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  • Common Memory Loss Concerns

    Common Memory Loss Concerns

    During their later years, many people enjoy retirement and grandchildren. But age also brings changes such as memory loss, which can affect one’s daily mood, behavior, and self-care abilities. If a loved one exhibits dramatic shifts in their mental and/or physical capabilities, you should consider Alzheimer’s care services.

    For senior care in or around Somerset County, MD, turn to a trusted provider: Coastal Home Care. Our team provides in-home, customized support for those navigating their advanced years. Along with dementia and Alzheimer’s care, we offer general elder care, hospice support, post-operative care, and medication management. Our experienced and professional caregivers are dedicated to comforting elders and providing their families relief. You can learn more about our updated treatment policies for COVID-19.

    Below, we discuss the worries that naturally arise when aging loved ones suffer memory loss:

    Common Anxieties About Memory Loss

    Naturally-occurring forgetfulness vs. severe memory loss

    Aging never occurs in a vacuum, and its effects often create many challenges and related issues. For instance, if a senior forgets an appointment, is it due to “natural” memory loss or a deep-set mental illness? Many seniors undergo mild cognitive impairment as a natural result of aging, yet they maintain their independence.

    However, minor memory loss also presages dementia and Alzheimer’s, which are not a natural result of aging. Thus, even small memory issues in elders can raise concerns for many families. Such events should be reported to a doctor and, if necessary, they may order tests for your loved one.

    Signs of severe memory loss include:

    1. Asking the same questions repeatedly
    2. Struggling with ordinary conversations
    3. Becoming lost in familiar places
    4. Becoming confused by instructions
    5. Losing track of time, dates, and people

    Loss of cognitive functions

    A diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s brings concerns over the sufferer’s mental capacities. These degenerative diseases affect basic abilities including thinking, learning, and reasoning – along with memory. Thus, a senior with Alzheimer’s may make poor decisions, struggle with bills, or misplace things and struggle to find them.

    Coastal Home Care’s Alzheimer’s and dementia services aim to support our patients. While no cure exists for these conditions, our caregivers can help your loved one manage their daily concerns. Pay attention to signs that your loved one needs assistance at home and turn to Coastal for that assistance.

    Depression

    One of the most debilitating effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s is the depression it causes in sufferers. The loss of independence and frustration over forgetfulness pulls down many seniors, which leaves them feeling isolated. But our experienced caregivers work with dementia and Alzheimer’s patients to overcome depression. We guide them through problems one by one and manage expectations to stabilize their moods.

    Medication side effects

    After receiving a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s, patients should expect to take medication. The proper medicine can help mitigate various symptoms of these conditions. However, many also cause side effects: headaches, dry mouth, low energy, and more.

    If your loved one starts taking medication, keep an eye out for these side effects. Although confusing at first, patients can adjust to these side effects. Our Alzheimer’s caregivers help them to set routines, create organized environments, and more to facilitate these adjustments.

    Compassionate Alzheimer’s Care for Seniors in Somerset County, MD

    You and your loved ones should enjoy the later years of life, even as you all age and change. No matter who needs some extra support, reach out to Coastal Home Care for services in Somerset County, MD. We offer elder care, hospice support, post-operative care, and Alzheimer’s care services among others. Our team provides compassionate concern and support for all patients, and we personalize our services for each patient. Call our Maryland line today at (410) 572-5606 or schedule a consultation with our online form.

  • COVID-19 Vaccines: What Do They Mean for Seniors?

    COVID-19 Vaccines: What Do They Mean for Seniors?

    As nationwide vaccination efforts have begun over the past few months, people have received mixed messages about eligibility. For instance, seniors above a certain age can get the vaccine – but that age requirement differs from state to state. However, health providers like elderly home care organizations can help you to determine you and your family’s vaccination standing.

