Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts: Navigating Depression and Anxiety in Seniors

Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts

As we get older, it’s common to experience various feelings. Coupled with changes in physical and mental health, these emotions can take a bigger toll on a senior’s quality of life than you may have guessed. Depression, anxiety, and loneliness are a few of the emotional concerns an elderly individual may struggle with. Reduced independence can play a role in these feelings. However, compassionate in-home caregiving and a senior’s family members can help overcome these struggles, allowing elderly individuals to lead a rich and fulfilling life. As experienced providers of home care in Allentown, PA, we’re familiar with depression and anxiety in seniors and ways to recognize and help manage these concerns. 

 

What Causes Anxiety and Depression in Seniors?

The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry states that anxiety can be a common, yet often undiagnosed, illness for older adults. There are a few factors that can contribute to anxiety and depression in senior citizens. 

Reduced physical health and mobility are potential causes of worry. The inability to participate in normal activities and routines can lead to worries about how the person will be able to retain independence and enjoy life. These concerns can cause sadness, too. 

Similarly, loss and social isolation can also affect their mood, especially if the senior cannot partake in the things that once brought them joy. In cases where worries and sadness become severe, transforming into anxiety and depression, the individual’s physical health may be affected. Research has found that depression in seniors is linked to increased risk of illness and cardiac diseases. 

Although many of us understand that feelings like this are a normal part of such huge life changes and are nothing to be ashamed of, seniors may be reluctant to seek help or reach out to family members. Recognizing the signs of depression and anxiety becomes imperative.

 

What Are the Signs of Senior Depression and Anxiety? 

If you provide family care for your loved one, there are signs you should be aware of. Alternatively, if your relative is receiving home care through an agency like AmeriBest, you can check that their caregiver knows the signs of depression and anxiety and ask them to alert you if they become concerned. 

Signs of depression and anxiety in seniors can include: 

  • Physical symptoms. Physical health and mental health are strongly linked. Depression and anxiety may show up as fatigue, aches and pains, and changes in appetite. 
  • Behavior changes. While some changes in behavior are to be expected, watch out for significant shifts in your loved one’s actions. Such as not wanting to participate in hobbies or activities they once found enjoyable, social withdrawal, and changes in their sleep. 
  • Cognitive decline. Unfortunately, depression and anxiety can sometimes be misdiagnosed as cognitive decline. In seniors, depression may be wrongfully deemed dementia. Determining which condition may be affecting your relative is crucial to providing them with appropriate care and support. 

 

How to Navigate and Help Them Cope With These Feelings

Navigating depression and anxiety with a senior member of your family starts with compassionate communication. Letting your loved one know you are a safe person to whom they can communicate concerns is a beneficial first step. Together, you and their caregiver can create a supportive community where they feel comfortable asking for help or speaking about their emotions. 

Once it’s established that a senior is dealing with depression or anxiety, seek help. Sometimes, professional counseling services are needed. Often, there are mental health professionals who specialize in senior care and can help your loved one cope with their feelings. 

Outside of visits to a mental health professional, family members and caregivers can create an environment at home that is conducive to reducing anxiety and sadness. Help your senior get regular physical activity, both inside and outside the home. Walking in the sunshine can be beneficial to their overall health. Encourage them to participate in fulfilling social activities, whether at their local community center or simply playing a board game with their personal care assistant. You can also provide mindfulness and relaxation techniques for when they feel overwhelmed or isolated, such as tai chi, deep breathing, or meditation. 

 

Insights from Allentown Home Care Experts

 

Choose Supportive and Compassionate Home Care in Allentown, PA 

At AmeriBest, we strongly value our seniors’ mental and physical well-being. As such, we provide resources for our staff and paid family caregivers so that they can recognize and address signs of depression and anxiety in elderly individuals. We strive to create a compassionate and caring environment that fosters communication. Our caregivers desire to help your elderly loved ones lead a rich and fulfilling life, free from stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Together, we can improve the quality of life for those in their golden years. Contact us to learn how you can get premiere home care for your loved one in Allentown, Harrisburg, or Philadelphia, PA. 

