Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia

Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a paid family caregiver in Philadelphia, PA, comes with a unique set of responsibilities and rewards. At AmeriBest Home Care, we understand this role goes beyond just providing physical and emotional support to your loved ones; it encompasses navigating complex legal and financial issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to become a paid family caregiver in Pennsylvania, ensuring you’re well-equipped to offer both emotional and financial support to those you care for.

The Emotional and Physical Impact of Family Caregiving

Caring for a family member is more than just a responsibility; it’s a profound act of love and dedication. As a paid family caregiver, you ensure your loved one receives compassionate care from someone they deeply trust and cherish. This role, while physically and emotionally taxing, is also a source of immense fulfillment, strengthening your bond. However, it’s important to acknowledge the varied impacts of caregiving:

  • Emotional Stress: Caregivers often face stress and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by the continuous caregiving demands.
  • Physical Strain: The role’s physical aspects, like lifting, can lead to fatigue and injury.
  • Social Isolation: Engagement in social activities may decrease, causing loneliness.
  • Health Risks: Persistent stress heightens the risk of depression and other stress-related conditions.
  • Reward and Satisfaction: Despite challenges, caregiving offers a profound sense of fulfillment and emotional connection.
  • Personal Growth: The experience fosters empathy, patience, and resilience, enhancing personal development.
  • Improved Relationships: Caregiving often deepens the bond between caregiver and recipient, creating a stronger connection.
  • Sense of Purpose: Many caregivers discover a renewed purpose and meaning in life through this caring role.

Understanding Medicaid Waivers in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, family caregivers can receive financial support through Medicaid Waivers. These waivers, under broad federal guidelines, allow the state more flexibility to pay for personal care and household services for individuals living outside of long-term care facilities. This is especially beneficial for older adults or individuals with disabilities living in their homes or with family members. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services oversees various Medical Assistance/Medicaid waivers, each with distinct eligibility criteria and services. These include:

  • Adult Autism Waiver (AAW)
  • Aging Waiver
  • Alternatives To Nursing Homes
  • Attendant Care Waiver
  • Community HealthChoices
  • Community Living Waiver
  • Consolidated Waiver
  • Independence Waiver
  • Infant, Toddlers, and Families Waiver
  • Medicaid Waivers for Intellectual Disabilities Supports and Services
  • OBRA Waiver
  • Person/Family Directed Support Waiver

Each waiver is designed to cater to specific needs, promoting community-based support and enhancing the quality of life for Pennsylvanians in need.

Eligibility for Paid Family Caregiving in Philadelphia

To become a paid family caregiver, you must qualify through the eligibility criteria. These include both financial and functional requirements. A key component is obtaining physician certification, indicating the need for long-term services and support. Additionally, income and asset limits are set by the state, which you must meet to qualify for the Medicaid Waiver Program under Community HealthChoices (CHC).

Upon qualifying for the CHC waiver, individuals gain access to both standard Medicaid benefits and additional waiver services. Behavioral health care, including mental health and substance use disorder treatments, is provided through a managed care plan determined by the individual’s county. For physical health needs like primary care, hospital visits, specialists, dental services, and home-based services, beneficiaries utilize a Community HealthChoices managed care plan. There are three CHC plan options:

1. AmeriHealth Caritas CHC (known as Keystone First CHC in Bucks, Chester, Delaware,

Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties)

2. Pennsylvania Health & Wellness

3. UPMC Community HealthChoices

At the onset of waiver eligibility, individuals are informed about these plan options and can change their plan anytime. Without a specific choice, automatic enrollment in a CHC plan will occur. Working with a Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker facilitates enrollment and eligibility for CHC. They are an essential resource for understanding the various programs and services available and can guide you through the application process.

Choosing a Home Care Agency

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to select a home care agency that allows the employment of family members. This choice is crucial, as the agency will be your partner in providing high-quality care. They offer training, development, and support, ensuring that you are well-equipped to care for your loved one. It’s not just about finding an organization that allows you to care for your loved one; it’s about choosing a partner that aligns with your caregiving philosophy and values.