    If you or a loved one require elderly home care services in Sussex County, DE, turn to Coastal Home Care. Along with elder care, we provide Alzheimer’s, dementia, and hospice support services for homebound seniors. Our tested caregivers strive to keep our patients fit and independent within the comfort of their homes. Plus, we share insights about vaccination eligibility as well as follow safety policies that keep everyone healthy.

    Below, we outline the state vaccination policies in our primary service areas as well as our caregivers’ current safety procedures:

    COVID-19 Vaccination Procedures in Maryland and Delaware

    Maryland

    First, note that each state follows distinct vaccination procedures, and what works for one may not for others. Maryland’s vaccine distribution is a 5-phase system, within which we are currently in the third phase. At this stage, vaccines are available to adults aged 65 or older as well as lab, agricultural, and manufacturing workers.

    If you or your senior meet the requirements, use Maryland’s location database to find a nearby vaccination site. You’ll need to make an appointment, though that may be a struggle due to the limited vaccine supply. Nevertheless, the vaccine’s security against the virus makes it worth the hassle.

    Delaware

    Similar to Maryland, Delaware’s vaccine distribution works in a multi-phase system. However, it differs in the details: Delaware’s process has 6 stages and currently stands in the second. Thus, the vaccine is open to adults aged 65 or older as well as emergency service workers and teachers.

    The state is offering vaccination events, all of which require an appointment. In addition to this, several primary care practices and urgent care facilities have limited vaccine supplies.

     

    Coastal Home Care’s COVID Safety Policies

    While vaccination offers protection against COVID-19, it is only part of your senior’s defense. You and/or they must also follow social distancing guidelines and curb public interaction. These recommendations follow the CDC’s policies, and Coastal Home Care supports their instructions.

    As providers of healthcare to sensitive populations, our caregivers have studied COVID’s hazards. They all completed COVID safety training and receive daily health screenings. We will continue following these steps and enforce our policies through the remainder of the pandemic.

    Additionally, health workers – such as Coastal Home Care’s nursing staff – were among the first to receive vaccination access. Thus, we have that extra layer of protection from infection. Our staff is happy to explain further steps to protect your senior during the health crisis.

    Safe and Reliable Elderly Home Care Options Available in Sussex County, DE

    Although they seem frustrating at times, the large-scale vaccination efforts will lead us out of the COVID crisis. But while that process plays out, you can rely on Coastal Home Care for safe elderly home care services. Our tested caregivers work throughout Sussex County, DE, supporting seniors in their homes. We can help you to get your loved one vaccinated and keep them comfortable throughout the rest of the pandemic. Call our Delaware number today at (302) 752-1800 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation.

  • Help Seniors Stay “connected” to the People, Places and Things They Love

    Help Seniors Stay “connected” to the People, Places and Things They Love

    I happen to be a high-energy, compassionate, and creative individual, who believes in taking every opportunity I get to help those in need. As a Social Engagement Specialist for Capital City Nurses, I’ve been enabled to do just that for the last 17 years! Through our “Daughter-Down-the-Street” program, I provide cheerful companionship and cognitive activity through customized social visits to seniors living with dementia, and other age-related disease.

    My mission is to encourage and help people stay meaningfully connected to family, friends, and communities, and to hopefully, rediscover their personal passions along the way. I begin gaining trust by mindful listening and friendly conversation, then introduce creative activities and offer inspiring outings to achieve my goal.

    Throughout the years, it’s been my privilege to help seniors with everything from daily errands and shopping to lunching at a favorite restaurant, taking in a movie, play, or even a concert at the Kennedy Center.  Together, we’ve frequented neighborhood bookstores, coffee shops, as well as small venue, cultural treasures such as the Phillips Collection and Dumbarton Oaks. We’ve toured almost every museum in the Smithsonian…including the National Zoo…where we watched in wonder as pandas played and ate bamboo. We’ve discovered fascinating, facts about our world and beyond at National Geographic Museum, and traveled through presidential history at Mount Vernon, Lincoln’s Cottage, and even The White House.  Exploring formal gardens in and around our city remains a very popular outing.  We’ve been charmed by the fabulous, outdoor “rooms” at Hillwood, soothed by the serenity of Bishops Garden (Washington National Cathedral), and delighted “walking through” butterflies at Brookside Gardens.   In Springtime, we strolled along the Tidal Basin and experienced the enchanting beauty of our Cherry Blossoms trees in full bloom.  Come Summer, we spied hummingbirds in the park, and later, fireflies at dark.  We’ve cruised and paddled the Potomac to view our incredible, national monuments from the rivers’ perspective. I especially enjoyed accompanying seniors to family celebrations and milestone events.  Whether a casual, birthday picnic or formal reception on Embassy Row, it’s always heartwarming to witness the joy of families just being together.

