When a senior starts to require a little extra help, families often search for care options that can be provided in the privacy of their loved one’s home. That’s because home is the place most people want to remain as they grow older.

One question that often arises is what is the difference between in-home care and home health care? These two separate but similar types of care are easy to confuse, even health care professionals mistakenly use the two terms interchangeably. Let’s take a quick look at each type of care and then dig a little deeper into both:

In-home care: Also referred to as home care or private duty care, is used to support the basic needs of those with a disability or senior citizens who live independently. An important distinction is that the assistance provided by home care agencies is non-medical.

Home health care: This type of care is primarily used when someone is released from the hospital after an illness, accident, or surgery. Home health care team members provide skilled medical and therapy services in the patient’s home.

When an older adult or a person with a disability or otherwise needs support with their activities of daily living, a home care agency can be an ideal solution. In-home caregivers can provide assistance with tasks that support independence: 

In some states, home care agencies can also provide medication reminders.

To help low-income seniors and people with disabilities pay for in-home care, most cities, counties, and states have funding programs available. For many seniors, however, the majority of home care services are paid for using the client’s private funds.

Home health care agencies are staffed by nurses and therapists who assist patients receiving skilled services in their homes. Here are a few examples of the medical support they provide:

Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

Most home health care agencies are reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance companies. Private payment is less common for these services than for private duty home care.

In order for Medicare to cover home health services, the patient must meet three criteria:

Have a physician who creates and supervises the patient’s plan of care.

Have a physician certify that a patient is homebound, which means leaving home requires considerable effort.

Have an order from a physician requiring therapy services or intermittent skilled nursing care. 

Supporting the Transition from Hospital to Home

If you or someone you love will be discharged from the hospital soon, consider combining in-home care with home health services. Blending the two can allow your loved one to continue their recovery in the privacy of their home. Doing so can also help lower the risk of being readmitted to the hospital.

For a senior who lives alone, another tool to help support their safety and independence is a medical alert system. Life Protect 24/7 offers a reliable Mobile Monitoring Unit that works off of wireless technology. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

Care at home can come in many forms. Two services that benefit seniors are in-home care and home health care. Learn more about each one here.

How is In-Home Care Different from Home Health Care?

Running after dark, especially during the winter months, presents unique challenges and safety concerns. As the daylight hours shrink and temperatures drop, it’s important to adapt your running routine to accommodate both. By taking the right precautions, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding run even when it’s dark and cold outside. From wearing the right gear to carrying safety devices that can easily connect you with help in an emergency, these tips can help runners prepare for winter.

Safety Tips for Runners to Consider This Winter

Find a running club or buddy: One of the most effective ways to stay safe while running after dark is not to run alone. Having a running partner not only adds a layer of security but also makes the experience more enjoyable. When you run with others, you benefit from increased visibility and the assurance that help is nearby if needed. A running buddy can also provide moral support, which is especially valuable during those chilly winter months, when motivation can wane.

Invest in proper footwear: Depending on where you live, running in the winter can involve dealing with slippery surfaces, such as ice and snow. Proper footwear is essential to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Ensure that your shoes are well-fitted and have adequate cushioning to handle the impact of running on hard, frozen surfaces, and consider investing in running shoes designed for winter conditions. These shoes typically feature more aggressive tread patterns and, in some cases, removable spikes for enhanced traction on icy surfaces. Additionally, wearing gaiters can help keep snow and debris out of your shoes.

Dress appropriately: Proper winter clothing is crucial to maintaining comfort and safety as you run. Layering is key to managing your body temperature and protecting yourself from the elements. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin. Over this, wear an insulating layer to retain body heat. Depending on weather conditions, you might want to add a wind- and water-resistant outer layer. Don’t forget gloves or mittens, a hat, and a neck gaiter or scarf. To make sure you are visible to others, wear a reflective vest, arm bands, and ankle bands. Finally, headlamps or handheld flashlights not only illuminate your path but also make you more noticeable to others.

Plan your route before you run: Areas that are safe to run in during spring and summer might not be during colder months. For example, trails along the river might freeze over more quickly or have icy patches that can be hazardous to run on. Take time to familiarize yourself with potential locations before running. It can help you anticipate hazards, such as uneven ground or hidden obstacles. Also, pay attention to how isolated parks or trails might be during the off-season compared with the bustling warm-weather days.

