Hospice 101: What Services Are Provided By Hospice?

Let's review what we have learned in the last two posts:

1- Hospice is Nursing Care provided for the terminally ill as certified by a physician. It is intended to keep the patient comfortable while controlling pain as well as providing social services and spiritual support.

2- A person qualifies for Hospice when a doctor has certified that, given the natural progress of the admitting diagnosis, the patient has a life expectancy of approximately 6 months.  Admitting diagnoses can include terminal diseases as well as declines in health in the aged.

   Our team of professionals are trained in end-of-life care and work together with the client, their family and their physician to meet the medical, physical and emotional needs of the terminally ill patient and their loved ones. 

   Hospice Care is not 24 hour care but it does provide nursing, aides, social services, volunteers and spiritual support for patients through the end-of-life process as well as for their families for a year after the loss of their loved one. 

   Hospice care can take place in your home, a nursing facility or even a hospital.

   I have personally witnessed the positive change that can  take place in a situation where Hospice care is needed.  Caregivers are educated and supported in providing the cares and comfort for their loved ones.  

Our Nurses  provide skilled services for pain management and comfort.  They let the family be as involved as possible in making the decisions about the care for their loved one.  

Aides can provide assistance with bathing, grooming and even some light housekeeping. 

A Social Worker will visit with the patient and the family to alleviate any concerns or questions and can guide you to valuable resources and programs that could also be of assistance.  

A Chaplain is a non-denominational, spiritual component of our team.  He is able to provide the spiritual support that is so often needed at this time of life.  

Our team also offers Volunteers for various patient needs.  

All of these services are available but are not required to be used by the patient and family.

Not sure if you or your loved one would qualify for Hospice Care?  Call our caring staff and let us help you through the process and answer any of your questions, 801-225-3377.

Hospice 101: What Qualifies Someone For Hospice?

In an effort to continue to educate everyone about Hospice care I would like to talk about things that would qualify someone for Hospice. Keep in mind that Hospice is regulated by the government and ALL Hospice agencies offer the EXACT sames services. There is not an agency that can legally offer

As a reminder from the last post, Hospice care is skilled nursing, social services and spiritual support for a terminally ill patient who is not seeking curative treatment for their admitting diagnosis.  This care also helps support the patients family during, and after, the loss of their loved one.

A doctor must certify that, given the natural process of the illness, the patient's life expectancy is approximately 6 months. Many times there is not a terminal illness diagnosis but an elderly patient will still qualify under the Medicare guidelines for services.  Caregivers may be so close to the situation that they do not see the subtle changes on a day to day basis but their loved one could be receiving services and the caregivers load could be lightened.

Here are some signs to watch for:

Has the patient
Been hospitalized or taken to the emergency room several times during the past 6       months?
Been making more frequent phone calls to physicians?
Been taking medication to lessen physical pain?
Been spending most of the day in a chair or bed?
Fallen several times over the past 6 months?
Needed help from others for :

• Bathing
• Cooking
• Eating
• Dressing
• Getting out of bed
• Walking

Experienced noticeable weight loss?
Started feeling weaker or more tired?
Noticed shortness of breath, even while resting?

If you answered "yes" to four or more of the questions above, your loved one could likely qualify for services. Remember that we will still need a Doctor's order for Hospice care but giving our company a call would get the ball rolling.  We can, with your permission, contact your primary care physician and work hand in hand with him to get needed services started and help "make the most of every minute that is left."

Give our office staff a call at 801-225-3377 and let them help you  get services started.

What Makes Freedom Home Health And Hospice Different From All The Other Agencies?

Gena Bertelsen, Community Liaison Specialist

Many times during interviews with potential clients I am asked, "What can you do that other agencies can't?" The truth of the matter is this; ALL Home Health and Hospice agencies are regulated by the Federal Government and can only offer what is allowed by the government.  In short, we ALL provide the EXACT same services.  So what makes us different from a company that is owned by someone on the East coast whose bottom line seems to be the most important thing?  A few things set us apart from the rest:

We are locally owned, kind of like the mom and pop gas station or grocery store that used to be on the corner but has been pushed out of business by big box stores and chains.  We have always been locally owned and plan to stay that way.  We believe it gives us a better outlook on the needs of the patient and their family because we live here too!

100% of our past clients would recommend us to others. I love the fact that our team has provided excellent care, educates the patient and family about the process they are going through and, in many instances, gone above and beyond the call of duty such as checking on family members at home when a loved one has a hospital stay, attending Doctor appointments with the patient to understand and communicate with the Doctor about the patients care and taking the time to get to know each patient individually.   