    Of course, I’m fondly reminiscing about outings on hold since the Covid-19 virus literally stopped us in our tracks last March. Nonetheless, we in the home healthcare industry are keenly aware of the urgency for seniors to not only maintain their daily activities, but to try new ones as well.   Exercising our brain as well as our body is necessary to retain a positive mental attitude, good health as well as a sense of purpose in life.  So, the question is…how can we continue to help seniors stay connected to the people, places, and passions they love…while navigating the many restrictions a global pandemic has placed on us all? In my experience, to put it simply, “if there’s a will there’s a way!”  Many activities can be modified, yet still yield the positive results that are so important to the health and well-being of our seniors. It just takes a little creativity.  Depending on the individual, try both traditional and more modern “high tech” activities from the suggestions below, until you come up with just the right recipe for healthy and happy engagement!

    “Reach out and touch someone ”Not really…not just yet!  Do, however, remind seniors and encourage family members to make more frequent phone calls.  Especially during the dark of winter, a short and sweet call can do wonders to lift the spirits. Or…Facilitate a Facetime call or Zoom meeting, if possible.  Coordinate with family and friends a good date and the best time of day to make a successful connection.

    Eat Well  Many seniors are missing going out to restaurants, but with little effort you can create an intimate “café” experience, right at home. Prepare a favorite meal, set a special table, and adjust lighting to achieve just the right “restaurant” ambiance. Or…Introduce and facilitate online delivery services such as Door Dash, Uber eats, etc. for a special meal! Being able to scroll through different menus before making a selection encourages a sense of independence and satisfaction.

    Keep Moving Walking is by far the most popular and accessible exercise for seniors who are mobile.  Whether it’s up and down a hallway, around the block, or inside a mall, as the saying goes, “Just do it.” If the individual is unable to stand or walk unassisted, put on some big band music and make up a simple, chair exercise routine to do at a regular time each day! Or… Find an age-appropriate exercise video on You Tube, pump up the volume and go for it!

    Take a trip down Memory Lane   With so many seniors separated from loved ones, reminiscing can be an important tool to fight off feelings of isolation. Look through photos albums together and ask the person to name as many people pictured as he/she can. Encourage storytelling of special places and life events depicted in the photos. Or…Enable them to view photos in “real time” via a smartphone or Ipad for an instant lift!

    Play Games   Scrabble, word searches, and crossword puzzles are tried and true, cognitive activities that promote a sense of accomplishment, and can be done even while social distancing.  Working on a colorful, jigsaw puzzle together is currently a very popular activity…but details matter here!  Choose a puzzle subject the individual can relate with, as well as the appropriate size and number of pieces. I often find playing soft, classical music for background really enhances the experience. Or…if preferred, introduce an online game such as “Wordscapes” or “Jigsaw” and see how many “levels” can be achieved.

    Music is Magic Music has a universal ability to boost mood, reduce agitation, and increase happiness and engagement.  Listen to favorite songs (radio) together, even have an impromptu sing-along or dance!  A recent client had an old-fashioned jukebox in her home, and a favorite activity was to push random selections and then dance to whatever songs came on! Or…Go to You tube, select a music channel of interest, relax and enjoy.