The chosen home care agency will be instrumental in your development as a family caregiver. They provide essential training, development opportunities, and ongoing support. This guidance is crucial, especially if you’re new to caregiving. The agency will help equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide the best possible care to your loved one. Their resources and support can make a significant difference in your confidence and effectiveness as a caregiver, ensuring that you’re not just caring for your loved one but also growing and learning in the role.

Compensation for Family Caregivers in Philadelphia

Compensation for family caregivers in Philadelphia, PA, varies depending on the home care agency. However, all agencies receiving Medicaid waiver payments have a similar pay range, determined by the state’s reimbursement rates. It’s important to consider not just the pay but also the additional benefits and training opportunities the agency offers.

Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia

 

AmeriBest Home Care: Committed to Supporting Philadelphia Family Caregivers

At AmeriBest Home Care, our dedication lies in empowering family caregivers throughout Pennsylvania. We understand the complexities and nuances involved in becoming a paid family caregiver in Philadelphia.

Our team is equipped to guide you through every step of this process. From clarifying eligibility criteria to assisting in selecting the ideal home care agency for your unique situation, we’re here to offer comprehensive support. We believe in making the transition to a paid caregiver as smooth and informed as possible. Reach out to us at 1-800-HOMECARE today to begin your journey. 

 

The Top Benefits of Personal Care for Seniors in Harrisburg, PA 

The Top Benefits of Personal Care for Seniors in Harrisburg, PA

Has your loved one shown a need for senior care in Harrisburg, PA? If so, they wouldn’t be alone. The need for home care is on the rise as more families recognize the value of tailored in-home support for their aging loved ones. For seniors, aging in place often provides comfort and independence. Meanwhile, personal care services ensure they can maintain their lifestyle safely and with dignity. Whether they need assistance with daily tasks or Companionship, at-home senior care offers many benefits for seniors and their families.

 

What Is Personal Care for Seniors? 

There are many types of in-home care available for seniors. Personal care offers non-medical assistance to seniors right from the comfort of their homes. It can include many tasks and services designed to support aging individuals with challenging daily tasks and activities. These services range from helping with hygiene and meal preparation to offering emotional support and taking care of household chores.

 

Why Seniors Need Personal Care

As your loved one ages, maintaining their independence can become increasingly challenging due to physical, cognitive, or health-related concerns. At-home caregivers bridge this gap by providing seniors the help they need while still allowing them to live comfortably in their own homes.

 

What Are the Benefits of Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA?  

 

Promotes Independence and Dignity 

One of the biggest advantages of in-home caregiving is that it allows seniors to remain in their own homes, a place full of comfort and memories. With the right level of support, they can keep their routines at home and in the community, fostering a sense of independence and dignity.

Better Safety at Home 

Seniors and individuals with chronic conditions can be at risk of falls or accidents, especially when navigating their homes alone. Personal caregivers assist with mobility, monitor home safety, and help reduce the risk of injuries. Should something happen, they are trained to provide care until professional help arrives. 

Provides Companionship 

Loneliness and isolation are common concerns among seniors, especially those living alone. Personal caregivers offer much-needed Companionship, engaging seniors in conversations, activities, and hobbies that improve their mental and emotional well-being. Personal at-home aides can also provide transportation to community social events or even the grocery store, helping older adults stay connected. 

Assistance with Daily Activities 

From bathing and dressing to cooking and light housekeeping, caregivers provide hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). This allows seniors’ physical needs to be met without compromising their comfort.

Support of Family Caregivers 

Family members often take on caregiving roles, which can be emotionally and physically draining. While AmeriBest Home Care offers opportunities for family members to become paid caregivers, personal care services can also provide respite for family caregivers. These resources and supports allow their loved ones to receive professional care. At the same time, family members can rest and recharge or make the most of family time with their loved ones. 

 

Why Choose AmeriBest Home Care?

 

Why Choose AmeriBest Home Care? 

For families seeking reliable senior care in Harrisburg, PA, AmeriBest Home Care stands out as a trusted provider. With a team of experienced and compassionate caregivers, AmeriBest is dedicated to delivering tailored care plans that meet each client’s preferences and needs.

Their caregivers do much more than assist with daily tasks—they build meaningful relationships with seniors, ensuring they feel valued and supported at every step. AmeriBest’s commitment to quality and professionalism has made them a go-to choice for families throughout Harrisburg.