We serve,educate and support the community. Next to excellent patient care, our primary focus lies in serving, educating and supporting our community.  

We educate groups at every opportunity about services and resources that are available to them or their loved one whether it be Home Health, Hospice, Private Duty, Medicaid and Medicare or other topics important to caregiving.

I facilitate 3 different caregiver support groups throughout Utah County sharing information, resources and my own personal experiences to help rejuvenate and energize caregivers who may be suffering from caregiver burnout.  Click the CARE meetings tab at the top of the page for a list of meetings.  These are free and you may come to one or all.

I realize that there are many choices....and who serves you is YOUR choice...but I hope that you will consider Freedom Home Health and Hospice when you are in need of Home Health or Hospice Services. 

After all....it is the American thing to do;)

Give our office a call with any questions you may have concerning Home Health or Hospice services, 801-225-3377.

Bel Aire in American Fork Offers Seniors A Place To Call Home

Assisted Living has become a natural transition for seniors and Bel Aire Senior Living in American Fork, Utah has been defining excellence for more than 13 years.

As you enter the newly remodeled facility you will ordinarily be greeted by three beautiful women, all residents, enjoying themselves in the gathering area.  They love to have people stop by and it is evident on their faces.  Rooms are sized perfectly for your loved on to bring their own furniture and set up a "studio" apartment.

Kathleen Zonts is the dietary manager and her meals are amazing!  Everything from traditional thanksgiving dinners to chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes and gravy, everything the seniors love.  All meals are prepared in house and with lots of love and attention.

Their caring staff have been there for many years and provide some of the best individualized care I have seen.  Cala, the front desk, will show you around and is extremely knowledgeable about the qualification process. Jennifer is the Care Coordinator, Sherry managers and trains the aides and Marcela plans wonderful, stimulating activities for the residents. The entire staff will make your loved one feel at home, enjoy socially stimulating activities and make new friends.

Check out their virtual tour:

Bel Aire American Fork

Call Cala for more information and to schedule a tour at 801-418-9148.

Abbington Manor Offers Assisted Living in Lehi

Looking for Assisted Living in the North end of Utah County?  Look no further than Abbington Manor in Lehi. 

Abbington Manor Virtual Tour
Abbington Manor, formerly known as Greenwood Manor, is under new ownership and management.
Steve Gillette  has brought his management style and staff to Abbington Manor and has effectively raised the bar for Senior Care.

You will immediately note a difference as you enter the front door and are greeted by Tina, Receptionist/Marketer, smiling staff and residents and the beautiful, inviting new lobby.  Vannesa is the Care Coordinator and works closely with Megan, the Director of Nursing, to ensure all residents are offered the level of care that is appropriate for them.  Not all Assisted Living Facilities offer an on-duty RN which really sets Abbington Manor apart. Just look at what they offer:

24-Hour Professional Licensed Nursing - Ongoing Communication With Each Resident's Family Members. Choice Of Private And Companion Suites, All With Emergency Response Systems

Continence Care - Utilities, Including Electricity, Heat, Air Conditioning, Water And Cable TV. Daily Assistance With Personal Care Needs And All Activities Of Daily Living

Full-Time Activities Staff Including Social, Cultural And Recreational Programs. Housekeeping, Personal Laundry And Linen Services

Medication Management - Individualized Attention To Health Concerns. Monthly Calendar For Reminders Of Special Occasions, Resident Birthdays, Etc

Our Services Include:. Perfect City Center Location, Across The Street From Senior Center, Fitness Center, City Library And Family History Center - Respite And Short Term Stays

Quality Care For Quality Of Life. Three Delicious And Well-Balanced Meals Served Daily, Snacks Available Upon Request

Fabulous staff, menu choices, activities and facility will convince you that Abbington Manor is home.

Contact Abbington Manor Assisted Living & Memory Care today at 801-768-3900 for more information.

National Assisted Living Week Featuring Latter Days Assisted Living in Santaquin Utah

September 9-16, 2012 we celebrate National Assisted Living Week and in Utah there are many Assistive Communities for those who can still live and function on their own but need that security of having someone able to help at a moments notice.

This week I would like to feature as many Assisted Living Communities as I can and invite you to call them, take a tour, see what would appeal to you or your loved one. Many of these facilities invite you to come visit, enjoy lunch with the residents, participate in some of the activities they have planned. This is the best way to see if this is the place you are looking for.




















Latter Days Assisted Living, a Level II assisted living facility, was co-founded in April of 2000 by Carter & Teri Strebel of Santaquin and Paul & Cathy Brown of Orem. Latter Days prides itself on its unique style of delivering services with an atmosphere of love and respect. Fun and engaging recreational activities are a huge priority at Latter Days.