    “You’ve got Mail” Communicating by cards and letters is a wonderful and easy way to stay in touch.   Remember, what we now call “snail mail” was their custom and has been long cherished by senior citizens.  Or…Offer to assist with sending emails. I regularly visit a retired businessman who can no longer manage a keyboard, but still loves to “dictate” notes for me to email his family and friends.  Easy to do and provides a sense of connectivity.

    ‍Encourage Creativity and Culture There’s never been a better time to re-connect with the art of drawing and/or coloring than right now.  Fresh pencils, crayons, or markers and paper are all you need to create.  Or… There is also an incredible array of curated material and artistic activities to choose from online.  Visit the “Google Arts & Culture” website or download the app to “color” a Van Gogh masterpiece or take in an exhibit at the Muse’e d’Orsay in Paris or wherever the heart desires.

    Nature Nurtures   Pandemic or not, we all benefit from spending at least a few minutes outside every day.  Breathing in fresh air, watching birds fly or squirrels play is often the only bright spot in an otherwise, gray winter day. If current restrictions prohibit outdoor time, open the shades, and let the sunshine in!  I’ve found seniors who care for even a small plant on a windowsill can experience the feelings of peace and calm inspired by communing with nature. Or…turn on PBS or visit the Nature YouTube channel to learn something new about our natural world.

    Armchair Travel   Especially now, many people are fantasizing about finding escape in a distant land.  Ask where they’ve always dreamed of visiting…and then make it happen! Most bookstores and neighborhood libraries are still open for check out service.  In either venue, search for a “coffee table” style or travel book of the desired location and enjoy exploring together. Or…travel anywhere in the world via Google Arts & Culture “Places” site.  Take a virtual tour of the Great Wall of China, see the Northern Lights in Greenland or checkout the Great Pyramids of Egypt…all in the same afternoon.

    Remember, it’s the journey, not the actual destination that matters!

    ‍

  • 5 Ways In-Home Care Services Can Boost Your Independence

    5 Ways In-Home Care Services Can Boost Your Independence

    An agency like Care Advantage can quickly answer most of the common questions about in-home care services, like: Is there home health care near me? What’s included in this kind of care? Is it worth the cost? Should I ask for companion care or personal care? But you may still be left with one nagging doubt:

    Will home care assistance really help preserve my independence?
    ‍

    It’s natural to be skeptical. But once you fully appreciate the possibilities of in-home care, your caution may well turn to excitement. Here are five ways care at home can boost your independence.‍

    You can stick to your routine, or mix it up for fun‍

    Independence is about making your own life choices.  Are you a stickler for routine? Perhaps, rain or shine, you visit the farmer’s market on Tuesday and bake a cake on Thursday. Your home, your habits, your regular excursions and visits—help at home can make this possible.

    Or, maybe your independent streak is more impulsive: you might call an old friend out of the blue or sign up to learn a new language  course on a whim. Maybe trying a brand-new restaurant or coffee shop is one of your favorite things to do. An in-home caregiver provides the logistical support and encouragement we all need as we forge our own paths.‍

    You can stay active, healthy and energized

    ‍Throughout our lives, our sense of independence is integrally connected to how we feel in mind, body and spirit. Whole-self wellness is empowering, even for those with underlying health conditions. Many of these can be alleviated by a nutritious diet, regular exercise and a low-stress lifestyle.

    With home care assistance, you’ll have someone to help with menu planning, physical fitness and medication schedules— someone who also understands that the occasional chocolate fudge brownie or movie binge night can be medicine for the soul.‍

    You can make time for things that matter‍

    No one ever wished they had more time to clean behind the refrigerator. Those dull household chores, after all, eat into the precious hours you have for activities you enjoy, whether pruning the roses or playing with your pets.

    That’s why in-home care services like Care Advantage take a holistic approach, crafting a unique care plan that encompasses tasks such as housekeeping, basic personal needs and meal preparation. The more time you spend doing the things that bring you pleasure, the more independent you will feel. ‍

    You can enjoy “me time” again‍

    When the solitary life stretches on without boundaries or interruptions, it can bring on loneliness. People of all generations have faced this fact in the age of social distancing.