Stay aware of your surroundings: Finally, always stay alert and aware of who and what is around you. Avoid distractions, such as playing loud music on headphones, which can impair your ability to hear approaching vehicles or other potential dangers. Maintain a steady pace and be cautious when running in areas that may have limited visibility or increased traffic. It might also be a good idea to invest in an emergency call system that allows you to call for help from wherever you are.

If you are an older runner looking for other ways to stay active during the colder months of the year, Winter Fitness Ideas for Seniors might be of interest. You’ll likely find some options that appeal to you, from tai chi to YouTube video workouts.

Life Protect 24/7 Offers Mobile Monitoring Units

Small, lightweight, and discreet, the Life Protect 24/7 mobile monitoring unit can give runners peace of mind. And because they work off of wireless technology, these devices allow the wearer to summon help from almost anywhere—indoors or out. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Whether you are an experienced runner or new to this fitness activity, it’s important to take steps to stay safe while running in winter. These tips can help.

October is a great month to get outside and engage in activities that celebrate the season’s beauty. The crisp air, blue skies, and vibrantly colored leaves welcome people to the great outdoors. The health benefits of spending time outside are numerous, from promoting exercise to reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, and improving mood. Spending the final days before winter arrives enjoying nature is just plain good for you.

If you need a few senior-friendly ideas to make the most of fall, we have some for you to explore.

One of the best ways to appreciate the season is to take a leisurely nature walk. Many local parks and nature reserves offer accessible trails that are suitable for seniors. These walks provide a chance to enjoy the fair weather and stunning views while promoting mental and physical health.

For those who prefer not to walk, or who struggle with mobility issues, a scenic drive might make for a great afternoon activity. It could be as easy as meandering along backroads in the nearby countryside or along a lakeshore or coastal route. You could invite friends or family along for companionship and pack a picnic lunch to share in a roadside park.

While many people associate gardening with spring and early summer, fall is actually a good time for it, too. Many plants, such as pansies, chrysanthemums, and asters, thrive in cooler temperatures. So do a few vegetables—favorite fall crops, like kale and carrots, do better after the temperature falls.

Then there are the bulbs that should be planted in the fall for spring blooming. Tulips, daffodils, crocuses, hyacinths, and snowdrops are just a few of the many bulbs to consider planting this month. If you’ve never tackled this kind of gardening before, these tips for fall bulb planting might be helpful.

Gardening not only helps to improve strength and flexibility, but it also enhances mental well-being. If you aren’t interested in being a solo gardener, consider joining a local community garden. It’s a good way to foster social connections and provide a sense of belonging.

Visit Farmers’ Markets and Fall Festivals

Farmers’ markets and festivals are abundant in the fall. Vendors offer everything from pumpkins and seasonal fruits to baked goods and crafts. Many also have music, food trucks, and other entertainment.

If you would like to venture farther from home to take in a farmers’ market or festival, there are lots of online resources to help you find one. This list of the top 26 fall festivals as ranked by US News and World Report might give you some ideas, as can this national farmers’ market directory.

Nothing symbolizes fall better than a trip to an apple orchard and cider mill. You can pick your own apples or buy some already bagged. Many orchards also have their own mills, where you can watch cider being produced and buy a carton freshly made.

When you check the orchard’s schedule online, make sure to look for special events they may be hosting this fall. You’ll likely find everything from hayrides to pumpkin carving.

Autumn provides ample inspiration for craft projects. Activities like making wreaths, painting pumpkins, or creating seasonal centerpieces can be enjoyable and fulfilling. Seniors can enjoy spending time outdoors collecting natural materials like leaves, pine cones, twigs, and acorns, and then use them to create fall-themed decorations.

These kinds of creative pursuits can improve manual dexterity, boost mood, and encourage socializing. Community centers often host crafting workshops, which can give you the chance to meet new people while learning new skills.

Stay Safe While Exploring Nature This Fall

If you want to do some exploring this fall but are anxious about doing so on your own, investing in a mobile monitoring unit might be a solution. These discreet devices can slip into your purse or pocket. If an emergency occurs, you can call for help with the simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Are you a senior looking for ideas to make the most of fall this year? From apple cider mills to seasonal crafts, these suggestions might be helpful.

Senior-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in the Fall

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. Nearly 1 in 8 women receive this diagnosis during their lifetime. The fight against breast cancer begins with creating greater awareness. Early detection and disease-specific education can significantly improve outcomes. Understanding risk factors for breast cancer and the importance of regular screenings are vital steps for women everywhere.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This annual month of recognition is designed to educate people about the disease and help raise funds for research. To aid in this effort, we are sharing essential information that women should know about breast cancer.