If a loved one wants to age comfortably and safely in their homes, AmeriBest Home Care can offer them benefits ranging from improved safety to enhanced emotional well-being; this form of care empowers seniors to live fulfilling lives surrounded by familiarity and comfort.

If you’re seeking exceptional senior care in Harrisburg, PA, contact AmeriBest Home Care today to learn how their personalized care services can benefit your elderly family member. 

The Growing Demand for Personal Care in Philadelphia, PA 

The Growing Demand for Personal Care in Philadelphia, PA

There is a rising need for personal care in Philadelphia, PA. More and more seniors have chosen to age in place. Older individuals or those with chronic conditions have made their preference known to receive care in the comfort of their own homes. This highlights the importance and need for personal care services that help them maintain independence, enhance the quality of their lives, and provide peace of mind to their families. 

Due to an increasing elderly population and a desire for at-home care, the demand for personal care is unlikely to go away anytime soon. 

 

Why Is Personal Care in High Demand?

Personal care services offer a customized approach to helping individuals with daily tasks that they may struggle with due to aging, illness, or disability. This type of care is becoming more sought after due to:

  • Aging population. America’s senior population is growing, with a significant percentage needing in-home support to maintain independence.
  • A preference for aging in place: Many seniors and individuals prefer staying in their own homes rather than moving to an assisted living facility. Personal care services, companionship care, and home health aides make this possible by offering assistance with essential daily tasks and care.
  • Chronic conditions: Unfortunately, chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis are on the rise, which often require consistent, personalized support to maintain quality of life.

 

How Can Personal Care Professionals Help? 

Personal care services through agencies like AmeriBest Home Care focus on helping their clients with tasks that ensure their comfort, safety, and well-being. These can include:

  • Assistance with daily living activities (ADLs). Helping individuals with routine things like bathing, grooming, dressing, and meal preparation.
  • Medication reminders ensure clients take their medications as prescribed by their healthcare professionals, ultimately reducing the risk of missed doses.
  • Mobility assistance: Helping individuals move safely around their homes to prevent falls or injuries. Transportation services to doctors’ appointments and social events can also be provided.
  • Companionship: Providing emotional support, conversation, and social interaction to reduce loneliness and isolation.

These services address individual needs so that seniors and individuals with chronic conditions receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs and preferences.

 

The Benefits of Personal Care Services 

Personal care services can offer several benefits for both clients and their families. For those receiving care, it can enhance their quality of life. Help with daily tasks allows them to focus on enjoying their lives rather than worrying about chores or to-do lists. Home care also provides increased independence, empowering them to remain in their own homes and retain their dignity. 

It can give families peace of mind, reassuring them that their loved ones are in the hands of skilled caregivers. Customized care plans tailored to each recipient’s needs ensure they receive the right level of assistance.  When family visits, this can create more time for bonding and relieve the burden family members may feel of having to take care of household tasks during their time together. 

 

How Can Personal Care Professionals Help?

 

How AmeriBest Home Care is Meeting the Growing Demand 

AmeriBest Home Care is one of the top personal care providers in Philadelphia, PA. With a team of compassionate and experienced caregivers, AmeriBest offers services that prioritize client well-being and independence.

Our agency provides personalized care plans, reliable support, and flexible scheduling to accommodate each client’s unique needs. Our dedication to quality care has made it a trusted choice for families across Philadelphia. As the demand for personal care in Philadelphia, PA, continues to grow, companies like AmeriBest Home Care are committed to offering superior services that enhance the lives of those needing care. We offer caregiving services via their trained staff and opportunities for family members to become paid caregivers for their loved ones. 

If you or a loved one need personal care services, contact AmeriBest Home Care today to learn how they can help you live a happier, healthier, and more independent life.

National High Blood Pressure Education Month

Did you know there are waiver home care programs for seniors with high blood pressure? Waiver programs like those AmeriBest of Harrisburg, PA, participate in allow people to get proper care at home for lower costs than in an institution. As you can imagine, having these programs provides great peace of mind to families and patients alike.

May is dedicated to Blood Pressure Education so that you can help your loved ones who are at risk.