Comprehensive Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA: What You Need to Know

Choosing the best care for your elderly loved one is an important decision. There are various options for senior care in Harrisburg, PA, including family caregiving and professional in-home caregiving services. Each option can give your family member the assistance and support they need. However, it’s important to understand the various types of senior care and assess how much help your loved one needs before selecting the best senior care option for your family.

 

What are the Types of Comprehensive Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA?  

Elder care services can range from transportation to and from appointments to senior living facilities that oversee all aspects of daily routines and wellbeing. Senior care services all aim to provide compassionate support to enhance your loved one’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, and quality of life. However, they can vary in how comprehensive they are.

 

Home Care Services 

Home care agencies, like AmeriBest Home Care, provide support to elders in the comfort of their own homes. They generally can assist with various aspects of daily living, such as meal preparation, shopping, bathing, transportation coordination, and medication reminders. In addition, home care services can offer companionship when you cannot be with your loved one.

 

Family Caregiving Services  

Individuals who want to provide quality care for their elderly loved ones can become family caregivers. Often, through a home care service agency, such as AmeriBest Home Care, individuals can receive the training, access to resources, and ongoing support needed to provide home care assistance to their elderly or disabled family members.

 

Independent Senior Living Facilities  

Independent living facilities can be a great choice for largely independent elders who would rather enjoy engaging in enriching activities than dealing with monotonous tasks like chores. These facilities offer various activities, plenty of social interaction, and freedom from daily hassles.

 

Assisted Living Facilities 

Assisted living facilities can be just as engaging as independent senior living, but they’re designed for individuals who need a little more support with routine tasks. Most assisted living facilities offer medication management, meal preparation, bathing, dressing, exercise classes, and social clubs.

 

How to Choose the Best Senior Care 

How do you pick the best senior care option in Harrisburg, PA? Here are a few things to consider.

 

Assess their needs  

It’s wise to start by assessing the senior’s physical, mental, and social needs. You may want to consider how mobile they are, whether or not they have health or memory concerns, and their interest in maintaining social connections. Working with a healthcare provider can sometimes help you make a quality assessment.

 

Consider the costs 

Caregiving of all types can come with a variety of costs. For example, assisted living facilities require financial compensation, but studies have also found that family caregivers often spend around 26% of their personal finances to assist with supporting their loved ones. Thankfully, there are usually assistance options for family caregivers and sometimes funding options for other home care services, too.

 

Think about location, convenience, and family involvement 

One of the biggest benefits of home care services like AmeriBest Home Care is that your senior can stay right where they are. This means you won’t have to travel further to visit them, and the family can stay closely involved in their care and life. If you do choose an independent or assisted living facility, be sure to consider its location and how convenient it will be for your family to visit and stay in constant communication about your loved one’s well being.

Senior Care

 

Ensure Quality Care with AmeriBest Home Care in Harrisburg, PA 

Ensuring your loved one receives the best quality care from a compassionate, highly trained individual is imperative. AmeriBest is one of the preferred providers of in-home care services in Harrisburg, PA, and the surrounding areas. Our experienced staff offers various services, including medication reminders, transportation, light cleaning, meal preparation, and self-care assistance. We empower seniors by helping them lead more independent lifestyles and provide their family members peace of mind.
We also make care more affordable and comfortable for elderly loved ones by providing training so you can get paid to care for your relatives. We offer benefits, competitive pay, and a supportive environment. AmeriBest is conveniently located in the heart of Philadelphia, Harrisburg, and Allentown; contact us to learn more about our Philadelphia home care services.

Transforming Compassion into Income: Exploring Opportunities to Get Paid to Care in Harrisburg, PA 

Medicaid Family Caregiver

Family caregiving is both rewarding and a significant responsibility. Supporting your loved one in the comfort of their own home is a valuable experience that many wish to provide for their relatives. However, it can also strain caregivers financially, emotionally, and physically.  Know that if you’re looking for ways to ease your financial burdens while providing compassionate care to your family member, you’re not alone. The unique set of concerns faced by family caregivers in Pennsylvania leaves many exploring avenues to get paid to give care in Harrisburg, PA. 