Breast cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the breast begin to grow uncontrollably. It can start inside the milk ducts and/or the milk-producing lobules of the breast. These cells can then form a tumor, which can typically be detected with various screening methods. It’s important to know that both women and men can develop the disease, although it is far more prevalent in women.

There are a variety of types of breast cancer, and each one can vary in behavior, growth rates, and responses to treatment. Some of the most common include invasive ductal carcinoma, invasive lobular carcinoma, and ductal carcinoma in situ.

While the exact cause of breast cancer remains unclear, certain risk factors can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing the disease. These include:

Age: The odds of developing breast cancer increase with age. Women over 55 are at higher risk. (But it’s important to know that it can occur at any age.)

Personal family history: Having a first-degree relative—a parent, sibling, or child—who has had breast cancer can raise your risk. As can having multiple family members on either your mother’s or father’s side of the family who have had breast or ovarian cancer.

Genetic mutations: Women who have inherited changes (mutations) to certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, are at higher risk for both breast and ovarian cancer.

Lifestyle choices: Alcohol consumption and being overweight or sedentary are a few of the lifestyle factors that can impact the chances you’ll be diagnosed with the disease.

Having dense breasts: Dense breasts have more connective tissue than fatty tissue. While researchers aren’t sure why this is, women with dense breasts are more likely to develop breast cancer. Dense tissue can also make tumors more difficult to spot on a mammogram.

Other factors that can increase your risk include reproductive history, previous history of radiation to the chest, and taking hormones.

It’s also important to know that having risk factors does not guarantee a diagnosis. Conversely, many women diagnosed with breast cancer have no known risk factors. This uncertainty highlights the importance of awareness and regular health screenings for women of all ages.

Early detection is a key component in successfully treating breast cancer. Regular screenings, such as mammograms, ultrasounds, clinical breast exams, and self-exams, can help identify changes in breast tissue early on.

The American Cancer Society’s general recommendation is that women start having annual mammograms at age 45. For those with a family history of breast cancer or other high-risk factors, it might be necessary to start ultrasounds and/or mammograms at the age of 40.

While some of the risk factors for breast cancer are out of our control, one that isn’t is managing your lifestyle. How Lifestyle Impacts Healthy Aging offers tips for making wellness a part of your daily life as you grow older.

If you are a senior or the family caregiver for an older adult, managing stress is essential to well-being. Investing in an emergency call device could help lower your stress levels—you’ll have peace of mind knowing that in the event of an emergency, the wearer can quickly call for assistance with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing what people should know about the disease, from risk factors to early detection. We invite you to read on.

Breast Cancer Awareness for Women of All Ages

With winter weather starting to arrive, a warm bowl of soup can make a healthy, delicious meal. It’s also convenient to make in batches to freeze and share with senior loved ones who might struggle with meal preparation. Depending on the recipe and the ingredients called for—from meats and legumes to vegetables and grains—soup can be packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Here are some tips to help you create a well-stocked freezer of healthy soups that will keep you nourished and satisfied.

The base of your soup sets the tone for both the flavor and the nutritional content. You can choose store-bought chicken, beef, or vegetable broth or cook your own. Bone broth made from leftover organic chicken or beef bones can be especially good for reducing inflammation in the body.

For a creamier texture to your soup, consider using pureed vegetables or adding a small amount of coconut milk or yogurt. If you’re aiming for a healthier option, look for low-sodium versions of any ingredients you add.

When reviewing soup recipes, opt for those with ingredients that are rich in nutrients. Leafy greens (like spinach or kale), beans, lentils, whole grains (like quinoa or brown rice), and colorful vegetables (like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini) can boost the nutritional profile of your soups.

Besides providing vitamins and minerals, these ingredients also contain plenty of fiber. It’s good for keeping blood sugar stable and promoting digestive health. And it helps you feel full longer, which can keep you from reaching for unhealthy snacks between meals.

Batch cooking is key to an efficient meal prep strategy. Dedicate a day or even just an afternoon to preparing multiple soups at once. This not only saves time but also allows you to take advantage of seasonal produce and bulk buys. By making a variety of soups, you ensure that you’ll have a range of flavors and textures to choose from when you’re ready to eat.