What is Blood Pressure

Blood pressure comes from blood pushing against arteries as it moves through your body. Everyone’s blood pressure rises and falls daily. There are two blood pressure measurements

  • Systolic: This number indicates the pressure in your arteries during a heartbeat.
  • Diastolic: This measures pressure in your arteries between heartbeats. 

Normal blood pressure is considered 120 systolic over 80 diastolic. 

What is High Blood Pressure

Hypertension is another name for high blood pressure. While your blood pressure may go up with exertion, for example, when it stays up there’s a reason for concern. As your blood pressure rises, the risks of a stroke, heart attack, or heart disease go up. 

When your health care provider, or that of your senior, diagnoses high blood pressure, they can then work on a treatment plan for reducing those numbers. Some providers consider 130/80 high, while others pin it at 140/90.

Signs and Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

At AmeriBest Home Care Harrisburg, PA, we believe that remaining informed and involved is vital to the care of your elder. We are a top, in-home caregiver with waiver plans and take great strides to educate our staff, too.

You can begin by learning how to take blood pressure at home if you do not have a caregiver, aid, or nurse. It is the only way to know your blood pressure changes. Remember that high blood pressure is called the silent killer because so many people never know they have it.

There are all kinds of equipment you can buy for measuring blood pressure, and it’s not overly expensive. Beyond that, here are some signs of high blood pressure:

  • Breathing difficulty
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Eyes with blood spots
  • Flushing
  • Nervousness
  • Nosebleed
  • Pounding in your ears or chest
  • Sleep interruption
  • Weariness

The longer high blood pressure continues, the more it can damage your arteries. In turn, this leads to heart disease, heart attack, or heart failure. 

Brain & Other Problems

If high blood pressure blocks blood to the brain, the lack of oxygen causes a stroke. Additionally, there is a link between high blood pressure and decreased cognitive functions. Adults with high blood pressure face increased potential for kidney disease, too

Prevention & Management

There are some simple things that help prevent and manage high blood pressure. Encourage your loved one to have about 30 minutes of activity a day. Help them prepare a healthy diet, low in salt and alcohol. And find ways of managing stress. Often, having a waiver home care plan for seniors in place not only decreases your loved one’s anxiety but also your own! Self-care matters. 

Call AmeriBest’s Harrisburg, PA office any time (717-545-2920), email info@ameribest.org, or use our contact form online for further information.

The Parkinson’s Caregiver

The Parkinson's Caregiver

Each year April is National Parkinson’s Awareness Month. As a top in-home caregiver agency in Philadelphia, PA, we at AmeriBest home care encourage people to learn more about Parkinsons and what they can do during April to make a difference.

What is Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s is a nervous system disorder, that primarily affects a person’s movement. The most common symptoms of the disease, which increase over time, include

  • Decreased Facial Expressiveness: Parkinson’s weakens facial muscles, so the person may show no signs of smiling or frowning.
  • Emotional Impact: Depression and behavior changes.
  • Fatigue.
  • Memory Loss. 
  • Muscle Stiffness: A Parkinson’s sufferer’s muscles never relax fully. Over time, this leads to limited motion, which is sometimes painful. 
  • Posture Changes: Over time it becomes difficult for someone with Parkinson’s to stand upright, and they may also experience balance issues.
  • Sleep Disruption
  • Slow Movement: Spontaneous movement becomes difficult with Parkinson’s. People move more slowly, shuffle, lower their speech volume, etc. In some instances, their gait may freeze temporarily.
  • Tremors: Starting as small as one finger or foot, tremors occur usually when the body is at rest. 

Men are at a higher risk for developing Parkinson’s. It usually begins around the age of 60, but sometimes manifests as early as age 50. Some cases of Parkinson’s are hereditary, while others come from a combination of environmental factors and genetic predisposition. 

Many people dismiss early signs of Parkinson’s thinking of them as an effect of the normal aging process. The signs begin on one side of the body, or in one limb of the body. Eventually, Parkinson’s affects the entire way the body functions.