 

Ways to Get Paid to Care in Harrisburg, PA 

Medicaid is perhaps the most advantageous way to get paid for being a family caregiver in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania or the surrounding area. Medicaid waivers, in particular, can be used to compensate family members caring for their disabled or elderly family members who still live at home. 

These government waivers allow the state, via home care agencies, to financially assist caregivers in providing in-home personal care and household services to individuals living outside assisted care facilities. There are various Medicaid waivers, each with its own eligibility requirements. Regardless of the type of waiver, the majority are overseen by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services.

 

How Can My Family Member Become Eligible for Paid Family Caregiving in PA?

First, the relative needing care must qualify to receive payment via a Medicaid waiver. A physician who can certify that long-term support or services are needed can determine eligibility for functional requirements. Financial eligibility is set and reviewed by the state, as income limits must be met to qualify for the Community HealthChoices (CHC) Medicaid waiver. 

Once qualified, the CHC managed care program offers various plans. Working with a Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker can help you determine eligibility, enroll, and understand the services available. 

 

How Do Home Care Agencies in PA Help with Compensation?

Once your family member is confirmed to be eligible, they will need to choose a home care agency that allows the employment of family members as caregivers, like AmeriBest Home Care. The agency facilitates training, development, and ongoing support of the family caregiver to ensure they are able to provide the best care possible for their loved one. 

Additionally, the agency is responsible for payment, benefits, and continued development opportunities. Once hired, the family caregiver becomes a regular company employee and is put on the payroll just like every other staff member. 

Home care agencies in Harrisburg, PA, such as AmeriBest, provide the best of both worlds. They help ensure you have the skills and knowledge needed to provide loving and effective care to your relative. Meanwhile, they also oversee payment and benefit disbursement (if applicable), helping to relieve some of the stress from you and your loved one. 

 

How Much Compensation is Offered to Get Paid to Care in Harrisburg, PA?

The fixed rate of the Medicaid waiver payment determines compensation for family caregivers in Pennsylvania. Medicaid gives a specific amount to home care agencies that is then used to pay family caregivers. Rates can also vary by the home care agency, but most have a similar pay range. 

 

Family Caregiver AmeriBest

 

Choose a Supportive Home Care Agency; Choose AmeriBest Home Care 

Receiving compensation for supporting your relative can help relieve financial stress and allow you to fully enjoy the rewarding experience. But it is only part of the equation. Don’t choose a home care agency based on pay alone. 

It’s important to consider the training, development, and additional benefits provided by the company. AmeriBest Home Care understands the complexities and concerns of being a family caregiver. We work to empower and support family caregivers across Pennsylvania – equipping them with the resources, information, and skills they need to make paid family caregiving as easy a journey as possible. Reach out today to learn more about joining our team.

Navigating the Options: How to Choose the Right Philadelphia Home Care Agency

How to Get an In-Home Caregiver in Harrisburg, PA

When it comes time to get additional care for your loved one, you want to choose a Philadelphia home care agency that offers the very best. But without a reference point, finding the agency best suited to your loved one’s needs can be difficult. This article will discuss what to look for in a home care provider so you can make the best choice for your loved one.

What to Look for in a Philadelphia Home Care Agency

Service Options

Families must ensure the agency they choose is suited to their loved one’s needs. Some seniors require basic care, such as meal preparation, cleaning, and mobility assistance.

Others have more advanced needs for medical conditions. They may require vital sign monitoring, medicine administration, and other types of specialized care.

Find out what services the agency offers to ensure they provide the care your loved one requires.

Affordability

Affordability is not only about the rates the agency charges. Agencies can offer other services that make care more affordable.

For example, they may work with Medicaid to provide government-funded services. They may even train family members so they can get paid to care for loved ones.

Families should also look for agencies that accept their insurance and offer private pay plans that allow relatives to split the bill.