    Depending on your care plan, you may have a companion for just a short time per day—but that could be all you need to add some balance and variety to your routine. With that a few hours  of bustle and conversation just around the corner, you’ll rediscover the gifts of relative solitude.‍

    You can stay in your community‍

    Much of our sense of identity rests on the pleasure of being seen. Who doesn’t get a lift from walking into the local shop and being greeted by name? The clerks probably know what brands you prefer and how you like your bags packed, too.

    It’s unsurprising, then, that a 2018 AARP poll found that 77 percent of people aged 50 and up wanted to stay in their communities. Some of the most rewarding experiences of in-home care happen outside the home, and a caregiver or companion can help you continue to play an active role in your community.

  • Safe but Sociable: 7 Ways to Stay Connected During The Pandemic

    Safe but Sociable: 7 Ways to Stay Connected During The Pandemic

    The COVID-19 pandemic has been the worst of times, but one that’s brought out the best in human ingenuity. Isolated due to social distancing rules, seniors have invented or adopted ever more creative ways to bond, interact and share precious experiences with friends and family.

    Looking for new things to do during coronavirus? Here are seven ideas for COVID-safe activities.

    1. Defend your Monopoly crown

    What’s a rainy Sunday afternoon without a board game or a few hands of gin rummy? Thanks to the internet, this is one family activity you can safely continue during COVID. Countless user-friendly apps and websites offer the chance to play everything from Cluedo to Carcassonne in a virtual setting. Added bonus? That sneaky son-in-law who insists “Qa” is a legal Scrabble word will get short shrift from the computer dictionary.

    1. Give your grandkids an art challenge

    You may not be able to hug your grandchildren, but you can still connect with them in powerful ways. Set the kids a weekly art challenge and ask them to bring you their finished masterpieces, which they can press against your window. A picture is worth a thousand words, but the three that count are, “I love you.”

    1. Organize a bake-off

    Who says COVID-safe activities have to be healthy? Assuming your diet allows it, bake yourself a treat and dare family and friends to take on the same recipe. Share photos of your triumphs and disasters, and swap tips and techniques with your co-bakers.

    1. Set up a singalong

    If you like to sing, you’ve probably winced a few times this year during fun-filled but tune-empty renditions of “Happy Birthday” on family Zoom calls. So why not dial it up a notch? Bringing folks together with music can be as simple as setting up a video call with friends and belting out a familiar classic or a rousing hymn. (Tip: you can find the lyrics to any song with a quick Google search.) If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can download a karaoke app for your smartphone or tablet and jam together or take turns sharing center stage.

    1. Throw a movie watch party

    Online streaming services let us watch what we like, when we like. That’s great, but there’s also something special about watching a movie in a group, knowing that you’re laughing, crying and jumping out of your skin at the same time as everyone else. Providers like Netflix have turned this into a COVID-safe activity, with options to stream movies simultaneously and chat during the screening. Another perk: the popcorn is all yours.

    1. Spread out at a picnic

    Too much screen time can give you eye strain and headaches, so take any chance you can to meet your family outdoors in a socially distanced setting. You should not only follow CDC guidelines for outdoor activities but local ones too — if the transmission rate is particularly high in your area, don’t hesitate to postpone your plans.

    1. Do what’s best for you

    Above all, be kind to yourself. Too little interaction can cause loneliness; too much may wear you out. If you’re being bombarded with invites to Zoom this or FaceTime that, feel free to opt out, unplug and curl up with a good book instead.

  • COVID-19 Protocols with At-Home Care and Nursing Facilities

    Adjusting to our new normal has been an ongoing process. However, it has become an even greater challenge for older adults and caregivers. While you may be wondering if enlisting in home care support or residing at a nursing facility is safe at all, researching and checking that they follow federal, state, and local regulations are the best way to protect you or your loved one.