How to Get Involved

  1. Donate toward further research and community assistance.
  2. If you have noticed worrisome symptoms, make an appointment with a neurologist for yourself (peace of mind is worth it).
  3. Participate in fundraising walks virtually: https://www.apdaparkinson.org/get-involved/optimism-walks/ 
  4. Put up links on your Facebook Page or personal webpage so people can find webinars and request publications.https://www.parkinson.org/parkinsons-awareness-month. 
  5. Visit someone you know with Parkinson’s to offer your support, or volunteer at a facility specializing in the disease. 

The Parkinson's Caregiver

 

Being a Parkinson’s Caregiver

When you discover your loved one has Parkinson’s Disease, you want to do your best to help them. But what does “help” in this situation really mean? It’s a challenging diagnosis with equally challenging daily issues. 

Tips for Effective Home Care

It might be tempting to take over responsibilities for your loved one. It’s a normal, but sometimes unnecessary, reaction. Let them do whatever they are capable of doing, for as long as they can. A sense of ongoing independence and self-sufficiency is important for mental wellbeing. Keep your dialog open to true needs. Have those tough conversations openly and honestly.

This is a complex disease. Learn all you can about Parkinson’s so you know what to expect. Nonprofit organizations like the National Parkinson’s Foundation have educational materials at the ready. Also, ask your health care provider and team for suggestions about community supports. The more you know, the less you’ll feel inadequate for the task ahead.

Going one step further, if your loved one will allow, come with them to each medical appointment. This gives you the opportunity to take notes and gain perspectives. 

Beyond these actions, watch every missive from insurance companies, making sure prescriptions and services are adequately covered, and likewise make sure this individual takes their medications properly. 

Need Help?

As Parkinson’s progresses, you may find you need professional assistance. AmeriBest caregivers are happy to step in and provide superior service for your loved one with Parkinson’s. We have a variety of services, one of which is sure to meet your needs. Our top home care agency offices stand by to review your request for information or reply to your email (info@ameribest.org). You can also call us:

Philadelphia 215-925-3313

Harrisburg 717-545-2929

Toll Free 1-800-HOMECARE

Get paid for caregiving with AmeriBest Home Care

Are you a compassionate personal caregiver in Harrisburg, Pa, or an empathic private duty home care aid in the Philadelphia area? Or, perhaps you’ve been thinking about a career in-home health services, and are passionate about helping people? At AmeriBest Home Care, we are always looking for people like you. 

AmeriBest ranks among the top home care agencies and in-home nursing services serving the Philadelphia area. We offer you the best-PAID training, flexibility, and career opportunities, coupled with impressive benefits. We are hiring people who want to support families and individuals who require assistance for their wellbeing and improving their overall quality of life. 

Time and again, we see caregivers finding great satisfaction in their work. You are helping people, offering companionship, and providing comfort. At AmeriBest we know company success begins with employee satisfaction and success. 

Benefits of Being a Home Health Aide

If you are not already a home care assistant, you may wonder if the job is really right for you. There are several fantastic benefits of becoming an in-home caregiver.

  1. Appreciation: When a family finally has an aide in place, the whole house sighs in relief. These people are often stressed, worried, and over-extended. An extra pair of keen eyes and skilled hands is a blessing, and people show their gratitude. 
  2. Flexibility. Agencies work with your personal schedule so you can work as much (or little) as you wish. Once you have a caseload, you work with the patients and family for a suitable schedule.
  3. Growth Potential: The healthcare industry as a whole is always growing and changing. You will learn a lot from your experiences on the job, plus any training an agency like AmerBest offers. 
  4. Rapport: Personal aids become an extension of the family. You have a chance to really know your patients in ways that hospital workers can’t. 
  5. Specialization options: Is there one type of situation/patient you prefer? You can ask for assignments fitting that goal, if available.

Employment Opportunities:

We are always on the lookout for outstanding

  • Registered Nurses
  • Speech Therapists
  • Personal Care Assistants. 

Think of your services from the client’s point of view. They don’t want to go into a facility where nothing’s familiar and strangers are constantly passing through. Being at home provides the consistency people crave. It’s reassuring. Working for AmeriBest in any of our programs means your individual’s dignity remains intact. Our clients know each person on our team is respectful, knowledgeable, and dependable. 