Skilled Workers

Find out about caregiver skill level. Do the aides receive ongoing training? Are they required to hold a certification to perform certain tasks?

A skilled caregiver is more likely to provide your loved one with the care and attention they require.

Referrals, Reviews, and Recommendations

Modern technology makes it possible to look online and learn about the level of service a Philadelphia home care agency provides. Research reviews and customer ratings. Determine if you feel the agency will be the right fit for your loved one.

Ask friends and family if they have an agency they would recommend. They may provide a trusted opinion.

You can also ask the agency if they can put you in touch with past and current clients. They will provide insight into the agency’s quality of service.

Caring, Compassionate Caregivers

It can be difficult to determine whether caregivers are caring and compassionate until you work with them. However, if you meet with the agency and staff, you will get an idea of their level of empathy and understanding. Your gut will tell you whether they will provide the loving care your senior relative deserves.

 

Home Care Assistance in Harrisburg, PA

 

AmeriBest is a Preferred Philadelphia Home Care Agency

You can spend hours, days, or weeks navigating your home care options or save yourself time by choosing AmeriBest first. AmeriBest has been rated one of Pennsylvania’s top five home care agencies. We take a patient-centric approach ensuring each client receives the personalized care they deserve.

We make care more affordable by allowing family members to get paid for caregiving. We offer competitive pay and an impressive benefits package. Caregivers train in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.

Contact us for all your loved one’s home care needs.  

Training and Education: Essential Skills for Home Health Caregivers in Allentown, PA

Caregiving is a rewarding profession. Many caregivers take pride in knowing they are making a difference in another person’s life. They are improving their client’s physical and emotional health so they can enjoy higher states of well-being.

Additionally, family caregivers can train to get paid to care for a loved one, significantly reducing financial burdens.

If you are considering a caregiving career, you may wonder what training and education requirements are involved. Qualifications vary depending on the level of care you wish to provide. This article will give you an idea of what to expect if you want to become a home health caregiver in Allentown, PA.

Training and Educational Requirements for a Home Health Caregiver in Allentown, PA

A home health aide is recommended for patients who require ongoing medical care but do not have immediate health needs. They will help the patient with daily tasks like feeding and dressing. They may also offer medical assistance such as applying and removing artificial limbs, checking and changing wound dressings, ensuring patients follow their treatment plans, and applying skin remedies.

To become a home health caregiver in Allentown, PA, you must complete a 75-hour training course, which includes 16 hours of clinical instruction. You must also take a 12-hour continuing education course each year to maintain your license. Criminal background checks and child abuse clearances are also required.

Home health caregivers may advance their careers by obtaining a nurse aide certification. They can continue their education to become a qualified nurse.

The Pennsylvania Department of Education can help you find a local training program. Several home care agencies also offer training.

Other Options for Home Health Training

People who wish to enter the home care field may also consider these options:

·  Personal Aide/Caregiver: A personal aide assists with daily tasks. They must take an eight-hour course and pass an exam. They will learn communication best practices, emergency procedures, infection control, and other non-medical skills.

 ·  CNA: A certified nursing assistant (CNA) assists with daily living activities. They monitor vital signs, administer medications, and offer light medical assistance. They must take an 80-hour state-approved program and pass the Pennsylvania National Nurse Aide Assessment Program.

·  Nurse: A nurse performs many of the duties of a CNA but typically works in a hospital rather than a home environment. Nurses must earn a degree through an approved nursing program. They must also take three hours of board-approved child abuse recognition training and 30 hours of continuing education each year to retain their licenses.

AmeriBest Can Help You Become a Home Health Caregiver In Allentown, PA

AmeriBest offers training for family members who wish to get paid to care for their loved ones. We offer competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and opportunities to advance in your career. We will help reduce the financial strain and stress of caring for a senior relative.

Contact us to learn more about our supportive services.