    As different COVID-19 variants of the virus develop over time, Coastal Home Care is staying proactive in maintaining the health and safety of our employees and clients. While many nursing facilities and at-home care providers are doing their best to mitigate infection rates, it can be challenging to choose the right option that’s safe and works best for you or your loved one.

    Below, we discuss the COVID-19 safety measures of at-home care providers and nursing facilities.

    At-Home Care

    Adults ages 65 year old and older are at a higher risk of experiencing a severe illness or even death from COVID-19, especially if they have chronic medical conditions. With this in mind, many families have reconsidered in-home care because the risks seem far too great to continue. However, doing so may reduce the amount of support you or your loved one requires on a daily basis.

    When researching your options for reliable and safe elder care, ensure your options follow federal, state, and local rules and regulations. When looking for additional home care support, here’s what the CDC’s guidelines are for at-home care providers.

    Some at-home care considerations include:

    • Patient must be stable enough for home care.
    • Caregivers are appropriate and available to provide support.
    • Patient has a separate area where they can recover away from others.
    • A separate bathroom is available for the patient. If this is not possible, frequent bathroom cleanings are advised.
    • Food resources and other necessities are readily available.
    • The patient and other household members are capable of adhering to home care and isolation precautions.
    • Household members who have been exposed to the virus must refrain from treating the patient who is receiving home care.

    Nursing Facilities

    The CDC recommends a number of actions for testing residents since they are at high risk for infection, severe illness, and death.

    Additionally, under the CDC Guidelines, nursing homes and senior living facilities must:

    • Limit and restrict visitors.
    • Require visitors (healthcare workers, aides, and staff) to wear masks over their nose and mouth.
    • Permit visits to specific hours only and limit the number of visitors per resident.
    • Schedule visits in advance to enforce social distancing.
    • Restrict visits to the resident’s room or other designated area at the facility.
    • Perform routine screenings of healthcare workers and residents for potential symptoms.
    • Limit activities with the facility to keep residents at a safe distance from one another.

    Personalized Home Care for Your Loved One in Sussex County, DE

    At Coastal Home Care, our caregivers are tested and adhere to CDC guidelines to ensure you or your loved one’s safety. With the COVID-19 vaccine supply gradually increasing, we will continue to uphold our promise to provide you or your loved ones the best personalized home care. We understand the difficulties you may be facing, especially during such a tumultuous time. Our Registered Nurses will support you or your loved one with companionship, Alzheimer’s or dementia support, medication management and much more.

    Contact our home care providers at (302) 752-1800 to schedule an appointment today!

  • Is Aging In Place The Best For Your Loved One?

    As we age, adults ages 65 and older often decide to live at home, which is also known as ‘aging in place’. Many older adults opt age in place because they have cherished memories in their home that provides them with comfort, alongside having a supportive network, a functional home, and an independent lifestyle. However, other individuals aren’t as fortunate and must consider additional at-home elder care services or move into an assisted living community.

    While we understand this isn’t an easy decision to make, our experienced and compassionate caregivers at Coastal Home Care are happy to help you or your loved one determine if aging in place is the right decision for you.

    Below, we discuss aging in place, living in an assisted living, and reasons why at-home elder care might be best for you or your loved one.

    What Does Aging in Place Mean?

    As previously mentioned, aging in place may be for those who enjoy their independence,  prefer to make their own decisions, and have the physical and mental capability to live comfortably day-to-day. These individuals, or their support networks, are also expected to provide their own care on a daily basis.

    When deciding whether aging in place is right for you or your loved one, there are three situational aspects to consider: the individual, current residency, and supportive network. Here are a few questions to ask in regards to each aspect:

    • The Individual: is the individual aging in place capable of caring for themselves physically and mentally? Do they have a network of individuals that can support them while they age in place?
    • Current residency: can the individual easily navigate throughout their current space?
    • Supportive Network: is the elder’s support system easily accessible? Can these individuals provide the level of physical and emotional support the elder needs?

    Is Assisted Living Right For You?