Career Development

We not only provide 100% paid training but want to invest in your continued growth as a caregiver. You can get courses in:

  • CPR
  • Fall risks
  • Heart disease management
  • Hoyer lift use
  • Nutrition
  • Recognizing abuse

And much more!

AmeriBest Benefits in Brief

Quality workers deserve quality benefits. We respect your efforts with suitable compensation, time off, and insurance. You’ll receive

  • Daily Pay option: You can transfer your earnings any time through an Ap that also tracks your hours.
  • Discount plan for LifeMart
  • Holidays: 7 paid holidays; time and a half for working holidays
  • Insurance: Medical, Dental, Vision, and basic medical covered at 100%
  • Life insurance policy: $15,000, free to full-time employees
  • Monthly caregiver awards
  • Year end bonus 
  • 401K

At AmeriBest you have the security of knowing you’re working for one of the top five, most stable caregiver agencies in all of Pennsylvania. Apply today, contact us for more information, or email: info@ameribest.org

Are you looking for Home Care in Harrisburg?

Have you been caring for your loved one at home without assistance? Caregiving can wear you out and create anxiety about maintaining the individual’s quality of life. That’s where AmeriBest can help. If you are looking for top-quality home care in Harrisburg, PA we have a local office that can provide you with all the information you’ll need to move forward.

Why AmeriBest Home Care?

AmeriBest Home Care believes in high-quality, comprehensive service, both home health, and personal care. Each person we service receives a personalized assessment, coordinating with their primary physician and any current clinical staff. It’s a holistic approach that gives people peace of mind. 

If we had to summarize AmeriBest in three words, they would be comfort, safety, and dignity. 

  • Your loved one stays in their own home. There are no strangers wandering the halls of a facility. This gives them some peace of mind, and a sense of assurance. Our amazing home nursing services and in-home caregiver program strives daily to connect with both the individual and family, offering answers to any questions you may have.
  • A direct care worker looks at your home through a different lens; one focused on making sure everything’s in the best possible place for safety. That slippery rug or lack of handrail? You may not have thought about them before. We can help.
  • Having compassionate, trustworthy staff means your loved one never feels like a “number,” boosting morale and a deep sense of self-worth. 

Benefits of Having a Home Health Care Aide

Whether you live in Harrisburg, PA, or in the Philadelphia, PA area, AmeriBest is here. You may be new to the idea of having an aide, but there are many benefits to consider:

  • Extra eyes and hands. You are only one person. An experienced aid provides coverage during times when you cannot be “eyes-on.”
  • An home health aide can take care of transporting an individual to various medical appointments. 
  • The caregiver or direct care worker provides the individual with companionship and socialization
  • Home care often proves more affordable than a facility
  • Your personal assistant can help keep the home in order when the individual’s ability is limited
  • The nurse can watch for physical or emotional changes that may indicate an underlying problem. 

What you can Expect from AmeriBest Home Care

Dependability is one of the keynotes that makes AmeriBest one of the top-rated home health care agencies in Harrisburg and Philadelphia, PA. Our office lowers the risk of call-outs and no-shows by always having a backup plan. We seek only the best candidates in our hiring process. 

Our staff members provide essential support services. Your nurse or aide will familiarize themselves with existing medical practitioners and providers and coordinate with them for high-quality care. 

AmeriBest can also help you navigate insurance coverage, including Medicaid. The paperwork can become overwhelming and it helps to have a professional “interpreter” for all the jargon.

If you would like more information, there are several ways to contact us. Beyond the online form, you can email info@ameribest.org or call 1-800-HOMECARE.

National Cholesterol Education Month With the CDC

National Cholesterol Education Month With the CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has designated September as National Cholesterol Education Month. Cholesterol levels are often neglected as most people don’t want to make the dietary and life changes necessary for optimal health. However, the longer your cholesterol level remains elevated, the greater your chances are of suffering a serious health problem. Let’s take a quick look at why everyone living in and near Philadelphia should do what they can to keep their cholesterol level at a healthy level.

