you if you’re looking for reliable, top-rated home care in the area.

How Genetics Affect Health

Family history is one of the most common disease risk factors. It contributes to autoimmune disorders, heart disease, cancer, and mental illness.

People inherit health risks from their families in two ways. Inherited genetics can affect a person’s tendency towards a specific disease.

Environmental factors also come into play. For example, a mentally unwell mother may be unable to care for her children, increasing their risk of anxiety and depression.

Parents can also raise their children in unhealthy environments by giving them junk food and not teaching proper hygiene. These children may adopt these bad habits and grow up unhealthily.

How to Honor National Family Health History Day

National Family Health History Day intentionally falls near Thanksgiving. It’s an ideal opportunity for families to discuss their health conditions and needs. They can make the day more eventful by:

Drawing a Genealogy Tree: Grab some colorful pens and poster board. Create a family tree that outlines your family’s health history. Encourage seniors to provide background knowledge. The kids can have fun creating a vibrant design.

Create Binders: Family members may create binders that outline their health history. It may include medical records, prescriptions, and internet resources. It can be a valuable tool for family members and health providers.

Share Health Concerns: Ask families to write health concerns and questions in advance. When you get together on National Family Health Day, you can review the questions and have lively discussions. Encourage everyone to participate, even the little ones.

Senior in Home Care Services in Allentown PA

If genetic conditions run in your family, you must take precautions to keep them under control. Go to routine screenings and follow a plan that minimizes the risk. Talk to your doctor to create a health plan that works for you, while professional Allentown caregivers will ensure your loved one follows their recommended health routines and screenings.

AmeriBest Home Care is a top provider of senior in-home care services in Allentown PA. We offer various non-medical services, including light housekeeping, medication management, transportation, and more. We also provide training so loved ones can earn money caring for their relatives, offering the very best in-home care services one can provide!

Taking Charge of Your Health: Empowerment in American Diabetes Month

Diabetes is a disease that negatively affects the quality of life. November is National Diabetes Month. It’s a time to think about what you can do to promote a healthy lifestyle. With senior care in Harrisburg PA, local residents can decrease their diabetes risk by knowing the signs, risk factors, and properly monitoring their health at home.

What is Diabetes?

There are two types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2.

Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. It causes a deficiency of insulin. As a result, glucose cannot enter the cells and provide a person with the energy they require.

In type 1 diabetes, the body doesn’t produce enough insulin. For type 2 diabetes, the body produces insulin but cannot use it effectively. In time, the insulin demand will be greater than the pancreas’s ability to create insulin. It will result in an insulin deficiency.

How to Honor American Diabetes Month

American Diabetes Month is a great time to think about your health and the health of others. You can honor it by:

Engaging in activities that reduce the risk of diabetes, such as exercise and healthy eating.
Sharing stories, health tips, and educational resources on social media to raise awareness.
Donating to the American Diabetes Association and other organizations that help prevent and offer diabetes treatment.
Attending ADM Events- The ADM offers several online events that educate people on diabetes.

How Senior Care in Harrisburg PA Reduces Diabetes Risk

Type 1 diabetes starts in childhood. But type 2 diabetes, the more common type, develops in adulthood. And the risk increases with age.

Endocrine Society statistics show that 33% of adults 65 or over have diabetes.

Diabetes risk can be reduced with senior care. Harrisburg PA seniors can hire a home aide to help them follow a healthy menu. The caregiver will also encourage them to exercise and maintain a healthy weight.

Weight management is essential in diabetes prevention. The more excess weight you have, the more resistant your tissue cells and muscles are to insulin. The higher your BMI, the greater your risk of diabetes.

A caregiver can also help seniors who already have diabetes. They will ensure they follow a diet that keeps diabetes under control, helping them maintain a healthy weight, and reminding them to take their medications.

AmeriBest Offers Home Care in Harrisburg PA

AmeriBest does its part by providing non-medical home care to seniors and the disabled. We can help with medication management, ensure your loved one follows a healthy dietary and exercise routine, or even provide transportation assistance for doctor visits.