    For those who want to be independent but can no longer support themselves with the proper level of physical, emotional, and cognitive care they need, moving into an assisted living may be their best option. These individuals are often unable to rely on themselves or their supportive network of family and friends for daily assistance.

    Residing in a senior assisted living community is often accompanied with negative connotations related to safety, lack of staff, and insufficient funding. While this might not be the reality at every assisted living facility, one can’t help but keep the possibility of poor nursing home conditions at the forefront of their minds.

    If you are considering living in an assisted living community or your loved one is beginning to require additional assistance at home, we recommend doing as much research as possible prior to selecting your preferred assisted living facility.

    Why Choose At-Home Elder Care?

    At-home elder care may be a great fit for individuals who are more comfortable at home but require additional support with their daily routine. Support may consist of everyday activities, such as grooming, transportation, medication management, meal preparation and much more. Learn more about what you can expect from an in-home caregiver for further information.

    Providing Compassionate Elder Care Services in Caroline County, MD

    Our in-home elder care services support aging adults throughout the Caroline County, MD area. We create personalized Plans of Care for each individual we serve to ensure we provide the exact level of care they need to live a comfortable and enjoyable life. Reach out to our elder care team at (410) 572-5606 to schedule a consultation!

  • The Benefits of Seniors Having Pets

    The Benefits of Seniors Having Pets

    Without question, the best part of my job as a Home Care Specialist with Care Advantage (other than meeting the people and families we serve) is meeting their pets! I have bonded with animals for as long as I can remember. Having grown up with dogs, cats, ducks, geese, ponies and horses, I not only have great memories and experiences, but also developed a strong compassion for all living things, especially the voiceless.

    I specifically remember coming home from school one day and was greeted by a couple of new animals – a three-legged cat, and a VERY short legged dog with a very large head whose name was Jolene. I asked my mom where they came from and I will never forget her reply. “I went to the shelter and asked for the animals no one wanted. Just bring them out, I don’t even want to see them.” It was in that moment that I realized just how cool my parents were. That act of kindness led to a deeper understanding of animals and their eternal gratitude and unconditional love.

    Fast forward to 2020 where I have the pleasure of working with seniors in an unconventional year filled with uncertainty, sadness, loneliness, and isolation. Now more than ever, our seniors need companionship, exercise, socialization, and comfort.

    There are countless benefits to seniors having pets.  A pet can have a very positive impact on the social, physical and emotional well-being of seniors. Did you know that just petting an animal can result in reduced levels of cortisol, the primary stress hormone, and increased levels of oxytocin, the anti-stress calming hormone? Here are some other health benefits for seniors who have pets:

     *  LOWERS BLOOD PRESSURE, CHOLESTEROL, HEART RATE, ANDREDUCES THE RISK OF CORONARY HEART DISEASE. Social isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and poor physical health. It turns out giving and receiving unconditional love is literally good for your heart.

     *  PROVIDES COMFORT AND HEALING POWERS. Many seniors report animal companions help in coping with medical treatments and recovery after illnesses. Dogs, cats, and other animals can be keenly sensitive to their human’s distress and discomfort.

     *  EASES ANXIETY AND PAIN: Anxiety exacerbates pain. By reducing anxiety, pets can help ease pain for seniors who may experience conditions like arthritis, therefore reducing the need for pain meds.

     *  REDUCES DEPRESSION: While you are just one person in a big world, you ARE a pet’s entire world. Making the commitment to care for a pet give seniors daily structure therefore reducing stress and helps give a sense of purpose.

     *  INCREASES MOBILITY AND INDEPENDENCE: A daily outdoor walk with a pet is a healthy, low stress form of exercise. Also, pets can alert seniors with hearing loss when the doorbell rings or an alarm goes off.

    Those suffering from Alzheimer’s or Dementia can benefit from pet therapy as well. By their very nature, pets do not judge and are not harsh or critical. For someone with dementia these are all good qualities for a good companion. Those of us lucky enough to have pets know that life is SO much better with at least one furry friend. Ask me about my five rescues anytime!