A Brief Explanation of Cholesterol’s Importance and Potential Harm

Cholesterol is a perfectly natural part of biological functionality. If cholesterol were not present, the human body would not be capable of creating healthy cells. However, there is good and bad cholesterol. The good variety, high-density lipoprotein, known by the acronym of HDL, assists in the elimination of the bad cholesterol from the body. Bad cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, referred to with the acronym of LDL, causes plaque to form in the arteries, heightening the chances of vascular problems, heart disease, clots, and even heart attack or stroke.

When Should Cholesterol Be Checked?

In an ideal world, cholesterol will be checked much sooner than it actually is. The average person living in Philadelphia waits until there is a serious health problem to address a cholesterol problem. Some people refuse to go to the doctor, meaning they don’t even know their cholesterol is high.

Adolescents and kids should have their cholesterol levels gauged by a medical professional. Those age 20 on up should have their cholesterol level checked once in every 4-6 years. However, those who have a high risk for cardiovascular disease due to genetics or lifestyle flaws (hamburger and fries, anyone?) should have their cholesterol checked every couple of years or even annually.

National Cholesterol Education Month With the CDC

Cholesterol in the Context of Race

Did you know that African-Americans are much more likely to have higher cholesterol levels than members of other races? In particular, African-American men are likely to have elevated cholesterol. This comparably high level is the result of a unique form of a gene found in African-Americans.

Tips To Keep Your Cholesterol Under Control

The most important thing you can do to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level is practice mindful eating and maintain a healthy diet.

Do not eat mindlessly in front of the TV or computer! Read food ingredient labels when shopping for groceries. Zero in on food products that do not contain trans fats. Trans fats elevate cholesterol and even damage the heart if consumed in excess or at a high frequency.

It will also help to prepare food the right way. Cut the fat and skin off from fish and meat prior to cooking it. This approach maximizes your protein intake while minimizing the amount of fat consumed. Instead of deep fat frying or breading your food, opt to poach, bake or broil it. Choose a healthy cooking method and you will have done your part to minimize your fat consumption, ultimately keeping your cholesterol in check.

Establishing a consistent workout routine also helps to lower your cholesterol. Exercise on most days of the week to feel the difference. Weight management also helps.

Quit smoking – within just one year of quitting, your risk of heart disease will be half that of a smoker!

Drink alcohol in moderation – surprisingly enough, moderate use of alcohol is linked with higher levels of HDL (the “good”) cholesterol.

Get Assistance With AmeriBest Home Care of Philadelphia

We are eager to provide you or your loved one in the greater Philadelphia area with assistance. Our home care services are held in high regard by our local community. Give us a call today at 215-925-3313, reach out to us via email at info@ameribest.org, or contact our team online to find out more about how we can help improve your quality of life with expert home care.

 

National Recovery Month With Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services

National Recovery Month With Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services

September marks the start of the Philadelphia Eagles’ season yet this month is also quite important for those struggling with substance abuse and those who have recovered from addiction. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, or SAMHSA for short, has designated September as National Recovery Month. This is the time of year when we raise awareness about substance abuse in seniors.

Risk Factors of Substance Abuse in Seniors for their Caregivers

Most people living in the greater Philadelphia area and beyond assume substance abuse is primarily a problem amongst teens, twenty-somethings, and other young adults. The truth is senior citizens are just as vulnerable to developing an addiction to drugs or alcohol as others. In particular, senior citizens dealing with chronic pain have a tendency to abuse pain relief medication, alcohol, and additional substances.

Risk factors include:

  • Being white
  • Having higher income
  • Living alone
  • Losing a spouse
  • Retiring unexpectedly/being laid off
  • Having chronic pains
  • Being disabled
  • Having a history of mental illness or substance abuse

If you notice the senior in your life requires more medication than they used to, drinks alone, or is secretive about drinking, it is a sign that he or she needs professional substance abuse counseling.

How To Support Someone in Their Recovery Effort

An elderly individual or any other person struggling to stay sober is in need of help yet unwilling or unsure of how to ask for it. You can help in subtle ways. Do not immediately resort to an intervention with a substance abuse counselor. A forced intervention is a last resort. 

Instead of performing a forced intervention, start by educating yourself about the problem. Get a sense of whether the individual’s use of a particular substance is harmful to him/herself or others. If you don’t know much about substance abuse, read up on the subject on the web or at your local library. Do not persuade your loved one to completely abstain from the substance in question right away. Encourage gradual weaning off of the substance for incremental progress that eventually leads to sobriety. 