Additionally, we offer training so relatives can get paid for caring for their loved ones. Our caregivers receive bonuses and competitive pay. They can take advantage of educational opportunities in a supportive environment.

Your loved one deserves the best. Learn more about what we have to offer! Contact AmeriBest today.

The Science of Gratitude: How Practicing Gratefulness Impacts Aging and Caregiving

Gratitude is an essential character trait, providing a scientifically proven positive impact on overall well-being. Philadelphia PA caregivers and their clients can practice gratitude to reap the benefits it can provide. Read on for valuable tips that bring gratitude into caregiver-senior relationships.

How the Science of Gratitude Can Help Seniors

Seniors often deal with mental health issues. They suffer from anxiety and depression due to failing health, deaths, and isolation. A grateful attitude will help them overcome downfalls.

The benefits of gratitude in older people are outlined in Marilyn Schlitz’s Grateful Aging Program. The program was discussed in a 2017 NIH study.

The program requires seniors to take nine steps to embrace graceful aging. They include:

Answer the call to transformation – question assumptions on aging to change your belief system
Cultivate curiosity- find wonder in life
Formalize a Grateful Aging practice- such as meditation, visualization, affirmations, and mindful breathing
Set intention for Grateful Aging- Formulate an intention statement that outlines your gratitude goals
Pay attention to the gifts of aging- be aware of the things you take for granted
Build Grateful Aging habits- such as exercising and eating healthy
Find guidance- Some seniors may require guidance in the form of books, podcasts, live events, and friendships
Move to acceptance – change your mindset so you are ready to accept change
Transform self and society- increase your wisdom to develop compassion for yourself and others

The Grateful Aging program can improve senior health, well-being, and quality of life.

How Gratitude Benefits Caregivers in Philadelphia PA

Many caregivers and health workers deal with professional burnout and depression. Some healthcare systems find gratitude combats these negative emotions. It also improves cardiovascular health, mental health, and stress resilience.

One 2020 NIH review studied the benefits of gratitude in the caregiver space. An included 2017 study showed that gratitude reduces stress in caregivers caring for people with dementia. A 2019 study showed appreciation for others and a “lack of sense of deprivation” reduced healthcare burdens.

Caregivers can practice gratitude through mindfulness, meditation, and affirmations. Agencies can also promote gratitude by launching campaigns that encourage gratitude and reward staff for showing gratitude. They can distribute pamphlets, create Gratitude trees, and so much more.

When both seniors and caregivers express gratitude, it enhances the relationship and brings overall improvements.

Caregivers in Philadelphia Are Doing Their Part

AmeriBest encourages our workers to integrate gratitude into everything they do. We do our part by hosting an annual Thanksgiving celebration. Staff and family members can enjoy delicious meals and giveaways.

We also provide opportunities for becoming a caregiver for a family member. Philadelphia PA residents can use our program to turn their caregiving efforts into careers. We offer competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and ongoing education.

Gratitude helps caregivers and seniors enjoy a higher quality of life. AmeriBest is here to support life-improving efforts. Contact us to find out how we help our community.

Caring Beyond Memory: Navigating Alzheimer’s with Compassion

Get Paid to Take Care of Family Allentown PA

Alzheimer’s can be scary for patients and family members. The best approach is to treat patients with compassion and understanding, navigating your way around the disease, not against it. AmeriBest Home Care offers opportunities for relatives to get paid to take care of family in Allentown PA. Family caregivers can learn how to care for relatives with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Read on for some valuable tips.

Show Respect

Caregivers must show respect to Alzheimer’s patients. They must let them do as much for themselves as possible. This strategy will help them maintain their respect and self-esteem. They will be less likely to become frustrated and depressed.

Create a Soothing Environment

Alzheimer’s patients are prone to frustration. Caregivers can help by creating a soothing environment in the home. Use understated lighting and play calming music. Respond to the patient positively. Don’t let their reactions upset you. Remember that they may be unable to control their words and actions.

Follow a Daily Routine

A daily routine will promote a sense of calm. It will make the senior less prone to anxiety. Create a schedule for eating, sleeping, and other activities to maintain a positive mindset.