If you aren’t sure where to start the search for nutritious soup recipes, there are plenty online. Two good resources to help you get started are 35 Healthy Soup Recipes That Are Cozy and Comforting from the Food Network and 79 Flavor-Packed Healthy Soup Recipes from Taste of Home.

Herbs and spices can transform a simple soup into a flavorful dish. Fresh herbs, like basil, cilantro, and parsley, can be added just before serving to enhance flavor. Dried herbs, like thyme, oregano, and rosemary, are good to sprinkle in during the cooking process.

But don’t stick to just basic herbs and spices. Try out some you haven’t tested before, such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric. Each of these can add warmth and depth while providing additional health benefits.

Finally, choosing the right container for freezing your soup is essential for preserving flavor and texture—and for avoiding potential hazards or messes! Select airtight, freezer-safe containers made of glass or BPA-free plastic, which withstand low temperatures and prevent freezer burn.

Mason jars work well, but be sure to leave space at the top to allow for expansion. Alternatively, silicone freezer bags are flexible and can be laid flat for efficient storage. Avoid using regular plastic containers, which may crack in the freezer. Label each container with the soup type and date for easy identification.

Senior Safety Starts With Healthy Nutrition

If you are an adult child who is lending an aging parent a helping hand with meals and other household tasks, know that nutrition plays a key role in safety, too. People who have a poor diet are more likely to experience falls than their peers who consume a balanced diet.

Another way to help keep a senior loved one safe is by investing in a mobile monitoring unit. Should an emergency occur, these discreet devices allow the wearer to call for help from wherever they are. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

Have you tried stocking your freezer with healthy soups to make mealtime easier? Here’s what you should know to get started.

Tips for Stocking Your Freezer With Healthy Homemade Soups

As the days become shorter and the temperatures start to drop, our thoughts often turn to the tasks we need to tackle before winter arrives. One of the most important is getting the annual influenza vaccine. While some may see it as an inconvenience or question whether it’s really necessary, there are compelling reasons why receiving a flu shot each year is crucial for individual and community health. And the older you are, the more essential it is to take this preventive step.

Let’s begin by talking a bit about influenza. Commonly referred to as the flu, it’s a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The viruses mutate rapidly, so different strains circulate every year. This means that last year’s flu vaccine more than likely won’t offer you much protection this year.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) monitor circulating flu viruses to determine which strains to include in the vaccine. This global cooperation increases the likelihood that the flu shot will be effective each year.

One reason to receive a flu shot every fall is to protect your overall immunity. The vaccine works by introducing inactivated or weakened parts of the virus into your body, prompting your immune system to produce antibodies. These antibodies help recognize and combat the flu virus if you are exposed to it later. However, immunity gained from the vaccine wanes over time. That’s why you need to get vaccinated annually to maintain strong protection.

While the flu might seem like just an annoyance to a younger adult with a strong immune system, influenza can be life threatening for some populations. The flu can lead to severe illness and trigger complications for children who are too young to receive the vaccine, as well as for older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

When you receive a flu shot, you protect not only yourself but also the community’s overall wellness. When a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, the spread of the virus is reduced. This helps safeguard those who cannot be vaccinated or whose immune systems may not respond effectively to the vaccine.

Flu outbreaks can place a substantial burden on healthcare systems, leading to increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits. During peak flu season, hospitals may experience a surge of patients suffering from flu-related complications, such as an exacerbation of chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) or congestive heart failure (CHF). This can strain healthcare resources and delay care for people with other medical conditions.

By getting vaccinated, you help reduce the incidence of cases during flu season. This contributes to a healthier population and a more manageable load for healthcare systems during the fall and winter months.

The bottom line: A flu shot is an essential part of both your personal well-being and the overall public health strategy each fall. As peak flu season approaches, make it a priority to schedule your flu vaccination, and encourage others to do the same. By taking this simple step, you help reduce the impact of influenza for everyone.

Looking for more tips to help you dodge influenza this year? How to Shoo the Flu During Influenza Season shares some best practices, from avoiding crowds to washing your hands, to help you stay healthy and safe.

Wondering why you need an annual flu shot? This article explains the benefits, from avoiding a hospital stay to improving community health.

The Health Benefits of an Annual Flu Shot

How is In-Home Care Different from Home Health Care?

When a senior starts to require a little extra help, families often search for care options that can be provided in the privacy of their loved one’s home. That’s because home is the place most people want to remain as they grow older.

What is In-Home Care?

What is Home Health Care?

Supporting the Transition from Hospital to Home

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