     “Everybody deserves somebody who makes them look forward to tomorrow” – Susan Vogel

    About Susan: Susan is one of our Home Care Specialists in the Central Virginia area. She speaks with families and facilities about personal care for your loved ones. Susan is passionate about caring for those who cannot care for themselves and works tirelessly to answer the call of care any time, day or night.

  • Is Home Care Covered by Insurance?

    Is Home Care Covered by Insurance?

    Those of us with an aging loved one in our lives must keep a close eye on them. This can be a difficult and delicate task, especially if your senior requires medical support. And while a caregiving service can provide extra support, that comes at an additional cost. Will your health insurance cover that bill?

    Although it can be difficult to discuss, you should speak with your family about caring for your elderly loved one. In reviewing the options, discuss the medical services offered at Coastal Home Care. We provide professional home care, hospice support, post-operative care, and other services in Sussex County, DE, and the surrounding area. Our expert staff is dedicated to treating patients with respect and empathy. Together, we can help your loved one maintain their independence and live on their terms.

    Below, we lay out the costs associated with home care as well as payment and financial assistance options for it:

    How Our Services Work

    Since we previously discussed the benefits of home care, let’s outline its functioning. Also, note the difference between home care and non-medical support services. Professionals in the latter field can help seniors with daily living activities but not their medical concerns.

    We start all our new patients with a personal assessment, carried out by one of our Registered Nurses. Then we develop an individual “Plan of Care,” which defines each patient’s daily medical needs. It may also incorporate support with self-care activities: showering, meal prep, cleaning, etc.

    Once a patient’s Plan of Care is developed, one of our Certified Nursing Assistants travels to that patient’s home to carry it out. Some clients receive a few hours of daily care, while others require round-the-clock assistance. Either way, our staff accommodates your loved one’s needs.

    Pricing & Payment Options

    We price our services at an hourly rate, and you can estimate an overall price using our online cost calculator. However, different services and Plans of Care may vary in specific price points. We suggest that you reach out to us for a more accurate estimate.

    There are several payment options for our services. Many private health insurance plans pay for home care, though coverage amounts vary between providers. You might also purchase a long-term care policy, which private insurers offer just for assisted living or home care services.

    Furthermore, Medicare will temporarily cover one’s home care costs at a qualifying care agency if a physician deems them necessary. Finally, veterans can receive VA-covered home care if they qualify, though further conditions may apply.

    Financial Assistance

    If you or your loved one cannot utilize any option listed above, you still have other avenues to afford home care. Several financial support options exist, including Medicaid as well as Delaware and other states’ non-Medicaid programs.

    Those with a life insurance policy could take out a loan on its cash value or convert it into cash. Assets can be liquidated or a reverse mortgage taken out on a home to cover the cost. You should consider home care loans if you must wait for other financing options to become available.

    If you’re still unsure of how to find coverage, speak with either your local area agency on aging or call our office.

    Personal and Professional Home Care Services Available in Sussex County, DE

    Seniors, like everyone, want to live on their terms. They deserve that independence even if they suffer from medical conditions that require daily assistance. Now, you can support them by reaching out to Coastal Home Care. We are an experienced caregiving service that offers professional home care, hospice support, and other services across Sussex County, DE. Call our Delaware number today at (302) 752-1800 or fill out our online form for a consultation.

  • CEO Update, December 2020

    CEO Update, December 2020

    Before we close out 2020, I wanted to share with my recent “year in review” video message. 

    There is no question, 2020 is a year unlike any other. As expected, our caregiving family remained brave and resilient throughout. I am immensely proud of the hard work and unwavering commitment everyone brought to the table to keep over 11,000 clients and patients at home and safe.  

    I am very optimistic about the New Year and all we will achieve together. Remember to wear your mask, wash your hands and keep your bubble safe. 

    Wishing you and your family the happiest of Holidays!

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