Maintain Good Communication

It can be challenging to communicate with an Alzheimer’s patient. Do your part by limiting distractions. Use clear, straightforward language. Use questions that require yes or no answers. Avoid giving too many choices. Repeat words and phrases if necessary without getting frustrated.

Engage in Active Listening

People with Alzheimer’s may be unable to respond and communicate effectively with words. You will better understand what they are trying to say through active listening. Pay attention to their body language to fully comprehend the message they are trying to convey.

Don’t Argue

Arguing will promote negative behavior and anxiety. Avoid arguments at all costs, even if the person is wrong. Respond with understanding and compassion in all instances.

Use Re-Directive Strategies

Re-directive strategies are effective if the patient becomes agitated. Acknowledge their emotions and suggest a change of scenery or a new activity. Doing so will put them in a better mindset.

Actively Show Compassion

People with Alzheimer’s may become combative. Show compassion instead of lashing out. A gentle physical touch, eye contact, and verbal reassurance will take the edge off.

Get Paid to Take Care of Family in Allentown, PA

AmeriBest can make dealing with a relative with Alzheimer’s easier. We provide opportunities to get paid to take care of family. Allentown PA caregivers can benefit from reduced expenses and the comfort of knowing their loved ones are in the right hands.

Our programs offer competitive pay and bonuses. Caregivers train in a supportive environment. We provide opportunities for continuing education so you can expand your career.

We also offer the best in non-medical home care services, including but not limited to: meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation, medication management, companionship, bathing, and more. Our highly trained staff, and valuable resources create a quick and easy care experience in the comfort of your home.

With this in mind, we know that Alzheimer’s is not easy to deal with. AmeriBest offers top-notch care and training opportunities for relatives. Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive services.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month: Celebrating Survivors and Honoring Lost Loved Ones

Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved Ones Harrisburg PA

So many of us have lost loved ones to lung cancer. Honor them in November during Lung Cancer Awareness Month. You can make a difference by raising awareness to ensure lung cancer doesn’t take more lives. Additionally, if you are currently caring for someone battling cancer or another disease or disability, reach out to AmeriBest to see if you can get paid to take care of your loved ones in Harrisburg PA.

About Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung Cancer Awareness Month became official on October 31, 2022, when President and First Lady Biden issued a Presidential Proclamation. If you’d like to learn more, the Lung Cancer Initiative offers several ways for you to get involved.

What You Can Do to Honor Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Attend Events: The Lung Cancer Initiative hosts several events that honor Lung Cancer Awareness Month. People worldwide can attend the Online Survivor Luncheon on Nov. 1. NC residents and visitors can participate in in-person events like the Evening of Hope, the Jodi Koviach Memorial 5 K Run & Walk, and the Community Education Community. Find out what events are happening in your area!

Get Tested: Make sure lung cancer doesn’t happen to you. Getting tested is crucial to early detection. It increases survival rates. Learn about testing resources in your community.

Wear a White Ribbon: Wear a white ribbon to raise awareness about lung cancer. The LCI will mail out white ribbons upon request. Give them to your family and friends to draw attention to the cause.

Tell Your Story: Share stories about your battle with lung cancer. You can share them through social media, in person, or send them to the LCI. They may feature your story in one of their publications.

Learn: The LCI provides educational materials you can request through their website. You can also view their educational seminars online. Or invite an LCI member to speak at your church or community event.

Donate: Donate to the LCI and other lung cancer organizations. Your money will raise awareness and fund research.

Get Paid to Take Care of Your Loved Ones in Harrisburg PA

AmeriBest understands that many of our clients are affected by loved ones who lost their lives to lung cancer. We do our part by providing seniors with companionship and other non-medical in-home care services. We can also help people with lung cancer or affected by lung cancer by ensuring they eat healthy and follow their treatment plans; or ease the financial burden by providing opportunities to get paid to take care of your loved ones. Harrisburg PA residents can apply to take advantage of competitive pay and benefits. You will learn in a supportive environment and receive ongoing education.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about what we have to offer!