It’s not unusual to see their residents learning the hula for an upcoming luau or going for a horse ride with their good friend Andrew Goudy. The major holidays aren’t the only special days celebrated at Latter Days. Famous birthdays, historical events and even National Pig Day get their own unique recognition here.

Beautifully decorated for each holiday or event along with a recent renovation to the interior will make anyone feel at home. Maybe that is why they say, "It is more than just a place to hang your hat."

Give Teri a call at 801-369-0582 to schedule a tour.



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Celebrating National Assisted Living Week: Golden Living Senior Living Orem, Utah

September 9-16, 2012 we celebrate National Assisted Living Week and in Utah there are many Assistive Communities for those who can still live and function on their own but need that security of having someone able to help at a moments notice.
This week I would like to feature as many Assisted Living Communities as I can and invite you to call them, take a tour, see what would appeal to you or your loved one. Many of these facilities invite you to come visit, enjoy lunch with the residents, participate in some of the activities they have planned. This is the best way to see if this is the place you are looking for.
Golden Living is located at 960 South Geneva Road in Orem, Utah and is easily accessible from the University Parkway I-15 exit.
In addition to an amazing, well trained and compassionate staff, Golden Living offers Level 1, Level 2 and and even Independent Living options, beautiful grounds and delicious homemade meals.


















Warren Henrie is the Administrator at Golden Living with Devin Simms as the Leasing Director and Ryan Withers as the Patient Care Coordinator. Please give them a call at 801-225-6559 and schedule a tour or just stop by.
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National Assisted Living Week Featuring Seasons of Santaquin in Santaquin, Utah

September 9-16, 2012 we celebrate National Assisted Living Week and in Utah there are many Assisted Living Communities for those who can still live and function on their own but need that security of having someone able to help at a moments notice.
This week I would like to feature as many Assisted Living Communities as I can and invite you to call them, take a tour, see what would appeal to you or your loved one.  Many of these facilities invite you to come visit, enjoy lunch with the residents and participate in some of the activities they have planned.  This is the best way to see if this is the place you are looking for.

Seasons of Santaquin is the newest addition to the many Assisted Living communities in Utah County. They offer Level 1 and Level 2 care as well as a Secure Memory Care Unit for those with memory challenges such as Alzheimer's or Dementia.














The facility is beautiful and inviting with a large gathering and dining area, meditation gardens, private suites with kitchenettes as well as a library and private dining room that can be scheduled for special occasions.

They are located at 785 East 150 South in Santaquin, Utah. Please call 801-754-1108 to schedule a tour or just stop by and meet the wonderful staff and residents.


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National Assisted Living Week Featuring Bel Aire Assisted Living

September 9-16, 2012 we celebrate National Assisted Living Week and in Utah there are many Assistive Communities for those who can still live and function on their own but need that security of having someone able to help at a moments notice.

This week I would like to feature as many Assisted Living Communities as I can and invite you to call them, take a tour, see what would appeal to you or your loved one.  Many of these facilities invite you to come visit, enjoy lunch with the residents, participate in some of the activities they have planned.  This is the best way to see if this is the place you are looking for.

Bel Aire Assisted Living has two locations in Utah County, Orem, 436 East 700 North and American Fork, 1088 East 390 South.  Both have a highly trained, compassionate, caring staff, happy residents and a beautiful facility.

Bel Aire in Orem was recently voted "Best in Utah County" for assisted living facilities and taking a tour will help you understand why.

Darcy Harris is the administrator at this 16 bed facility that has had some recent remodeling of rooms. The two rooms you see here are considered respite rooms.  When you need help with a loved one you are caring for while you are away, for instance, out of town for a wedding or vacation.  Both of these rooms have their own bathroom, have been freshly painted and updated.  All of the furniture in these rooms is available for respite care, however, if you are looking for a place for long-term care and would prefer one of these rooms, the furniture can stay or be moved out and replaced with your own furniture and decor.

The meals are amazing, home cooked and delicious.  There are daily activities offered for socialization and friend-shipping.   This facility bucks the "bigger is better" trend by providing a lovely, home-like atmosphere where everyone knows their neighbor and enjoys meals and outings with them.

Give Darcy a call at 801-221-5100 and schedule a tour today!

Adult Day Centers Offer Assistance and Respite

Susan Johnson, Aspen Senior Care

   Larry takes care of his sweet wife on a 24/7 basis. She has Alzheimer’s which makes life challenging for both of them. In his desperation to get some help he called the Alzheimer’s Association and learned about adult day centers. He was leery at first but felt he needed to try something. After several days of seeing his wife enjoy her time at the day center and himself getting the rest he needed, he was convinced he had found his answer. Now he brings her to the day center three to four times per week and they both get more of what they need.