Savoring Independence: How Meal Prep Services Empower Seniors in Allentown

Meal Preparation Services

Older adults often have trouble in preparing their meals. They may have mobility issues that make it challenging to work in the kitchen, or they may have cognitive conditions that interfere with their ability to make healthy meals. AmeriBest caregivers can help. We can assist seniors in preparing nutritious dishes that help them achieve higher levels of physical and mental health. Read on to learn more about how meal prep services in Allentown.

Local Meal Prep Assistance in Allentown, PA

Seniors are often vulnerable, low-income, and many are disabled. However, there is hope. They face daily challenges meeting basic needs. 

However, amidst these difficulties, there is hope. Local services offer a lifeline by providing affordable meals, ensuring our beloved elders have access to nourishment and support. They come together to ensure every senior goes hungry and feels remembered.

For example, Allentown, PA, offers several food banks. These non-profit organizations distribute food to low-income people at soup kitchens and food pantries. The city also provides a Meals on Wheels program that delivers food directly to seniors’ doors.

These programs are beneficial and can do even more to help seniors with comprehensive care from in-home aides. Additionally, many home caregiver agencies also offer programs that allow family members to get paid for caring for senior loved ones to make care more affordable.

What Does Meal Prep for Seniors in Allentown Entail?

Both family and professional caregivers can assist with meal prep, which may include:

  • Mixing ingredients
  • Heating things in the stove or microwave
  • Plating and serving food
  • Storing uneaten food

They may also provide services that are related to home care meal preparation, such as:

· Grocery shopping: Caregivers can provide transportation and accompany seniors on grocery shopping trips to ensure they get the healthy items they require

· Feeding Assistance: In-home aides offer feeding assistance to seniors who are unable to feed themselves

· Clean Up: Aides can wash dishes and wipe down surfaces after meals to ensure the home is clean.

Why are Meal Preparation Services for Seniors Important?

  • Ensures They Eat Regularly: Many seniors need to remember to eat or follow an irregular eating schedule. Caregivers maintain a regular eating schedule that benefits physical and mental health.
  • They Eat Healthy: When caregivers oversee meal preparation for seniors, they ensure they eat healthy foods and follow doctor recommendations.
  • Improves Physical and Mental Health: Home care meal preparation means seniors eat nutritious food that benefits physical health. They also feel cared for. They maintain a regular eating schedule that provides a sense of comfort and minimizes anxiety and depression.
  • Minimizes Accidents: Seniors are more likely to become injured in the kitchen. They can cut or burn themselves or trip and fall over items. 

 

Meal Preparation Services

 

AmeriBest Offers Meal Prep Help for Seniors in Allentown

AmeriBest provides meal prep for seniors in Allentown and so much more. We also help with housekeeping, shopping, laundry, self-care medication reminders, and appointment scheduling. Our caring and compassionate aides provide companionship to decrease feelings of depression and anxiety.

Family caregivers can get paid for caregiving with AmeriBest. We offer competitive pay and benefits, a supportive environment, and an opportunity to learn valuable career skills. We give you the tools you need to provide a high level of care.

Contact us to learn how we can ensure your loved one enjoys optimal physical and mental health.

 

National Mental Health Month

Since 1949, May has been dubbed Mental Health Month. The goal of the designation is to reach out to people through various venues offering help and education. AmeriBest is a home care service agency in Harrisburg, PA. As part of our commitment, we work hand-in-hand with families who need assistance navigating the tumultuous waters of understanding mental health and finding effective solutions for their loved ones. 

The 2022 theme for Mental Health Month is “Back to the Basics.” After two years of living with the pandemic, many people find themselves feeling stressed, isolated, and uncertain about how to get back to some semblance of normal. This is doubly true for seniors whose support often had to remain separate due to social distancing. In-home caregiving services like those offered by AmeriBest, Harrisburg, filled some gaps by utilizing special protective uniforms so they could still be on the job.

Risks for Developing Mental Health Issues

When someone begins experiencing mental health issues, it probably has more than one root cause. Psychiatrists have created a list of risk factors for mental health. The more you have, the more likely you’re to experience one or more mental health conditions. 