Beyond November: Sustaining Support for Family Caregivers Year-Round

Get Paid to Take Care of Family in Philadelphia PA

November may be National Family Caregivers Month, but at AmeriBest Home Care, we believe you should honor caregivers year-round. Therefore, we proudly offer access and guidance to the state and government programs so you can get paid to take care of your family in Philadelphia PA. Keep reading to find out more!

About National Family Caregivers Month

National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) encourages people to set aside time to honor the caregivers in their lives. It was initiated by the Caregiver Action Network (CAN) nonprofit. The organization provides education, resources, and support to family caregivers.

Caregivers often provide services to relatives for free. They deal with emotional, physical, and financial issues due to their sacrifices. NFCM is a way to show them our appreciation during a month when so many bond with loved ones.

Get Paid to Take Care of Family in Philadelphia PA

AmeriBest understands how difficult it can be to care for a loved one. We offer a program that allows people to get paid to take care of family. Philadelphia PA residents who care for senior relatives and relatives with disabilities are eligible to apply.

We offer competitive pay and benefits and consistent hours. Caregivers will get paid holidays, a $500 sign-on bonus, and other benefits. They will get paid on time, and they will work steady hours.

Caregivers train in a team-oriented, collaborative environment. Most aides say the support staff is the best thing about working at AmeriBest. We offer a workplace culture based on pride and camaraderie.

Start on your career path training in a state-of-the-art facility. Develop your skills with our ongoing education and training opportunities. No previous work experience is required.

How to Support Family Caregivers

Let a Caregiver Know You Appreciate Them: You can show a caregiver your appreciation by giving them a meaningful gift, taking them out for coffee, or just saying thanks.
Create Social Media Posts with Appropriate Hashtags: Raise awareness of caregivers’ kindness and sacrifices by posting about them on social media. Show you are part of the movement using hashtags like #NFCMonth, #NationalFamilyCaregivingMonth, Caregiving Happens, and #NCFM.
Donate to Related Nonprofits: Make a difference during NFCM by donating to nonprofits like the Caregiver Action Network, the National Council on Aging, and other related groups.
Attend Caregiver Events: Organizations host events that support caregivers and explore strategies to implement national healthcare. Consider attending one and recommend them to your community members.

AmeriBest is Your Top-Rated Home Care Choice

AmeriBest offers more than opportunities to get paid to take care of your loved one. Philadelphia PA families also appreciate our excellent homecare services. We provide various non-medical services, including meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, and more. Therefore, we are a go-to resource for people who hope to make caregiving for their loved ones into a career and for families who need the best care for their loved ones, providing education, guidance, and support when they need us.

Important Update to Your Medicaid Plan

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, COVID is no longer considered a Public Health Emergency. As a result, people covered by Medicaid during the pandemic may lose their benefits.

People must be proactive if they want to retain their benefits. The State of Pennsylvania requires all Medicaid patients to go through a renewal process to see if they are eligible. A renewal application can be filed online, by mail, by telephone, and in person.

Why is Eligibility Changing?

Healthcare systems became more flexible during the pandemic to extend care to vulnerable groups. Emergency waivers, regulations, and sub-regulatory guidelines were put in place to make care more accessible and to ensure providers could meet healthcare needs. Now that the health emergency is over, there is no need for expanded care, and many of these waivers and regulations will no longer be effective.

The end of the Public Health Emergency doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose your benefits. Many waivers ended on May 11, 2023, but others will remain active for six months after the emergency ends. Some waivers and flexibilities may stay in place indefinitely, including those that cover community-based and home-based care.

Visit the CMS Waivers, Flexibilities, and the End of the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency PDF for more details.

How to Keep Your Medicaid Benefits

Individuals who wish to maintain their Medicaid benefits must go through the renewal process. The process involves:

Update your information on the COMPASS website or by calling 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226.

Renew your benefits by filling out the renewal forms mailed to you, completing renewal forms on the COMPASS website, or renewing by phone by calling 866-550-4355.

What If I Need Help Renewing My Medicaid Insurance?