   Adult day centers are designed to provide enjoyable activities along with needed assistance and supervision. Such centers provide for a wonderful social opportunity to all who come. They also provide much needed relief and respite to family caregivers allowing them the freedom to go to work, take care of personal business or just rest while knowing their loved one is well cared for and safe.
   The primary mission of adult day centers is to: 1) delay or prevent institutionalization by providing alternative and economical senior care, 2) enhance self-esteem and encourage socialization, and 3) provide respite to family caregivers.
   Here are some of the activities you can find at an adult day center:

· Social activities

· Reminiscing discussions

· Enjoyable exercise

· Daily art class

· Games and puzzles

· Catered lunch and snacks

· Musical sign-a-longs and events

· Assist with medication reminders

· Assistance with personal care

· Field trips

· And more…

   Adult day centers, like Aspen Senior Center, represent one of most economical senior care options for seniors wanting to stay at home or with loved ones. Some financial assistance may be offered through Medicaid, Alzheimer’s Association, Jewish Family Service, Veterans Administration, and Mountainland Association of Governments. To learn more about Aspen Senior Center go to AspenSeniorCenter.org or call 801-607-2300. 

 

 

Susan Johnson has spent the past 30 years serving seniors in her community. She is a Certified Nursing Assistant and has worked in hospitals and for home health agencies. Susan has also provided private duty care for seniors in their homes. Susan is currently employed by Aspen Senior Care and Aspen Senior Center as their Relations Manager. Seniors are dear to her heart and she is passionate about providing the best possible care for them.

What Services Does Home Health Offer In Your Home?

   What does Freedom Home Health and Hospice Offer to patients in their home?

   Our Home Health Team can provide Nursing, Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapies, Namaste Hospice Care, Cardiac Maintenance, Pulmonary Maintenance, Massage Therapy Evaluation, help with Personal Hygiene, Grooming and Dressing.  We can take care of IV Therapy, Medication Management and even Diabetic Management for those who qualify .

   In our Medicare CAHPS Survey, 100% of clients we have served say they would recommend us to their family and friends!

100%!!

  

 We could not ask for a better compliment.:)

   How do you know if you or your loved one would qualify for Home Health or Hospice services?  Just give us a call, 801-225-3377

and one of our experienced, friendly staff will help you through the process.

Clarifying Post Hospital Care

Healthcare can be confusing, especially when it comes to an emergency hospital stay due to a fall, broken bone, surgery or illness.  Many people don’t know what to expect at each step of the way.  In an effort to clarify the process, we offer the  
Four Stairs of Care.

  #1. Hospital Stay-You have had a fall, injury, illness or even scheduled surgery and need acute care and treatment in the hospital.  The attending Physician in the hospital will stop by each day to check on you.  If physical therapy is needed, you will participate several times each day. After treatment you may be sent to a skilled nursing facility or to an assisted living facility. If you are sent home with Home Health skip to #3.

   

   #2. Skilled Nursing-Your level of care is not as acute as on Stair #1 but consistent therapy and/or nursing is vital to continue healing.  On this stair your doctor does not make rounds but has turned care over to the team at the facility who keep in close touch with him to note any concerns or changes. A therapy team at the facility will continue with your therapy needs according to the Physicians order.

#3. Home Health- You are doing well enough to go home with continued assistance through a Home Health Agency such as Freedom Home Health and Hospice.  While in the hospital or facility you will meet with a member of the social services department, most likely a discharge planner, that will help you plan for your return home.  Up until now, services have been provided by the full time staff at the hospital or facility. Now you can choose which agency you would like to care for you at home.  Once discharged from the facility, a nurse from the agency you chose will come to your home, evaluate and assess your needs and admit you to service.  Physical Therapy will continue to work with you a few times each week and an Aide may be available a few times each week to assist you with your Activities of Daily Living such as showering, grooming and light housekeeping.  All of these services follow the doctor’s order’s for your discharge home.  

 

 

#4. Home Without Assistance- Congratulations!! You made it!!  You have returned to your prior level of functioning and you are able to take care of your Activities of Daily Living for the most part, on your own.  There may still be follow up appointments to attend but you no longer need the therapy and/or nursing from Home Health.  The discharge from Home Health service will only occur when you have met your goals and your Doctor has given an order for your release.  You will be notified by your Home Health team before you are released from service.

Remember that Freedom Home Health and Hospice is here to help when you need us!!  801-225-3377