  1. Genetics: Think of your genes like a map of how your entire body grows and functions. That includes the brain. So if there is a history of mental health in your family, you may have a genetic predisposition. For example, if either or both of your parents had an anxiety disorder, your risk of developing the same disorder can increase by 6 times as much at the top end. 
  1. Lifestyle: Your mom was right. Eat well, get plenty of sleep, and exercise regularly. It’s god for your body and mind. Should you develop a mental health problem, these simple things become coping mechanisms and helpmates. 
  1. Social conditions: Where you live, work, and socialize all impact your quality of life. Individuals living in poverty, areas with high crime rates, and who have limited access to a healthy community environment illustrate more mental health problems. The amount of anxiety-centered conditions went up 20% because of isolation during Covid, for example. 
  2. Trauma: This is a big category. For example, someone in your life may have had a stroke or car accident that created limitations. That’s trauma as is the death of a loved one, being bullied for extended periods, racism, and experiencing a disaster up close and personal. 

The impact of trauma can remain with little notice until something triggers a memory. Then the world can come cascading down into a pool of tears and fears. Experiencing trauma as a child puts you at 1.3 times the risk of developing mental health problems in adulthood or senior years. 

How can You Help?

If you are a caregiver for someone with mental health problems, even part-time, there are things you can do to help them. The most important is companionship. Loneliness is a huge factor in someone developing depression, and depression can impact other aging issues including dementia. 

Motivation and intellectual activities go hand-in-hand with companionship. An idle mind is one prone to spiraling into negative thought-forms. When people are dealing with things like SAD there’s a tendency to want to simply give up. When you offer said person input at the right time and in the right way, it can make a huge improvement in their quality of life. 

Now, not everyone has the capacity to step into this type of role. There’s a lot of responsibility including paying attention to the signs that mental health is on the decline. That’s the time to reach out. Any organization participating in Mental Health Month can get you started with more tools and know-how. Alternatively (or consecutively) you can call AmeriBest’s Harrisburg, PA office at 717-545-2920 and talk to one of our professionals. 

One of the core principles of professional aid services is helping the entire family. People don’t realize that their personal mental health can be adversely impacted by a loved one’s struggles. Ours is a holistic approach. You can email us (info@ameribest.org) or use our online form for more information. 

American Heart Month: What is it and How to Observe it?

Every February, AmeriBest Home Care of Philadelphia and Harrisburg, PA, joins with many other organizations, physicians, nurses, in-home care workers, and families alike to observe American Heart Month every February. Why? Because over 600,000 people die annually from heart disease in the United States alone. Heart disease shows no preference for age, gender, or ethnicity. However, the following factors impact your risk:

  • Alcohol consumption
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Inactivity 
  • Poor diet
  • Smoking

If you have been thinking about caring for your loved one at home due to their heart health (combined with other matters), there are ways to give them heart-healthy habits and choices. In addition, you and your family can become advocates for raising awareness about heart disease by first learning about it. This is part of what American Heart Month is all about. 

Heart Disease 101

The term “cardiovascular disease” (CVD) is often used synonymously with “heart disease.” Both are umbrella terms covering everything from congenital heart defects and heart rhythm problems to the most common form of heart disease, coronary artery disease (CAD). CAD is a hardening and narrowing of the arteries going to the heart, leading to stroke and heart attack. And while all that sounds frightening, the good news is that many deaths can be prevented with proper care. The earlier, the better. 

Signs of Heart Disease

CVD often goes hand in hand with old age. At AmeriBest, we work with seniors, giving them ways of strengthening their circulatory system. The first step is teaching families and individuals the signs of heart disease so prompt medical treatment occurs:

  • Chest pain (or pressure in the chest)
  • Feeling constantly tired or exhausted
  • Nausea and vomiting regularly
  • Palpitations
  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness

Preventing Heart Disease

Home health aid services like those AmeriBest Home Care provides help you monitor heart health, but that’s only one part of the equation. There are great ways to keep a person’s heart in shape. Think of healthy habits like a daily vitamin supporting wellness. 