Several resources are available for individuals who need assistance filling out their Medicaid renewal forms. These include:

PA.Gov and COMPASS
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services- Call 877-395-8930 or 215-560-7226
Pennsylvania Health Action Network helpline- Call 877-570-3642 or contact by email at helpline@pahealthaccess.com
Call Philadelphia 311
AmeriBest 800-HOMECARE

What Can I Do if I Lose My Benefits?

If you lose your benefits, the Pennsylvania government offers other low-cost healthcare alternatives accessible through the state’s Pennie.com marketplace. If you have children under 19, you may also explore options at chipcoverspakids.com.

AmeriBest Home Care Can Help

At AmeriBest, we understand you may be confused during this trying time. We are here to help. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE or read more here.
We will assist you in navigating the renewal and application process. We will ensure you have access to the high-quality care you deserve.

Nurturing Caregivers: A Solution to the Caregiver Shortage in PA

Shortages in the healthcare community have been plaguing the medical industry since the pandemic. They are acutely felt in the caregiving sector. As professional caregivers leave, countless people must give up their jobs to care for elderly and disabled relatives. AmeriBest is solving the caregiver shortage by offering the opportunity for people to become certified caregivers with no prior experience. Read on to learn more about this state program.

The Caregiver Shortage in America

America’s senior population is growing. It should surpass 80 million by 2040. More caregivers are needed to assist them with their health and personal care needs.

The pandemic hit the industry hard. Three years later, it is still trying to recover. But nursing home and in-home care workers are currently 8% below what they were in 2020.

A CVS Health and Harris poll found that 57% of Americans say there are not enough professional caregivers. 51% say it’s hard to find professional caregivers. 13% of caregiver respondents had to quit their jobs to become a caregiver. 24% had to cut their work hours.

The toll on caregivers is more than economic. They are also suffering emotionally. 49% say their mental health has suffered. 76% say they have sacrificed elements of their personal life for caregiving.

How Caregivers Can Get Help

Fortunately, there are programs available that aid caregivers and their loved ones. They include:

Medicare Advantage: Medicare Advantage offer benefits that cover dental, vision, and hearing exams and may also cover dental, eyeglass, and hearing aids. Some programs may also aid in purchasing over-the-counter medications, health aid supplies, and healthy foods.

Resources for Living: This program offers Aetna Health Advantage members and their caregivers access to consultants that help them find resources in their community for in-home care and respite care. They can also assist them in locating caregiver support groups that help with stress management.

Papa: Papa provides Aetna Medicare Advantage plan members access to Papa Pals- people who offer companionship and assistance with everyday tasks.

How AmeriBest Home Care is Making a Difference

AmeriBest is doing its part by offering caregiver certification to people who have no prior experience. Workers train in a supportive, team-oriented environment. We provide professional training in a state-of-the-art facility. Caregivers will enjoy the culture of a collaborative workplace.

They can also count on competitive pay and benefits. They can take advantage of consistent, flexible hours and perks like paid time off and holidays and a $500 sign-on bonus. They will work with one of the largest and fastest-growing providers in the state.

Our efforts are bringing more workers to the caregiver community. Our competitive pay and benefits present attractive options to unskilled workers. People caring for a loved one may join to get paid for their efforts.

AmeriBest’s “Become a Caregiver” program is one of the many ways we help our community. We also provide the best care to our clients and families. Contact us to learn how you can get started on your journey.

AI in Home Care: Are Caregivers Being Replaced?

The medical industry is changing. AI is now integrated into many health processes to produce more accurate diagnoses and minimize labor. But will the AI revolution reduce the demand for caregivers?

The answer is no. There will never be a replacement for the personalized care a caregiver can provide. However, AI can enhance caregiver services to make them more efficient. Read on to find out more about the blossoming relationship.

How is AI integrated into In-Home Care?

Health Monitoring: AI can monitor patient vital signs like heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and more. If unusual rates are detected, it can alert healthcare providers. It ensures caregivers are aware of changes that affect how they administer care. It also keeps them in the loop when they are away from their clients.