Ask for Professional Assistance

National Recovery Month With Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services

Most attempts at “do it yourself” (DIY) sobriety do not work. Even if a family member or friend provides support, the person with drug dependence will likely need professional substance abuse counseling. All sorts of groups from Alcoholics Anonymous to Nar-Anon for those addicted to illegal and prescription drugs are ready and willing to help. Nudge your loved one in the direction of such a counselor. 

Consider attending counseling sessions with the senior, caregiver, or other friends/family member if he or she needs additional support in the quest for sobriety. In some cases, simply discussing the addiction with a professional counselor builds momentum to the point that the person with drug dependence is willing to take the next step toward returning his/her life to normal.

Coordinate AmeriBest Home Care Service at Your Home

If you need assistance with the challenges of daily living, contact our Philadelphia home care services providers today. Our caring team provides extensive home care services.  This service liberates current care providers to return to normal living. If you live in the greater Philadelphia area and need home care assistance, reach out to us today at 215-925-3313, send us an email at  info@ameribest.org or contact us through our convenient online contact form.

 

What You Need To Know About the Delta Variant

What You Need To Know About the Delta Variant

Turn on the nightly news and you are sure to hear mention of the Delta variant of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus. AmeriBest Home Care is proud to provide PPE, medical supplies, and ongoing support to our caregivers during this difficult time. We go to great lengths to ensure each of our Philadelphia homecare providers is healthy and perfectly safe to be around. Between disinfecting, social distancing, and testing, AmeriBest has implemented extensive measures to protect our team and our clients. 

Recognize the Threat That Is the Delta Variant

The masses ditched their face masks earlier this summer, declaring the pandemic to be over. Unfortunately, those masks will likely be put back on due to the rise of the Delta variant. There is the potential for COVID-19 to morph into even more variants in the days, weeks, and months ahead. 

Delta is a major problem as it is highly contagious. Delta is more contagious than the common cold. Furthermore, Delta is even more contagious than Ebola, SARS, MERS, and influenza. The latest information indicates Delta is also just as contagious as chickenpox. The variant has become the predominant variant in the United States, meaning it is in the Philadelphia community and also surrounding communities. 

Who Is Feeling Delta’s Wrath the Most?

The unvaccinated are in Delta’s crosshairs. Those who have not yet received the vaccine jab are much more likely to suffer serious illness, be hospitalized, and pass away after contracting the Delta variant than those who are fully vaccinated. Though the vaccinated can transmit the Delta variant, the CDC does not believe the vaccinated can transmit other variants.

Delta Might Cause a Hyperlocal Outbreak

Delta has the potential to accelerate the ongoing pandemic as it is highly transmissible. Those living in dense urban areas where practicing social distancing is challenging and those in areas with minimal vaccination might experience a hyperlocalized outbreak. Such outbreaks are likely to be that much more common in areas with low vaccination rates that are surrounded by areas with comparably high vaccination rates. In other words, such hyperlocal outbreaks might generate some COVID hotspots throughout the United States.

Delta Variant

Delta Continues To Reveal New Information

The puzzle of the Delta variant is still being put together by the brightest minds in the medical industry. Scientists are unsure if Delta causes more significant sickness than the original version of the virus. A study conducted in Scotland states the Delta variant is two times more likely to cause hospitalization in unvaccinated people than the Alpha variant. However, other data shows the variant is unlikely to cause the hospitalization of the unvaccinated. 

The medical community is also continuing to learn more about the symptoms of the Delta variant. It appears as though losing the sense of smell and frequently coughing are not as common of symptoms as occur with the original virus. Data stemming from the United Kingdom, where Delta wreaked havoc, shows that headaches, fever, runny noses, and sore throats are the most common symptoms.

AmeriBest Home Care Philadelphia Is at Your Service

If you or a loved one can benefit from home care in Philadelphia, reach out to us today. Our Philadelphia home care agency provides home and community-based services, home health aides, skilled nursing, physical therapy, and more. You can reach us by dialing 215-925-3313.

AmeriBest Home Care