By making minor changes, you can get on the road to improved heart health. Start with increasing activity levels. Don’t go from zero to one hundred—small, progressive steps matter. About two and a half hours of moderate activity a week is all it takes. If your loved one has physical limitations, AmeriBest’s outstanding caregivers can help develop a safe routine.  

Next, think about diet. Limit saturated fats, salt, and meats with high-fat content. Stress fruits, whole grain, nuts, and vegetables. Look into the Mediterranean diet for ideas.

Monitor yourself or your loved one. When you go for a check-up, talk with the physician about blood pressure, weight, and cholesterol. There are medications specifically designed to target these two risk factors. And, people may not have to take them forever if they make suitable lifestyle choices. 

Finally, get more rest and avoid stress factors. Both support your immune system and improve both mental and emotional well-being.

Need Help?

If you’re in the Philadelphia or Harrisburg, PA area and have a loved one who needs more support than you can provide, reach out to us, asking about home care services. As a professional home health care agency, our staff provides compassionate and insightful assistance. Feel free to contact us HERE any time with your questions. 

An Inside Look at Everything You Need to Know About the Omicron Variant

The Omicron variant of coronavirus comprised only 3% of all cases in the United States this past week.  This variant is now the dominant strain of the virus.  South Africa and several other nations have also revealed Omicron has quickly become the dominant variant of the virus in less than a month’s time.  This rapid spread is concerning to say the least.

It is clear that Omicron spreads faster than Delta and other variants.  However, the good news is that the early data indicates Omicron symptoms are not as severe as those of Delta and the original strain of the virus.  Here’s a closer look at everything you need to know about Omicron.

Omicron is Worth Taking Seriously

Governments and businesses around the world are afraid of Omicron for good reason.  This variant of COVID-19 is highly contagious and potentially deadly, especially when transmitted to those who have not been vaccinated.  Though preliminary data from Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer indicates their booster shots aren’t as effective against the Omicron variant as hoped, Moderna representatives revealed their booster is quite effective against the variant.  

It is clear that the best protection against Omicron is full vaccination including a booster shot.  Though President Biden and other world leaders are certainly stressed by the lightning-quick spread of Omicron, they do not believe it is cause for panic, especially if the percentage of vaccine-boosted individuals continues to climb. 

Omicron Data is Slowly Trickling In

Aside from the slightly diminished severity yet heightened transmission rate when compared to Delta and other coronavirus strains, not much else is known about Omicron.  The data about this new variant is expanded with each passing day yet it will take some time to gauge whether Omicron should spur lockdowns and forced vaccinations for entry into businesses, public spaces, and other buildings.  The United States federal government has responded to the initial data by encouraging Americans to get tested for the variant prior to socializing with family during the holiday season.

Big Pharma’s Response

Through Moderna executives are adamant their booster shot is effective against Omicron, the limited data released by Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer isn’t as reassuring.  The heads of all three pharmaceutical giants have indicated they are prepared to reformulate their vaccines to better mitigate the impact of the Omicron variant of the virus.  Furthermore, the United Nations’ World Health Organization has stated the Omicron variant’s risk to the worldwide populace is “very high” based on analysis of early data.

Moderna’s initial booster data derived from lab testing indicates the half-dose boost jab heightens neutralizing antibodies by nearly 40x.  A Moderna booster of a full dose is that much stronger, spiking antibody levels by an impressive 83x.  However, it must be noted the full-dose booster of Moderna has more severe side effects than those provided by Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.  If Omicron continues to spread throughout the United States and the rest of the world, it is possible that Moderna’s full-dose shot will be used as a booster instead of the half-dose booster.

Coordinate Home Care Through AmeriBest Home Care Today

AmeriBest’s Philadelphia home care specialists are here for the senior in your life.  Reach out to us today to find out more about our services.  You can reach AmeriBest by phone at 1-800-HOMECARE.  If you prefer to reach us online, fill out our contact form, or send a message to our team at info@ameribest.org.

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.

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