Mental Health Monitoring: AI can identify trends in behaviors and risk factors to assess the risk of depression, anxiety, dementia, and other cognitive issues. The information allows caregivers to tailor plans that include cognitive exercises and therapies that meet their client’s unique requirements. They can also alert caregivers when signs of mental deterioration are detected.

Increase Efficiency: Caregivers often play catch-up because they must juggle various tasks. AI helps them become more efficient by allowing them to easily coordinate with case managers, manage medications, and monitor patient progress. It also provides easy access to patient health records so they can determine the best patient care and minimize errors.

Improves Agency Operations: AI improves agency operations to provide better service directly and through their caregivers. It can optimize scheduling and routing so agencies minimize travel time. It provides data that helps agencies identify problem areas, improve efficiency and reduce costs. It streamlines operations like inventory, billing, and scheduling so staff members can focus on more pressing tasks.

Digital Chatbots: Caregivers offer companionship to seniors. They reduce feelings of depression and anxiety related to failing health and isolation. But digital chatbots provide a similar service when caregivers are not around. They use voice assistants, smart speakers, or algorithms to mimic natural language to keep clients company and collect information on their emotional states. The data is passed on to caregivers to determine the best-customized care plans.

AmeriBest Provides Opportunities in the Caregiving Space

AI may replace workers in some industries. But the caregiver industry will remain strong. AI will help employees and agencies improve their systems and provide an even higher level of care.

And nothing will replace the personal touch a caregiver provides. Caregivers offer companionship and customized care that is irreplaceable.

Caregiving is a thriving industry with lots of demand. If you wish to get in on the ground floor, AmeriBest can help.

AmeriBest provides training to individuals starting in the caregiver industry. We offer competitive pay and benefits and consistent, flexible hours. Workers receive professional training in our state-the-art facility. They can thrive in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

Caregiving is a stable and rewarding career. Contact AmeriBest to get started today. It’s one of the best decisions you can make.

Transforming Lives: The Power of Home Care Assistance in Allentown, PA

Home care assistance in Allentown, PA, offers several benefits. It may seem like an overstatement to say it transforms lives. But don’t undermine its power. This article will discuss the many ways home health aides in Allentown, PA, can help you and your loved ones.

For the Senior

Improves Physical Health: A health home aide will ensure your loved one maintains a healthy routine. They will help them shop for and prepare healthy foods. They will encourage them to exercise. They will see to it that they take their medication on schedule.

Improves Mental Health: A caregiver will provide your loved one with companionship. They will take them to classes where they can engage with others. They will teach them to use social media to stay connected virtually. They will keep them from feeling lonely and depressed.

Helps with Daily Chores: An aide can assist with daily chores like meal prep, light housekeeping, and self-care. They will help around the home so your loved one stays functional. They will reduce the need for them to check into a residential facility.

Promotes Independence: Some seniors are against home healthcare because they feel it will reduce their independence. But a health aide will make it easier for your loved one to perform tasks around their home. They will make them more independent.

Keeps Them Safe: A caregiver will clear walkways and reduce fall risks. They will make sure doors and windows are locked. If an emergency occurs, they will be there to call for help.

For the Relative

Less Stress: Home care assistance in Allentown, PA, reduces stress for the senior’s relatives. Family members will no longer worry about their loved one falling, forgetting their medications, or eating unhealthy food. A caregiver will be there to keep them safe and take care of them.

More Time to Focus on Their Personal and Professional Lives: Relatives who double as caregivers often experience high stress levels. A home health aide will take that stress off their shoulders. They will provide a service that allows them to focus on their personal and professional lives.

Less Expensive Than Residential Care: A home health aide in Allentown, PA, is a preferred alternative to residential care. It’s less expensive, and it offers a better environment for seniors. According to an AARP survey, most people over 50 would rather age in place.

Personalized Service: Families and caregivers can work together to create a convenient plan. They can devise a schedule that involves working certain days and hours or around the clock. They will provide the services the senior requires without add-ons that increase expenses.

AmeriBest is a Top Choice for Home Care Assistance in Allentown, PA

AmeriBest is a recommended provider for home care assistance in Allentown, PA. We offer non-medical services, including light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation, and companionship. We will help your loved one maintain a high quality of life.